Bible Discussion Thread

There are many present tense salvation statements in new testament writings that traditional interpretation has erroneously placed into the future i.e.(after we die). Col. 1:13 says "He hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son". Obviously, those who are in Christ are now seated in heavenly places. To be seated is to be in a position of authority i.e. a judge is seated in a court room. The word heaven comes from "heaved up" indicating the spirit world. In Eph. 6:12 the same Gr. word is translated into "High places" where powers of spiritual wickedness are. The Bible indicates levels of spiritual authority. The ultimate eternal authority, of course is God Himself. God created man a little lower than the angels ( Psalms 8:5). So we have God-angels-man-animals. Satan is of the angel level, which is why Michael could not accuse the devil ( Jude 9). However, being "In the Lord" believers are now seated in authority over the spiritual forces of evil. Beloved, now are we the sons of God ( 1 Jn. 3:2). Jesus gave all power over the the enemy to his followers (Lu. 10:19). Jesus entrusted His power to believers, for believers to apply in His name, and for His glory. That is why we are to dress ourselves with His salvation, truth, faith and righteousness ( Eph. 6:14-17). Being in Christ, we are now in a position over the devils, to command them to to obey His authority as He told us to do. ( Mk. 16:15-18 & Jn. 14:12-14). Christian love to those who disagree.