Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Matthew 11:29–30, KJV

INTRO

Consider a simple motor with a spindle. Such a motor is the driving force behind whatever mechanism it is attached to. Without it, a machine will do absolutely nothing, regardless of how advanced it may be.

Next, consider a gear. On its own, it is inanimate, powerless, and unable to do any purposeful work. However, once the gear is placed upon the spindle of the motor, it becomes the vessel through which the power of the motor is transferred throughout the rest of the machine. Often, there are many gears of varied sizes, each connecting in diverse ways to various parts and pieces in order for the machine to be able to carry out its designed purposes.

OBJECT LESSON

Here we see a picture of the working relationship between Christ and His followers. The motor represents Christ, for power and strength is imparted to the believer through Him. The gear represents the Christian who, once surrendered to Christ, is actuated to carry out his God-ordained purposes in life.

As the gear upon the motor remains productive, so also the Christian that abides in Christ will bring forth much fruit.1 However, if the gear becomes dislodged from the spindle, the operations of the machine will slow to an eventual stop. So it is with the Christian, if he ceases to abide in Christ, his fruit will dwindle and even what he once had will be lost.2

We cannot live in the future based only upon past spiritual experiences. We must continually, daily, abide in Christ.

Our adversary, the devil, is ever on the prowl to destroy, discourage, and divide all those who are walking with Christ or considering doing so.3 So long as the gear remains detached from the motor, Satan is satisfied. He is content for much time and money to be invested in the building up of the machine, so long as it remains removed from the motor and source of true power and authority.

Even the smallest, cheapest, and simplest machine, when connected to a power source, is more effective and beneficial than the largest, grandest, and most advanced machine that stands alone and disconnected. So it is with churches today and their connection with (or without) Jesus through the Holy Spirit.

INSPIRATION

The Bible tells us that we are to bear fruit unto the glory of the Father. Go to Christ, take His yoke, and He will teach you, guide you, and help you to fulfill this calling.

The Bible tells us that we are to love one another as Christ loves us.4 Go to Christ, take His yoke, and He will teach you, guide you, and help you to fulfill this calling.

The Bible says that we are to keep the commandments.5 Go to Christ, take His yoke, and He will teach you, guide you, and help you to fulfill this calling.

The Bible says that we are to overcome all sin and sinful habits, whether they be inherited or developed. This is true righteousness by faith.6 Go to Christ, take His yoke, and He will teach you, guide you, and help you to fulfill this calling.

The Bible says that we are to put off anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, and filthy communications from our mouths. Go to Christ, take His yoke, and He will teach you, guide you, and help you to fulfill this calling.

The Bible says that we are to share truth and the gospel message with others.7 Go to Christ, take His yoke, and He will teach you, guide you, and help you to fulfill this calling.

The Bible says that we should have good works as evidence of faith. These works should be seen by others in such a way that they glorify our heavenly Father.8 Go to Christ, take His yoke, and He will teach you, guide you, and help you to fulfill this calling.

CLOSING

The list could go on, touching on so many things, but the principle here is clearly presented. Without the help of Christ Jesus our Lord, we can do nothing.9 The best we can hope for is a mere form of religion, absent of any real life and character changing power. (a machine without a motor)10 With Jesus, by His spirit, we are able to fulfill every calling that God places upon our lives.11

We will never be saved by our works any more than the machine will ever operate with the main gear detached from the motor. However, to the converted Christian who is abiding in Christ and has the law of God written upon his heart,12 good works, obedience to God’s commandments, love for Christ, love for others, transformation of character, and overcoming sins will continually develop throughout their lifetime. They will be as the gear which remains connected to the motor and as one who daily takes up the yoke with Jesus.

PRAYER

May God help us to be more like Christ every day and to abide firmly in Him. May our characters be continually transformed into more of the likeness of Christ and less of the worldly pattern.

God Bless,
Charles

SCRIPTURE INDEX

And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.

Matthew 25:8, KJV

INTRO

One night recently, the power went out at my house right as I was settling into bed to read. Rather than letting the event cut my plans short, I got up and used a flashlight to start up an oil lamp that I keep on hand for unexpected situations just like this.

As I filled the lamp with oil, my thoughts were drawn to the parable that Jesus gave in Matthew 25 about the ten virgins and their lamps. As with the recent destruction of my shed, it seemed as though the Lord had arranged to give me living object lesson pertaining to another one of His parables.

So, I had the lamp, but it would have been utterly useless if I did not have oil. Before the lamp was lit, I stumbled through my house. With no ambient lights anywhere (due to the power being out), the darkness was thick, and I couldn’t even see my hand in front of my face. This paralleled the experience of the five foolish virgins in the parable, for they had no oil and their lamps had gone out when the cry for the bridegroom came.

DEFINITIONS

If you’ve read some of my other posts, you will know that I try to establish Biblical definitions, when possible, as a firm foundation to build upon.

Here are our definitions for Matthew 25:

• Woman - Church, God’s people.1

• Virgin - Pure church, which either has or at least thinks that it has pure Biblical doctrines, which are free from the wine of Babylon as well as the doctrines and traditions of men.2

• Lamp - Representative of the Bible,3 which is the source of all true Christian doctrine.4

• Oil - Holy Spirit.5

PARABLE OF THE TEN VIRGINS

Here again we see Jesus contrasting two classes of Christians. At the end of this parable, and at the end of this age, one class will be accepted into heaven while the other class will be turned away. We know that this is speaking of professed believers in Jesus Christ and not unbelievers, for they are all pure women and are all waiting for the bridegroom (Christ) to come. This part couldn’t be clearer.

The above is an important point to remember, as modern Christianity has diverged from Biblical doctrine in many ways and has exalted a false, cheap, understanding of grace in that it teaches no actual surrender or fruitful evidence of a genuine conversion before proclaiming someone as eternally saved and ensuring that their conscience remains hardened and fast asleep. It is possible that, in modern Americanized Christianity, more people have been placed on the road to destruction by this false doctrine of grace than any other.

At the beginning of the parable, the virgins were all the same, or at least they all appeared to be, because they all had lamps and all ten of those lamps were burning. Had the bridegroom not tarried until midnight, they would all have been part of the procession into the wedding and the true character of the five foolish would not have been outwardly seen. But He did tarry, resulting in something terrifying happening to five of the virgins. Their lamps went out and they had no more oil through which to revive it.

They had oil in the beginning, but now it was gone. Their supply was exhausted and in a state of great desperation, their lack was manifested. One might say that they had “quenched” the spirit. They had doctrines, they had a form of godliness,6 and at one point they had a work of the Holy Spirit. Then, they quenched it. No longer having the power to accompany the form, they had only darkness, deep darkness to look forward to.

Paul, in his first letter to Thessalonica, writes to “quench not the Spirit:”

Thus, the Spirit can be quenched. It can depart from a person (or a church). If this happens, as we see in the Matthew 25 parable, the end result is not good.

APPLICATION

A church, or a member, can have all the right doctrines and be an undefiled virgin in that sense, yet still be on the broad road to destruction because they have quenched the Spirit. Knowledge without a change of character is worthless in the heavenly system.

It is the grace of God, carried out by the work of the Holy Spirit, which brings about the conversion of the soul, causes good fruit to come forth, and transforms the character into Christlikeness.7

A new relationship with Christ necessitates a new relationship with sin, the world, and worldly pursuits. If a new relationship with Christ has been heralded but one’s relationship with sin, the world, and worldly pursuits remains the same, then no true relationship with Christ has been established. It is impossible for the Spirit of Christ to enter into a person and their lives not be transformed. Feelings and emotions wear off, but a transformation of character by the power of the Most High endures through every tempest.

Consider the fruits of the Spirit:8 love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance. We should be increasing in these throughout our lifetime, for our heavenly Father prunes those that bear fruit that they may bear more.9

If there is no oil, there is no Spirit. If there is no Spirit, there will be no good fruit. If there is no good fruit, there is no character transformation into Christlikeness.10

This is serious business. We should examine ourselves to see if we are in the faith and walking according to Biblical principles, for our adversary prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking to devour.11

WEEDS AND THORNS

Just as ground without water needs no effort to produce weeds and thorns, so also that heart that is void of the Holy Spirit needs no effort to produce the same. And what are these thorns, spiritually speaking? Jesus says they are the cares, riches, and pleasures of this life.12

Those who seek these things first will bring forth no fruit to perfection. If they have ever had the Spirit work in their heart, they will have now quenched it. They will have no oil for a time of tarrying. They will not receive heaven nor eternal life in the end. Later on, in the same chapter, Jesus describes the alternative outcome:

LAST GENERATION (NO RAPTURE)

We also learn from this parable that, for the last generation living on Earth when Christ returns, He will tarry. This tarrying allows circumstances to be so shaken and stirred upon the earth that it will be seen who has oil and who does not. It is only by the oil of the Spirit of Christ that men will be able to endure, with lamps burning, through the trials that are fast coming upon the earth.

There will be no rapture out ahead of the trials. This unbiblical teaching took off in the early 1900s and has been cleverly refined ever since. It stands as yet another effort by Satan to lull Christians to sleep, so they will be utterly unprepared for what is really coming. God promises His children protection during this time while tens of thousands are falling around them:

If there were a secret rapture ahead of the seven last plagues of Revelation, it would be as though the bridegroom came when all ten virgins still had a lamp burning, or at least when it was day.

Alternatively, it would be as though five virgins were taken initially, and perhaps two or three more were retrieved later.

No, the bridegroom comes at the darkness of midnight, when the world is in woe. In this time, His servants, who are preparing now, will continue to shine forth the character and steadfastness of Christ, while the unprepared are being overwhelmed by the enormity of their lack. By the time they realize they have no oil, it will be too late. Twice, in Revelation 16, during the time of the seven last plagues, we read that men do not repent. It is a time of judgement not of revival. As Noah was protected during the flood, God’s people will be protected during the judgements of the seven last plagues.

When He comes, He comes only once, and there are only two classes of Christians, not three as there would need to be with pre-tribulation and mid-tribulation rapture theology.

CLOSING

Brother, sister, friend, do not take these matters lightly. Do you love the world and the things of the world? The Bible says the love of the Father is not in you.

Are you growing in Christlikeness and bearing fruit unto the glory of the Father,13 or is that fruit being choked out by your focus on work, money, property, sports, movies, TV, entertainment, gluttony, alcohol, pornography, or any other self-gratifying care and pleasure of the world?

If so, do not delay! Today, if you hear His voice, as a prick or conviction through this message, harden not your heart.14 Jesus will turn away no person15 who comes to Him in full repentance, letting go of their worldly pleasures and pursuits, so that they can take up their own cross and follow Him16 who has bestowed upon them the great riches of His love.17

The best that the world has to offer pales in comparison to winning Christ, being found in Him,18 and receiving a life of eternal glory in the midst of His kingdom and presence.

Do not delay! Do not delay! Seek Him now. Troublesome times are ahead of us. Secure your house before the storm lands. The early winds are beginning to be felt. Do not dismiss them.

May Christ keep us all until the end.19

God Bless,
Charles

SCRIPTURE INDEX

The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: Because the spirit of the LORD bloweth upon it: Surely the people is grass. The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: But the word of our God shall stand for ever.

Isaiah 40:7–8, KJV

INTRO

The prophet Isaiah writes that people are as the grass that withers and their beauty as the flower that fades.

He contrasts this with the “word of God” which stands forever. The word which comes forth from His mouth is pure,1 and as silver that has been purified seven times.2

As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are God’s ways and His thoughts higher than man’s.3

• They are higher in wisdom, for what man can grasp the full measure of them.4

• They are higher in perfection and without any filtration or taint that comes from the finite minds of men.5

• They are higher in authority and thus override and overrule all which man has sought to change, neglect, excuse, or disannul.6

THE WORD OF GOD IN THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

Perhaps the greatest example that we have of this is found in the ten commandments, as the delivery of these precepts were unique and distinct from all others.7

• These words were literally spoken by God from Mt. Sinai.8 Even Moses trembled at the hearing of them.9

• They were then written by the finger of God upon tables of stone to portray their binding, enduring, and unalterable condition.10

• They were placed inside the ark, under the mercy seat, to show that it is the sin of breaking of any one of these ten commandments that men must then obtain mercy and forgiveness for.11

• Lastly, they still reside in the heavenly ark today,12 with all the authority of heaven behind them. They reside here where Jesus now ministers as our great high priest,13 showing their continued application to the New Covenant Christian and their jurisdiction over the realm of the Earth.

Breaking any one of the ten commandments is still a sin for which the Christian must obtain forgiveness and mercy.

THE WORD OF MEN

Yet, what do men say? Man has said that these words were not fully pure, holy, just, and good in that they have needed modification. (Rom 7:12) Man has claimed that his authority is greater than that of heaven’s in that he is able to overrule that which the God and creator of all things instituted at the foundation of our sinless world, spoke from His very own mouth, wrote with His very own finger, and preserved in His high heaven.

Man has taken the fourth commandment, regarding the seventh day sabbath and has neglected it, removed it, trampled over it, and in many cases replaced it.

In our generation, this is done largely as a work of blind ignorance and tradition by simply carrying on with things as they have been for one century after another. This ceases to be an excuse, however, when light comes to our hearts.14

Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for holding up the traditions of men over the ten commandments of God.15 Would He not issue a similar rebuke to the churches today to bring them out of an erroneous path that has been taken regarding the Sabbath commandment?

ROME

Have you ever wondered where this change started to take place and how the commandment of God became so replaced with tradition that it is now an accepted way of life for the majority of Christians? We don’t find its origins in the Bible.

The Roman emperor Constantine, who blended Christianity with paganism, was the first to give the backing of a state government to Sunday observance as a civil day of rest. He said the following on March 7, 321 AD:

“Emperor Constantine Augustus to Helpidius. All judges and the people in the city should rest, and the work in all crafts should cease, on holy Sunday. But the people in the country may freely and lawfully apply themselves to cultivating their fields…”

Codex Justinianus, Book 1, Title 12, Constitution 2

This paved the way for an official adoption of Sunday over Saturday at the Council of Laodicea in 364 AD, where we find the following from Canon 29:

Christians must not judaize by resting on the Sabbath, but must work on that day, rather honouring the Lord’s Day; and, if they can, resting then as Christians. But if any shall be found to be judaizers, let them be anathema from Christ.

Philip Schaff and Henry Wace, eds., “The Canons of the Synod Held in the City of Laodicea, in Phrygia Pacatiana,” in The Seven Ecumenical Councils, trans. Henry R. Percival, vol. 14, A Select Library of the Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers of the Christian Church, Second Series (New York: Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1900), 148.

During the time of this council in Laodicea the church age had reached the period of Pergamos, as found in Revelation 2:12-17. To this church era, Jesus issued a rebuke regarding a toleration of false doctrines that had begun taking root.

Neither Constantine nor the council of Laodicea based their proclamations upon the word of God, but rather the withering, passing, and transitory words and traditions of men. These things, which grew out of both pagan and papal Rome, set in motion a course which would eventually push the seventh day Sabbath observance and worship almost entirely out of the Christian church, and replaced it with what Constantine called the “venerable day of the Sun” (Sunday).

PROPHECY

We need not be surprised by these things, for the Bible, through the prophet Daniel, spoke long ago of a church-state power that would rise in the future and “think to change times and laws.”16

Indeed, such a power did rise and did “think” to change the time of the Sabbath from Saturday to Sunday, and the laws of the second, fourth, and tenth commandments. One needs only to compare the ten commandments of the Catholic Catechism with those of the Bible to see these changes.

Though the changes have appeared to be enforced and accepted by nearly all of Christendom, this power (Roman Catholic Church) could only “think” to change them because the God of heaven has not altered one jot or tittle17 from His original, as He spoke them, wrote them, and preserved them.

Let us close by simply letting this power, which would “think” to change God’s ten commandments speak for itself. May God grant us all that we may have eyes to see, ears to hear, and a heart for truth.

Please consider the following quotes with prayer and careful study:

QUOTES FROM ROME

Catechism of the Catholic Church:

2177 The Sunday celebration of the Lord’s Day and his Eucharist is at the heart of the Church’s life. “Sunday is the day on which the paschal mystery is celebrated in light of the apostolic tradition and is to be observed as the foremost holy day of obligation in the universal Church.

https://usccb.cld.bz/Catechism-of-the-Catholic-Church2/545/

2184 Just as God “rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had done,” human life has a rhythm of work and rest. the institution of the Lord’s Day helps everyone enjoy adequate rest and leisure to cultivate their familial, cultural, social, and religious lives.

https://usccb.cld.bz/Catechism-of-the-Catholic-Church2/546/

Cardinal James Gibbons, The Faith of Our Fathers (Ayers Publishing, 1978): p77-78:

But you may read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, and you will not find a single line authorizing the sanctification of Sunday. The Scriptures enforce the religious observance of Saturday, a day which we never sanctify.

https://archive.org/details/faith-of-our-fathers-by-cardinal-james-gibbons/page/n77/mode/2up?q=Sunday

The Convert’s Catechism of Catholic Doctrine (1957): p65:

Q: Which is the Sabbath day?

→ A: Saturday is the Sabbath day.

Q: Why Do we observe Sunday instead of Saturday?

→ A: We observe Sunday instead of Saturday because the Catholic Church transferred the solemnity from Saturday to Sunday.

https://archive.org/details/converts-catechism/page/n63/mode/2up?q=Sunday

John Laux, A Course in Religion for Catholic High Schools and Academies, Book 1: Chief Truths of the Faith, 1936

If we consulted the Bible only, we should still have to keep holy the Sabbath Day, that is, Saturday, with the Jews, instead of Sunday.

Some of the truths that have been handed down to us by tradition and are not recorded in the Sacred Scriptures, are the following: That there are just seven sacraments; that there is a purgatory; that, in the new law, Sunday should be kept holy instead of the Sabbath; that infants should be baptized, and that there are precisely seventy-two books in the Bible.

Stephen Keenan, Catholic-Doctrinal Catechism 3rd Edition: 174

Question: Have you any other way of proving the Church has power to institute festivals of precept?

Answer: Had she not such power, she could not have done that in which all modern religionists agree with her, she could not have substituted the observance of Sunday the 1st day of the week, for the observance of Saturday the 7th day, a change for which there is no Scriptural authority.

https://archive.org/details/doctrinalcatechi01keen/page/174/mode/2up?q=authority

Our Sunday Visitor (February 5, 1950):

Practically everything Protestants regard as essential or important they have received from the Catholic Church ... The Protestant mind does not seem to realize that in accepting the Bible and observing the Sunday, in keeping Christmas and Easter, they are accepting the authority of the spokesman for the church, the Pope.

https://archive.org/details/20211124114413112-1/mode/2up?q=Sunday

Patrick Donahoe, Plain Talk about the Protestantism of To-Day (1868): p225:

Thus the observance of Sunday by the Protestants is a homage they pay, in spite of themselves, to the authority of the (Catholic) Church.

https://archive.org/details/plaintalkaboutp01sggoog/page/n228/mode/2up?q=Protestants

The Christian Sabbath (Catholic Mirror, September, 1893):

The Catholic Church, for over one thousand years before the existence of a Protestant, by virtue of her divine mission, changed the day from Saturday to Sunday.

https://archive.org/details/christian-sabbath-or-sunday/page/28/mode/2up?q=Saturday)

Catholic Priest Father Enright (The Industrial American, Harlan, Iowa, December 19, 1889):

It was the holy Catholic Church that changed the day of rest from Saturday to Sunday, the 1st day of the week. And it not only compelled all to keep Sunday, but at the Council of Laodicea, AD 364, anathematized those who kept the Sabbath and urged all persons to labor on the 7th day under penalty of anathema.

I have repeatedly offered $1000 to any one who can furnish any proof from the Bible that Sunday is the day we are bound to keep ... The Bible says, “Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy,” but the Catholic Church says, “No, keep the first day of the week,” and the whole world bows in obedience.

https://adventistdigitallibrary.org/adl-368114/american-sentinel-february-6-1890

Catholic Record (September 1, 1923) p4:

The [catholic] Church is above the Bible, and this transference of the Sabbath observance is proof of that fact. Deny the authority of the Church and you have no adequate or reasonable explanation or justification for the substitution of Sunday for Saturday…

https://archive.org/details/catholic-record-full/page/n3/mode/2up

→ “Sabbath Observance” section, thirteenth paragraph (last in the second column)

Thomas, C. F. (1893). Letter to Cardinal James Gibbons (reprinted). The Messenger of the Sacred Heart, 33, 137–138:

Of course the Catholic Church claims that the change was her act. It could not have been otherwise, as none in those days would have dreamed of doing anything in matters spiritual and ecclesiastical and religious without her. And the act is a mark of her ecclesiastical power and authority in religious matters.

American Catholic Quarterly Review (January 1883) p139:

Sunday ... is purely a creation of the Catholic Church.

https://archive.org/details/sim_american-catholic-quarterly-review_1883-01_8_29/page/138/mode/2up?q=Catholic

“The Question Box,” The Catholic Universe Bulletin (August 14, 1942): 4:

The (Catholic) Church changed the observance of the Sabbath to Sunday by right of the divine, infallible authority given to her by her Founder, Jesus Christ. The Protestant claiming the Bible to be the only guide of faith, has no warrant for observing Sunday.

Arthur Weigall, The Paganism in Our Christianity (New York: Putnam’s Sons, 1928): 145:

The Church made a sacred day of Sunday ... largely because it was the weekly festival of the sun; for it was a definite Christian policy to take over the pagan festivals endeared to the people by tradition, and to give them a Christian significance.

https://archive.org/details/paganisminourchr0000unse/page/144/mode/2up?q=policy

John A. O’Brien, The Faith of Millions: the Credentials of the Catholic Religion Revised Edition (Our Sunday Visitor Publishing, 1974):

But since Saturday, not Sunday, is specified in the Bible, isn’t it curious that non-Catholics, who claim to take their religion directly from the Bible and not from the Church, observe Sunday instead of Saturday? Yes, of course, it is inconsistent; but this change was made about fifteen centuries before Protestantism was born, and by that time the custom was universally observed. They have continued the custom even though it rests upon the authority of the Catholic Church and not upon any explicit text in the Bible. That observance remains as a reminder of the Mother Church from which the non-Catholic sects broke away-like a boy running away from home but still carrying in his pocket a picture of his mother or a lock of her hair.

https://archive.org/details/faithofmillionsc0000obri_r8n5/page/400/mode/2up?q=custom

Startling and solemn words. I urge every reader to commit the matter to earnest prayer and diligent study prior to dismissing the weight of evidence. This is the journey that I too had to take a few years ago. In the end, I chose to uphold the teaching of the Bible over the traditions of men.

God Bless,
Charles

SCRIPTURE INDEX

And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.

Matthew 7:27, KJV

A CONTRAST OF TWO CLASSES

In Matthew 7:13-27, Jesus contrasts two classes of people. These people appear outwardly similar in some ways but have two very different outcomes in the end. The comparisons are as follows:

• Those on the narrow way contrasted with those on the broad way.

• Good trees with good fruit contrasted with corrupt trees having evil fruit.

• Those who enter the kingdom of heaven contrasted with those who hope to enter but are not permitted to do so.

• Those who build upon rock contrasted with those who build upon sand.

• Those who hear His sayings and do (obey) them contrasted with those who hear His sayings and disregard (disobey) them.

All are on a way that they hope leads to life.1 All are trees2 bearing some sort of fruit. All profess belief in the Lord Jesus.3 All have heard the word of God and truth.4 With these things in mind, you might say that all bear the title of “Christian.” Thus, Jesus is not talking about believers and unbelievers here, but exclusively believers.

Yet there is a solemn warning in the distinction between these two classes of Christians.

• Those on the broad way go to destruction.5

• Those bearing evil fruit are cast into fire.6

• Many saying “Lord, Lord” are denied heaven.7

• Those who build upon the sand, and don’t follow after the truth they have seen and heard, fall with a great fall that is agitated by winds of strife and difficulty.8

OBSERVATIONS OF THE PROGRESSION

Who are those on the broad way? They are those which have been deceived through following false prophets.

Who are those following false prophets? Those who bring forth evil fruit rather than good.

Who are those who bring forth evil fruit? Those who call upon the name of Jesus and yet are called by Him as those “that work iniquity.” (or lawlessness; that work against law)

Who are those that work iniquity? Those that have heard a word of truth and reject it to follow after their own inclinations or the traditions and theories of men over the word of God.

PERSONAL OBJECT LESSON

Recently, I experienced a visual manifestation of Jesus’ analogy of them that build upon the sand as well as His description of how wind blew and beat upon their house until it had a great fall.

A shed that I had erected just over a month ago was toppled and destroyed after a storm brought in high winds that beat violently against it. Adding even more connection to Jesus’ analogy is the fact that, although anchored, the shed was indeed built directly upon the ground / dirt.

After the storm, I looked at the end result of the now destroyed shed and immediately thought of the object lesson related to this parable. I shuddered at the thought of the end of all those who hear the commandments, teachings, principles, and truths of God, only to disregard them and make shipwreck of their faith.9 It is a dangerous and treacherous road which exalts unbiblical traditions, theories, and teachings of men over the plain, pure commandments of God.10

Truly, we are not saved by our works.

However, willful disobedience to the teachings of scripture11 is never presented in the Bible as something that is simply overlooked or that can be lightly regarded. Our works of obedience are a reflection, result, and evidence of our conversion as well as a manifestation of our love for God and for Jesus.12

During times of peace, ease, comfort, and tranquility (when there is no storm), the two houses (classes of Christians) looked the same. The distinction between the two classes of people was brought forth only through times of war, strife, and great difficulty. Before Christ returns, the world will be agitated through these things and more. When these times come, only then will it be seen whose foundation is upon the rock and whose is upon the sand.

PRAYER

May God help us to be lovers of truth13 and to obey every Biblical truth that He tries to bring into our lives. May He help us to walk the narrow way, bring forth good fruits, and build upon the Rock through our obedience, that we may enter through the gates into the city and have right to the tree of life.

God Bless,
Charles

SCRIPTURE INDEX

But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, That I may declare all thy works.

Psalm 73:28, KJV

Going to God Alone

There is a section from a favorite hymn of mine which goes as follows:

Once ‘twas busy planning.

now ‘tis trustful prayer;

once ‘twas anxious caring,

now He has the care;

once ‘twas what I wanted,

now what Jesus says;

once ‘twas constant asking,

now ‘tis ceaseless praise.

This hymn presents beautiful contrasts between an old way of living, as a believer, and a new life through Jesus. It contrasts a life where self is first, with one that has become fully surrendered and partakes in the true riches of spiritual blessings that follow. It contrasts a surface level Christian experience with one of a deeply transformed life and character.

Such a transition is not instantaneous, but it is one that develops more and more, over a lifetime, when one puts themself fully in the hands of God with a desire that is not for their own will but for His. God is no respecter of persons,1 and Jesus said that all who truly come to Him, will never be cast to the side.2

Trustful prayer first comes from knowing the word of God and believing that its promises (and conditions) are true. From here, it develops into living experiences that strengthen our faith, our trust, and our confidence (in Him), and serve as testimonies unto the glory of God.

In the book of Psalms, we read:

This is not to say that God does not work through human agencies to accomplish His purposes, for He certainly does, but rather it draws our attention to consider whether we are really trusting fully in God alone and looking to Him above all else for help with our needs.

Getting help from God, and not man, requires patience and faith. It requires a surrender of our will and desires. It requires not running ahead or trying to take matters into our own hands, or placing matters into the hands of others (even when it looks like all hope is lost). We are to walk by faith and not by sight.3

This principle of going only to God with our needs is one that can be extremely difficult. But as long as we are willing, God is faithful, and He will never let anyone down who trusts in Him in such a manner. He will gradually build our trust until such reliance upon Him becomes progressively more natural.

This is a principle that my heavenly Father has taught me over the years, and He has been refining me even further in this way during the past year and recent months.

Personal Testimony

A recent example in my life involved two circumstances. I will call them C1 for circumstance #1 and C2 for circumstance #2.

C1 was a time-sensitive matter that carried with it a monetary loss if not acted upon within a certain window of time. It was also something that would meet a particular need of mine. However, for this need to be met, movement from another person was required.

C2 is an important matter in my life, which also carries financial implications with it, among other things.

I had determined that, for C1, I would trust only in God and His timing. I made my petitions known only to Him and no other person. As I saw the time window closing, I was certainly tempted and stirred in my flesh to reach out to someone for help, or to try and intervene by my own efforts. Thankfully, I did not and continued in trustful prayer.

Then changes came about with C2, and I quickly jumped to human agencies for help and disclosed various details about the situation. A couple of days after this, I came under conviction and recognized my fault. I had acted with too much haste and too little trustful prayer. I repented and then retracted my previous attempt at obtaining help outside of God’s timing.

Later on, that very same day, C1 was answered. This was done completely by the moving of God and with no effort of my own to help the process along. The timing was another clear affirmation of God’s ability to answer prayers if I will simply wait and trust Him. This greatly blessed and encouraged me and increased my confidence that God will also answer C2 in His timing IF I don’t get in the way again!

C1 has now been added to my list of experiences of God’s faithfulness to provide and come through in times of need when I go to Him alone with my petitions.

Closing

We do not serve a God whose hand is shortened nor whose ear is heavy.4 He delights in receiving and answering the prayers of His children.5 Truly, we can cast all our cares upon Him because He cares for us.6

Next time you are tempted to go to man first for help, or to indirectly make your needs known to others in hopes that they might bring help, remember that you have a loving Father in heaven who is able to do abundantly, exceedingly above all that you can ask or think,7 and with whom nothing shall be impossible.8

It is not God’s inability that blocks trustful prayers of this sort, but rather man’s lack of firm reliance and faith.

Men will fail, forsake, and fall short. Jehovah never will. Let us confide in Him with our needs and trust in Him alone to act.

No good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly.9

Let us not short ourselves in life by missing opportunities of seeing how God will move mountains on the behalf of those who go to Him and Him alone with their needs. These opportunities carry with them depths of blessing and encouragement that can never be obtained when we take our needs to man instead of God alone.

God Bless,
Charles

SCRIPTURE INDEX

Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it? And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost.

Luke 15:8–9, KJV

INTRO

In Luke 15:8-10, Jesus gives a parable of a woman who has lost one of her ten pieces of silver. She searches diligently until she finds it. Once found, she rejoices and shares the news with others. Jesus likens this to the rejoicing that takes place in heaven when one sinner repents.

This surface level reading is certainly encouraging as it stands. However, as with many things in the Bible, there are often layers of meaning and gems of truth which are buried beneath the “surface.” With diligent prayer and study, deeper truths can be found.1

Has Jesus left us with any gems of truth to be dug out from beneath the surface level understanding? As we consider this, let us start with defining a few terms from scripture.

BIBLE DEFINITIONS

Woman

Representative of God’s people, or the church.

“I have likened the daughter of Zion to a comely and delicate woman.” (Jeremiah 6:2, KJV)

“For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 11:2, KJV)

See also Ephesians 5:23-27

Pieces of Silver

The words of Jehovah,2 God , are pure words, as silver that has been tried in a furnace, though possessing a value that is far greater.

“The words of the LORD [Jehovah] are pure words: As silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.” (Psalm 12:6, KJV)

“The law of thy mouth is better unto me Than thousands of gold and silver.” (Psalm 119:72, KJV)

Seeking Diligently

In connection with silver, represents the process of seeking after wisdom and understanding regarding God’s words and commandments.

“My son, if thou wilt receive my words, And hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, And apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, And liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, And searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD [Jehovah], And find the knowledge of God. For the LORD [Jehovah] giveth wisdom: Out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.” (Proverbs 2:1–6, KJV)

In verses 2-6 we have a chiasmus with verse 4 being the focal point of “seeking her has silver.” (the very thing the woman in the parable was doing)

Darkness

The woman would only need a candle if it were dark. With Jehovah being the one that lights our candles to enlighten our darkness,3 and with the word of God being a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our paths,4 the darkness may represent a period of time when light on a particular truth of God’s word had been lost.

“O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; Let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles.” (Psalm 43:3, KJV)

“And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.” (John 1:5, KJV)

Candle

May represent a particular church era when something was realized as being lost and searched for until it was found. We see the seven eras of the church being likened to a candlestick in Revelation 1:20, and the removal of a candlestick as being the end of a church era in Revelation 2:5.

Also noteworthy, is that Jesus is described to the first church era (Ephesus) as walking in the midst of the candlesticks.5 Ephesus, being the first era of the church, certainly experienced great levels of light as it pertains to the truth.

“The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.” (Revelation 1:20, KJV)

Light from Candle

Representative of God’s giving of understanding on something which was previously unknown/lost/hid/misunderstood to those who are willing to hear and consider.6

“And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick? For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given. For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.” (Mark 4:21–25, KJV)

“He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. 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.” (Matthew 13:11–12, KJV)

We see from these passages that when light/understanding is given and followed, then more light is given. However, when it is not followed, even past light is lost (thus darkness ensues, eyes grow dim, and ears grow dull).

House

May represent the hearing of God’s word, or of some particular truth. The foundation on which the house is built is either rock or sand, obedience or disobedience.

“Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” (Matthew 7:24–27, KJV)

Sweeping

In being associated with the removal of lies, may represent the process of the church removing false doctrines and traditions of men in order to embrace that which is true.

“Judgment also will I lay to the line, And righteousness to the plummet: And the hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies, And the waters shall overflow the hiding place.” (Isaiah 28:17, KJV)

If sweeping was required to find the lost piece of silver, this shows how lies and deceptions can be piled up to obscure the way of seeing that which is true. All must “run to and fro,”7 in the Bible, to acquire knowledge of truth and to sweep away every belief, practice, and tradition which does not align with its teachings.

Sharing

Representative of how when truth is found, it is then proclaimed to others with great joy.

“What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops.” (Matthew 10:27, KJV)

One Sinner that Repents

Sin, as defined by the Bible, is a transgression of the law. More specifically, we can understand this as a breaking of any one of the ten commandments.

“Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.” (1 John 3:4, KJV)

“For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law.” (James 2:10–11, KJV)

The examples that James uses for the “transgression of the law” are from the ten commandments. Thus, a sinner is a transgressor/breaker/violator of any one of the ten commandments. It then follows that a repentant sinner is one that has turned away from willfully continuing to break any of the ten commandments.

CLIMAX

With all these terms behind us, and defined Biblically, we have now reached our climactic point. We will continue now with a series of questions.

Questions

1. Question: How many pieces of silver did the woman have in total?

   1. Answer: Ten

2. Question: How many commandments were spoken audibly by God’s mouth,8 were written by His own finger,9 and reside under the mercy seat in the heavenly ark today?10

   1. Answer: Ten

1. Question: How many pieces of silver did the woman have when something of the ten was lost?

   1. Answer: Nine

2. Question: How many of the ten commandments do most Christians consider as valid today?

   1. Answer: Nine (#1 - No other Gods, #2 - Idolatry, #3 - Name in Vain, #5 - Honoring Parents, #6 - Killing, #7 - Adultery, #8 - Stealing, #9 - Lying, #10 - Coveting)

1. 1. Question: How many pieces of silver were lost?

   1. Answer: One

2. Question: How many of the ten commandments have been lost, forgotten, neglected, or rejected by most of Christianity today?

   1. Answer: One (#4 - Sabbath)

   2. It is also no coincidence that this is the one and only commandment that begins with and includes a call to “Remember.”

Parable Revisited

So here, in this parable, we have a picture of the church (God’s people) that were given ten precious commandments from Him, all having a value far greater than silver or gold. The church (Ephesus era) started with light, acceptance, and obedience to all ten.

Over time, the church compromised, mingled with the world, and backslid. Darkness crept in, and one of the ten commandments (the 7^th day Sabbath) was lost by Christianity and no longer revered or remembered. The dust of men’s traditions and the deceptions of a counterfeit have, over the centuries, covered up and buried this lost piece of truth.

In the 1800s, God lit a candle and the church era of Philadelphia came forth.11 During this time, the dust and debris of false doctrines and men’s traditions began to be swept away. The lost piece of “silver,” the 7^th day Sabbath, was found through earnest and prayerful study of the Bible.

There was great rejoicing and this truth was shared and spread across the world.

CLOSING

This same process has been repeating ever since that time by every person that discovers the precious, beautiful truth and blessing of revering and remembering to keep 7^th day Sabbath holy, as it was spoken, written, and commanded by the only true God of the Bible.

What will you do when a heavenly ray of candlelight shines upon the faint glimmer of this gem in your heart? Will you sweep your heart clean of all traditions and teachings of error in order to fully discover that which is buried beneath their dust? Or will you turn aside, being content with, and preferring the worthless dust, justifying, excusing, and hoping not to be bothered by beams of light into that area again?

PRAYER

May God help us now and always to respond to truth with willful and joyful obedience, whatever the cost, when He shines a light of truth into our hearts and lives.

God Bless,
Charles

SCRIPTURE INDEX

INTRO

Much has been written today, and opinions are not lacking, in regards to God, His nature, and the Father, His only begotten Son - Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. If we aren’t careful, it can be all too easy to let traditions or other men become the source of our doctrinal defenses rather than the Bible.

It is my personal goal, to the best of my abilities, to ensure that every doctrinal belief that I have is firmly rooted in the Bible in every particular. Over the years, I’ve found that specific details of various doctrines were not actually supported by scripture but rather from non-biblical sources. In discovering these things, it has led me on journeys, at times, to see what the Bible does actually have to say on a particular point.

In this writing, I’m not looking to add much in the way of commentary, or to make any statements doctrinally, but rather I’m just going to let the Bible speak for itself on a few things pertaining to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. It is my hope and prayer that in reading only what the Bible has to say, that some will be prompted to give further study and reflection to these matters. The goal then being that we would all be strengthened in our ability to defend each detail of our beliefs from the solid foundation of the Bible alone. (sola scriptura)

In particular, we will be looking at verses in the New Testament. There will be some overlap with certain verses, as I have organized them topically and some verses apply to more than one topic. Additionally, on certain topics, more verses could also be used, so this isn’t intended to be an exhaustive and complete listing.

SCRIPTURES

There is One God

Count: 8 verses

Authors: Matthew, Luke, John, Paul, James, and Jesus (quoted)

Mt 19:17 And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.

Lk 18:19 And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God.

Jn 17:3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

Ro 3:30 Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.

1 Co 8:6 But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.

Eph 4:6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

1 Ti 2:5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

Jas 2:19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

Title: God [the/our] Father

Count: 26 verses

Authors: John, Paul, Peter, Jude and Jesus (quoted)

Jn 6:27 Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.

Jn 8:41 Ye do the deeds of your father. Then said they to him, We be not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God.

Ro 1:7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Co 1:3 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Co 8:6 But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.

2 Co 1:2 Grace be to you and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Co 11:31 The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not.

Ga 1:1 Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;)

Ga 1:3 Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ,

Eph 1:2 Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

Eph 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

Eph 4:6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

Eph 6:23 Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Php 1:2 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

Php 2:11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

1 Th 1:1 Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Th 1:1 Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ:

2 Th 1:2 Grace unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Ti 1:2 Unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.

2 Ti 1:2 To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

Tt 1:4 To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.

Phm 3 Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Pe 1:2 Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

2 Pe 1:17 For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

2 Jn 3 Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.

Jud 1 Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called:

Title: God the Son

Count: 0 verses

Authors: n/a

Title: God the Spirit

Count: 0 verses

Authors: n/a

The Divinity of Jesus

Count: 8 verses

Authors: John, Paul, and Jesus (quoted)

Jn 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

Jn 5:18 Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.

Jn 6:46 Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he which is of God, he hath seen the Father.

Jn 20:28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.

2 Co 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

Col 1:15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:

Heb 1:8 But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.

Re 1:8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.

Title: Son OF God

Count: 45 verses

Authors: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Paul, and Jesus (quoted)

Mt 4:3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.

Mt 4:6 And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.

Mt 8:29 And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time?

Mt 14:33 Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.

Mt 26:63 But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God.

Mt 27:40 And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.

Mt 27:43 He trusted in God; let him deliver him now, if he will have him: for he said, I am the Son of God.

Mt 27:54 Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God.

Mk 1:1 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God;

Mk 3:11 And unclean spirits, when they saw him, fell down before him, and cried, saying, Thou art the Son of God.

Mk 15:39 And when the centurion, which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God.

Lk 1:35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

Lk 4:3 And the devil said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, command this stone that it be made bread.

Lk 4:9 And he brought him to Jerusalem, and set him on a pinnacle of the temple, and said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down from hence:

Lk 4:41 And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And he rebuking them suffered them not to speak: for they knew that he was Christ.

Lk 8:28 When he saw Jesus, he cried out, and fell down before him, and with a loud voice said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God most high? I beseech thee, torment me not.

Lk 22:70 Then said they all, Art thou then the Son of God? And he said unto them, Ye say that I am.

Jn 1:34 And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.

Jn 1:49 Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel.

Jn 3:18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

Jn 5:25 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.

Jn 9:35 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God?

Jn 10:36 Say ye of him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said, I am the Son of God?

Jn 11:4 When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.

Jn 11:27 She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.

Jn 19:7 The Jews answered him, We have a law, and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God.

Jn 20:31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.

Ac 8:37 And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

Ac 9:20 And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.

Ro 1:4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:

2 Co 1:19 For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, even by me and Silvanus and Timotheus, was not yea and nay, but in him was yea.

Ga 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

Eph 4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

Heb 4:14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.

Heb 6:6 If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.

Heb 7:3 Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually.

Heb 10:29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?

1 Jn 3:8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.

1 Jn 4:15 Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.

1 Jn 5:5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?

1 Jn 5:10 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.

1 Jn 5:12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.

1 Jn 5:13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

1 Jn 5:20 And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.

Re 2:18 And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass;

The Father and Son are Equal in Divinity:

Count: 3 verses

Authors: John and Paul

Jn 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

Jn 5:18 Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.

Php 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

The Father is Greater than the Son in Position / Authority:

Count: 22 verses

Authors: John, Paul, Peter, and Jesus (quoted)

Jn 10:29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.

Jn 14:28 Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.

Jn 17:3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

Jn 20:17 Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.

Ro 16:27 To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.

1 Co 3:23 And ye are Christ’s; and Christ is God’s.

1 Co 8:4–6 As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one. 5 For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) 6 But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.

1 Co 11:3 But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.

1 Co 15:24–28 24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 25 For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. 26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 27 For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith, all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. 28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all.

Eph 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

Eph 4:6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

Heb 1:3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;

1 Pe 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

Re 1:1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John:

Re 1:6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

Re 2:27 And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father.

Re 3:12 (Jesus speaking) Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.

Re 3:21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.

Re 5:13 And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, AND unto the Lamb for ever and ever.

Re 7:10 And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, AND unto the Lamb.

Re 11:15 And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.

Re 21:22 And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty AND the Lamb are the temple of it.

References to Father, Son, and Holy Spirit Together:

Count: 15 verses

Authors: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Paul, Peter, and Jesus (quoted)

Mt 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

Mk 12:36 For David himself said by the Holy Ghost, The LORD said to my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool.

Lk 1:35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

Lk 2:26 And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

Lk 3:22 And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.

Lk 11:13 (Jesus speaking) If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?

Jn 14:26 (Jesus speaking) But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

Ac 2:32–33 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. 33 Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.

Ac 5:30–32 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. 31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.

Ac 7:55 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,

Ac 10:38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

Ro 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

2 Co 13:14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.

1 Pe 1:2 Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

1 Jn 5:7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.

Epistles that Open with Mention of the Holy Spirit along with the Father and Son:

Count: 1 verse

Authors: Peter

1 Pe 1:1–2 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, 2 Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

Epistles that Open with NO Mention of the Holy Spirit:

Count: 20 verses (all but 2)

Authors: Paul, James, Peter, John, and Jude

Ro 1:7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Co 1:3 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Co 1:2–3 Grace be to you and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;

Ga 1:3 Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ,

Eph 1:2–3 Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

Php 1:2 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

Col 1:2 To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Th 1:1 Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Th 1:2 Grace unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Ti 1:1–2 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope; 2 Unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.

2 Ti 1:1–2 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus, 2 To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

Tt 1:4 To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.

Phm 3 Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Heb 1:1–2 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;

Jas 1:1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.

2 Pe 1:1–2 Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: 2 Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,

1 Jn 1:3 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.

2 Jn 3 Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.

Jud 1 Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called:

Re 1:1–2 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: 2 Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw.

One in Purpose and Character not One God / Being:

Count: 5 verses

Authors: John, Paul, and Jesus (quoted)

Jn 10:30 I and my Father are one.

Jn 17:11 And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.

Jn 17:20–24 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; 21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. 22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: 23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. 24 Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.

1 Co 3:8 Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.

1 Co 6:17 But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.

Spirit OF God:

Count: 12 verses

Authors: Matthew, Paul, and John

Mt 3:16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:

Mt 12:28 But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you.

Ro 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

Ro 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

Ro 15:19 Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.

1 Co 2:11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.

1 Co 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

1 Co 3:16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

1 Co 7:40 But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment: and I think also that I have the Spirit of God.

1 Co 12:3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.

Eph 4:30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

1 Jn 4:2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:

Spirit OF the Father:

Count: 1 verse

Authors: Matthew

Mt 10:20 For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.

Spirit OF Christ:

Count: 7 verses

Authors: John, Paul, Peter, and Jesus (quoted)

Jn 14:16–18 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. 18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.

Ro 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

Ro 9:1 I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,

2 Co 3:17 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.

Ga 4:6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.

Php 1:19 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,

1 Pe 1:10–11; 2 Peter 1:21 Of which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: 11 Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. 21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

Closing

This is a lot of scripture (and more could certainly be said), but it has been very helpful for me at times to see various scriptures organized together. When scriptures are compiled together, it really helps to make a person think about what the Bible actually says and whether their specific understandings and beliefs of doctrines align with the words of the Bible or not.

May God inspire us all to be more devoted students of His word, which He has left us for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness. (1 Tim 3:16)

God Bless,
Charles

“And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.” (Revelation 17:5, KJV)

OPENING SCENE

Revelation 17 brings before us a most interesting scene from the pages of prophecy. Here we see a woman. She is wearing purple and red clothes. She is adorned with gold, precious stones, and pearls.1 She is responsible for the deaths of many followers of Jesus.2

In her hand is a golden cup which is full of the wine of abominations and the filthiness of her fornication.3

Upon the forehead of the woman is a name which describes her:

Wow! What a scene! And this is certainly not a desirable name to have placed upon one’s forehead!

It is clear that we are dealing with symbolic language, for the woman is sitting upon a scarlet colored beast with seven heads and ten horns. No such literal beast exists; we must look to Bible symbols for understanding.

BIBLE SYMBOLS

Since symbolic language is being used, we must employ some Biblical definitions to help us better understand what is being described here.

1. Woman - Represents God’s people or a church.

   1. In a positive sense, a pure woman is a faithful church which is walking in obedience and upholding right doctrines.

      “I have likened the daughter of Zion to a comely and delicate woman.” (Jeremiah 6:2, KJV)

      

      “For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 11:2, KJV)

      

      See also Ephesians 5:23-27

   2. In a negative sense, an impure woman is an unfaithful church which is apostate, walking in disobedience, and holding to false doctrines.

      “They say, If a man put away his wife, and she go from him, and become another man’s, shall he return unto her again? shall not that land be greatly polluted? but thou hast played the harlot with many lovers; yet return again to me, saith the LORD [Jehovah].” (Jeremiah 3:1, KJV)

      

      “Son of man, cause Jerusalem to know her abominations,” (Ezekiel 16:2, KJV)

      “In that thou buildest thine eminent place in the head of every way, and makest thine high place in every street; and hast not been as an harlot, in that thou scornest hire; But as a wife that committeth adultery, which taketh strangers instead of her husband!” (Ezekiel 16:31–32, KJV)

      

      See also Ezekiel 23:2-21; Hosea 3:1;

2. Wine - In a negative context, represents doctrines or teachings which are impure and not in alignment with God and His word.

   “If a man walking in the spirit and falsehood do lie, saying, I will prophesy unto thee of wine and of strong drink; He shall even be the prophet of this people.” (Micah 2:11, KJV)

   

   “And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.” (Revelation 14:8, KJV 1900)

   

   See also Revelation 18:2-4 and 1 Timothy 4:1 as it pertains to wine, demonic spirits, and false doctrines. Also, Isaiah 28:7-10 with the error of the priest and prophet through wine being contrasted with the teachings of proper doctrine.

3. Abominations - Practices which are in defiance to God’s law and the worship of anything other than the only true God4 of the Bible.

   “Moreover the workers with familiar spirits, and the wizards, and the images, and the idols, and all the abominations that were spied in the land of Judah and in Jerusalem, did Josiah put away, that he might perform the words of the law which were written in the book that Hilkiah the priest found in the house of the LORD [Jehovah].” (2 Kings 23:24, KJV)

4. Blue - Represents God’s law (in particular the ten commandments), remembering His commands, and obeying them.

   “Speak unto the children of Israel, and bid them that they make them fringes in the borders of their garments throughout their generations, and that they put upon the fringe of the borders a ribband of blue: And it shall be unto you for a fringe, that ye may look upon it, and remember all the commandments of the LORD, and do them; and that ye seek not after your own heart and your own eyes, after which ye use to go a whoring:” (Numbers 15:38–39, KJV)

THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS

So here we have a picture of an apostate church system that has spread her false doctrines to all nations on earth.5 Thus, this is an established church with a worldwide presence.

NOTE: This is about a system and not individual people, for God calls His people to come out of this system in Revelation 18:4.

Notice also that this woman is a mother and that her daughters are referred to as harlots. Thus we must look for a very large and singular church system as the mother, and then expect to see many denominations (perhaps thousands) as her daughters. These daughters, though completely independent from the mother, are yet unclean themselves (as harlots) in that they hold to certain doctrines that are rooted in the mother, and have their strongest defenses and definitions built from the words of the mother rather than the words of the Bible.

We also see the word “mystery” being ascribed to her abominations. Thus we should expect to see a higher emphasis on mysteries in her writings and teachings than what we find in the Bible. We should also expect that certain of her doctrines would be “mysterious” from a Biblical standpoint in that the Bible would provide no solid evidence in support of such teachings.

We must also keep in mind that we must look for a church that is Christian by claim, for the Bible does not refer to atheism or paganism as a woman, but rather God’s people - whether faithful or apostate, whether actual or apparent.

BLUE

You might be wondering why I listed blue in the Bible symbols above when blue was not mentioned in any of the verses in Revelation 17.

The significance comes from reading Exodus 28 where we discover that the high priestly garments include gold, precious stones, and the colors of purple, scarlet, and blue. So, the woman’s clothes have all the same features (in a perverted form) except for the blue color.

Using our Bible definition from above, we should expect to see the mother church being one that rejects or distorts God’s ten commandments in some way. The daughters will also follow her lead in some manner.

MORE DETAILED STUDY

Before we continue with this particular writing, it may be helpful to note that a detailed study has already been written in regards to the identity of both this “mother” and the anti-Christ (“in-place-of-Christ”), by using twenty Biblical proofs that only one entity in all of history has been able to fulfill in every point.

The Sapphire Herald

Unveiling the Antichrist and Beast of Babylon

Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition…

Read more

a year ago · 7 likes · 6 comments · Charles Kirby

QUESTIONS TO IDENTIFY THE MOTHER

Since a more detailed study exists, we will not go through all of the particulars again, but rather let us ask a series of questions from Revelation 17:3-6 as it pertains to the large “mother” church. Remember, we must be looking for something that has a garb of Christianity.

Questions:

1. Purple: Is there a church where a certain portion of her minsters are arrayed in purple?

   1. Consider the bishops of the Roman Catholic Church:

      

2. Scarlet / Red: Is there a church where a certain portion of her ministers are arrayed in red?

   1. Consider the cardinals of the Roman Catholic Church:

      

3. Golden Cup: Is there a church where a golden cup is often used in her religious ceremonies, particularly in a manner that is not backed by a Biblical precedent?

   1. Consider the golden chalice which is lifted up during the holy mass of the Roman Catholic Church during which the unbiblical claim is made of the wine literally becoming the blood of Jesus.

      

4. Martyrs: Is there a church that has been responsible for actually killing followers of Jesus simply because they would not embrace her unbiblical doctrines or because they tried to distribute Bibles to the common people?

   1. Consider that historians have estimated more than 50 million people were slaughtered under the claim of heresy by the Roman Catholic Church during the dark ages when papal power was at its peak.

   2. The following is an excerpt from John Dowling’s History of Romanism in 1845:

      

5. Mysteries: Is there a church whose teachings and writings have a higher emphasis upon the mysterious than that of the Bible?

   1. Consider that the Bible mentions “mystery” or “mysteries” 27 times across nearly 800k words while the Roman Catholic Catechism mentions the same over 300 times across approximately 200k words.

   2. That’s over 10 times the mentions in about a quarter of the words.

   3. Perhaps the most significant of the mentions in the Catholic Catechism is one that the Bible says nothing about:

      

6. Blue / Ten Commandments: Is there a church that has rejected or distorted any of the ten commandments in some way?

   1. Consider that the Roman Catholic Church has a modified form of the ten commandments, in which the second commandment (pertaining to idol worship) is removed, the tenth commandment has been split in two (to account for the removal of the second), and the fourth commandment regarding the Sabbath has been changed from Saturday to Sunday (their “Lord’s day,” not the Biblical one).

When considering just these few points, and not even touching on the other 15+ that are described in the Bible regarding this same system, it is really no mystery at all who the mystery woman is of Revelation 17. I will leave it to the reader now to ponder who the many daughters are that hold to various doctrines of the mother that cannot be supported by scripture.

FOREHEAD

Mother

Lastly, I would like us to explore the forehead and the inscription that is found there.

“And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.” (Revelation 17:5, KJV)

High Priest

Contrast this with what we find in the book of Exodus concerning Aaron, the high priest, who was merely a type and shadow pointing forward to Jesus, who is now ministering in the temple in heaven as our Great High Priest:6

“And thou shalt make a plate of pure gold, and grave upon it, like the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD. And thou shalt put it on a blue lace, that it may be upon the mitre; upon the forefront of the mitre it shall be. And it shall be upon Aaron’s forehead, that Aaron may bear the iniquity of the holy things, which the children of Israel shall hallow in all their holy gifts; and it shall be always upon his forehead, that they may be accepted before the LORD.” (Exodus 28:36–38, KJV)

So, the name which Aaron bore upon his forehead, and thus Jesus now as our high priest in heaven (for the earthly things were merely a type derived from the pattern of the heavenly7) is:

Blue

Of no little significance is the blue lace which attached the engraved signet/nameplate to the mitre upon Aaron’s head.

Remember that blue is representative of the law, and more specifically the ten commandments which were under the mercy seat of the ark in the tabernacle where Aaron ministered. (The great original, where Christ ministers today, was seen by John in heaven, as described by Revelation 11:19)

So “Holiness to Jehovah”8 is intertwined with His law of the ten commandments, of which Paul wrote of as holy, just, and good.9

Uzziah

Next, consider King Uzziah who attempted to burn incense in the temple, something only the priests were allowed to do:

“Then Uzziah was wroth, and had a censer in his hand to burn incense: and while he was wroth with the priests, the leprosy even rose up in his forehead before the priests in the house of the LORD [Jehovah], from beside the incense altar. And Azariah the chief priest, and all the priests, looked upon him, and, behold, he was leprous in his forehead, and they thrust him out from thence; yea, himself hasted also to go out, because the LORD [Jehovah] had smitten him.” (2 Chronicles 26:19–20, KJV)

So, when a king tried to act as a priest, Jehovah struck him with leprosy upon his forehead of all places. Thus it is considered a sinful and unholy thing when a sovereign ruler takes it upon himself to conduct holy services in the name of the Most High when God never ordained him to do so.

As Uzziah was marked in his forehead for all to see and remember his transgression, so also “the mother” has been openly marked as in transgression by plain teachings of the Bible, as well as by the supporting historical evidences.

A Whore’s Forehead

When God’s people had apostatized, Jeremiah wrote of God speaking of her as having a whore’s forehead in that they were not ashamed of their transgressions.10 In like manner, the mother and her daughters neglect the ten commandments of God and have no shame in doing so, nor in holding to other unbiblical teachings and practices.

CLOSING

Lastly, consider that in the end there will only be two classes of people left on earth. Those who receive the mark of the beast (the mother) on their forehead (or hand),11 and those who receive the seal (mark) of God on their forehead.12

The one is described as being part of a false system of worship, connected with the spiritual leprosy of unbiblical doctrines and the neglect of God’s law. The other is described as keeping the commandments of God, having the faith of Jesus, and the testimony of Jesus13 (spirit of prophecy),14 and thus is connected in a way with the blue lace on the high priestly mitre.

Let us study to show ourselves approved unto God15 and come out of every system that is connected with the fountainhead of “the mother” and her doctrines, and join with those who seek to keep the pure doctrines of the Bible in the worship of the only true God.16

God Bless,
Charles

SCRIPTURE INDEX

Introduction: The Meaning of the Name

There are different interpretations of the meaning of the name Michael. The most common interpretation is framed in the form of the rhetorical question, “Who is like God?” This view emphasizes divine incomparability, such as that found in Exodus 15:11. The interpretation is based on the composition of the Hebrew name (מִיכָאֵל) itself:

Mikha’el מִיכָאֵ

• mi (מִי) = “who”

• ki (כִּי) = “like”

• El (אֵל) = “God”

The “who” (מִי) in “who is like God?” is considered an interrogative pronoun (i.e. “who?”) and is thus thought to form a question. The “is” is supplied by implication.

However, the structure can also be understood declaratively (as opposed to rhetorically), in which case the composition is thought to form “He who is like God,” with both “He” and “is” being implied. The meaning passes from a proclamation of divine incomparability to a declaration of divine likeness, affirming Michael as equal with God.

There is only one being in the universe “who is like God” in nature: the Son of God, Jesus Christ.

It’s not our purpose here to persuade the reader towards either of the above interpretations, but rather to introduce the subject with this context in mind. Now having considered the name’s meaning, we will now proceed to the main body of this article.

Analysis: Biblical Examination

Michael is mentioned five times throughout scripture by name. In the Old Testament appearing three times as מִיכָאֵל—all in the Hebrew portion of the book of Daniel (Dan. 10:13, 21, 12:1), and in the Greek New Testament appearing twice as Μιχαήλ—first in Jude 9 and once more in Revelation 12:7. He is also mentioned as “the archangel” in 1 Thessalonians 4:16. We will take all of the above verses into consideration holistically, building text by text, that we may permit scripture to present an accurate and biblically harmonious understanding of the subject. Let’s begin.

Daniel 10:13

But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia.
Daniel 10:13

The speaker is the angel Gabriel. The marginal (or alternate) reading for this verse, as we have it today in our King James Bible, differs slightly from that of the translators’ 1611 Authorized Version. The two are compared below:

But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, first of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia.
Authorized Version (1611)

But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the first princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia.
Oxford Standard Revision (1769)

The former (as the original text) reads, “first of the chief princes,” whereas the latter (as we have it today) reads “one of the first princes.”

The change was introduced by Benjamin Blayney, the man of God largely responsible for the Bible’s standardization into English—a work of great magnitude in the history of the King James Bible for which we are most thankful. However, we highlight this difference because this change introduces an artifact of revision which, we believe, is a clear departure from the intent of the translators.

The word “one” in “one of the chief princes” is the Hebrew word אֶחָד (ʼechâd), which occurs 952 times throughout scripture. In the majority of its occurrences, it is translated 687 times as “one” in the numerical sense. However, the same word is also translated as “first” in the ordinal sense 36 times. Which of these is the true sense of the word is determined by the context in which it appears.

It was for this reason that the translators included “first” as an alternative rendering for “one” in the present case of Daniel 10:13. It was their purpose to set a “diversity of senses in the the margin, where there is great probability for each.” (See The Translators to the Reader.) All this considering, we are persuaded to hold to the translator’s margin rather than Blayney’s revised.

“Michael, First of the Chief Princes”

Now therefore, if “first” in the ordinal sense does indeed better fit the context to form “Michael, first of the chief princes,” then the text presents Michael—in terms of military rank (or degree)—as commander in chief and the captain of the heavenly host.

We support this reading with two witnesses: first—Revelation 12:7: “Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels;” and second—Hebrews 2:10: “For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.”

Daniel 10:21

But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince.
Daniel 10:21

On a second occasion, Gabriel refers to Michael as a “prince”—this time, as Daniel’s prince. A prince is a son of a king or sovereign and an heir to the throne. Jesus, the Son of God, is called “the Prince of life” (Acts 3:15), “a Prince and a Saviour” (Acts 5:31), and “the prince of the kings of the earth.” (Rev. 1:5.) Jesus is also an heir to a throne. Paul writes: “God... Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds.” (Heb. 1:1–2.) And again: “Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens.” (Heb 8:1.)

Note:—See also Acts 2:33; Hebrews 12:2; Revelation 1:3, 3:21, 6:16; 7:9; 22:3.

Daniel 12:1

And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.
Daniel 12:1

In all three instances in the book of Daniel, Gabriel refers to Michael as a “prince”—and on this third and final occasion, he calls him “the great prince.” This is such a title which can refer only to the Son of God.

To “stand up,” in the context of kings, means to “ascend the throne” or “to reign” (as in Daniel 11:2–4). Thus, the standing up of Michael represents the beginning of the reign of Christ, who, in laying down His high priestly garments, shall then take up His kingly robes to rule the nations with a rod of iron. (Psa. 2:9; Isa. 59:16–18; Dan. 7:13–14; Rev. 19:15.) (See also Lev. 16:23.)

Revelation 12:7

And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels,
Revelation 12:7

This is one of the clearest evidences in all of scripture that Michael, as the archangel (that is, the chief of the angels), is Jesus Christ. For further scripture evidence on this point, we will say nothing more that we may instead let the Bible expound itself:

11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.
12 His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself.
13 And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.
14 And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.
15 And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.
16 And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.
17 And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven, Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of the great God;
18 That ye may eat the flesh of kings, and the flesh of captains, and the flesh of mighty men, and the flesh of horses, and of them that sit on them, and the flesh of all men, both free and bond, both small and great.
19 And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against him that sat on the horse, and against his army.
20 And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.
21 And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh.
Revelation 19:11–21

Jude 9

Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.
Jude 9

Those who deny Christ as the archangel often cite the above verse, arguing that Michael did not rebuke Satan personally. Yet, the same overlook the very verse which Jude quotes directly from the book of the prophet Zechariah:

1 And he shewed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him.
2 And the LORD said unto Satan, The LORD rebuke thee, O Satan; even the LORD that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire?
Zechariah 3:1–2

We find yet another evidence pointing to Christ. The angel of the LORD Himself—the manifestation of Son of God in the Old Testament—does, in fact, rebuke Satan personally. To suggest that Michael does not rebuke Satan in Jude 9 is directly contradicted by the verse’s own context. Therefore, according to Jude, Michael is the angel of the LORD, which is Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 4:16

For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
1 Thessalonians 4:16

Our opposers presume the above text to mean that Christ is accompanied by the archangel’s voice, not that He is Michael Himself. Once again, such a position cannot be maintained without overlooking scripture at best, or at worst, being willingly ignorant of it. The gospel of John records the identity of the voice of the archangel, as revealed by the Lord Himself:

25 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live...
28 Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice,
29 And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.
John 5:25,28–29

Those who shall be raised in the first, or general resurrection shall hear the voice of who? “The voice of the Son of God.” And to whose voice shall the dead in Christ be raised from the grave? “The voice of the archangel.” By comparing scripture with scripture, the only conclusion is that these are the same one voice of the Lord of glory.

51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,
52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.
54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.
55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:51–57

Conclusion: Michael, the Son of God

The entirety of the testimony of scripture agrees, pointing to a single, biblically harmonious conclusion: Jesus Christ is the true Michael; the only archangel, the commander of the heavenly host. He is not a created angel, but the only begotten Son of God from everlasting. (Pro. 8:23; Mic. 5:2; John 3:18.)

It is our hope, by the grace of God, that our presentation and witness of this subject has blessed you in some way, whether this understanding be familiar or entirely new to you. May you be strengthened by the True and Faithful Witness (Rev. 3:14), looking unto Him as the author and finisher of our faith. (Heb. 12:2.)

God bless,
Brandon

A Brief Inquiry into the Subject

There is much debate around the question of whether Daniel 11 is a literal or spiritual (figurative) prophecy, especially concerning the closing portion of the chapter. Seeing that the closing verses foretell events connected with the close of probation,1 it is imperative that we know the answer. In this brief work, we will determine to put this question to rest.

The question is actually quite straightforward. In fact, we need not even delve into the specifics of the prophecy itself. For our present purpose, all that is required of us to learn of the answer is to examine and compare the language employed with that of previous chapters containing figures.

In Bible prophecy, we know that beasts are representative of kingdoms (Dan. 7:7,23), or unrighteous nations, whose horns stand for the kings (Dan. 7:7,24) or rulers that preside over said kingdoms. If this prophecy is anything like that of the earlier prophetic portions of Daniel (chapters 2, 7, and 8), then we should expect to see such figurative language repeated.

With all this being said, let us now call our attention to the primary text of our study:

And now will I shew thee the truth. Behold, there shall stand up yet three kings in Persia; and the fourth shall be far richer than they all: and by his strength through his riches he shall stir up all against the realm of Grecia.
Daniel 11:2

The speaker of this text is the angel Gabriel. Let the reader take notice of the fact that he makes no mention whatsoever of beasts, horns, or any other figure, but immediately tells Daniel about certain kings and kingdoms in plain language. It is for this reason that he says, “now will I show thee the truth.” This brief declaration identifies these kings and kingdoms with truth. That is to say, they require no interpretation.

As a second witness, look at how this same phrase, “the truth,” is defined in an earlier chapter:

16 I came near unto one of them that stood by, and asked him the truth of all this. So he told me, and made me know the interpretation of the things.
17 These great beasts, which are four, are four kings, which shall arise out of the earth.
Daniel 7:16–17

By this we know that “the truth” which Gabriel was come to show Daniel means “the interpretation” (i.e. literal meaning). And what is this interpretation spoken of? Why, it can be none other than the vision of Daniel 8:1–12, for therein we read:

And I heard a man’s voice between the banks of Ulai, which called, and said, Gabriel, make this man to understand the vision.
Daniel 8:16

Gabriel’s instructions were to make Daniel, who “had seen the vision, and sought for the meaning” (Dan. 8:15), understand those things which he saw. But by the end of the eighth chapter, the angel had not as yet completed his assignment, for Daniel understood not:

And I Daniel fainted, and was sick certain days; afterward I rose up, and did the king’s business; and I was astonished at the vision, but none understood it.
Daniel 8:27

We must here acknowledge, however, as recorded in the first verse of the tenth chapter, that Daniel did in fact have understanding of a certain vision and its appointed time. (Dan. 10:1.) But this does not refer to the vision of Daniel 8:1–12. Rather, it refers to the seventy weeks which were determined upon the Jews and the holy city, Jerusalem. (Dan. 9:24–27.) This may be confirmed by comparing Daniel 10:1 with chapter 9:22–23.

Thus, after Daniel’s strengthening (Dan. 10:21), we read at the commencement of the present chapter, “And now will I shew thee the truth.” (Dan. 11:2.) These few words set the standard for the whole prophecy, from the second verse down to the forty-fifth. For unlike chapters 2, 7, and 8 which are clothed in figures, Daniel 11 reads in its entirety without the use of a single symbol. We can thus rest assured that it is a literal prophecy because “that which is noted in the scripture of truth” (Dan. 10:21) attests plainly to the fact.

These small but essential details suffice to prove that Daniel 11 is to be taken literally, not figuratively. This knowledge sets us upon the right foundation in order that we may stand firm in the truth and not be persuaded falsely. Though a great multitude today do wrest the scriptures, spiritualizing the meaning thereof to support their own prejudices, these clear points compel us to eschew such fanciful ideas and instead take Daniel 11 as it reads.

Let each one of us ever be like Daniel, earnestly seeking and praying for the truth and meaning of the word of God in all things.

God bless,
Brandon

Scripture Index

Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment.

(Matthew 22:37–38, KJV)

INTRO

Jesus said that the first and greatest commandment of all is to love God, but what does this even mean practically and biblically speaking?

Ask any Christian if they love God and you will get a hearty “yes” in reply. Ask them how they know that they actually love God and the answers become a bit less emphatic and more abstract. Often the answers will be ultimately rooted in some sort of emotional feeling.

With the Bible as our guide and our measure of truth, is using emotions and feelings as evidence of one’s love for God Biblical? After all, the Bible speaks of the human heart being deceitful.1 This is not to say that our love for God will be absent of stirred emotions, quite the contrary, but it does mean that we must have more than what we believe to be heartfelt emotions if we are going to achieve a Biblical standard.

So, what is the Biblical standard when it comes to defining what loving God means?

ANALOGY

Before diving into scriptures to answer this question, let me first make a detour to present an analogy to stimulate reflection.

Suppose there is a wife who says very confidently that she loves her husband. In fact, to affirm this, she tells him every day (or at least nearly every day) that she loves him. She has emotional feelings toward him and shows him some level of affection. Yet, there is one problem… she is unfaithful and regularly cheats on him with other men. Can we then say that this unfaithful wife truly loves her husband? Certainly not. Though she may profess it with her mouth, and may have a stir of emotions, her actions speak otherwise.

Suppose there is another wife. This time, she is faithful - physically speaking. She has never slept with another man. Yet, in her heart and thoughts, she does often turn her mind toward other men. The only reason she hasn’t followed through with an affair is due to the fear of getting caught or of the consequences that would follow. Is this true love? Again, the answer is no, regardless of what she may say with her words.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

First Mention (God Himself)

You might be surprised to know (I was when I started to search up scriptures on this topic) that the first mention in the Bible of love toward God is found in the ten commandments! That alone is quite an interesting detail to consider. Add to that, that the very words themselves were literally, actually, and audibly spoken by God Himself to the Israelites when this “first mention” for scripture came into being.

Now, let us see exactly what the text says (we find it in the second commandment):

Exodus 20:4–6 (KJV) Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: ⁵ Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; ⁶ And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.

See also Deuteronomy 5:10.

Before we move on to the next scripture, there is an important connection that I want us to draw from these verses. Notice that love for God, in the very ten commandments of God, is linked with keeping His commandments.

This link will be the focus for the rest of the article. Though there are other verses that speak of love toward God, I am drawing our attention to the number of times it is paired with obedience.

Moses

After directing the people to be set apart from the heathen2 and speaking of Jehovah’s3 love for them,4 Moses goes on to describe God as the “faithful God” to those that love him and keep his commandments.

Deuteronomy 7:9 (KJV) Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;

Building from this, we see Moses write five more times in the book of Deuteronomy of loving God in connection with obedience in keeping His commandments. Here are the scriptures:

Deuteronomy 10:12–13 (KJV) And now, Israel, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, ¹³ To keep the commandments of the Lord, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good?

Deuteronomy 11:1 (KJV) Therefore thou shalt love the Lord thy God, and keep his charge, and his statutes, and his judgments, and his commandments, alway.

Deuteronomy 11:22 (KJV) For if ye shall diligently keep all these commandments which I command you, to do them, to love the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, and to cleave unto him;

Deuteronomy 19:9 (KJV) If thou shalt keep all these commandments to do them, which I command thee this day, to love the Lord thy God, and to walk ever in his ways; then shalt thou add three cities more for thee, beside these three:

Deuteronomy 30:16 (KJV) In that I command thee this day to love the Lord thy God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his commandments and his statutes and his judgments, that thou mayest live and multiply: and the Lord thy God shall bless thee in the land whither thou goest to possess it.

Joshua

Joshua reinforces what Moses had to say regarding the link between loving God and keeping His commandments:

Joshua 22:5 (KJV) But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the Lord charged you, to love the Lord your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.

Nehemiah

While in earnest prayer, Nehemiah calls upon God while making mention of the connection with loving Him and keeping His commandments:

Nehemiah 1:5 (KJV) And said, I beseech thee, O Lord God of heaven, the great and terrible God, that keepeth covenant and mercy for them that love him and observe his commandments

Isaiah

Isaiah makes mention of loving God in connection with the fourth commandment:

Isaiah 56:6 (KJV) Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the Lord, To serve him, and to love the name of the Lord, To be his servants, Every one that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, And taketh hold of my covenant;

Daniel

Daniel, in a similar fashion to Nehemiah, calls upon God in prayer and remembers his promise to them that love Him and keep His commandments:

Daniel 9:4 (KJV) And I prayed unto the Lord my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments;

New Testament First Mention

It is worth stating that the first mention of loving God, which is found in the New Testament, comes from Jesus as He quotes from Deuteronomy 6:5:

Matthew 22:37–38 (KJV) Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. ³⁸ This is the first and great commandment.

Jesus

Jesus says to keep His commandments if you love Him:

John 14:15 (KJV) If ye love me, keep my commandments.

He goes on from this to say that those who keep His commandments are the ones that love Him and that they will be loved by both Him and His Father:

John 14:21 (KJV) He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.

and those who keep His commandments will abide in His love:

John 15:10 (KJV) If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.

We are called to walk as Jesus walked.5 He is our example. In both John 15:10 above and in the following verse, Jesus sets an example for us to follow in obedience to the Father’s commands:

John 14:31 (KJV) But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.

John

John, the disciple “whom Jesus loved,”6 writes that a true love for God is seen through keeping His commandments:

1 John 5:3 (KJV) For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.

In this statement, John adds an important qualifier: in order for the keeping of His commandments to truly be a reflection of a heart that loves God, the keeping of those commandments is not a burden to that person. In reality, it is a delight to them.7

Such a person is not keeping God’s commandments to obtain some works-based salvation (such efforts would be in vain anyway). Nor are they doing so to receive something back in return from God. No, the keeping of His commandments, in a non-burdensome manner, is simply an outward flow of the deep love for God that exists in their hearts and is thereby manifested in their obedience to what He has asked of them.

John reinforces this in his second letter, by giving a clear definition of love. This definition has nothing to do with feelings and everything to do with obedience:

2 John 6 (KJV) And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it.

Revelation

The Bible closes with the book of Revelation, where we find three instances of the remnant church, leading up to the end of this dispensation, being described as having a group of people who are keeping the commandments of God:

Revelation 12:17 (KJV) And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

Revelation 14:12 (KJV) Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.

Revelation 22:14 (KJV) Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.

CLOSING ANALOGY

It seems very clear that, in both the New and Old Testaments, obedience is important. The Biblical definition of love for God is to keep His commandments. There are emotions and feelings that do manifest in loving God, but those feelings are not proof of our love. In saying “I love Him,” mere words are not proof of our love. To love Him is to obey that which He has commanded us to do.

As we close, let us consider one more analogy.

Suppose a farmer has two sons. He has given his sons the rules of the farm (his “kingdom” so to speak). Some of the rules are very obviously important and critical to the smooth operation of the farm. If any of them were not followed, injury, death, or great losses could result.

In the list of these rules, there was one rule that seemed quite minor to the sons, yet it was important to the farmer.

The oldest son hugged his father every day and told him how much he loved him. He obeyed all the rules of the farm, except for one. He never obeyed the one rule which he considered to be minor and of no significance. He reasoned that since he kept all of the really important rules, it was no big deal for him to skip one. It was, after all, a bit of an inconvenience to him. No matter how many times the father reminded him of the one rule that wasn’t getting done, this son always had, what seemed to him, valid reasons for dismissing it.

The younger son, being more reserved, did not give verbal and physical affection as often as the eldest son did. He also kept all of the really important rules, just as the eldest son did. However, when it came time every week for the one minor rule to be addressed, he joyfully and dutifully carried out what his father had asked to be done. At times it was inconvenient, but he didn’t mind and never complained. He obeyed because he loved his father and wanted to please him. His father never had to remind him about the one minor rule.

The farmer observed all these things between both of his sons.

Which son showed true love for his father?

From which son would the farmer feel most loved: the one that exhibited more emotion and spoke affectionate words, or the one that joyfully obeyed him in every particular?

Do the words “obedience” and “commandments” invoke resistance, pushback, and a desire to search for scriptures to explain why these things are not so? Or do they cause you to reflect, consider, and desire to study and pray to see if there is truth to be found?

It is my hope and prayer that each person will end at the latter option, even if they initially react as the first.

God Bless,

Charles

See also:

SCRIPTURE INDEX

INTRO

Most Christians today uphold the doctrine of the trinity. The definition of this doctrine varies slightly from one church or denomination to the next, but it is generally understood to be a belief of one God that exists in the three persons of the Father, the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit, and that these three beings are all fully and equally God and that none existed before the other (coeternal, coequal).

However, we must ask the question: is the above definition for this doctrine built from Bible verses that uphold and solidify each particular, or are the strongest arguments for this doctrine drawn from another source?

Many will explain the trinity as being a “mystery” that we simply can’t understand in full, but that we must accept in faith. True faith, must ultimately be rooted in the word of God:

“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Romans 10:17, KJV)

The question of the trinity is not simply whether there is a Father, a Son, and a Holy Spirit. If the doctrine were simply that, there would be no questions as the Bible has ample evidence of there being a Father, a Son, and a Holy Spirit.

This article will briefly compare what the Bible says about certain points related to the doctrine of the trinity and what the Catholic Catechism has to say. It will then be left for each reader to decide if their understanding of this doctrine is truly rooted in the Bible, or something else.

THE CENTRAL MYSTERY

The Catholic church says the “Most Holy Trinity” is the central mystery of Christian faith and life. Catholic Catechism 234, p.62:

The Bible speaks of mysteries that are related to and pointing to Christ, but is silent on any mystery pertaining to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit:

“Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:” (Colossians 1:26–27, KJV)

“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 was kept secret since the world began, But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:” (Romans 16:25–26, KJV)

“How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)” (Ephesians 3:3–4, KJV)

“For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.” (Ephesians 5:31–32, KJV)

“Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:” (Colossians 4:3, KJV)

The Bible speaks of Babylon the Great, the Mother of Harlots (a false system of Christianity and doctrines) as being associated with “mystery:”

“And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.” (Revelation 17:5, KJV)

THE ONE TRUE GOD

The Catholic church says the “one true God” is the “Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.” Catholic Catechism 234, p.62:

Jesus says the “only true God” is the “Father” alone:

“And this is life eternal, that they might know thee [, Father,] the only true God, AND Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” (John 17:3, KJV)

“Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.” (John 20:17, KJV)

The Bible says the “one” true God is the “Father” alone, distinguishing Him from the Son and the Spirit:

“But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; AND one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.” (1 Corinthians 8:6, KJV)

“There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” (Ephesians 4:4–6, KJV)

“For there is one God, AND one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;” (1 Timothy 2:5, KJV)

ROLES OR LITERAL

The Catholic Church says that Jesus is only the “son” of the father in a relational name (metaphorical, symbolic, or role) sense of the term. Catholic Catechism 255, p.67:

The Bible says that God the Father gave his literal, only begotten Son for the sins of the world:

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16, KJV)

The Bible says that He was a Son before his incarnation:

“Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? Who hath gathered the wind in his fists? Who hath bound the waters in a garment? Who hath established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is his son’s name, if thou canst tell?” (Proverbs 30:4, KJV)

“For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:” (Romans 8:3, KJV)

“And again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.” (Hebrews 1:6, KJV)

The Bible says that the teaching which denies the literal relationship between the Father and the Son is anti-christ:

“Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the [literal] Father and the [literal] Son. Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: (but) he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also.” (1 John 2:22–23, KJV)

GREATNESS OF AUTHORITY

The Catholic church does not acknowledge any distinction in the father being greater than the son. Catholic Catechism 266, p.70:

Though the Bible acknowledges the absolute divinity of Jesus,1 Jesus says that the Father is greater in authority than Himself:

“My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.” (John 10:29, KJV 1900)

“Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.” (John 14:28, KJV 1900)

“Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.” (Revelation 3:12, KJV 1900)

CONCLUSION

We’ve covered just a few points here, but in each of them we see the Bible teaching something that is not in alignment with that which the Catholic Church teaches. Yet, it seems that it is the Catholic Catechism, and not the Bible, which provides the strongest arguments for defining and defending the trinity doctrine as it is commonly understood.

This leaves a question for consideration:

Is the trinity a Catholic doctrine or a Bible doctrine? You decide, and may the God of heaven guide you in your prayerful search and study of this matter.

God Bless,

Charles

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SCRIPTURE INDEX

Blessed is the man That walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor standeth in the way of sinners, Nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

(Psalm 1:1, KJV)

INTRO

Recently, I put together a spreadsheet that covers the “Blessed is the man” verses in the Bible, why the Bible says such a person is blessed, and what the Bible speaks of as being evident in the life of that person as a result.

Spreadsheet Blessed Is The Man (v2, 2025 10 15)

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I was encouraged by reading through these things myself and decided to make it into a Substack post for the encouragement of others.

Note that in my comments, I use the name “Jehovah” for the Old Testament verses where LORD is in all caps. LORD, in all caps, is how the Bible indicates to the reader that it is really God’s name (יהוה) in the original Hebrew text. The King James translators have translated this name into English as Jehovah in seven places,1 thus when we see “LORD”, we can also understand and read this as the name Jehovah in English.

VERSES

Here are the “blessed is the man” verses in the order that they appear in scripture:

PSALM 1:1-2

Why Blessed?

• Does not walk in the counsel of the ungodly. (v12)

• Does not stand in the way of sinners. (v1)

• Does not sit in the seat of the scornful. (v1)

• Delights in the law of Jehovah. (v23)

• Meditates on His law [scripture]4 day and night. (v2)

Effect

• He shall be like a tree planted by rivers of water that brings fruit forth in his season. (v35)

• His leaf shall not wither. (v3)

• Whatever he does shall prosper. (v3)

PSALM 32:2

Why Blessed?

• He acknowledges his sin. (v56)

• He does not hide his iniquity. (v5)

• He confesses his transgressions. (v5)

Effect

• His iniquity is not imputed. (v27)

• There is no guile in his spirit. (v2)

• Floods of great waters shall not come nigh unto him. (v68)

PSALM 34:8

Why Blessed?

• He seeks Jehovah. (v49)

• He fears Jehovah. (v710)

• He trusts in Jehovah. (v811)

Effect

• He is delivered from his fears. (v4)

• The angel of Jehovah encamps around him and delivers him. (v7)

• He tastes and sees the goodness of Jehovah in his life. (v8)

PSALM 40:4

Why Blessed?

• He waits patiently for Jehovah. (v112)

• He trusts in Jehovah. (v413)

• He does not respect the proud. (v4)

• He does not respect those that turn aside to lies. (v4)

Effect

• He is brought out of a horrible pit and the miry clay. (v214)

• His feet are set upon a rock and his goings are established. (v2)

• A new song of praise unto God is put in his mouth. (v315)

• His life becomes a testimony that points others to trusting in Jehovah. (v3)

PSALM 65:4

Why Blessed?

• He is chosen and caused by God to approach Him. (v416)

Effect

• He may dwell in His courts. (v4)

• He is satisfied with God’s goodness. (v4)

PSALM 84:5

Why Blessed?

• His strength is in God. (v517)

• His heart is in the ways of them that dwell in His house and praise Him. (v4-518)

• He walks uprightly. (v1119)

Effect

• He goes from strength to strength. (v720)

• No good thing is withheld from him. (v1121)

PSALM 84:12

Why Blessed?

• He trusts in God. (v1222)

Effect

• See Psalm 84:5 comments above.

PSALM 94:12

Why Blessed?

• He is chastened. (v1223)

• He is taught from God’s law / word. (v1224)

Effect

• He has rest from days of adversity. (v1325)

PSALM 112:1

Why Blessed?

• He fears Jehovah. (v126)

• He delights in God’s commandments. (v1)

Effect

• His offspring shall be blessed. (v227)

• Wealth and riches are in his house. (v328) Consider true riches.29

• His righteousness endures forever. (v3)

• Light arises in his darkness. (v430)

• He is gracious. (v4)

• He is full of compassion. (v4)

• He is righteous. (v4)

PROVERBS 8:34

Why Blessed?

• He hears Wisdom. [Christ31] (v3432)

• He watches and waits daily for Wisdom. (v34)

Effect

• He finds life. (v3533)

• He obtains the favor of Jehovah. (v35)

ISAIAH 56:2

Why Blessed?

• He keeps the sabbath34 and doesn’t pollute it. (v235)

• He keeps his hand from doing any evil. (v2)

• He keeps judgement. (v136)

• He does justice. (v1)

Effect

• He receives salvation. (v1)

• He sees righteousness [of Christ37] revealed [in him]. (v1)

• He is made joyful in prayer. (v738)

• His sacrifices and offerings [as a life devoted to God39] are accepted [through Christ].40 (v7)

JEREMIAH 17:7

Why Blessed?

• He trusts in Jehovah. (v741)

• Jehovah is his hope. (v7)

Effect

• He is like a tree planted by water. (v842)

• He does not see [fear] when heat comes. (v8)

• He is not careful [anxious, full of care] in the year of drought. (v8)

• He does not cease yielding fruit. (v8)

ROMANS 4:8

Why Blessed?

• Paul quoting from Psalm 32, see above.

Effect

• Paul quoting from Psalm 32, see above.

JAMES 1:12

Why Blessed?

• He endures temptation. (v1243)

• He is tried. (v12)

• He loves Christ. (v12)

Effect

• He receives the crown of life. (v12)

God Bless,

Charles

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SCRIPTURE INDEX

Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.

(Matthew 10:16, KJV)

INTRO

This verse is one that has perplexed me at times to think about. Particularly, the call to be “wise as serpents.” The other three animals (wolves, sheep, and doves) have much more easily made sense in my mind regarding their applications within the context of this verse. The serpent, however, has required further thought due to the obvious connections with Satan in scripture, as well as all the negative references surrounding a serpent.1

We do have another reference in the Bible with wisdom and a somewhat negative but positive context in Luke 16:8 where children of the world are called wiser than the children of light. Yet, the way wisdom is used here doesn’t provide direct contextual help to our current verse.

THE WAY OF A SERPENT

So, why are we called to be “wise as serpents?” As we reflect on this, let us consider another interesting scripture:

“There be three things which are too wonderful for me, Yea, four which I know not: The way of an eagle in the air; The way of a serpent upon a rock; The way of a ship in the midst of the sea; And the way of a man with a maid.”

(Proverbs 30:18–19, KJV)

Here we find another thought provoking verse about a serpent. Its “way… upon a rock” is considered too wonderful and not known.

Let’s begin here and think about a literal snake lying upon a rock and basking in the sun. In general, due to the enmity that exists between man and this particular creature, a snake will only remain being seen in a vulnerable position upon a rock as long as it has not yet seen a person itself. Typically, as soon as an exposed snake sees an approaching human, it will scramble and slither away. At this point, snakes are then experts at cloaking themselves and remaining undetected while being searched for.

WISE AS SERPENTS

Now, let us consider why Jesus has called us to be “wise as serpents:” it is because we are as “sheep in the midst of wolves.” In the literal animal world, a sheep would be in great danger in an area that is filled with wolves. Wolves would set out to devour a sheep once it has been spotted. So, in this sense, it would be unwise for a sheep to go trotting up alone into a den of wolves. This sheep would become nothing more than a meal for the wolves in such a case.

Now, with all these things in mind, we find our connection. As Christians, we cannot escape the reality of living in a world that is filled with evil and hostility toward the light of Christ. We are called to bring the gospel to all the world.2 It is true that some have been called to preach the gospel in life threatening circumstances. Others have found themselves thrust into life threatening circumstances despite their own efforts to avoid them. In these cases, the call to be harmless as doves comes into play. When cornered or threatened, a snake will eventually strike; not so with a dove.

At times in our lives, we may find ourselves in contact with people who have no care at all for our best interests or even our wellbeing. They may lie, cheat, steal, manipulate, abuse, or afflict in order to accomplish their own selfish motives and ambitions. In such cases, where one has not been specifically called by God to bring forth the gospel, it is not Christian love to place oneself continually and unnecessarily as endless fodder to be devoured and preyed upon by wolves.

In being wise as a serpent, we will find that certain circumstances and relationships are simply best to be avoided so that we can have the physical, mental, and emotional energies that are needed to share the gospel and light of Christ where God has individually called us.

HARMLESS AS DOVES

When seeing a particular danger, confrontation, or manipulation approaching, a wise serpent will hide itself before such things have a chance to make an impact upon its life. Yet, a harmless dove will not strike back nor escalate matters whenever these things come upon it, and neither should we.

PRAYER

May Jehovah,3 our Heavenly Father, help us to be wise as serpents in avoiding the severe and/or toxic people and circumstances where He has not called us, and to be harmless as doves so that the light and love of Christ may shine forth whenever we are pressed upon.

God Bless,

Charles

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SCRIPTURE INDEX

And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: For thou, LORD [Jehovah], hast not forsaken them that seek thee.

(Psalm 9:10, KJV)

This verse carries with it a wonderful promise for those who seek Jehovah1 and put their trust in Him: He will not forsake them.

But what does this mean to “not forsake them?” First, let us look at another encouraging verse from Deuteronomy:

“And the LORD [Jehovah], he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.” (Deuteronomy 31:8, KJV)

Here we see “not forsaking” being linked with “going before,” “being with,” and “not failing.” These promises were especially needful and encouraging to the Israelites who were preparing to enter the promised land where they would then be surrounded by enemies that were bent on their destruction. God also spoke similar words directly to Joshua after the death of Moses to strengthen and encourage him.2

Psalm 9 is a short read, but is filled with encouragement regarding how God ultimately saves His people from the wicked and their schemes.. The psalm starts with praising Jehovah and speaking of His marvelous works,3 and midway through, repeats this theme with similar language of praising Him and declaring of His doings to other people.4

What are His doings and His marvelous works? The verses between and after these markers tell us the details. These details also align with the context of Deuteronomy 31:8. These verses speak of God’s being a refuge for His people5 and defending them when their enemies have set out to destroy them.6

In a final sense, we will see an ultimate fulfillment of this when God judges the wicked7 and saves His people for eternity through Jesus Christ.8 Seasons of persecution against the church have occurred throughout the centuries. In such cases, this final fulfillment likely served as a source of encouragement.

It is also true that Jehovah delivers the “poor and needy from him that spoileth him.”9 This principle is one that we can see played out in our day to day lives as we put our trust in the only true10 and living God.11

These times have a way of building and shaping our characters in ways that they could never otherwise be shaped. They have a way of drawing us nearer to God12 than we would be if we only had times of ease and comfort. They have a way of turning us away from unhealthy worldly attachments that would stifle our spiritual growth.13

Ultimately, however, when the circumstances have passed and we have trusted in, sought after, and cried out to God with our whole hearts, we find the principles described in Psalm 9 to be true. Our enemies will have been turned back, Jehovah will not have forsaken us, and the destruction that was desired upon us will have been stopped by the almighty hand of God.

When we have kept our eyes on God and surrendered fully to Him, by grace through Jesus Christ we can say as Paul said:

“We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.” (2 Corinthians 4:8–10, KJV)

So, brothers and sisters, let us be encouraged when difficulty comes and when others or spiritual forces of darkness have set themselves against us to crush us,14 that our God will be our refuge and strength.15 He will deliver us from all our fears,16 and will turn that which was meant for evil into something that is for good.17 Though immediate circumstances may be overwhelming or appear hopeless, we serve a faithful God18 with whom nothing is impossible.19

God Bless,

Charles

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SCRIPTURE INDEX

And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed.

(Exodus 17:11, KJV)

MOSES

In Exodus 17 we read an interesting story in history about how the Israelites overcame the Amalekites on the battlefield in Rephidim.

Of particular interest in this narrative, is that the achievement of the victory is linked with Moses’ hands being lifted into the air. Verse 111 tells us that Israel prevailed as long as his hands were raised. However, when his arms grew tired and became too heavy to hold up, Moses had to drop them for rest and to regain strength. Soon, he observed that whenever he would let down his hands to rest, the Amalekites began to gain an edge over the Israelites.

Here, we have an establishment of a type that can be built upon and given greater meaning for the new testament church. Do we have anything in the New Testament that speaks to uplifted hands that we might be able to connect back to this event with Moses and Israel?

PAUL

Consider the following verse:

“I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.” (1 Timothy 2:8, KJV)

In this verse, Paul is exhorting that hands be raised in connection with prayer. Not only this, but he also instructs that those prayers be made without any trace of wrath or doubt.

A prayer that is made with doubt in regards to God’s ability to answer it is no better than one that is made from a place of vengeful wrath. Such prayers, of either sort, must not come from our lips.

TYPES

Now back to our story and a look at the types.

• Moses - A type of a person who has been called by God with a particular burden to stand for some circumstance or person that requires a miracle from Jehovah. For we read in verse 9,2 that Moses went to stand on a hill with the rod of God in his hand.

• Lifted Hands - Earnest prayers that are being made, without wrath and without doubting, for that which a person is standing for.3

• Stone - Moses sat upon a stone when his hands became heavy.4 Christ5 is our rock and the sure foundation6 for our prayers of faith. It is through Christ that prayers are heard and by Christ that one is sustained through prolonged periods of earnest prayers.

A quick note, as we will soon see, is that the victory in the battle over spiritual forces of darkness is not purely a one-man effort. Moses was unable to keep his hands lifted by his own strength. As Moses sat upon the stone, Aaron and Hur stood on either side of him and held his arms up.

• Aaron - As the high priest, represents Jesus - our great high priest7 - who strengthens us and helps us as we lift our prayers up to our Heavenly Father in His name.

• Hur -Represents the brothers and sisters in the church joining together to help another in their burden of prayer.

Lastly, we will conclude by looking at types related to the sun and the book of memorial.

• Going down of the sun8 - As this marked the end of the day and corresponded to the defeat of the Amalekites, so the prayers of faith without doubting are to continue until the answer is seen and the work of God has been finished.9 Also, this indicates that the prayers may not be immediately answered, as the battle tarried until the end of the day. It may take days, months, or even years, but with uplifted hands - steady until the end - prayers in faith will prevail.

• Book of memorial10 - This victory was to be documented and rehearsed so that it would not be forgotten. So also, answered prayers serve as testimonies of God’s greatness and glory to all those around them.

CONCLUSION

With this story in mind, and Paul’s exhortation to pray with lifted hands, let us be encouraged to trust in God for answers to our prayers. In particular, those that He has given us a burden for, and those that relate to the souls of the lost, wayward, and ensnared.

Let us also remember to stand with our brothers and sisters, joining them in prayer (even for the impossible11), not wavering or doubting. Jehovah is the God of all flesh, and there is nothing too hard for Him.12

God Bless,

Charles

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SCRIPTURE INDEX

Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.

Acts 12:5, KJV

INTRO

With a foundation having been laid of a church with Christ in the midst, and extending from the principle that prayers will be answered from heaven in such gatherings,1 let us now consider the topic of a church that is praying without ceasing.

First, let us consider a couple of points from scripture. Prayers “asked amiss” for one’s own pleasure, are not answered.2 Next, knowing that God desires all to repent,3 we are exhorted to pray for men to be saved and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.4

Now, in Acts 12, we see God act in a mighty way through prayers that were made without ceasing by a church body that was of one accord.

LITERAL

In very literal terms, we see Peter (of whom was planned to be executed the next day) delivered from prison during the night and set free to continue the work of the gospel. We see that the very literal prayers, made “without ceasing” by his brothers and sisters were answered.

TYPE

I see in the scriptures describing this event, a picture and spiritual type of a person who is locked away in bondage in a cell of darkness, being taken captive as a prisoner of Satan’s kingdom.5

THE IMPOSSIBLE BONDAGE

As Herod kept Peter in bondage, desiring to put him to physical death,6 so also does Satan hold his captives in a spiritual bondage, desiring to bring them to an eventual eternal death.

Peter was secured behind two sets of guarded and locked doors in the prison. Additionally, he was chained directly to a soldier on either side of him.7 No doubt, this was an impossible situation. Short of miraculous intervention, Peter had no chance of escape as he wait for his death sentence.

As an example of an extreme case not being unreachable by Christ, the demon possessed man of Gadarenes comes to mind.8 This man was subdued with physical restraints, which he then broke free from. However, his spiritual bondage, in the prison of darkness, was guarded by a legion of unclean spirits. These spirits left him utterly defeated and without hope, until the power of Christ set him free.9

From this we can draw encouragement that no person, whom Jesus places in our lives, should be considered too far gone for us to pray for their deliverance.

LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS

In answer to the church’s prayers, an angel was sent to Peter. The Bible describes the scene as having a “light shin[ing] in the prison.”10

To all who have been blinded into darkness by the “god of this world,”11 it is the only true God,12 Jehovah,13 who shines a light into sin darkened hearts “to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”14

As the angel smote Peter and caused his chains to fall off, so the unceasing prayers of the church will bring forth rays of light from heaven, and perhaps circumstances that may jolt the one being prayed for out of their spiritual slumber, causing them to see their desperate state and need for Christ.

ROBES OF RIGHTEOUSNESS

Before leaving the prison, Peter was told to gird himself with his garment.15 In type this would be a picture of one taking on the righteous robes of Christ, the robe of salvation.16 For without this garment, no man leaves the prison of spiritual darkness.

GATES OF HELL WON’T PREVAIL

At the final scene of the prison, we see that after passing through two locked doors, the iron gate into the city opened on its own.17

Thus, when prayers are answered and the spiritual captive is set free, we see that indeed the gates of hell prevail not against the church which has been built upon the rock of Christ as the literal Son of the living God.18

COMING TO ONESELF

Peter is described as having “come to himself”19 after the angel had departed from him. We see a similar phrase in Luke 15:17 at the moment when the prodigal son determines to leave the pigsty and to return to his father with a repentant heart.

What a joyous day it is when one, who has previously been locked away in sin and darkness, repents, comes to themselves, and surrenders to Christ.

TESTIMONY

Once released, Peter went to a place where believers were gathered and shared his testimony of how the Lord had delivered him from prison.20 At first sight of him, and given the impossibility of the situation, they were astonished.21 This testimony resulted in great glory to God, as well as great strengthening and encouragement within the church as news of Peter’s deliverance spread.

Additionally, amongst the soldiers, it is recorded as having caused “no small stir.”22 So also, when one such captive of Satan - through the unceasing prayers of the church - is made free by the miraculous saving power of God, the result will no doubt be “no small stir” in the enemy camp, great glory to God, and much encouragement to the church.

PRAYER

May God help us to come together in earnest and unceasing prayers for those that are held in a spiritual bondage of sin and darkness. May He give us a united burden and endurance to continue in our prayers together until testimonies of freedom and deliverance come.

God Bless,

Charles

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SCRIPTURE INDEX

Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

Matthew 18:19–20, KJV

Recently, I wrote about praying without ceasing, with a focus on individual/personal prayers. Soon, I would like to touch on the same topic again, but with a focus on the prayers of a church (or a group of brethren coming together).

THE EARLY CHURCH

However, before we go there, I would like to lay a foundation by drawing our attention to how scripture describes the core group of believers in the early church at Jerusalem.

• Acts 1:14 - They continued with one accord in prayer and supplication.

• Acts 2:1 - They were all with one accord in one place.

• Acts 2:44-46 - They had all things in common, parted to every man as had need, continued daily with one accord in the temple [bearing witness of truth] and breaking bread from house to house.

• Acts 4:23-31 - Their company (group of believers) lifted up their voices to God in prayer with one accord, and they were filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God with boldness.

• Acts 5:12 - The were all with one accord in Solomon’s porch.

• Acts 15:25 - After being assembled to discuss differences, they ended with one accord and sent their decision out to other churches.

Over and over again, we see the first believers being of one accord with each other. In Philippians 2:2-5, Paul describes being of one accord as having the mind of Christ through love, being likeminded, having one mind, doing nothing through strife or vain glory, esteeming our brethren better than ourselves, and looking on the things of others - not just ourselves.

A UNITED CHURCH

All these things can only be done in sanctified, fully surrendered hearts with the help of Jesus within each individual. As such, those who do exhibit these qualities will be moving in accordance with the mind of Christ.1

A church that is comprised of individuals who are earnestly desiring to have this mind of Christ will be such that is of one accord when they are gathered together. There will be no independent spirits there. There will be no prolonged strife or pushing of personal agendas. There will be no doctrines where unity is not reached in the end.

As Christ is not divided,2 there will be no division in such a body, but rather oneness of mind and purpose. When such a body is assembled, the spirit of Christ moves in their midst. When such a body prays, answers from heaven are given.

How can such a church body be achieved? It all starts with each individual and their own surrender to God’s will above all else in their life.3 As hearts are sanctified and individuals pray for Philippians 2:2-5 to be made a reality in their own lives, a church of brothers and sisters who are of one accord will naturally result.

Yet, where strife, self-seeking, fault-finding, independence, division, stubbornness, and toleration of sin exist, the power and presence of the Spirit will be weakened among them, prayers will be hindered, and the gospel work will be diminished.

PRAYER

May God help us all to be of one accord, and may He do the work necessary in each of our hearts to bring us up to the standard of having the mind of Christ, that He may be pleased and glorified in our midst.

God Bless,

Charles

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SCRIPTURE INDEX

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

1 Thessalonians 5:18, KJV

OVERVIEW

This week I would like to share a testimony of God’s provision and care, even in little things, during the midst of random trials that happen in life.

Last week, I had the opportunity to make a trip out of town to help someone with moving things out of storage. Initially, this trip was not even a consideration for me as my schedule was completely full. Yet the person was having trouble finding any way to clear out their storage room before the end of the month, so I prayed and asked Jehovah if it was possible and He could use me to help that He would make a way for me to do so.

This prayer was answered rather quickly, as work that I had scheduled for two days of the week was cancelled.

During the first day that was freed up, I spent the day getting various things in order related to my truck and my trailer so that I would be able to carry back the things from the storage facility.

During the second day, I was able to make the trip out of town.

If everything were to go smoothly, the trip from my house to the location of the storage facility would be 4-1/2 to 5 hours with a trailer. So, doing a round trip in a single day, plus the work once there would make for a full day as it is without any added variables.

This trip, however, had some variables.

VARIABLE #1 (Warning)

First, about 30 minutes from home, there was a parking lot that had a huge drop-off to one side. I did not see this with my truck, but when making a wide turn because of pulling my trailer, the wheels of my trailer found the drop-off and slammed hard into the side of the road I was pulling onto.

The hit was hard enough to raise a level of serious concern in my mind. I began closely watching both sides of the trailer in my mirrors from that point on as I was driving.

VARIABLE #2 (Trial)

As I continued down the road for another 30 minutes or so, I noticed smoke in one of my mirrors. Initially, I thought that my truck may have been burning oil, but upon closer inspection I realized the smoke was coming out of the end of the trailer.

I quickly pulled over to find that a wheel was smoking heavily and looked to be in damaged condition. I was a bit confused as I considered that this wheel was on the opposite side of that which experienced the hit with the side of the road.

However, if it had not been for Variable #1 and the impact with the trailer, I would not have been paying as close attention to it and may have driven much further before noticing this problem. Had that happened, far worse damage could have been done to the trailer. In realizing this, I was quite thankful for Variable #1.

I had not encountered this particular issue before and so I was quite uncertain of how to proceed. Fortunately, God has placed a brother in my life that is much more mechanically skilled than myself. After a quick video call, he had diagnosed the issue as being the failure of bearings on that wheel.

I removed the wheel and prepared to drive the trailer, on the remaining three wheels, to the next town, about 30 minutes away. I chose to go in the direction of my final destination (still 4 hours away), trusting that with the help of my brother over the phone and that the parts store would have what I needed, I could make the repairs in a parking lot and be on my way.

Another point of thanksgiving occurred here, for the brother which Jehovah placed in my life, and his expertise which was greatly needed during this time.

VARIABLE #3 (Help)

I removed the tire from trailer and lowered the jack, in preparation to leave. At this point I faced another minor predicament. When I lowered the jack, it became sandwiched with the ground, and I could not pull it out with one wheel being removed from the trailer.

I stood there contemplating about whether to drive off of the jack. I was not really excited about this thought, given that I was not positive how the wheelless axel was going to sit in relation to the ground once I did this and the initial jolt occurred.

Just then another gentleman pulled up and asked if I needed help. He happened to have a lower profile jack in the back of his truck. I used this to remove my jack. After confirming everything looked ok, I was on my way. This man proceeded to follow me for a few minutes to make sure the trailer was driving ok with only three wheels.

I was thankful for the help that came just in time.

VARIABLE #4 (Supplies)

After another 30 minutes of driving, I found myself parked at a gas station beside an auto parts store. The workers in the store were friendly, extremely helpful, and considerate of my situation. I was thankful for God’s leading me to such a place as I worked through the trial.

After a few trips in and out of the store, and a few phone calls with my friend, I had successfully made the repair and was ready to be on my way.

The parts store had everything that I needed for the repair except for one specialty washer. However, it turned out that there was a specialty parts store across the road from them which did have the washer. I also ended up having my tool bag with me, which I had not originally planned to bring. I decided to bring it because of a few other things that came up that I was going to have to do at my destination after the storage facility.

I set out on the road, now with four tires back on the trailer, with much rejoicing and thanksgiving. God had provided me with the friend, with the help, with the tools, and with the parts that I needed to address this trial.

In total, this trial set me back about 4 hours on my trip.

INTERMISSION

I made the rest of the journey without any issues and was able to take care of what I had set out to do.

I was wrapped up and ready to head back home around 8:30 pm. This was originally the time that I had hoped to be back home. Now, at this time, I still had 5 hours of driving left with a full trailer. The thought of staying until the next morning had crossed my mind, but due to obligations the next day, I decided not to chance it.

VARIABLE #5 (Trial)

After about an hour of driving I was finally out of the big city, bright lights, and billboards and into a more rural setting of nature. Since I had gotten such a late start, it was dark and there was not much (outside of the city) in the way of traffic. It was a pleasant evening and so I decided to drive with all the windows down on my truck.

On this stretch of the interstate, there was a temporary concrete wall that had been set up beside the lane that I was driving in. If anyone has driven next to one of these walls with their windows down, they will know that any sounds coming out from your vehicle will be amplified and more audible as they bounce back off the wall.

As I was settling in for the long straight drive down the interstate, a faint sound of metal scraping arrested my attention.

As I was looking around, I noticed sparks in one of my side mirrors. Fully alert now, I could hear the unwelcomed sound much more clearly. The sparks morphed into a steady spray shooting out from the side of my trailer. This time, on the other side of the trailer from Variable #2.

Not knowing what I was dealing with, I slowed down and planned to take the very next exit to assess the situation. As I drove, I reflected on this new variable and became thankful for the time of day at which I was traveling. Had I waited and left in the morning, I would have been in the midst of noisy traffic and would not have been driving next to the concrete wall with all my windows down. Because of when and where I was driving, the new issue with the trailer was quickly ascertained. During the day, I likely would have driven much longer before noticing this issue, and as with Variable #2, much more damage could have occurred as a result.

The next exit that I came to was for one of the areas where the highway department checks 18-wheelers that are passing through. Though it was closed for the night, it provided a large and well-lit area for safely working on the next variable.

I got out to check the trailer and found that one of the tires was completely shredded. Fortunately, I had a spare. I changed out the spare tire without much difficulty. When I checked its pressure, it was low. I then remembered that God had placed upon my mind to bring my portable air compressor before I left the house that morning.

As I aired the tire up, I thankfully considered the providential location which Jehovah had provided me for addressing this issue as well as for equipping me with the air compressor that I needed to get the spare tire ready to go.

Once more on the road, I made it safely back home from here and arrived around 1:15 am, extremely tired, but full of joy that Jehovah was mindful of me on this day.1

CONCLUSION

This concludes my testimony of how God helped me in various ways, during what otherwise could have been very difficult situations. Rather than having a grumble, gripe, or complaint2 about the setbacks, I followed the exhortation of scripture to “Rejoice evermore” and “in every thing [to] give thanks.”3

“Every thing” means everything. If, in surrender to Christ, we allow Him to sanctify our hearts and to bring forth fruits to the glory of the Father,4 we will find many evidences of His lovingkindness, thoughtfulness, and provision in our lives - even in the midst of difficulties.

It is only through Christ that one can truly give thanks in “every thing.” Yet if we make ourselves willing vessels in this way, we find ourselves becoming blessed recipients of a fullness of joy. A joy that is a manifestation of Jesus’ joy within us.5

Prayer

May God help us to put away every trace of murmuring, and fashion within us hearts of rejoicing and thanksgiving, that we may be able to see His hand in our lives through all our circumstances and trials.

God Bless,

Charles

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SCRIPTURE INDEX

But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.

Romans 6:22, KJV

A BIRD ENSNARED

Earlier this year, I was doing work for one of my customers. As they had already moved out and to another city, this home was largely empty throughout, other than the things that I had brought with me for the work I was doing.

At one point during the day, I was walking through their garage to get to my service van for some additional supplies. As I was walking, I heard the sounds of a bird in great distress. As I surveyed the empty garage, I noticed a sticky trap that the homeowner had left behind for catching rodents.

Fastened to this trap was a bird. This little creature found itself unable to set itself free, though it tried with all its might. Its brief flutters, convulsions, and chirps were followed by periods of rest and silence, as if to gather its dwindling strength for one more surge that might be the very one to launch it into freedom from its prison. I wondered if the little bird knew that its efforts were all in vain. Its attempts to free itself were hopeless. It had only death to wait for, that is unless someone greater than itself reached down and delivered it.

As I approached the bird, it struggled in fear and put forth greater efforts than before to free itself. It did not yet know that I had only compassion toward it, and that my heart was set only upon doing that which it could not do for itself.... giving it deliverance from its bondage.

As gently and carefully as I could, I worked to free this little bird. At this point it submitted to what I was doing, but I’m sure the discomfort of being pulled away from the glue that bound it could still be felt upon its small frame.

Finally, the work was done, and the bird was released. With a few chirps of seeming thanksgiving, it took off and left me pondering the object lesson from this circumstance.

OBJECT LESSON

As I replayed these things in my mind, I thought back to the years of my own life and how I, like this bird, was once bound in a prison from which I could not free myself.

There was a period in my life when Christ, by His spirit, began to open my eyes to my sin. I began to despise this taskmaster of sin and the fruit which it brought forth in my life.1 I struggled and fought, yet seemed only to sink deeper into the mire. All was hopeless, and my efforts were in vain. I would only have had death to wait for, if not for Christ my blessed Redeemer!

In my desperation, I reached a place of surrender, and the grace of God was poured out upon me. In compassion, my Savior reached down into my life did what I was powerless to do for myself. He forgave me, cleansed me, and delivered me from the power of sin.

I recall how some of the years were marked with great pain, sorrow, and suffering, yet I knew the presence of the Almighty was near. I had many evidences of that. I see now that it was His hand of compassion, working in my life to do that which was best for me, though I could not see it at the time. However, once freedom came, joy abounded, and gratitude filled my heart.2 How great, merciful, loving, and compassionate is our Creator!3

All glory to Jehovah, our God and Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ. For when we were yet without strength, Christ died for us,4 and by His grace, we can overcome all sin.

God Bless,

Charles

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SCRIPTURE INDEX / REFERENCES