I am reading these one at a time and responding to each if that is okay.
1) Life in Christ begins when an individual accepts Jesus as their Savior. It is here that they are born again, spiritually speaking, that is.
2) From that point, the individual must either
a) continue on the quest for spiritual life in Christ or
b) fall away.
3) If they fall away from Christ with the belief that they are still along the pathway to salvation, then they are mistaken in their belief and are on the pathway to not only hell, but are in danger of being cast out with Lucifer.
4) Hell is that condition of being denied salvation from sin, whereas being cast out is that condition of living with their father Lucifer, who hates them.
5) Both "hell" and being "cast out" are for the spiritually dead in Christ. Those who will be judged.
6) Those individuals who remain loyal to Jesus and follow him have eternal life and are saved from the just judgment of God for their sins. That is, they have salvation in Christ their God, from judgment.
7) Those who remain loyal to Jesus are free from judgment, while those who do not remain loyal to Jesus will be judged to go to hell or be cast out. Such will be the case for the beast and his false prophet, who are cast out with Lucifer ( Rev. 19:20, 20:10).
8) This is the parable of the sower where Jesus is the sower and some fall while others live ( Matthew 13:1-23, Mark 4:1-20, and Luke 8:4-15).
Sometimes we realize that our faith is not adequate to receive something from God. We have a little bit of faith.
"... for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you." ( Matthew 17:20)
What is the characteristic of the grain of the mustard seed?
"31Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: 32Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof." ( Matthew 13:30-31)
Sometimes faith as little as a mustard grain which is the least of all seeds is all we need. But when it is placed in a good field (good heart) then it is grown and becomes a big tree.
Let us trust the written Word of God. Could God ever lie? He gave the command and the universe was created out of nothing. How difficult is it for Him to give the command and your illness goes away? The universe obeys Him, but not your illness?
"7Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 8For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 9Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?10Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? 11If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?" (Natthew 7-11)
When God sees such an approach, it is impossible not to be moved. And so He does His side. He sees our efforts and sends His grace, His presence, and then things change a lot.
Matthew 13:12, "For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath."
The pastor in y church told us a story. He was sick in the hospital and his wife was trying hard to feed him because he did not feel like eating. He became very skinny. So his wife did something clever. She gave him a spoonful of food at first. Just one spoonful of food. And then the next time two spoonfuls, the next three spoonfuls, then four and so on. After a month or two he said he became overweight. Sometimes we may not feel like getting closer to God. But let us approach Him step by step. A small step today, a bigger step tomorrow, an even bigger step the day after tomorrow, and we will find ourselves very close to the Lord after some time. We must try and think of ways to renew our relationship with God constantly. This must be is continuous process.
God's feelings for us never change. But we have to be careful about our feelings for Him.
I thilk Babylon in the Book of Revelation has a close resemblance to the present Christian Church itself. A church should be a center where people experience God's grace, love and get regenerated with Holy Spirit. Sermons and programs must be supportive to the journey of Faith and spiritual growth.
But now adulterated messages, soothing offers and assurances are being heard from most places. The media too join the work. The call is not to look upwards to God, but to seek down, that is, for material benefits. This is Satan- sponsored gospel; He is the illegitimate custodian of earthly pleasures and he gives it abundantly in the guise that it is from God. The church people are happy: they get a good share of it.
Hosea 2: 1-13 "For she did not know that I gave her corn and oil and multiplied her silver and goldwhich they prepared for Bal" ( Hosea 2:8)
I think this is the great whore Babylon. God has allowed her to grow up till harvest. She still bears children for Satan
Matthew 13:30 "Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest, I will say to the reapers, gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn."
If I may, the armies that come from heaven when Jesus returns are angels, as mentioned in Matthew 13:39, Matthew 16:27, Matthew 24:31, Matthew 25:31, Matthew 26:53, 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10, and others.
If the Church, the dead in Christ, are resurrected and those still living are changed and taken to heaven, raptured before Jesus returns. When Jesus does return, who are they in Revelation 20:4-6? The judgment seat of Christ includes some who are here during the time of the beast. That would make another resurrection.
A separate rapture before the second coming would mean two resurrections before the white throne judgment. I can't find that in Scripture. The Rapture of the Church and the Second Coming of Christ must be the same event.
Hi Bible Alone and thanks for your input. You have shared from Hebrews 11:13-16 as those 'faith heroes' who had their hope to be delivered from the limitations of this Earth, even of life itself, and to look forward to that heavenly city, that city "which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God". That is so true and should be for all who name the Name of Christ, where we should long to be free from sin's effects on us & the evil in the world around us, and be "with Christ which is far better".
And to refer to Matthew 13:34, Jesus indeed spoke to the people in parables, but where He gave them these earthly stories, they came with a heavenly/spiritual meaning & application. We cannot then use that verse to interpret everything seen in the Bible as a parable & thus give our own interpretation to them. It just generates confusion. So yes, there is the "true Israel of God", but we also have to note where national Israel is referred to and why there is a demarcation between the two.
So, if we are to believe that there can be no coming reign of Jesus in Jerusalem, simply because of the verses showing that we ought to be looking for that heavenly city, then we have a major problem with many Scriptures, viz. various Psalms (2, 22, 47,67, 89, 110, 132), Isaiah 9:6,7; Jeremiah 3:17; Micah 1:4-7; Zechariah 14:1-5, & from other prophets, and Revelation chaps 19 & 20). What do you suggest we do with these? Discard them or maybe, reinterpret them? All prophecies coming from a God-appointed prophet will come to pass verbatim, and if not, then both the prophet & prophecy are false. Onto Page 2.
All of Jesus's life was about fulfilling the law and prophecy; it is to the Jew first and then the rest of the world, Romans 1:16, Romans 2:9-10. Jesus clearly said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel, and He instructed His disciples to do the same, Matthew 10:6, Matthew 15:24. Jesus spoke to them in parables so they would not understand and hear, and be healed, Matthew 13:13-15.
You are correct that, as a nation, they would have been able to receive Jesus as the Messiah if they had repented, and then the kingdom could have been established at that time. However, God knew their hearts. They were expecting Jesus to set up the kingdom at that time, including the apostles. They asked Jesus if He was going to establish it then, Acts 1:6.
Their final rejection is shown when they cried out loudly and covered their ears, Acts 7:57. Though many disagree, this also fulfills the last seven years in the prophecy of Daniel 9, which many associate with the end times and the doctrine of the Rapture of the Church. This gospel of grace is offered to Jew or Greek, and unto the whole world.
There is no difference between the Jew and any other person of any nation, Romans 10:12. It took the apostles some time to understand this, as shown by Peter's reluctance and his dream. It may not be in our Bible, but I believe they all understood God's plan. This Kingdom will be established when Jesus returns, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in, Romans 11:25.
Hello Shahin. If I might come straight to the point: why do you think that Christ's apostles (and of course, many many others so burdened & called) went out preaching the Gospel to all - to save sinners? As you know, not only the apostles, but also believers since those early days, have suffered much & were killed for the sake of the Gospel. Acts 21:10-13 is a good example by Paul. Why should he, and others, be willing to suffer and die so that others might hear the Good News and be saved?
I have shared Christ many times, both in my country and other lands while in ministry. If all the Bible told me was that unbelievers after death would simply perish in the earth, or even suffer for a time & disappear, then I would have no reason at all to warn others or share the Gospel. Is it because that these unfortunate ones would simply be annihilated and not have a part in Christ's Kingdom that is concerning you, or should it be of concern that the Gospel message is preached to save people from an eternal hell because of their sins?
As well, it would be wrong to think that "the idea of eternal hell fire goes back to paganism and not Christianity". Not at all, or else it could said that Jesus was also influenced by pagan beliefs. Rather, consider Matthew 13:40-42; Matthew 25:41,46; Mark 9:43; Luke 16:22-25. These were Jesus' Words and He as the Son of God would not pander to earthly thought or wisdom. If eternal hell is not preached as a necessary part of our Gospel message, we have failed to give out the pure Gospel of Christ. If eternal hell is not a reality, then there is no reason at all to share the message of Love & Hope that can only be found in the Son of God - for if man will simply die and disappear, we may as well stay smug & indifferent in our homes, caring not for the lost; after all they just die & suffer no consequence for their sins.
The initiation of Christ's public ministry was an immediate retreat to be tempted of the Devil in the wilderness for 40 days after being baptized and having the Spirit come down from heaven to empower Him. Scientifically after the first few days the body sort of shuts down as to desire for food; but once nutrients are taken to a certain level the body seeks them from depleting vital organs. Thus the second wave of real hunger came with full force and of course Satan was in the wings at this moment to test Him.
Aside from the hunger which no doubt was very intense; we have the spiritual temptation to avoid all the suffering to come. The enemy no doubt wouldn't waste such an offer on a mere man except for Antichrist in the future of having all kingdoms of the earth and their glory to be given. After temptation to use His own deity to create food; suicidal suggestions and this final offering to have it all and give Satan the glory Jesus was done for now with Satan's direct influence and the angels came and ministered to Him as they would later on in Gethsemene.
There appeared to be an initial period of time when Jesus was; for instance turning water into wine when there was little resistance. The Pharisees didn't take long to resist Him; however. The first major problem was in His own hometown; and He stated that a prophet has honor everywhere but his hometown ( Matthew 13:54-58). The surrounding areas had already been warned about and recieved harsh statements for their unbelief. We see this and upbraiding of other cities towards the end of Matthew 11.
In regard to the Pharisees they tried to kill Him about 10 times; at least what is recorded BEFORE the cross. We are reminded of David where Saul tried to pierce him with a javelin multiple times because of an evil spirit tormenting him. In the next segment we will examine the multiple ways the Pharisees tormented Him; using every tactic imaginable.
Many thanks for your answer. So then it seems clear that God had determined this in advance. We can never believe that we have the ability to see the future like He does, and His wide view, Hallelujah Amen. The responsibility lies with His wisdom in all things. But from the scriptures we can understand the time. Be well and be blessed you and yours. Matthew 13:36-43 notice the exclamation point. v 43
Hello all dear co-workers under Christ. I came across some words that I have probably read many times, but never pondered so much. For in His time He reveals what He wills, as He wills. Amen
Matthew 13:47-52
We who long for His coming know that these are relevant words right now. And in v. 49 So it will be at the end of this age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous. v. 50 and throw them into the chariot of fire. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
So all of us who believe and have received something good and new from the Lord. Must in these times bring out from our treasuries, what has been given to them. Something to rejoice over and something that makes our hearts burn. Something for repentance and something for enlightenment. None of us are complete until we arrive at the Lord Jesus. Because as many as possible can enter the rest God has promised to those who endure to the end. My responsibility lies in doing my best for the Lord. Who has done so much for me. And He will continue to give. He does not take, Stay stong in the word og God. Hallelujah Amen.
Thank you dear God Father in Heaven. You who are the way the truth and the life. In You there is no changing shadow. We come to You with humble hearts Lord and pray that You will comfort us all with the certainty that our children will come to the knowledge of the truth Jesus Amen. Thank you that You always forget our transgressions in times of destruction as we seek Your face in truth Lord. You will free all from captivity Jesus it is Your will, Your word redeems Amen! You are wisdom and understanding, all righteousness is with You. We will thank You forever, take all evil away from "Brooke", we pray. In Your Holy name above all other name, Amen. Give freedom and joy, wash away every tear and joy can spread in the heart, to Your children Jesus. That all illness and humiliation leads to deliverance. Lord we put our trust in You. Send out Your people to those who are brokenhearted, Lord Jesus, we pray. We will never lose You who cling to You. We thank You that You will do it according to Your will, God Almighty. Amen.
ps. Stand firm in the word. Let the Lord and the eval one hear from His word that you know His promises.
Also remember this word that the Lord Himself experienced and said Matthew 13:53:58
2 John was written to combat the infiltration of Gnostic teaching into the church. John's main theme is the correct doctrine of the humanity of Jesus Christ. The sub-theme is the assurance of salvation for genuine believers.
2 John 1:1 - The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth;
He says the elder. He's introducing himself as the elder. He is elder in two different ways. He's in his 90's now. He's in Ephesus as the oldest apostle still living. All the others have died a martyr's death. He is the elder in position, and age. He says unto the elect lady and her children.
There are two views as to who the elect lady is. Some believe that it is a church, and that her children are the members of the church. In Verse 13 itself, in signing off, he says the children of your elect sister greet you. There's no greeting from the sister. Apparently, she's not there. Or if it's a person, she's passed away, and only the children send their greetings.
You may or may not agree, but it is my position that he's actually writing to a woman and her children. It is interesting, as you carry that out, as archaeologists have found that the city of Ephesus is where Mary, the mother of Jesus, lived and died in her later years. And of course, Matthew 13:55 tells us that after the birth of Jesus Christ, Joseph and Mary had other children.
Some groups don't believe that. They want to keep Mary pure and a virgin for her whole life. But that's not what the bible teaches. She was a virgin up to the birth of Christ. But there are other brothers and sisters to Him. And He actually had interaction with them during His public ministry.
Please follow me through this thought experiment, comments appreciated.....
As Christians, we often refer to Matthew 21:21 and the casting of the mountain into the sea when talking of faith. In this context, the the mountain in question is a problem or obstacle in our lives. But what is Jesus Himself were the mountain Psalm 118:22 which we all at times "cast off." It's only after we find ourselves drowning in the depths of despair Psalm 71:20 that we meet with Him again Psalm 138:8 right where we placed Him. Micah 7:19 Only this time, He appears more glorious than ever, John 6:29 for we see Him from a different perspective, just as He intended. Matthew 13:13-17 And when we see Him as He is, we shall be changed and we shall be like Him. 1 John 3:2
Given one particular individual seeming to fit the end time Antichrist of late who I will not mention by name it seems fitting to review the scriptural descriptions of the final world leader and prepare ourselves for what is the inevitable end game as described in the Bible.
Introduction: God must judge the church first. ( 1 Peter 4:17). This is through the General Apostacy mentioned in 2 Thessalonians 2:3. We are headed for the final separation of the wheat from the chaff; and that reflects what is said in Matthew 13:30 Let both grow together until the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, "First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn." ' This shows the primary separation before the Rapture of those who formerly professed faith in Christ but who did't LOVE the truth and therefore will believe THE LIE as stated in 2 Thessalonians 11-12 And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
Consider for a moment those who haven't expressed an interest in Christ or spiritual things. There is no real appeal; at least at this time to such deception therefore there still can be hope. There are; no doubt others of all non Christian backgrounds and faiths that will also follow the deceiver but clearly Christians are targeted in these last days as we read in John 16:2 as to people thinking by killing us they are doing God a favor. That fit into the first century Jewish persecution of Christians by the Jewish establishment; but certainly could also foreshadow those who proclaim Christ and against the false Christ to come who will assist in building the Third Temple as well as bring together many to sign the Daniel 9:27 covenant at the onset of the Tribulation.
We will be viewed as the only ones against world peace.
Matthew 13:36-43 This section shows a private explanation after the Disciples further inquiry into the wheat and the tares.
Verses 44-45 discuss the hidden treasure concept; of treasure in a field and a pearl of great price.
Verses 47-51 show the parable of the fisherman and the final judgment; and in verse 51 we see in this case the Disciples get the point.
Verse 52 reads:
52 He said to them, "Therefore every teacher of the law who has become a disciple in the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his storeroom new treasures as well as old." This verse sort of gives a summary perhaps for wise sayings in general whether it benefits the narrator himself who is one of Christ's Disciples or those who hear these concepts. A rich life in God's sight involves investment in people and labor for the Kingdom of God which is worthless in the world's eyes but valuable in heavenly rewards and reaching out perhaps to the next generation.
Finally; verses 53-58 show the miserable attitude those in His hometown had toward Christ of unbelief.
Concluding thoughts on Matthew 13.
The 10000 dollar question here is how can we apply these passages in our day in a practical manner in our Christian walk? The fact is a lot of things Jesus did are unique to Him; we only see one instance as an example where Paul made a scathing remark in Acts 23:3 but even after the comment he retracts because this man was the High Priest. We don't see obvious hidden messages or parables in the rest of the New Testament by any of the Apostles or anyone in the churches.
Conceptually; I would interject the idea that the narrow road should be something we should consider if we are truly walking in light of 2 Corithians 13:5; 2 Peter 1:10-11. The seriousness of hellfire is something often avoided in sermons today; even where the Gospel is more or less preached faithfully. Discernment can help us avoid the Matthew 7:6 error of casting pearls before swine. Thoughts?
Introduction: The overall path we see in this stage of Christ's ministry is to speak in parables. The main emphasis here is to demonstrate that the seeds of truth must produce good fruit that first means good soil needs to cultivate the seed. There is a weeding out process here; actually literally in discussing the wheat and the tares as it were in that parable; but also to show that not everyone hearing the Word has been saved. The end of the chapter sees Jesus visiting his own hometown and the unbelief which limits the miracles that He performs as they still consider Him to be the "carpenter's son" (verse 55). This unbelief is; well unbelievable. One could surmise that He spent much time already; months and perhaps a couple years away from home so that some could in theory at least not seen His miracles there; surely you would expect a town that small would have heard at least about the virgin birth.
The concept of selective revelation as it were certainly corresponds to the idea of the elect only being saved; or to put it another way only those the Father chooses to reveal Him to as we saw earlier in Matthew 11:27 but also seen extensively in the Book of John conceptually. Mark 4 contains the parable of the sower and seeds and introduces this concept as well.
Matthew 13:1-9 shows this same parable of the sower and the seeds; and in verses 11-17 Jesus answers the Disciples questions about why He speaks in parables from verse 10.
The explanation is then given for this parable which goes on through verse 23. Verses 24-29 discuss the Parable of the wheat and the tares; and verses 31 and 32 show through the concept of a mustard seed and a woman with dough the increase of the seed of faith; OR verse 32 could tie in with leaven ruining the whole loaf as a concept but it doesn't seem to fit contextually in this passage. Verses 34-35 show at this point NOTHING was said without parables to crowds.
"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field."
What is the spirit world ? ? Humans have a spirit that communicates with God and the devil can influence the spirit as well.
Satan is the spirit of this earth and the air.
Matthew 4:8
Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of theworld, and the glory of them;
The Second Coming of Jesus, the saved Jew of the kingdom is the good seed and the bad seed is the children of the wicked. The person next to us could be unsaved.
Matthew 13:38
The field is theworld; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;
Satan can convince a person not to get saved by deceiving them and now they are the wicked. The devil has wicked seeds of lies
Matthew 13:39
The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of theworld; and the reapers are the angels.
At the last days in the Second Coming of Jesus in the Tribulation, the wicked will be taken for destruction. It is not the Rapture.
Matthew 13:40
As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of thisworld.
At the Tribulation, the angels will kill the wicked. It is the not the Rapture.
Matthew 13:49
So shall it be at the end of theworld: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just,
It is harder for a rich man to be saved because he has everything in life except Jesus Christ.
Matthew 16:26
For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the wholeworld, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
Jesus as a preacher possible had a job as a carpenter with His stepfather Joseph.
Matthew 13:55
Is not this thecarpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas?
Jesus as a preacher does not believe in a church to sell goods for profit.
Matthew 21:12
And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of themoneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves,
Jesus as a preacher also paid his taxes .
Matthew 17:24-27
24And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute?
25He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?
26Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free.
27Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.
So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess, her daughter in law, with her, which returned out of the country of Moab: and they came to Bethlehem in the beginning ofbarleyharvest.
2 Kings 4:42
And there came a man from Baalshalisha, and brought the man of God bread of the firstfruits, twenty loaves ofbarley, and full ears of corn in the husk thereof. And he said, Give unto the people, that they may eat.
2. Wheat , Second Coming
John 12:24
Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn ofwheatfall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.
1 Samuel 6:13
And they of Bethshemesh were reaping theirwheatharvest in the valley: and they lifted up their eyes, and saw the ark, and rejoiced to see it.
Matthew 13:30
Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather thewheatinto my barn
3. Grapes , Wrath of God
Revelation 14:18
And another angel came out from the altar, which had power over fire; and cried with a loud cry to him that had the sharp sickle, saying, Thrust in thy sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth; for hergrapesare fully ripe.
Isaiah 5:2
And he fenced it, and gathered out the stones thereof, and planted it with the choicest vine, and built a tower in the midst of it, and also made a winepress therein: and he looked that it should bring forthgrapes, and it brought forth wildgrapes.
Mark 15:23
And they gave him to drinkwinemingled with myrrh: but he received it not.
Matthew 26:29
But I say unto you, I will notdrinkhenceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when Idrinkit new with you in my Father's kingdom.
Guilt by Association: False brethren among the flock.
Matthew 13:30 states
"Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn."
In this example it appears that certain false brethren remain unknown until the time of the actual judgment of God. This is very depressing to think about but we can attribute it to one of the mysteries of God. As to those we know are not living according to what they profess; or alternatively are twisting scriptures around to justify their behaviors we cannot simply stand by. There are also those who do believe and are trapped in sin for a time; and others who don't believe but are attending. This subject is focused on those more involved; and certainly those who are part of the church membership.
Error can start from the bottom and work its way up; or start with a Pastor gradually veering away from the truth. I would say the first bulwark against such things is vigilant prayer which no doubt prevents many things we are unaware of from occuring much more often.
The first thing that causes error is men's hearts; where they want to find an excuse to accommodate sin; whether it is that of themselves or that of their friends. Error by itself is like poison; it is much more readily consumed in an already toxic prepared environment. Once the leadership has bought into a lie it is often too late to do anything about it because if God takes one person out another is likely to take over with an even worse heresy. Error usually starts out with a small number of individuals who no doubt are socially accepted in the congregation. Let's face it someone with a wild countenance and bad hygiene isn't likely to sway others toward their error; it is the well groomed; well mannered and involved church member who has the most influence. Weaknesses inside the camp start the process
What is the second coming of Jesus Christ ? ? The only way to answer this question is to read the scriptures. Jesus Christ was on earth for 33 years and He died on the cross for all our sins. Now Jesus Christ will come again to land on earth, but before He lands, He will call us up, all the grace age church, dead or alive to meet him in the Clouds , it's called the Rapture.
This is the second coming of events of Jesus Christ.
Matthew 13:38-40
38The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;
39The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels.
40As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world.
Revelation 1:7
Behold,hecomethwithclouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.
Jude 1:14
And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints,
The wicked will be taken out first . That is the the Rapture event.
Matthew 13:41-42
41The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;
42And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
Peter never speaks of the Rapture, only the second coming of Jesus Christ inwhich is the Tribulation.
2 Peter 3:10
But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have beenkeptsecretfrom the foundation of the world.
Jesus Christ has secrets .
Romans 16:25
Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which waskeptsecretsince the world began,
Apostle Paul was revealed the mystery of Jesus Christ.
1 Timothy 3:16
And without controversy great is themysteryof godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
Apostle Paul was revealed another mystery.
Romans 11:25
For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of thismystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
Jesus Christ revealed mystery to Apostle Paul in a revelation.
Ephesians 3:3
How that by revelation he made known unto me themystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,
Apostle Paul know the mystery of Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 3:4
Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in themysteryof Christ)
Apostle Paul was given the gospel of grace in a mystery.
Ephesians 6:19
And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known themysteryof the gospel,
Apostle Paul was given another mystery in Christ Jesus.
Colossians 1:27
To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of thismysteryamong the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
This is speaking about the 7 years of tribulation after the Rapture is already passed. The wicked one will be taken and thrown in fire by angels . This is different from the Rapture. Only Apostle Paul speaks of the Rapture or Gathering.
Matthew 13:38-40
38The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;
39The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels.
40As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world.
Revelation 1:7
Behold,hecomethwithclouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.
Jude 1:14
And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints,
Matthew 13:41-42
41The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;
42And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
2 Peter 3:10
But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
Daniel 9:27
27And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.
Hi Fuji. There is some division in the Christian camp about the ultimate end of those who die rejecting Christ's Gospel, i.e. whether they simply go to the grave & are no more, or, that there will be a resurrection from the dead & under judgement to face God's Wrath. And like all doctrines & teachings we find throughout the Bible, we need to consider all references to the subject matter & not focus on a single verse or two to form a judgement.
Therefore, if we had only John 3:16 to understand the afterlife (whether it exists or not), then we could well believe that 'perish' clearly means a complete cessation of life, as in someone (the body) who perishes in a house fire or perishes by drowning. But in relation to the Scriptures, we know that God has given us a spirit & that spirit is identifies who we are, given life by God, with an outer covering (a body) to house it, yet the spirit can never perish (die). Genesis 2:7; Zechariah 12:1; Job 32:8; 1 Corinthians 2:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Ecclesiastes 3:21; Ecclesiastes 12:7.
And then we have the Judgement of God upon all, where those who belong in God's family, living a life consecrated to Him, are eternally secure from damnation, whereas all unbelievers (and their spirits can never be destroyed), suffer under God's condemnation. If only death was our final punishment for rejecting Christ, then we all still have to die as those in sinful, corrupt bodies; none can escape. This is a defective Gospel as most would prefer to cease to exist without any punishment & live life to the full, not answerable to God. But Christ's Sacrifice was to redeem lost sinful souls, not from death, but from God's eternal Punishment. Revelation 20:15; Revelation 21:8; Matthew 10:28; Matthew 13:49,50; Matthew 25:41,46; Mark 9:43; Luke 16:19-31; 2 Thessalonians 1:8,9.
Just a few Scriptures to show the Truth of an Eternal suffering in Hell & not simply disappearing forever in the grave. Every spirit (of man) is accountable to God.
Remember Isaiah 48:10 "I have refined thee in the furnace of affliction". Remember Zechariah 13:9 "I have brought the third part through the fire, the furnace of affliction." These verses coalesce around this present great tribulation in regards to God saving a great multitude which no man can number outside the churches, which were typified by Jerusalem back that came under judgment in 587 B.C. Referring to Micah 4:10, Jerusalem (typifying the local congregations) is the city that the woman being in travail shalt go forth from, and shall dwell in the field, that is, in the world ( Matthew 13:38), even to Babylon, that is, the secular world. There is where she shall be redeemed and delivered. It is crucial to note that it is outside the churches, in the secular world, where God is saving today. The phrase, "as a woman in travail," means that this woman is about to give birth, and indeed that is the case. Another passage that relates directly to this is Isaiah 49, where God is speaking metaphorically to the woman in travail:
Isaiah 49:18-21 18Lift up thine eyes round about, and behold: all these gather themselves together, and come to thee. As I live, saith the Lord, thou shalt surely clothe thee with them all, as with an ornament, and bind them on thee, as a bride doeth. 19For thy waste and thy desolate places, and the land of thy destruction, shall even now be too narrow by reason of the inhabitants, and they that swallowed thee up shall be far away. 20The children which thou shalt have, after thou hast lost the other, shall say again in thine ears, The place is too strait for me: give place to me that I may dwell. 21Then shalt thou say in thine heart, Who hath begotten me these, seeing I have lost my children, and am desolate, a captive, and removing to and fro? and who hath brought up these? Behold, I was left alone; these, where had they been?
Luke 8:10 "And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand."
Mark 4:9-12 "And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parable. And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them."
Mark 4:33,34 "And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear it. But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples."
Matthew 13:33,34 "All these things spake Jesus unto the multitude in parables; and without a parable spake he not unto them: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world."
Daniel 12:4 "But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased."
Daniel 12:8,9 "And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things? And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end."
In the Bible, a PARABLE is an earthly story with a Spiritual meaning. Christ, God Himself, is the author of the entire Bible and He declares that "without a parable spoke He not".
Is not then every historical account in the Bible not only a literal account but also a HISTORICAL PARABLE teaching some aspect of the Gospel? ceremonial Law, lamb of God, book of Ruth, etc.?
As we look at what is going on in the world and in the churches and congregations today, what do we see?
We see a world where sin, i.e. disobedience to God's law, is and has been multiplying as never before.
We see churches and congregations exhibiting a love for the world as the worship service has become a place for entertainment. And an abandonment of the Bible, the Word of God, as being the ultimate authority; where the church itself is the authority and not the Bible. We see a gospel being proclaimed where man is in control of their salvation and not God alonea do-it-yourself gospel where Christ has done His part and now it's up to us.
So where are we in God's time table of His plan for the churches and the world?
We are, I believe, living in the period describe in Matthew 24 and Mark 13, the Great Tribulation. A period where God's judgment has fallen upon the churches as we read in 1 Peter 4:17 and 2Thessalonians 2:1-12. And where God is preparing the world for His return on the clouds of glory at the Last Day.
It is also a time where God is reveling truth from His Word, the Bible, that has been hidden in times past as we read in Daniel 9 and Daniel 12.
Daniel 12:9 9 And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end.
But God, in this time, is saving a "great multitude" as we read in Revelation 7:9. Ezekiel 36:24-38, Jeremiah 29, Jeremiah 30 and many other passages which are pictures of God's salvation during this time.
If there were ever a time where we should be searching the scriptures and praying that God in His mercy might lead us into truth, this is that time.
But we must search the scriptures using the principles that God lays down in His Word. A key principle is that Christ is the author of the entire Bible and that He "spoke in parables, and without a parable spake He not" Matthew 13:34 and Mark 4:34.
May God in His mercy open our spiritual ears as we search the scriptures.
I am reading these one at a time and responding to each if that is okay.
1) Life in Christ begins when an individual accepts Jesus as their Savior. It is here that they are born again, spiritually speaking, that is.
2) From that point, the individual must either
a) continue on the quest for spiritual life in Christ or
b) fall away.
3) If they fall away from Christ with the belief that they are still along the pathway to salvation, then they are mistaken in their belief and are on the pathway to not only hell, but are in danger of being cast out with Lucifer.
4) Hell is that condition of being denied salvation from sin, whereas being cast out is that condition of living with their father Lucifer, who hates them.
5) Both "hell" and being "cast out" are for the spiritually dead in Christ. Those who will be judged.
6) Those individuals who remain loyal to Jesus and follow him have eternal life and are saved from the just judgment of God for their sins. That is, they have salvation in Christ their God, from judgment.
7) Those who remain loyal to Jesus are free from judgment, while those who do not remain loyal to Jesus will be judged to go to hell or be cast out. Such will be the case for the beast and his false prophet, who are cast out with Lucifer ( Rev. 19:20, 20:10).
8) This is the parable of the sower where Jesus is the sower and some fall while others live ( Matthew 13:1-23, Mark 4:1-20, and Luke 8:4-15).
9) Stay close to Jesus and live.
"... for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you." ( Matthew 17:20)
What is the characteristic of the grain of the mustard seed?
"31Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: 32Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof." ( Matthew 13:30-31)
Sometimes faith as little as a mustard grain which is the least of all seeds is all we need. But when it is placed in a good field (good heart) then it is grown and becomes a big tree.
Let us trust the written Word of God. Could God ever lie? He gave the command and the universe was created out of nothing. How difficult is it for Him to give the command and your illness goes away? The universe obeys Him, but not your illness?
"7Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 8For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 9Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?10Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? 11If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?" (Natthew 7-11)
Have a blessed week.
When God sees such an approach, it is impossible not to be moved. And so He does His side. He sees our efforts and sends His grace, His presence, and then things change a lot.
Matthew 13:12, "For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath."
The pastor in y church told us a story. He was sick in the hospital and his wife was trying hard to feed him because he did not feel like eating. He became very skinny. So his wife did something clever. She gave him a spoonful of food at first. Just one spoonful of food. And then the next time two spoonfuls, the next three spoonfuls, then four and so on. After a month or two he said he became overweight. Sometimes we may not feel like getting closer to God. But let us approach Him step by step. A small step today, a bigger step tomorrow, an even bigger step the day after tomorrow, and we will find ourselves very close to the Lord after some time. We must try and think of ways to renew our relationship with God constantly. This must be is continuous process.
God's feelings for us never change. But we have to be careful about our feelings for Him.
GBU
I thilk Babylon in the Book of Revelation has a close resemblance to the present Christian Church itself. A church should be a center where people experience God's grace, love and get regenerated with Holy Spirit. Sermons and programs must be supportive to the journey of Faith and spiritual growth.
But now adulterated messages, soothing offers and assurances are being heard from most places. The media too join the work. The call is not to look upwards to God, but to seek down, that is, for material benefits. This is Satan- sponsored gospel; He is the illegitimate custodian of earthly pleasures and he gives it abundantly in the guise that it is from God. The church people are happy: they get a good share of it.
Hosea 2: 1-13 "For she did not know that I gave her corn and oil and multiplied her silver and goldwhich they prepared for Bal" ( Hosea 2:8)
I think this is the great whore Babylon. God has allowed her to grow up till harvest. She still bears children for Satan
Matthew 13:30 "Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest, I will say to the reapers, gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn."
Blessings.
If I may, the armies that come from heaven when Jesus returns are angels, as mentioned in Matthew 13:39, Matthew 16:27, Matthew 24:31, Matthew 25:31, Matthew 26:53, 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10, and others.
If the Church, the dead in Christ, are resurrected and those still living are changed and taken to heaven, raptured before Jesus returns. When Jesus does return, who are they in Revelation 20:4-6? The judgment seat of Christ includes some who are here during the time of the beast. That would make another resurrection.
A separate rapture before the second coming would mean two resurrections before the white throne judgment. I can't find that in Scripture. The Rapture of the Church and the Second Coming of Christ must be the same event.
God bless,
RLW
Hi Bible Alone and thanks for your input. You have shared from Hebrews 11:13-16 as those 'faith heroes' who had their hope to be delivered from the limitations of this Earth, even of life itself, and to look forward to that heavenly city, that city "which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God". That is so true and should be for all who name the Name of Christ, where we should long to be free from sin's effects on us & the evil in the world around us, and be "with Christ which is far better".
And to refer to Matthew 13:34, Jesus indeed spoke to the people in parables, but where He gave them these earthly stories, they came with a heavenly/spiritual meaning & application. We cannot then use that verse to interpret everything seen in the Bible as a parable & thus give our own interpretation to them. It just generates confusion. So yes, there is the "true Israel of God", but we also have to note where national Israel is referred to and why there is a demarcation between the two.
So, if we are to believe that there can be no coming reign of Jesus in Jerusalem, simply because of the verses showing that we ought to be looking for that heavenly city, then we have a major problem with many Scriptures, viz. various Psalms (2, 22, 47,67, 89, 110, 132), Isaiah 9:6,7; Jeremiah 3:17; Micah 1:4-7; Zechariah 14:1-5, & from other prophets, and Revelation chaps 19 & 20). What do you suggest we do with these? Discard them or maybe, reinterpret them? All prophecies coming from a God-appointed prophet will come to pass verbatim, and if not, then both the prophet & prophecy are false. Onto Page 2.
All of Jesus's life was about fulfilling the law and prophecy; it is to the Jew first and then the rest of the world, Romans 1:16, Romans 2:9-10. Jesus clearly said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel, and He instructed His disciples to do the same, Matthew 10:6, Matthew 15:24. Jesus spoke to them in parables so they would not understand and hear, and be healed, Matthew 13:13-15.
You are correct that, as a nation, they would have been able to receive Jesus as the Messiah if they had repented, and then the kingdom could have been established at that time. However, God knew their hearts. They were expecting Jesus to set up the kingdom at that time, including the apostles. They asked Jesus if He was going to establish it then, Acts 1:6.
Their final rejection is shown when they cried out loudly and covered their ears, Acts 7:57. Though many disagree, this also fulfills the last seven years in the prophecy of Daniel 9, which many associate with the end times and the doctrine of the Rapture of the Church. This gospel of grace is offered to Jew or Greek, and unto the whole world.
There is no difference between the Jew and any other person of any nation, Romans 10:12. It took the apostles some time to understand this, as shown by Peter's reluctance and his dream. It may not be in our Bible, but I believe they all understood God's plan. This Kingdom will be established when Jesus returns, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in, Romans 11:25.
God bless,
RLW
I have shared Christ many times, both in my country and other lands while in ministry. If all the Bible told me was that unbelievers after death would simply perish in the earth, or even suffer for a time & disappear, then I would have no reason at all to warn others or share the Gospel. Is it because that these unfortunate ones would simply be annihilated and not have a part in Christ's Kingdom that is concerning you, or should it be of concern that the Gospel message is preached to save people from an eternal hell because of their sins?
As well, it would be wrong to think that "the idea of eternal hell fire goes back to paganism and not Christianity". Not at all, or else it could said that Jesus was also influenced by pagan beliefs. Rather, consider Matthew 13:40-42; Matthew 25:41,46; Mark 9:43; Luke 16:22-25. These were Jesus' Words and He as the Son of God would not pander to earthly thought or wisdom. If eternal hell is not preached as a necessary part of our Gospel message, we have failed to give out the pure Gospel of Christ. If eternal hell is not a reality, then there is no reason at all to share the message of Love & Hope that can only be found in the Son of God - for if man will simply die and disappear, we may as well stay smug & indifferent in our homes, caring not for the lost; after all they just die & suffer no consequence for their sins.
The initiation of Christ's public ministry was an immediate retreat to be tempted of the Devil in the wilderness for 40 days after being baptized and having the Spirit come down from heaven to empower Him. Scientifically after the first few days the body sort of shuts down as to desire for food; but once nutrients are taken to a certain level the body seeks them from depleting vital organs. Thus the second wave of real hunger came with full force and of course Satan was in the wings at this moment to test Him.
Aside from the hunger which no doubt was very intense; we have the spiritual temptation to avoid all the suffering to come. The enemy no doubt wouldn't waste such an offer on a mere man except for Antichrist in the future of having all kingdoms of the earth and their glory to be given. After temptation to use His own deity to create food; suicidal suggestions and this final offering to have it all and give Satan the glory Jesus was done for now with Satan's direct influence and the angels came and ministered to Him as they would later on in Gethsemene.
There appeared to be an initial period of time when Jesus was; for instance turning water into wine when there was little resistance. The Pharisees didn't take long to resist Him; however. The first major problem was in His own hometown; and He stated that a prophet has honor everywhere but his hometown ( Matthew 13:54-58). The surrounding areas had already been warned about and recieved harsh statements for their unbelief. We see this and upbraiding of other cities towards the end of Matthew 11.
In regard to the Pharisees they tried to kill Him about 10 times; at least what is recorded BEFORE the cross. We are reminded of David where Saul tried to pierce him with a javelin multiple times because of an evil spirit tormenting him. In the next segment we will examine the multiple ways the Pharisees tormented Him; using every tactic imaginable.
Matthew 13:47-52
We who long for His coming know that these are relevant words right now. And in v. 49 So it will be at the end of this age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous. v. 50 and throw them into the chariot of fire. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
So all of us who believe and have received something good and new from the Lord. Must in these times bring out from our treasuries, what has been given to them. Something to rejoice over and something that makes our hearts burn. Something for repentance and something for enlightenment. None of us are complete until we arrive at the Lord Jesus. Because as many as possible can enter the rest God has promised to those who endure to the end. My responsibility lies in doing my best for the Lord. Who has done so much for me. And He will continue to give. He does not take, Stay stong in the word og God. Hallelujah Amen.
ps. Stand firm in the word. Let the Lord and the eval one hear from His word that you know His promises.
Also remember this word that the Lord Himself experienced and said Matthew 13:53:58
(2 John Part 1a):
2 John was written to combat the infiltration of Gnostic teaching into the church. John's main theme is the correct doctrine of the humanity of Jesus Christ. The sub-theme is the assurance of salvation for genuine believers.
2 John 1:1 - The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth;
He says the elder. He's introducing himself as the elder. He is elder in two different ways. He's in his 90's now. He's in Ephesus as the oldest apostle still living. All the others have died a martyr's death. He is the elder in position, and age. He says unto the elect lady and her children.
There are two views as to who the elect lady is. Some believe that it is a church, and that her children are the members of the church. In Verse 13 itself, in signing off, he says the children of your elect sister greet you. There's no greeting from the sister. Apparently, she's not there. Or if it's a person, she's passed away, and only the children send their greetings.
You may or may not agree, but it is my position that he's actually writing to a woman and her children. It is interesting, as you carry that out, as archaeologists have found that the city of Ephesus is where Mary, the mother of Jesus, lived and died in her later years. And of course, Matthew 13:55 tells us that after the birth of Jesus Christ, Joseph and Mary had other children.
Some groups don't believe that. They want to keep Mary pure and a virgin for her whole life. But that's not what the bible teaches. She was a virgin up to the birth of Christ. But there are other brothers and sisters to Him. And He actually had interaction with them during His public ministry.
As Christians, we often refer to Matthew 21:21 and the casting of the mountain into the sea when talking of faith. In this context, the the mountain in question is a problem or obstacle in our lives. But what is Jesus Himself were the mountain Psalm 118:22 which we all at times "cast off." It's only after we find ourselves drowning in the depths of despair Psalm 71:20 that we meet with Him again Psalm 138:8 right where we placed Him. Micah 7:19 Only this time, He appears more glorious than ever, John 6:29 for we see Him from a different perspective, just as He intended. Matthew 13:13-17 And when we see Him as He is, we shall be changed and we shall be like Him. 1 John 3:2
Given one particular individual seeming to fit the end time Antichrist of late who I will not mention by name it seems fitting to review the scriptural descriptions of the final world leader and prepare ourselves for what is the inevitable end game as described in the Bible.
Introduction: God must judge the church first. ( 1 Peter 4:17). This is through the General Apostacy mentioned in 2 Thessalonians 2:3. We are headed for the final separation of the wheat from the chaff; and that reflects what is said in Matthew 13:30 Let both grow together until the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, "First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn." ' This shows the primary separation before the Rapture of those who formerly professed faith in Christ but who did't LOVE the truth and therefore will believe THE LIE as stated in 2 Thessalonians 11-12 And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
Consider for a moment those who haven't expressed an interest in Christ or spiritual things. There is no real appeal; at least at this time to such deception therefore there still can be hope. There are; no doubt others of all non Christian backgrounds and faiths that will also follow the deceiver but clearly Christians are targeted in these last days as we read in John 16:2 as to people thinking by killing us they are doing God a favor. That fit into the first century Jewish persecution of Christians by the Jewish establishment; but certainly could also foreshadow those who proclaim Christ and against the false Christ to come who will assist in building the Third Temple as well as bring together many to sign the Daniel 9:27 covenant at the onset of the Tribulation.
We will be viewed as the only ones against world peace.
Verses 44-45 discuss the hidden treasure concept; of treasure in a field and a pearl of great price.
Verses 47-51 show the parable of the fisherman and the final judgment; and in verse 51 we see in this case the Disciples get the point.
Verse 52 reads:
52 He said to them, "Therefore every teacher of the law who has become a disciple in the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his storeroom new treasures as well as old." This verse sort of gives a summary perhaps for wise sayings in general whether it benefits the narrator himself who is one of Christ's Disciples or those who hear these concepts. A rich life in God's sight involves investment in people and labor for the Kingdom of God which is worthless in the world's eyes but valuable in heavenly rewards and reaching out perhaps to the next generation.
Finally; verses 53-58 show the miserable attitude those in His hometown had toward Christ of unbelief.
Concluding thoughts on Matthew 13.
The 10000 dollar question here is how can we apply these passages in our day in a practical manner in our Christian walk? The fact is a lot of things Jesus did are unique to Him; we only see one instance as an example where Paul made a scathing remark in Acts 23:3 but even after the comment he retracts because this man was the High Priest. We don't see obvious hidden messages or parables in the rest of the New Testament by any of the Apostles or anyone in the churches.
Conceptually; I would interject the idea that the narrow road should be something we should consider if we are truly walking in light of 2 Corithians 13:5; 2 Peter 1:10-11. The seriousness of hellfire is something often avoided in sermons today; even where the Gospel is more or less preached faithfully. Discernment can help us avoid the Matthew 7:6 error of casting pearls before swine. Thoughts?
Introduction: The overall path we see in this stage of Christ's ministry is to speak in parables. The main emphasis here is to demonstrate that the seeds of truth must produce good fruit that first means good soil needs to cultivate the seed. There is a weeding out process here; actually literally in discussing the wheat and the tares as it were in that parable; but also to show that not everyone hearing the Word has been saved. The end of the chapter sees Jesus visiting his own hometown and the unbelief which limits the miracles that He performs as they still consider Him to be the "carpenter's son" (verse 55). This unbelief is; well unbelievable. One could surmise that He spent much time already; months and perhaps a couple years away from home so that some could in theory at least not seen His miracles there; surely you would expect a town that small would have heard at least about the virgin birth.
The concept of selective revelation as it were certainly corresponds to the idea of the elect only being saved; or to put it another way only those the Father chooses to reveal Him to as we saw earlier in Matthew 11:27 but also seen extensively in the Book of John conceptually. Mark 4 contains the parable of the sower and seeds and introduces this concept as well.
Matthew 13:1-9 shows this same parable of the sower and the seeds; and in verses 11-17 Jesus answers the Disciples questions about why He speaks in parables from verse 10.
The explanation is then given for this parable which goes on through verse 23. Verses 24-29 discuss the Parable of the wheat and the tares; and verses 31 and 32 show through the concept of a mustard seed and a woman with dough the increase of the seed of faith; OR verse 32 could tie in with leaven ruining the whole loaf as a concept but it doesn't seem to fit contextually in this passage. Verses 34-35 show at this point NOTHING was said without parables to crowds.
To be continued.
Matthew 13:44
"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field."
What is the spirit world ? ? Humans have a spirit that communicates with God and the devil can influence the spirit as well.
Satan is the spirit of this earth and the air.
Matthew 4:8
Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of theworld, and the glory of them;
The Second Coming of Jesus, the saved Jew of the kingdom is the good seed and the bad seed is the children of the wicked. The person next to us could be unsaved.
Matthew 13:38
The field is theworld; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;
Satan can convince a person not to get saved by deceiving them and now they are the wicked. The devil has wicked seeds of lies
Matthew 13:39
The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of theworld; and the reapers are the angels.
At the last days in the Second Coming of Jesus in the Tribulation, the wicked will be taken for destruction. It is not the Rapture.
Matthew 13:40
As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of thisworld.
At the Tribulation, the angels will kill the wicked. It is the not the Rapture.
Matthew 13:49
So shall it be at the end of theworld: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just,
It is harder for a rich man to be saved because he has everything in life except Jesus Christ.
Matthew 16:26
For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the wholeworld, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Jesus as a preacher possible had a job as a carpenter with His stepfather Joseph.
Matthew 13:55
Is not this thecarpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas?
Jesus as a preacher does not believe in a church to sell goods for profit.
Matthew 21:12
And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of themoneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves,
Jesus as a preacher also paid his taxes .
Matthew 17:24-27
24And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute?
25He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?
26Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free.
27Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
The gospel of grace has no payroll, it's free.
1. Barley , Jesus Christ
Ruth 1:22
So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess, her daughter in law, with her, which returned out of the country of Moab: and they came to Bethlehem in the beginning ofbarleyharvest.
2 Kings 4:42
And there came a man from Baalshalisha, and brought the man of God bread of the firstfruits, twenty loaves ofbarley, and full ears of corn in the husk thereof. And he said, Give unto the people, that they may eat.
2. Wheat , Second Coming
John 12:24
Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn ofwheatfall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.
1 Samuel 6:13
And they of Bethshemesh were reaping theirwheatharvest in the valley: and they lifted up their eyes, and saw the ark, and rejoiced to see it.
Matthew 13:30
Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather thewheatinto my barn
3. Grapes , Wrath of God
Revelation 14:18
And another angel came out from the altar, which had power over fire; and cried with a loud cry to him that had the sharp sickle, saying, Thrust in thy sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth; for hergrapesare fully ripe.
Isaiah 5:2
And he fenced it, and gathered out the stones thereof, and planted it with the choicest vine, and built a tower in the midst of it, and also made a winepress therein: and he looked that it should bring forthgrapes, and it brought forth wildgrapes.
Mark 15:23
And they gave him to drinkwinemingled with myrrh: but he received it not.
Matthew 26:29
But I say unto you, I will notdrinkhenceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when Idrinkit new with you in my Father's kingdom.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Matthew 13:30 states
"Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn."
In this example it appears that certain false brethren remain unknown until the time of the actual judgment of God. This is very depressing to think about but we can attribute it to one of the mysteries of God. As to those we know are not living according to what they profess; or alternatively are twisting scriptures around to justify their behaviors we cannot simply stand by. There are also those who do believe and are trapped in sin for a time; and others who don't believe but are attending. This subject is focused on those more involved; and certainly those who are part of the church membership.
Error can start from the bottom and work its way up; or start with a Pastor gradually veering away from the truth. I would say the first bulwark against such things is vigilant prayer which no doubt prevents many things we are unaware of from occuring much more often.
The first thing that causes error is men's hearts; where they want to find an excuse to accommodate sin; whether it is that of themselves or that of their friends. Error by itself is like poison; it is much more readily consumed in an already toxic prepared environment. Once the leadership has bought into a lie it is often too late to do anything about it because if God takes one person out another is likely to take over with an even worse heresy. Error usually starts out with a small number of individuals who no doubt are socially accepted in the congregation. Let's face it someone with a wild countenance and bad hygiene isn't likely to sway others toward their error; it is the well groomed; well mannered and involved church member who has the most influence. Weaknesses inside the camp start the process
This is the second coming of events of Jesus Christ.
Matthew 13:38-40
38The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;
39The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels.
40As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world.
Revelation 1:7
Behold,hecomethwithclouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.
Jude 1:14
And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints,
The wicked will be taken out first . That is the the Rapture event.
Matthew 13:41-42
41The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;
42And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
Peter never speaks of the Rapture, only the second coming of Jesus Christ inwhich is the Tribulation.
2 Peter 3:10
But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Jesus Christ kept the resurrection a secret.
Matthew 13:35
That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have beenkeptsecretfrom the foundation of the world.
Jesus Christ has secrets .
Romans 16:25
Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which waskeptsecretsince the world began,
Apostle Paul was revealed the mystery of Jesus Christ.
1 Timothy 3:16
And without controversy great is themysteryof godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
Apostle Paul was revealed another mystery.
Romans 11:25
For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of thismystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
Jesus Christ revealed mystery to Apostle Paul in a revelation.
Ephesians 3:3
How that by revelation he made known unto me themystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,
Apostle Paul know the mystery of Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 3:4
Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in themysteryof Christ)
Apostle Paul was given the gospel of grace in a mystery.
Ephesians 6:19
And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known themysteryof the gospel,
Apostle Paul was given another mystery in Christ Jesus.
Colossians 1:27
To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of thismysteryamong the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
This is speaking about the 7 years of tribulation after the Rapture is already passed. The wicked one will be taken and thrown in fire by angels . This is different from the Rapture. Only Apostle Paul speaks of the Rapture or Gathering.
Matthew 13:38-40
38The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;
39The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels.
40As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world.
Revelation 1:7
Behold,hecomethwithclouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.
Jude 1:14
And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints,
Matthew 13:41-42
41The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;
42And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
2 Peter 3:10
But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
Daniel 9:27
27And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Therefore, if we had only John 3:16 to understand the afterlife (whether it exists or not), then we could well believe that 'perish' clearly means a complete cessation of life, as in someone (the body) who perishes in a house fire or perishes by drowning. But in relation to the Scriptures, we know that God has given us a spirit & that spirit is identifies who we are, given life by God, with an outer covering (a body) to house it, yet the spirit can never perish (die). Genesis 2:7; Zechariah 12:1; Job 32:8; 1 Corinthians 2:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Ecclesiastes 3:21; Ecclesiastes 12:7.
And then we have the Judgement of God upon all, where those who belong in God's family, living a life consecrated to Him, are eternally secure from damnation, whereas all unbelievers (and their spirits can never be destroyed), suffer under God's condemnation. If only death was our final punishment for rejecting Christ, then we all still have to die as those in sinful, corrupt bodies; none can escape. This is a defective Gospel as most would prefer to cease to exist without any punishment & live life to the full, not answerable to God. But Christ's Sacrifice was to redeem lost sinful souls, not from death, but from God's eternal Punishment. Revelation 20:15; Revelation 21:8; Matthew 10:28; Matthew 13:49,50; Matthew 25:41,46; Mark 9:43; Luke 16:19-31; 2 Thessalonians 1:8,9.
Just a few Scriptures to show the Truth of an Eternal suffering in Hell & not simply disappearing forever in the grave. Every spirit (of man) is accountable to God.
Remember Isaiah 48:10 "I have refined thee in the furnace of affliction". Remember Zechariah 13:9 "I have brought the third part through the fire, the furnace of affliction." These verses coalesce around this present great tribulation in regards to God saving a great multitude which no man can number outside the churches, which were typified by Jerusalem back that came under judgment in 587 B.C. Referring to Micah 4:10, Jerusalem (typifying the local congregations) is the city that the woman being in travail shalt go forth from, and shall dwell in the field, that is, in the world ( Matthew 13:38), even to Babylon, that is, the secular world. There is where she shall be redeemed and delivered. It is crucial to note that it is outside the churches, in the secular world, where God is saving today. The phrase, "as a woman in travail," means that this woman is about to give birth, and indeed that is the case. Another passage that relates directly to this is Isaiah 49, where God is speaking metaphorically to the woman in travail:
Isaiah 49:18-21 18Lift up thine eyes round about, and behold: all these gather themselves together, and come to thee. As I live, saith the Lord, thou shalt surely clothe thee with them all, as with an ornament, and bind them on thee, as a bride doeth. 19For thy waste and thy desolate places, and the land of thy destruction, shall even now be too narrow by reason of the inhabitants, and they that swallowed thee up shall be far away. 20The children which thou shalt have, after thou hast lost the other, shall say again in thine ears, The place is too strait for me: give place to me that I may dwell. 21Then shalt thou say in thine heart, Who hath begotten me these, seeing I have lost my children, and am desolate, a captive, and removing to and fro? and who hath brought up these? Behold, I was left alone; these, where had they been?
Cont in Part 12
Luke 8:10 "And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand."
Mark 4:9-12 "And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parable. And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them."
Mark 4:33,34 "And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear it. But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples."
Matthew 13:33,34 "All these things spake Jesus unto the multitude in parables; and without a parable spake he not unto them: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world."
Daniel 12:4 "But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased."
Daniel 12:8,9 "And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things? And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end."
In the Bible, a PARABLE is an earthly story with a Spiritual meaning. Christ, God Himself, is the author of the entire Bible and He declares that "without a parable spoke He not".
Is not then every historical account in the Bible not only a literal account but also a HISTORICAL PARABLE teaching some aspect of the Gospel? ceremonial Law, lamb of God, book of Ruth, etc.?
As we look at what is going on in the world and in the churches and congregations today, what do we see?
We see a world where sin, i.e. disobedience to God's law, is and has been multiplying as never before.
We see churches and congregations exhibiting a love for the world as the worship service has become a place for entertainment. And an abandonment of the Bible, the Word of God, as being the ultimate authority; where the church itself is the authority and not the Bible. We see a gospel being proclaimed where man is in control of their salvation and not God alonea do-it-yourself gospel where Christ has done His part and now it's up to us.
So where are we in God's time table of His plan for the churches and the world?
We are, I believe, living in the period describe in Matthew 24 and Mark 13, the Great Tribulation. A period where God's judgment has fallen upon the churches as we read in 1 Peter 4:17 and 2Thessalonians 2:1-12. And where God is preparing the world for His return on the clouds of glory at the Last Day.
It is also a time where God is reveling truth from His Word, the Bible, that has been hidden in times past as we read in Daniel 9 and Daniel 12.
Daniel 12:9 9 And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end.
But God, in this time, is saving a "great multitude" as we read in Revelation 7:9. Ezekiel 36:24-38, Jeremiah 29, Jeremiah 30 and many other passages which are pictures of God's salvation during this time.
If there were ever a time where we should be searching the scriptures and praying that God in His mercy might lead us into truth, this is that time.
But we must search the scriptures using the principles that God lays down in His Word. A key principle is that Christ is the author of the entire Bible and that He "spoke in parables, and without a parable spake He not" Matthew 13:34 and Mark 4:34.
May God in His mercy open our spiritual ears as we search the scriptures.