"What does the throne of glory signify? The white throne judgment is not about color but holiness of God so when he judges it is good, with no fear or favor. God is the Father of lights and all judgment is under the authority of his Son who is the true Light. So the glory of his throne is the Law and truth. "Thy word is truth" gives sovereignty of the Word binds every soul to him."Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do."(He.4:13).
Before the white throne all things are naked and open to him. "And the sea gave up the dead which were in it."(Re.20:13-15) names not found in the book of life are those earmarked for the lake of fire. Men may cheat death in the court of law but they shall not escape the second death where their souls are on the dock. Outer darkness spells where the presence of God shut them out so no memory of them shall taint the Land of the living.
What does 'one of the least of these my brethren' say Emmet Till or MLK represent? They shall be avenged for certain. The lame shall take the prey, the word of God has set down in the book of life which applies to all from the beginning of the world.
"for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well./My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth./Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them."(Ps.139:14-16)
Those who judge by appearances are certainly deceived. "Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God."(Jas.4:4) Knowing the right people to go high despising the poor is to despise his Maker
"For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial."
Faith with works in the case of Jesus was perfect."And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven." Col.1 19-20) "Reconciling all things unto himself" is explained in the episode in the house of Bethany. In him is the fulness so the king in the Parable rewarded " Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."(25:40)
"Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker." Pr.17:5. In our times so much anger and ill-will that has spawned a whole lot of platforms where those who espouse their grievances converge. Domestic terrorism is bred on social platforms so who spreads as well as listens are equally to blame. "A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue." It is thus nations have advanced with good seed and the tares intermingled. There shall be a day of judgment where the separation shall be strictly between the goats and the sheep. Many are called but few are chosen.
This being the case there are no sheep or goats preserved by geographical borders or by doctrine of men. Every man shall give account of himself.
Needless to say, Satan has deceived the man who believes in his country above others. He may call the migrants as 'vermin' because his color is not right, neither is his culture. He is wicked no less. "For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all."(Jas.2:10). When he invokes from a position of authority, as the pope of yore who invoked people of faith to crusade he is guilty. "Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven:"(Matt.5:19)
The Parable clearly lays out total sanctification for those who are called to be kings and priests. " For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;/And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself."(Col.1:17-20). Receiving a prophet "in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward." But kingdom of God lays out the preceding verse as the rule: "He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me."(10:40). Consequently without 'Christ in me' by faith, charity is merely lip service.(1 Co.13). Laws of nations create a system and those who know it escape from justice reserved for lawbreakers. Sheep on the right speaks of the nation of light. They are those who saw the light in the true light. (Ps.36:9)
As kings our judgment must be fair. "A king that sitteth in the throne of judgment scattereth away all evil with his eyes."(Pr.20:8) abiding in Christ we ought to train ourselves which explains faith with works. So one cannot serve mammon as well as serve God. As priests "Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity."(He.5:2). Having a beam in the eye one need to be circumspect before he wants to remove the mote in someone else's eye.
"And by him all things consist," Priestly garments of righteousness are of God we put on in our daily walks. We bear the burden of others which denote the breastplate and judgment, evokes the urim and thummim. Hearts can be very treacherous if let so by the light of the word we conduct our lives in all humility so grace may have perfect working in us. "Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits."(Ro.12:16,1-2) Our bodies are living sacrifices, "holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service."
Just a quick update. My husband Steve, tested positive for covid this morning. He began Paxlovid just as I did. I expect he will have similar results as I have had. I am nearly recovered now, with just a slight cough. I guess the CDC changed the isolation rules for covid March 1 and as long as one is improving and without a fever, one no longer needs to isolate but care should be taken when around vulnerable people.
I am one who believes in the hard sayings in particular that those who are living in adultery we should warn of their fate and also that taking communion should not involve those who are living in fornication and adultery or any other unrepentant sin involving a lifestyle of sin in particular. In my mind that involves second or later marriages of those whose first spouse is still living which is an issue I am currently dealing with in my church. I am not here going to debate on this particular posting the meaning of the "exception clause" due to "fornication" in Matthew 5 and 19 which is NOT present in parallel passages in Luke and Mark; and further bolstered by passages in Romans and Corinthians.
My concluding concept here is that ALL doctrines according to 2 Timothy 3:16 are important for teaching; edification; etc.
There are always some things debated; and no church has a perfect understanding or is sinless. Nonetheless the things that are clearly taught should be obeyed whether we like it or not to maintain a place where the Spirit is welcome and we aren't in danger of the "candlestick" going out as we see with the Ephesian church in Revelation who abandoned their "first love." This doesn't leave any room for partiality or pride whether it be for our leadership or church members; traditions; etc. It is God's church; not our own. The Lord disciplines His own; and we are being tested to see if we will be faithful until the end. If the enemy comes into the camp; through our own wickedness or the invasion of others then we are negligent in our duties if we don't try to stop it. We do what we can; God may indeed have determined to let a local church fail to fulfill greater purposes; but we need to be jealous for the truth as long as some truth prevails; at least until God opens a door for us to move on; or we are thrown out. The ten thousand dollar question is whether the Spirit is welcomed or locked out.
There is only one time that I am aware of where a literal heaven was spoken against; in this case a book on Postmillenialism. I don't have the book with me at present (it may be buried in a box somewhere). I should note that one good point was in that book; namely that many of the PreMil camp tend to state or act as though the gates of hell are too powerful; rather than holding out to the promises that they will not prevail until the end ( Matthew 16:18). In the proper context (as opposed to a Dominioninsm mentality) this is a valid criticism of many who are hiding out waiting for the Rapture and not occupying until He comes ( Luke 19:13).
In regard to hell; however of course there are many more professing believers who have convinced themselves that it is merely a symbolic statement. Such often tend to hold on to a cessation mentality; that is of a human soul before the final Resurrection presumably at the end of the Millennium or at least the Rapture. They think that someone will simply wake up thinking it was just a moment before that they died at the Resurrection; thus making the suffering of the lost delayed into the future to assuage their conscience (often if not for their own fate for that of their loved ones at present who have died). Of course; in light of verses such as 2 Corinthians 5:8; and Hebrews 9:27 among others this seems like a ridiculous concept. I would argue this point of a belief in literal hell is important enough that we cannot consider fellowship with other believers who don't agree at least in our own place of corporate worship. Again; we can try to witness to them the truth. This is needed doctrine because we need to explain the grave state of the lost; and that there is NO peace for the wicked. ( Isaiah 48:22 and many other passages). Hell not being literal is due to a misunderstanding of the meaning for the grave and sheol (the land of the dead).
Necessary doctrines: Fruit vs non fruit bearing activities
When we get into practical things; for instance the last few chapters of Romans after the lengthy dissertation on the depravity of man (no one is rightous); and the "Gospel of Grace" related to covenants and the like; there could be a tendancy to discount our behaviors as being as important as these doctrinal truths. The fact is they are both important and we can't live bearing good fruit without following the truth and showing obedient love for Christ with our lifestyles. We only need to look at Luke 6:46 to see the importance of doing what He says; and John 14:15 which shows that if we love Him we will obey His commandments. The basic command to love one another is seen in both the Gospel of John and first John as a necessary mandate for a true brother in Christ. This should be a basic litmus test to draw out those who are Judas Iscariot's in our midst. These issues make things difficult when we follow such commandments as 1 Corinthians 5:11 where we are told not to even eat with one who is living in immorality or other sins as a LIFESTYLE or continuing pattern who calls themself a "Christian". This should eliminate many prosperity Gospel folks who are "swindlers"; and those practicing idolatry where a false Christ is worshipped at least in the midst of a given true fellowship of saints. There are times when we can witness to others who are in error if we are not worshipping where they are if we can have some control on the meeting situation. In short; producing good fruit is mentioned in numerous scriptures and thus only occurs with a true believer as the Parable of the Sower indicates. This is essential doctrine which is evidenced by those who are drowning in perdition due to the cares of this world overtaking them ( 1 Timothy 6:9; see also Matthew 13:23). The attitude toward authority covered in Romans 13:1-2; we are called whenever it doesn't contradict scripture to obey authorities.
Necessary doctrines: God's covenants with Israel and the church.
The question that arises is this; since we are "grafted in" hence Jews and Gentiles are part of God's elect in this age as we see illlustrated in Romans 11. If we continue to verse 23; however we see that even Jews are grafted in once they believe in the truth about Jesus. ( Romans 11:25). We also see this principle in Luke 21:24 as well as various Old Testament scriptures about the Resurrection of all saints ( Daniel 12:13) and King David himself ruling with Christ ( Daniel 7:27 and other passages). There are those who stubbornly only consider these promises to be fulfilled in the church and say God is done with Israel. This helps to discount a millennium as something which is symbolic of the church (even though that has lasted almost 2000 years now since Pentecost). I would say that we need to draw the line if there is a display of antisemitism; for instance with a superiority complex developing because of these theories. Admittedly there is much evil among all; including those Jews who are living in unbelief when we see; for instance Tel Aviv and the abominations of those living out a lifestyle like Sodom ( Revelation 13:16-17). We also need to seek out individuals whether Jew or Gentile to preach the Good News; without partiality to anyone. Finally; there is difficulty with some in regard to sacrifices actually occurring in the Millennium; deeming them an abomination as Christ has already fulfilled all things necessary. That would depend on the purpose of these; as to commemorating God and having a ceremonial purification; for instance. Such activity would help to bring all to worship in Israel; fulfilling prophecies such as Isaiah 56:7 and Zechariah 14:17. Despite all this; I wouldn't consider this essential doctrine to break fellowship but important nonetheless to get a correct grip on the rest of scriptures to avoid what could be bigger error of essential truths.
The subject of prophecy never seems to be an issue in one regard among those who generally hold to proper scriptural interpretation in one sense; that is of PAST fulfillment. A Reformed church and many other traditional denominational assemblies hold onto belief that the Prophets accurately predicted specific events; in particular relating to the first coming of Christ. When it comes to future prophecies related to the nation of Israel and the Millennium there is often confusion as to what is taken literally and what is meant figuratively. Thus; again sometimes it is claimed that we can't understand certain things; or perhaps more insidious that because of an isolated doctrinal stance we can't pigeonhole something being literally fulfilled because it threatens that doctrine. Needless to say if our doctrines are truly Biblical and we take scripture literally unless clearly indicated as figurative we can make a lot more sense of things.
We need to remind ourselves that when Christ came the first time He was; by and large not received by His own ( John 1:11). We also need to realize that no matter how much prophecy we read if we are not written in the Book of life we are ultimately going to be deceived to the point that ALL who aren't there will worship the Antichrist (Beast) mentioned in Revelation 13:8.
As I have commented numerous times in the past few years at this site; by the sixth seal it is clear there are no more Atheists; nonetheless many will continue to live in open rebellion and follow Satan to their doom at Armageddon after damning themselves and taking the Mark of the Beast. Despite these factors; there are some who have reservations as to the Eschatology of a Millennium period; for example who I still fellowship with despite disagreeing with their interpretations.
A bigger issue is those who think God is done with Israel; a common verse used is Romans 9:6 as well as Galatians 3:7.
Whether in the "Arminian" or "Calvinistic" camps; God's sovereignty and man's inability to save himself apart from His grace is fairly universally accepted. The issue comes in as to whether mans' "free will" acts to make a decision whether to follow or not follow Christ and "accept" Him into their hearts. Both camps will hold to Romans 10:9 related to a verbal and heartfelt confession accompanying saving faith. I would contend that it is not as some like to call it "decisional regeneration" that occurs as a result of something we say; but that what we say is a reflection of God already moving one towards repentance as scripture states it is a gift of God ( 2 Tim. 2:25 and also stated in the Book of Acts). We are truly saved "apart from the law" ( Romans 3:21) by grace; but of course Paul makes it clear that we aren't granted a "license to sin" once we have escaped from the wrath of God. Nothing we can do will earn us grace; and more importantly there is no desire in unregenerate man to follow God; at best man can try to avoid the consequences of sin which of course makes us all as Judas Iscariot who betrayed Christ yet realized he had betrayed an innocent man and thus hung himself. (see 2 Corinthians 7:10). It should be obvious how essential the doctrine of grace is; as all other eligions and even Christian cults will offer a combination of faith in Christ and works as needed to be saved; or it is asceticism such as Eastern religions offer that seem to bring a utopia for someone after doing good works after a lengthy cycle of death and rebirth (reincarnation) which of course fundamentally is opposed by Hebrews 9:27. Often it is another Christ; whether presented as as sage or great prophet which is expounded that we should follow rather than the true Jesus who was the Son of God. John 8:24 makes it clear that we must believe that "I am" truly meaning that He is the Christ. ( Matt. 16:13-20). ONLY CHRIST CAN REVEAL THE TRUTH TO A MAN.
Necessary doctrines: Fulfilling the Great Commission
In Matthew 25; starting in verse 14 we see the Parable of the talents. The first two individuals are rewarded with eternal rewards far greater than invested in this life but in accordance to their faithfulness now. The last servant of course lost it all including apparently his soul. There is a slightly different viewpoint in the parallel Parable in Luke 19 where reward is lost; but it would appear hell would be for those who wouldn't have Christ rule over them which is mentioned after the example of this servant at the end of the Parable. Either way; Jesus made it clear that we are commanded to go out and spread the Good News of the Gospel. A true believer therefore is in danger of losing rewards in heaven; making it in through the "skin of their teeth" ( 1 Cor. 3:15); while a professing Christian may not even be saved if they are not recognized by Christ as a true believer as we see in the Parable of the 5 unwise virgins. We see a similar pattern in the admonition that anyone who teaches others to break one of the "least commandments" ( Matthew 5:19) will be the least in heaven (i.e. loss of rewards). This makes one consider what happens for a greater commandment and how that is defined. This would be of course a "damnable heresy" ( 2 Peter 2:1) and clearly indicates damnation for such individuals in hell.
The great difficulty we have here is if we try to define what is necessary doctrine or unnecessary is that all of scripture is connected so that we are in danger of "cherry picking" what we want to follow rather than what is needed. We also have to look at the attitude of the heart. In the tale of Ananias and Sapphira; it is often overlooked that the problem was not that only a portion of what was sold was brought to the church offering; but that they had lied about their commitment or vow that was made to give all. The other issue is what people say is hard to understand. More to come..
My last post (if it gets uploaded) gets into the basic doctrines needed to be understood for salvation. I would better state that as necessary doctrines that accompany a correct proclamation of our salvation which need to come from a truly regenerated heart to have any real effect. In terms of the law; we no longer need to continue to uphold all the hundreds of laws in the Torah. This is due to some being only for those who were in National Israel; and some which were ceremonial. Following the law never resulted in anyone being saved due to a state of perfection; and in the same logic adhering to the "doctrines of grace" or any and all correct ones doesn't guarantee anything either. The true essence of the law was explained by our Lord when He discussed the attitudes of the heart in Matthew 5 (in the case of verse 28 how looking after a woman lustfully means adultery in the heart).
I would contend that there are universal laws which involve the dignity of human life related to murder; marriage; etc. which are incumbent on all men to follow and which were established from the time of Adam and his immediate offspring as we see with the murder of Abel by Cain the firstborn male of our common ancestory. Even in the Ten Commandments there are certain things such as coveting in the Tenth Commandment that may not have punishment that is as extreme as a death penalty; and clearly we all break God's law in commission; omission or thought on a regular basis. The main concept here is that we are not to be lawless (as we are about to see the coming of the "lawless one" ( 2 Thess. 2:8). We are also not to be legalists by attempting to follow scripture but with a cold heart; or in the sense of creating new rules not in scripture (don't dance; don't smoke; don't drink; etc) which may be fine in their own right; but can't be pushed as a direct scriptural commandment.
Thus I would contend rules about our conduct also as essential.
To know Christ and to make Him known is the theme of the Navigators ministry and correlates with 1 John and other passages.
This is a good summary of understanding the personal meaning of Christ's sacrifice on the cross for atonement as well as our duties fulfilling our part in the Great Commission.
I imagine most here know the necessary doctrines of believing Christ is a member of the Godhead and thus Divinity Himself who was the only one who could atone for sins (as the sinless spotless Lamb of God) by becoming a man as we are without sin and remaining so throughout His earthly ministry; then dying on the cross and resurrecting from the dead 3 days later. Finally; He is to return once again physically to rule and reign on the earth.
2 Timothy 2:8 and 2 Thessalonians 2:2 show we should avoid the error of stating that the resurrection has already occurred or the day of the Lord is at hand. Matthew 24:26 states that the Lord hasn't come yet for those who say He is hiding somewhere and also states the likeness of His arrival as lightning in the very next verse. This should be enough to disclaim what Preterists state that the Lord has already come. Therefore I would contend that full Preterists that state this are far enough off in doctrine that we should avoid fellowship with them.
Assuming we have the essentials of salvation straightened out; there are many other warnings and admonitions in scripture such as testing ourselves to see if we are in the faith would involve ( 2 Corinthians 13:5). We need to accept that doctrines aren't just what is required to be saved; but also what is necessary to prove that we are bringing fruits worthy of repentance ( Matthew 3:8 and many other similar verses). We are not subject to the law in some sense IF we are truly dead to sin ( Romans 6:11) in one sense; because we have a new nature; but in the same token we DESIRE to obey Christ and love and serve Him as Lord; Master and Savior.
Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels."
Now we may identify what does right and left hand of the most High indicate. We covered the throne of the Lamb in terms of the Throne of God. (Re.22:1). The Son of man who sits on his throne of glory has holy angels in his attendance. Separation of light from darkness according to the everlasting covenant now is set. Holy angels signify everlasting life while the devil and his angels are earmarked for everlasting fire. This fire we came across first in the night vision of Daniel which is needless to say denotes the Alpha aspect where the same Father figure is repeated in the inaugural vision of St John. "And his voice as the sound of many waters." (Re.1:15)
Waters in the Omega aspect of his voice is the Word sent forth before the beginning.(Is.55:11). The throne of God upon the floods inform us who is in control. "The voice of the Lord divideth the flames of fire." (Ps.29:7,10)
Separation of Water and of fire is pendent on this verse. "the judgment was set, and the books were opened." Daniel describes the throne, "his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire." Similar device as a water wheel so it sends fire streaming, " A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him."(Dan.7:9-10)
Ge.1:7 gives us separation of waters. One signifies the Father of all mercies while the waters below becomes a byword for wicked nations. (Is.57:20) Sin has muddied the mercies of God that speaks of the earth. Meanwhile waters above heaven ,runs along and we see it coursing through the middle of the Throne of God and of the Lamb. (Re.22:1-3). This stream marks time. Fire everlasting likewise from the throne covers a period of time. The lake of fire is an indication of God's judgment. "These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone."(Re.19:20)
"And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this?"And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee." Evangelist Matthew reports after he cleansed the temple Jesus introduces himself as " My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves." (v.13) Compare how John treats the same cleansing of the temple, " And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchandise."(John2:17). John places the emphasis on "My Father's house." It is in this gospel we have this citation, "I and my Father are one."( John 10:30). In the Gospel of Matthew the book introduced Jesus as the son of Abraham and son of David. (Matt.1:1) St John having presented the logos aspect of Jesus Christ gives us a concrete example in this cleansing. My house is as valid as My Father's house. John continues the Alpha aspect of Jesus by the next verse, "And his disciples remembered that it was written, The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up."(v.17)
This just shows each Gospel has its inner logic and what drives them as one is the Alpha Omega aspect of the Son hitched to the word.
John 2:18-23
Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things?/Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up./Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days?/But he spake of the temple of his body."
"Temple of the body" how marvelously the Spirit gives us a concrete image of the Word become flesh? We are made kings and priests into Jesus Christ and the church as his body must witness this aspect of our Savior Lord. (Re.1:6)
Levitical priesthood was set for the Israelites as befitting their bootcamp, while Order of Melchizadec is forever.
Earlier we quoted,"Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people"(He.2:17)" This glory sets Jesus Christ as the Apostle as well as the high priest of our profession. Alpha aspect gives us the decree. "The Lord hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek." (110:4). The Spirit gives us a clue how he has organized the Bible narrative in the encounter between Abraham and Melchizedek. The High Priest of the Most High is meeting Abraham from whom the lineage of Jesus Christ springs from according to his humanity. He.7:9 annotates the Alpha and Omega in the encounter. "And he blessed him, and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth." (Ge.14:19). Earlier God blessed Abraham which sets all families in the earth which is confirmed by Melchizedek. (Ge.12:3). The bread and wine symbolizes the spiritual significance of our glory. "Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,/And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever." (Re.1:5-6). Every believer is called to be kings and priests, nothing less.
Coming back to the key verse the right hand indicates holy angels with him include us. "on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world."
This book is describing the transatlantic slave trade. And they would be sent into Egypt Again, which means this particular nation of people have had a history of being enslaved prior.
Me Personally have been going to church my entire life and not once have I ever heard the Priests, Pastor's preach this book in complete.
Which Is why most don't understand even though it's clear who the people are the book speaks of and who claim to be but are not.
The most high Yahweh leadath Israel into captivity in Egypt for disobeying his laws and sent Moses to being them out but they hardheaded Israelites continued there disobedience of his laws so the most high sent them into Egypt again this time on ships with yolks of iron upon thy necks sold to thy enemies separated from there children never to see them again given names and nationalities of the gentiles so they would no more be known as Israel and would work on pagan gods of the heathen so they will be broken.
The most high Yahweh has seen his children living in the ways of the heathen, so he has leadath Israel into captivity for disobeying his laws, and he wants his children to realize that it is never to late for Israel to return through faith and works by obeying his laws Israel will be saved
I am actually doing very well now. The paxlovid has worked extremely well. I finish it up on Sunday. So will see what it is like without this medication but my hope is that I keep getting better. Thanks for asking.
Please continue to pray for my nephew. He was asked to go back into the psyche ward on a voluntary admittance today. I don't know how long he will be there, but they want him to stay there until his medication regime begins to be effective for him since he was admitted a month ago for trying to commit suicide 6 times in a month. It is so difficult for him and he is so young and his lie has been full of trauma from severe neglect by his mother, his dad being absent from his life from 18 months of age to 18 years old. and he has been with his dad since then. he is 30 and disabled due to severe allergies and asthma that prevents him from working.
I hope you are doing well. Being down this week has given me lts of time to pray for others.
Hi BillyRay. Proverbs 6:17 will answer your first question; with verses 16-19 describing the 'seven things that are an abomination to God'. I can't think of a specific verse to answer your second question, though James 2:10 comes to mind: "For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all."
As with anything that comes into our minds, whether to lie, lust or whatever, when we it begins to take hold, to affect our minds & consciences, we must deal with it speedily, in the power of the Spirit lest it becomes sin & we offend our Heavenly Father. Yet, there is forgiveness if we earnestly repent of it & seek to cast it aside ( 1 John 1:9).
" Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world"
"When the Son of man shall come in his glory," v.31 must be understood in its correct setting. Jesus in his humanity emptied himself of the glory so in all things he shall like men, -namely of the seed of Abraham. Matt.1:1 so begins as the son of Abraham; "Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people"(He.2:17) Nevertheless the Holy Spirit enumerates generation of Jesus as following those of heavens. (Ge.2:4)
Here we shall examine the glory factor related to the Alpha Omega aspect of the Son. In his prayer to his Father he speaks of it. "And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was."( John 17:5). This glory is based on the word. "As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him./And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." The cloud of witnesses were thus part of his glory. and sanctified by truth. So Jesus prays, "Sanctify them by truth: thy word is truth" (John17:10)
In his transfiguration on the mount the three disciples were present. Jesus wanted them to hold it a secret till he had completely perfected the will of his Father. From the above we see how man trivializes this glory by playing to the gallery and for the praise of men? In our Savior we are assured of life eternal. "that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." Instead of truth how false teachers make Jesus with limited salvation. Such doctrine of man shall do much worse. "And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold."
In our time and place we endure temptation and are ridiculed and treated as fool but nevertheless we are enduring these for righteousness sake. It is thus Jesus Christ who of God has become righteousness connects us into his Alpha Omega aspect.
"then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory"
When we received Jesus Christ as our savior we heard the knock on the door. Supping with him signaled heavenly places (Re.3:20) and abiding life would mean that at one level Alpha mode of the Son, we were assured of life everlasting. God telling the Son " rule thou in the midst of thine enemies" was included as well. (Ps.110:1-2). When the enemies came down like a flood the Spirit raised the standard or the emblem. The bow in heaven signified it.(Is.59:19-20)
As with other emblems mentioned earlier we have the bow in heaven associated with the throne of the Lamb. " And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones."(Re.21:18) These 12 stones are to be seen from the new earth. This serves as rainbow. Science would it as a bow owing to gravitation lensing. The main point that New Jerusalem is hung up aloft in midair serving as sign for the everlasting covenant.
"And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it:."(Re. 21:24)
What do we make of nations? Alpha aspect of the Son separated light from darkness. (Ge.1:4) The White Throne Judgment casts out the children of disobedience (goats) from children of light (sheep).
"Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world."(v.34)
"And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goat."
It is remarkable that there is a time appointed and several other events also should occur in conjunction with it. "When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:"(v.31) The cloud of witnesses come into their own because the apotheosis of Jesus Christ means the emblem which was in the divine Will of the Father has become the throne of glory. The slain Lamb before the foundation of the world was an emblem. (Re.13:8). Right hand of the most high mentioned in the epistle to the Hebrews is no long determined by left or right but by the throne. "My Father and I are one" Jesus said in his humanity. It also shall be established. Thus we have the Throne of God and of the Lamb.(Re.22:1)
Jesus promised his disciples, "And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me." While he delivered the doctrine of his Father against the backdrop of 'a mountain' as witness he stated, "Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."(5:3; Luke 22:29). All the promises of God are yea in the Son. We are looking at the Alpha and Omega aspect of the Son so the word spoken before the worlds establish the beginning and in him was fulfilled in every case. Similarly God blessed us before the worlds began. (Ep.1:3-4) The holy angels in v.31 refer to what St Paul refers," According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love." We have been held in the Alpha aspect from the beginning. Because we endured with him in his temptations we have set throne. " Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."(5:10; 1 Pe.5:10)
The mind of the Lord lent his capital to the wicked servant in good faith but wickedness of the servant was his reasonable faculties took the line of least resistance. The Lord envisioned, as in the fable of the Collier and the Fuller, a clean environment while the servant was letting out the grounds for colliery. It is thus faith and reason are ever at odds when we consider the kingdom building.
Has Christianity made the name of Jesus Christ redound to glory of God since St Paul took leave of the elders of Ephesus?
"Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock./Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them./ Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears./ And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. (Ac.20:28-32)
Sects allowing only limited salvation and honor as a teacher denying his deity in full measure are sign of the times. Overseers which preach another Jesus is laying out another gospel. Blasphemy against Holy Ghost St Paul warned then. The single culprit for this is the manner the false teachers have cherry picked the word of God to impose doctrines of men rather.
25:28-29 speaks of a church that is so feeble that they fall upon nationalism as their last refuge.
"What does the throne of glory signify? The white throne judgment is not about color but holiness of God so when he judges it is good, with no fear or favor. God is the Father of lights and all judgment is under the authority of his Son who is the true Light. So the glory of his throne is the Law and truth. "Thy word is truth" gives sovereignty of the Word binds every soul to him."Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do."(He.4:13).
Before the white throne all things are naked and open to him. "And the sea gave up the dead which were in it."(Re.20:13-15) names not found in the book of life are those earmarked for the lake of fire. Men may cheat death in the court of law but they shall not escape the second death where their souls are on the dock. Outer darkness spells where the presence of God shut them out so no memory of them shall taint the Land of the living.
What does 'one of the least of these my brethren' say Emmet Till or MLK represent? They shall be avenged for certain. The lame shall take the prey, the word of God has set down in the book of life which applies to all from the beginning of the world.
"for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well./My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth./Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them."(Ps.139:14-16)
Those who judge by appearances are certainly deceived. "Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God."(Jas.4:4) Knowing the right people to go high despising the poor is to despise his Maker
Thanks for sharing that encouraging update!
Tell your husband we will be praying for him also.
God bless you.
"For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial."
Faith with works in the case of Jesus was perfect."And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven." Col.1 19-20) "Reconciling all things unto himself" is explained in the episode in the house of Bethany. In him is the fulness so the king in the Parable rewarded " Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."(25:40)
"Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker." Pr.17:5. In our times so much anger and ill-will that has spawned a whole lot of platforms where those who espouse their grievances converge. Domestic terrorism is bred on social platforms so who spreads as well as listens are equally to blame. "A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue." It is thus nations have advanced with good seed and the tares intermingled. There shall be a day of judgment where the separation shall be strictly between the goats and the sheep. Many are called but few are chosen.
This being the case there are no sheep or goats preserved by geographical borders or by doctrine of men. Every man shall give account of himself.
Needless to say, Satan has deceived the man who believes in his country above others. He may call the migrants as 'vermin' because his color is not right, neither is his culture. He is wicked no less. "For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all."(Jas.2:10). When he invokes from a position of authority, as the pope of yore who invoked people of faith to crusade he is guilty. "Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven:"(Matt.5:19)
The Parable clearly lays out total sanctification for those who are called to be kings and priests. " For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;/And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself."(Col.1:17-20). Receiving a prophet "in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward." But kingdom of God lays out the preceding verse as the rule: "He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me."(10:40). Consequently without 'Christ in me' by faith, charity is merely lip service.(1 Co.13). Laws of nations create a system and those who know it escape from justice reserved for lawbreakers. Sheep on the right speaks of the nation of light. They are those who saw the light in the true light. (Ps.36:9)
As kings our judgment must be fair. "A king that sitteth in the throne of judgment scattereth away all evil with his eyes."(Pr.20:8) abiding in Christ we ought to train ourselves which explains faith with works. So one cannot serve mammon as well as serve God. As priests "Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity."(He.5:2). Having a beam in the eye one need to be circumspect before he wants to remove the mote in someone else's eye.
"And by him all things consist," Priestly garments of righteousness are of God we put on in our daily walks. We bear the burden of others which denote the breastplate and judgment, evokes the urim and thummim. Hearts can be very treacherous if let so by the light of the word we conduct our lives in all humility so grace may have perfect working in us. "Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits."(Ro.12:16,1-2) Our bodies are living sacrifices, "holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service."
Just a quick update. My husband Steve, tested positive for covid this morning. He began Paxlovid just as I did. I expect he will have similar results as I have had. I am nearly recovered now, with just a slight cough. I guess the CDC changed the isolation rules for covid March 1 and as long as one is improving and without a fever, one no longer needs to isolate but care should be taken when around vulnerable people.
So, I think I am good to go now. Great!
I am one who believes in the hard sayings in particular that those who are living in adultery we should warn of their fate and also that taking communion should not involve those who are living in fornication and adultery or any other unrepentant sin involving a lifestyle of sin in particular. In my mind that involves second or later marriages of those whose first spouse is still living which is an issue I am currently dealing with in my church. I am not here going to debate on this particular posting the meaning of the "exception clause" due to "fornication" in Matthew 5 and 19 which is NOT present in parallel passages in Luke and Mark; and further bolstered by passages in Romans and Corinthians.
My concluding concept here is that ALL doctrines according to 2 Timothy 3:16 are important for teaching; edification; etc.
There are always some things debated; and no church has a perfect understanding or is sinless. Nonetheless the things that are clearly taught should be obeyed whether we like it or not to maintain a place where the Spirit is welcome and we aren't in danger of the "candlestick" going out as we see with the Ephesian church in Revelation who abandoned their "first love." This doesn't leave any room for partiality or pride whether it be for our leadership or church members; traditions; etc. It is God's church; not our own. The Lord disciplines His own; and we are being tested to see if we will be faithful until the end. If the enemy comes into the camp; through our own wickedness or the invasion of others then we are negligent in our duties if we don't try to stop it. We do what we can; God may indeed have determined to let a local church fail to fulfill greater purposes; but we need to be jealous for the truth as long as some truth prevails; at least until God opens a door for us to move on; or we are thrown out. The ten thousand dollar question is whether the Spirit is welcomed or locked out.
There is only one time that I am aware of where a literal heaven was spoken against; in this case a book on Postmillenialism. I don't have the book with me at present (it may be buried in a box somewhere). I should note that one good point was in that book; namely that many of the PreMil camp tend to state or act as though the gates of hell are too powerful; rather than holding out to the promises that they will not prevail until the end ( Matthew 16:18). In the proper context (as opposed to a Dominioninsm mentality) this is a valid criticism of many who are hiding out waiting for the Rapture and not occupying until He comes ( Luke 19:13).
In regard to hell; however of course there are many more professing believers who have convinced themselves that it is merely a symbolic statement. Such often tend to hold on to a cessation mentality; that is of a human soul before the final Resurrection presumably at the end of the Millennium or at least the Rapture. They think that someone will simply wake up thinking it was just a moment before that they died at the Resurrection; thus making the suffering of the lost delayed into the future to assuage their conscience (often if not for their own fate for that of their loved ones at present who have died). Of course; in light of verses such as 2 Corinthians 5:8; and Hebrews 9:27 among others this seems like a ridiculous concept. I would argue this point of a belief in literal hell is important enough that we cannot consider fellowship with other believers who don't agree at least in our own place of corporate worship. Again; we can try to witness to them the truth. This is needed doctrine because we need to explain the grave state of the lost; and that there is NO peace for the wicked. ( Isaiah 48:22 and many other passages). Hell not being literal is due to a misunderstanding of the meaning for the grave and sheol (the land of the dead).
When we get into practical things; for instance the last few chapters of Romans after the lengthy dissertation on the depravity of man (no one is rightous); and the "Gospel of Grace" related to covenants and the like; there could be a tendancy to discount our behaviors as being as important as these doctrinal truths. The fact is they are both important and we can't live bearing good fruit without following the truth and showing obedient love for Christ with our lifestyles. We only need to look at Luke 6:46 to see the importance of doing what He says; and John 14:15 which shows that if we love Him we will obey His commandments. The basic command to love one another is seen in both the Gospel of John and first John as a necessary mandate for a true brother in Christ. This should be a basic litmus test to draw out those who are Judas Iscariot's in our midst. These issues make things difficult when we follow such commandments as 1 Corinthians 5:11 where we are told not to even eat with one who is living in immorality or other sins as a LIFESTYLE or continuing pattern who calls themself a "Christian". This should eliminate many prosperity Gospel folks who are "swindlers"; and those practicing idolatry where a false Christ is worshipped at least in the midst of a given true fellowship of saints. There are times when we can witness to others who are in error if we are not worshipping where they are if we can have some control on the meeting situation. In short; producing good fruit is mentioned in numerous scriptures and thus only occurs with a true believer as the Parable of the Sower indicates. This is essential doctrine which is evidenced by those who are drowning in perdition due to the cares of this world overtaking them ( 1 Timothy 6:9; see also Matthew 13:23). The attitude toward authority covered in Romans 13:1-2; we are called whenever it doesn't contradict scripture to obey authorities.
The question that arises is this; since we are "grafted in" hence Jews and Gentiles are part of God's elect in this age as we see illlustrated in Romans 11. If we continue to verse 23; however we see that even Jews are grafted in once they believe in the truth about Jesus. ( Romans 11:25). We also see this principle in Luke 21:24 as well as various Old Testament scriptures about the Resurrection of all saints ( Daniel 12:13) and King David himself ruling with Christ ( Daniel 7:27 and other passages). There are those who stubbornly only consider these promises to be fulfilled in the church and say God is done with Israel. This helps to discount a millennium as something which is symbolic of the church (even though that has lasted almost 2000 years now since Pentecost). I would say that we need to draw the line if there is a display of antisemitism; for instance with a superiority complex developing because of these theories. Admittedly there is much evil among all; including those Jews who are living in unbelief when we see; for instance Tel Aviv and the abominations of those living out a lifestyle like Sodom ( Revelation 13:16-17). We also need to seek out individuals whether Jew or Gentile to preach the Good News; without partiality to anyone. Finally; there is difficulty with some in regard to sacrifices actually occurring in the Millennium; deeming them an abomination as Christ has already fulfilled all things necessary. That would depend on the purpose of these; as to commemorating God and having a ceremonial purification; for instance. Such activity would help to bring all to worship in Israel; fulfilling prophecies such as Isaiah 56:7 and Zechariah 14:17. Despite all this; I wouldn't consider this essential doctrine to break fellowship but important nonetheless to get a correct grip on the rest of scriptures to avoid what could be bigger error of essential truths.
The subject of prophecy never seems to be an issue in one regard among those who generally hold to proper scriptural interpretation in one sense; that is of PAST fulfillment. A Reformed church and many other traditional denominational assemblies hold onto belief that the Prophets accurately predicted specific events; in particular relating to the first coming of Christ. When it comes to future prophecies related to the nation of Israel and the Millennium there is often confusion as to what is taken literally and what is meant figuratively. Thus; again sometimes it is claimed that we can't understand certain things; or perhaps more insidious that because of an isolated doctrinal stance we can't pigeonhole something being literally fulfilled because it threatens that doctrine. Needless to say if our doctrines are truly Biblical and we take scripture literally unless clearly indicated as figurative we can make a lot more sense of things.
We need to remind ourselves that when Christ came the first time He was; by and large not received by His own ( John 1:11). We also need to realize that no matter how much prophecy we read if we are not written in the Book of life we are ultimately going to be deceived to the point that ALL who aren't there will worship the Antichrist (Beast) mentioned in Revelation 13:8.
As I have commented numerous times in the past few years at this site; by the sixth seal it is clear there are no more Atheists; nonetheless many will continue to live in open rebellion and follow Satan to their doom at Armageddon after damning themselves and taking the Mark of the Beast. Despite these factors; there are some who have reservations as to the Eschatology of a Millennium period; for example who I still fellowship with despite disagreeing with their interpretations.
A bigger issue is those who think God is done with Israel; a common verse used is Romans 9:6 as well as Galatians 3:7.
I will discuss this further.
Whether in the "Arminian" or "Calvinistic" camps; God's sovereignty and man's inability to save himself apart from His grace is fairly universally accepted. The issue comes in as to whether mans' "free will" acts to make a decision whether to follow or not follow Christ and "accept" Him into their hearts. Both camps will hold to Romans 10:9 related to a verbal and heartfelt confession accompanying saving faith. I would contend that it is not as some like to call it "decisional regeneration" that occurs as a result of something we say; but that what we say is a reflection of God already moving one towards repentance as scripture states it is a gift of God ( 2 Tim. 2:25 and also stated in the Book of Acts). We are truly saved "apart from the law" ( Romans 3:21) by grace; but of course Paul makes it clear that we aren't granted a "license to sin" once we have escaped from the wrath of God. Nothing we can do will earn us grace; and more importantly there is no desire in unregenerate man to follow God; at best man can try to avoid the consequences of sin which of course makes us all as Judas Iscariot who betrayed Christ yet realized he had betrayed an innocent man and thus hung himself. (see 2 Corinthians 7:10). It should be obvious how essential the doctrine of grace is; as all other eligions and even Christian cults will offer a combination of faith in Christ and works as needed to be saved; or it is asceticism such as Eastern religions offer that seem to bring a utopia for someone after doing good works after a lengthy cycle of death and rebirth (reincarnation) which of course fundamentally is opposed by Hebrews 9:27. Often it is another Christ; whether presented as as sage or great prophet which is expounded that we should follow rather than the true Jesus who was the Son of God. John 8:24 makes it clear that we must believe that "I am" truly meaning that He is the Christ. ( Matt. 16:13-20). ONLY CHRIST CAN REVEAL THE TRUTH TO A MAN.
In Matthew 25; starting in verse 14 we see the Parable of the talents. The first two individuals are rewarded with eternal rewards far greater than invested in this life but in accordance to their faithfulness now. The last servant of course lost it all including apparently his soul. There is a slightly different viewpoint in the parallel Parable in Luke 19 where reward is lost; but it would appear hell would be for those who wouldn't have Christ rule over them which is mentioned after the example of this servant at the end of the Parable. Either way; Jesus made it clear that we are commanded to go out and spread the Good News of the Gospel. A true believer therefore is in danger of losing rewards in heaven; making it in through the "skin of their teeth" ( 1 Cor. 3:15); while a professing Christian may not even be saved if they are not recognized by Christ as a true believer as we see in the Parable of the 5 unwise virgins. We see a similar pattern in the admonition that anyone who teaches others to break one of the "least commandments" ( Matthew 5:19) will be the least in heaven (i.e. loss of rewards). This makes one consider what happens for a greater commandment and how that is defined. This would be of course a "damnable heresy" ( 2 Peter 2:1) and clearly indicates damnation for such individuals in hell.
The great difficulty we have here is if we try to define what is necessary doctrine or unnecessary is that all of scripture is connected so that we are in danger of "cherry picking" what we want to follow rather than what is needed. We also have to look at the attitude of the heart. In the tale of Ananias and Sapphira; it is often overlooked that the problem was not that only a portion of what was sold was brought to the church offering; but that they had lied about their commitment or vow that was made to give all. The other issue is what people say is hard to understand. More to come..
My last post (if it gets uploaded) gets into the basic doctrines needed to be understood for salvation. I would better state that as necessary doctrines that accompany a correct proclamation of our salvation which need to come from a truly regenerated heart to have any real effect. In terms of the law; we no longer need to continue to uphold all the hundreds of laws in the Torah. This is due to some being only for those who were in National Israel; and some which were ceremonial. Following the law never resulted in anyone being saved due to a state of perfection; and in the same logic adhering to the "doctrines of grace" or any and all correct ones doesn't guarantee anything either. The true essence of the law was explained by our Lord when He discussed the attitudes of the heart in Matthew 5 (in the case of verse 28 how looking after a woman lustfully means adultery in the heart).
I would contend that there are universal laws which involve the dignity of human life related to murder; marriage; etc. which are incumbent on all men to follow and which were established from the time of Adam and his immediate offspring as we see with the murder of Abel by Cain the firstborn male of our common ancestory. Even in the Ten Commandments there are certain things such as coveting in the Tenth Commandment that may not have punishment that is as extreme as a death penalty; and clearly we all break God's law in commission; omission or thought on a regular basis. The main concept here is that we are not to be lawless (as we are about to see the coming of the "lawless one" ( 2 Thess. 2:8). We are also not to be legalists by attempting to follow scripture but with a cold heart; or in the sense of creating new rules not in scripture (don't dance; don't smoke; don't drink; etc) which may be fine in their own right; but can't be pushed as a direct scriptural commandment.
Thus I would contend rules about our conduct also as essential.
To know Christ and to make Him known is the theme of the Navigators ministry and correlates with 1 John and other passages.
This is a good summary of understanding the personal meaning of Christ's sacrifice on the cross for atonement as well as our duties fulfilling our part in the Great Commission.
I imagine most here know the necessary doctrines of believing Christ is a member of the Godhead and thus Divinity Himself who was the only one who could atone for sins (as the sinless spotless Lamb of God) by becoming a man as we are without sin and remaining so throughout His earthly ministry; then dying on the cross and resurrecting from the dead 3 days later. Finally; He is to return once again physically to rule and reign on the earth.
2 Timothy 2:8 and 2 Thessalonians 2:2 show we should avoid the error of stating that the resurrection has already occurred or the day of the Lord is at hand. Matthew 24:26 states that the Lord hasn't come yet for those who say He is hiding somewhere and also states the likeness of His arrival as lightning in the very next verse. This should be enough to disclaim what Preterists state that the Lord has already come. Therefore I would contend that full Preterists that state this are far enough off in doctrine that we should avoid fellowship with them.
Assuming we have the essentials of salvation straightened out; there are many other warnings and admonitions in scripture such as testing ourselves to see if we are in the faith would involve ( 2 Corinthians 13:5). We need to accept that doctrines aren't just what is required to be saved; but also what is necessary to prove that we are bringing fruits worthy of repentance ( Matthew 3:8 and many other similar verses). We are not subject to the law in some sense IF we are truly dead to sin ( Romans 6:11) in one sense; because we have a new nature; but in the same token we DESIRE to obey Christ and love and serve Him as Lord; Master and Savior.
Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels."
Now we may identify what does right and left hand of the most High indicate. We covered the throne of the Lamb in terms of the Throne of God. (Re.22:1). The Son of man who sits on his throne of glory has holy angels in his attendance. Separation of light from darkness according to the everlasting covenant now is set. Holy angels signify everlasting life while the devil and his angels are earmarked for everlasting fire. This fire we came across first in the night vision of Daniel which is needless to say denotes the Alpha aspect where the same Father figure is repeated in the inaugural vision of St John. "And his voice as the sound of many waters." (Re.1:15)
Waters in the Omega aspect of his voice is the Word sent forth before the beginning.(Is.55:11). The throne of God upon the floods inform us who is in control. "The voice of the Lord divideth the flames of fire." (Ps.29:7,10)
Separation of Water and of fire is pendent on this verse. "the judgment was set, and the books were opened." Daniel describes the throne, "his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire." Similar device as a water wheel so it sends fire streaming, " A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him."(Dan.7:9-10)
Ge.1:7 gives us separation of waters. One signifies the Father of all mercies while the waters below becomes a byword for wicked nations. (Is.57:20) Sin has muddied the mercies of God that speaks of the earth. Meanwhile waters above heaven ,runs along and we see it coursing through the middle of the Throne of God and of the Lamb. (Re.22:1-3). This stream marks time. Fire everlasting likewise from the throne covers a period of time. The lake of fire is an indication of God's judgment. "These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone."(Re.19:20)
"And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this?"And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee." Evangelist Matthew reports after he cleansed the temple Jesus introduces himself as " My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves." (v.13) Compare how John treats the same cleansing of the temple, " And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchandise."(John2:17). John places the emphasis on "My Father's house." It is in this gospel we have this citation, "I and my Father are one."( John 10:30). In the Gospel of Matthew the book introduced Jesus as the son of Abraham and son of David. (Matt.1:1) St John having presented the logos aspect of Jesus Christ gives us a concrete example in this cleansing. My house is as valid as My Father's house. John continues the Alpha aspect of Jesus by the next verse, "And his disciples remembered that it was written, The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up."(v.17)
This just shows each Gospel has its inner logic and what drives them as one is the Alpha Omega aspect of the Son hitched to the word.
John 2:18-23
Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things?/Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up./Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days?/But he spake of the temple of his body."
"Temple of the body" how marvelously the Spirit gives us a concrete image of the Word become flesh? We are made kings and priests into Jesus Christ and the church as his body must witness this aspect of our Savior Lord. (Re.1:6)
Levitical priesthood was set for the Israelites as befitting their bootcamp, while Order of Melchizadec is forever.
Earlier we quoted,"Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people"(He.2:17)" This glory sets Jesus Christ as the Apostle as well as the high priest of our profession. Alpha aspect gives us the decree. "The Lord hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek." (110:4). The Spirit gives us a clue how he has organized the Bible narrative in the encounter between Abraham and Melchizedek. The High Priest of the Most High is meeting Abraham from whom the lineage of Jesus Christ springs from according to his humanity. He.7:9 annotates the Alpha and Omega in the encounter. "And he blessed him, and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth." (Ge.14:19). Earlier God blessed Abraham which sets all families in the earth which is confirmed by Melchizedek. (Ge.12:3). The bread and wine symbolizes the spiritual significance of our glory. "Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,/And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever." (Re.1:5-6). Every believer is called to be kings and priests, nothing less.
Coming back to the key verse the right hand indicates holy angels with him include us. "on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world."
Me Personally have been going to church my entire life and not once have I ever heard the Priests, Pastor's preach this book in complete.
Which Is why most don't understand even though it's clear who the people are the book speaks of and who claim to be but are not.
The most high Yahweh leadath Israel into captivity in Egypt for disobeying his laws and sent Moses to being them out but they hardheaded Israelites continued there disobedience of his laws so the most high sent them into Egypt again this time on ships with yolks of iron upon thy necks sold to thy enemies separated from there children never to see them again given names and nationalities of the gentiles so they would no more be known as Israel and would work on pagan gods of the heathen so they will be broken.
I am actually doing very well now. The paxlovid has worked extremely well. I finish it up on Sunday. So will see what it is like without this medication but my hope is that I keep getting better. Thanks for asking.
Please continue to pray for my nephew. He was asked to go back into the psyche ward on a voluntary admittance today. I don't know how long he will be there, but they want him to stay there until his medication regime begins to be effective for him since he was admitted a month ago for trying to commit suicide 6 times in a month. It is so difficult for him and he is so young and his lie has been full of trauma from severe neglect by his mother, his dad being absent from his life from 18 months of age to 18 years old. and he has been with his dad since then. he is 30 and disabled due to severe allergies and asthma that prevents him from working.
I hope you are doing well. Being down this week has given me lts of time to pray for others.
As with anything that comes into our minds, whether to lie, lust or whatever, when we it begins to take hold, to affect our minds & consciences, we must deal with it speedily, in the power of the Spirit lest it becomes sin & we offend our Heavenly Father. Yet, there is forgiveness if we earnestly repent of it & seek to cast it aside ( 1 John 1:9).
I hope you are doing well.
I'm praying for you.
God bless.
" Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world"
"When the Son of man shall come in his glory," v.31 must be understood in its correct setting. Jesus in his humanity emptied himself of the glory so in all things he shall like men, -namely of the seed of Abraham. Matt.1:1 so begins as the son of Abraham; "Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people"(He.2:17) Nevertheless the Holy Spirit enumerates generation of Jesus as following those of heavens. (Ge.2:4)
Here we shall examine the glory factor related to the Alpha Omega aspect of the Son. In his prayer to his Father he speaks of it. "And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was."( John 17:5). This glory is based on the word. "As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him./And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." The cloud of witnesses were thus part of his glory. and sanctified by truth. So Jesus prays, "Sanctify them by truth: thy word is truth" (John17:10)
In his transfiguration on the mount the three disciples were present. Jesus wanted them to hold it a secret till he had completely perfected the will of his Father. From the above we see how man trivializes this glory by playing to the gallery and for the praise of men? In our Savior we are assured of life eternal. "that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." Instead of truth how false teachers make Jesus with limited salvation. Such doctrine of man shall do much worse. "And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold."
In our time and place we endure temptation and are ridiculed and treated as fool but nevertheless we are enduring these for righteousness sake. It is thus Jesus Christ who of God has become righteousness connects us into his Alpha Omega aspect.
"then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory"
When we received Jesus Christ as our savior we heard the knock on the door. Supping with him signaled heavenly places (Re.3:20) and abiding life would mean that at one level Alpha mode of the Son, we were assured of life everlasting. God telling the Son " rule thou in the midst of thine enemies" was included as well. (Ps.110:1-2). When the enemies came down like a flood the Spirit raised the standard or the emblem. The bow in heaven signified it.(Is.59:19-20)
As with other emblems mentioned earlier we have the bow in heaven associated with the throne of the Lamb. " And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones."(Re.21:18) These 12 stones are to be seen from the new earth. This serves as rainbow. Science would it as a bow owing to gravitation lensing. The main point that New Jerusalem is hung up aloft in midair serving as sign for the everlasting covenant.
"And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it:."(Re. 21:24)
What do we make of nations? Alpha aspect of the Son separated light from darkness. (Ge.1:4) The White Throne Judgment casts out the children of disobedience (goats) from children of light (sheep).
"Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world."(v.34)
"And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goat."
It is remarkable that there is a time appointed and several other events also should occur in conjunction with it. "When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:"(v.31) The cloud of witnesses come into their own because the apotheosis of Jesus Christ means the emblem which was in the divine Will of the Father has become the throne of glory. The slain Lamb before the foundation of the world was an emblem. (Re.13:8). Right hand of the most high mentioned in the epistle to the Hebrews is no long determined by left or right but by the throne. "My Father and I are one" Jesus said in his humanity. It also shall be established. Thus we have the Throne of God and of the Lamb.(Re.22:1)
Jesus promised his disciples, "And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me." While he delivered the doctrine of his Father against the backdrop of 'a mountain' as witness he stated, "Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."(5:3; Luke 22:29). All the promises of God are yea in the Son. We are looking at the Alpha and Omega aspect of the Son so the word spoken before the worlds establish the beginning and in him was fulfilled in every case. Similarly God blessed us before the worlds began. (Ep.1:3-4) The holy angels in v.31 refer to what St Paul refers," According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love." We have been held in the Alpha aspect from the beginning. Because we endured with him in his temptations we have set throne. " Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."(5:10; 1 Pe.5:10)
The mind of the Lord lent his capital to the wicked servant in good faith but wickedness of the servant was his reasonable faculties took the line of least resistance. The Lord envisioned, as in the fable of the Collier and the Fuller, a clean environment while the servant was letting out the grounds for colliery. It is thus faith and reason are ever at odds when we consider the kingdom building.
Has Christianity made the name of Jesus Christ redound to glory of God since St Paul took leave of the elders of Ephesus?
"Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock./Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them./ Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears./ And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. (Ac.20:28-32)
Sects allowing only limited salvation and honor as a teacher denying his deity in full measure are sign of the times. Overseers which preach another Jesus is laying out another gospel. Blasphemy against Holy Ghost St Paul warned then. The single culprit for this is the manner the false teachers have cherry picked the word of God to impose doctrines of men rather.
25:28-29 speaks of a church that is so feeble that they fall upon nationalism as their last refuge.