As a young Christian, I often heard preachers and other more mature believers in the Lord uttered the cliche - 'born again' believers in the Lord. My understanding then was that every Christian who has placed their trust in Jesus Christ as personal Saviour is a 'born again' believer who will eventually enter heaven upon death. But as I study into the Word of Scripture, I discovered that that isn't what it means.
What then, does Jesus mean when He told the Pharisees named Nicodemus, 'Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.'? (John 3:3). It is absolutely crucial that you understand this truth because your destiny hinges on it. If a believer is being 'born again' at the point of conversion, then the Kingdom of God must be here now. But the Word of God clearly teaches otherwise - that the Kingdom of God will come after the Second Coming of Jesus Christ (Revelation 11:15).
Colossians 1:18 tells us that 'Christ is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead'. This verse tells us that Jesus is the first to be resurrected from the dead. All other believers who are resurrected after Him are Christs' brethren (Rom 8:29) - born into God's family as sons of God. This will happen after Jesus Christ return to earth at His Second Coming. The only qualifying condition is that they must have the Spirit of Christ living in them and be led by the Spirit of God, otherwise they are none of His (Rom 8: 9-16). Because the same Spirit of God that raised Christ from the dead will also raised all true believers into spirit body at resurrection (verse 11). The account in 1 Cor 15:44-54 makes this absolutely clear. To be 'born again' is to be resurrected into spirit body of immortality, incorruptibility, having the 'divine nature'. That is why one who is born again of God does not sin, for His seed (Holy Spirit) remains in him, and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God (1 john 3:9). If a believer is 'born again' at conversion, this verse just does not make sense because all Christians still sin after conversion!
God's plan is to have 'many sons' - born after His firstborn Son Jesus Christ. If He intends to stop at only ONE SON, the word 'firstborn' and 'brethren' are superflous (Rom 8:29) and the phrase 'sons of God' - Rom 8:14 - quite misleading! But all these truths Satan and his demons are fighting tooth and nail to keep the church from understanding - otherwise he will cut short his reign into the pit (Rev 20:2-3). For when the gospel of the Kingdom of Heaven (God) is being preached in all the world as a witness, the end of the church age will come to usher in the return of Christ (Matt 24:14).
So the truth being told, one is born again at the resurrection - then and only then, will he/she sees the Kingdom of God. For flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of God; nor does corruption inherit incorruption (1 Cor 15:50). It has to be YOU with a new spirit body that will never die (1 Cor 15:54), one that is fully led by the Spirit of God, of which we are now experiencing only an earnest (a guarantee - Eph 1:14), the fulness of which after we are born again!
The Apostle Paul's statement in 1 Corinthians 15:50 states that we are to become spirit in order to inherit the Kingdom of God. Since humans are made of flesh and blood - from the dust, Gen 2:7 - they must be born again into spirits before they can enter the Kingdom of God. Like in a physical birth, a child is being delivered from his/her physical mother, in a spiritual birth the believer is being delivered from his/her spiritual mother - the church. The Lord Jesus likens this to wind in John 3:8, indicating that born again believers in the spirit body will also be invisible! Perhaps, the Kingdom of God will also be invisible to the natural but only those born of spirit will be able to see and enter into it.
Note that Nicodemus understood who Christ was and His authority from God when he said in John 3:2 'Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him'. Why do you think that the Pharisees still resent Christ when they knew who He was? The most probable explanation was that they feared the loss of power and authority that was given to them by the Romans if the message of the Kingdom (Government) of God, which was preached by the Lord Jesus was accepted by the masses. Similarly, many today understood the teachings of Jesus Christ about the Kingdom of God, yet they prefer to cling on to their traditions and beliefs for fear of losing their positions, power and status. That is why the Lord Jesus emphasised strongly, 'YOU MUST BE BORN AGAIN' (John 3:7).
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Reward of the Saints
Many Christians know that they are 'destined for glory'. But what is it and what form it will take, most have no clue what it's all about. Some may hazard a guess, like 'riding in the clouds', 'walking through streets of gold in heaven', or 'just loiter around in heaven - free and easy - perhaps at the bosom of Jesus'. But none of these is what the bible teaches.
Before I dwell into reward, we need to be absolutely clear what is salvation. I used to think that I am saved by the blood of Jesus Christ. This is only half the truth. We are 'saved by His (Jesus Christ) life (Romans 5:10). While we are reconciled to God and justified by His blood (Rom 5:9) of all our past transgressions and sins, He saved us completely based on our repentance - turning from our evil past (kingdom of darkness) to FUTURE obedience on God's laws and commandments (Kingdom of Light).
This is made possible because God's Spirit dwells upon those who repent and obey Him (Acts 5:31-32). In other words, the authority and works (fruits) of the believer is dependent upon the power of the Holy Spirit which is conditional on repentance and obedience on the part of the Christian. And not dependent on some 'soaking meeting' or 'Holy Spirit meeting' to prop up dwindling spiritual power. This will NOT work and is unbiblical, but can cause confusion and deception in the body of Christ! Don't get me wrong, those who are not full of God's Holy Spirit but are nevertheless believer of Jesus Christ, will not lose their salvation, though they could lose their reward if their lives are found to be unfruitful - like being deceived into doing the wrong kind of work in the name of the Lord ( Matthew 15:13-14; Mark 7:7; 1 Cor 3:15).
Salvation is by grace through faith, even the saving faith itself is a gift. 'For by grace are you saved through faith, and that (faith) not of yourself; it (faith) is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast' (Ephesians 2:8-9). That is why there is another level of faith, 'For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith (the faith of Christ) (Rom 1:17). But that will be the subject of another blog.
Make no mistake, a Christian is one who has the Holy Spirit leading and guiding him/her. 'For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God' (Rom 8:14) - for we are not in the flesh but in the Spirit (verse 9). From these verses alone, we gather that God the father is building His divine family with Jesus as the Firstborn and born again believers (resurrected in the First Resurrection) are His brethren (Rom 8:29), being the church of the firstborn (Hebrews 12:23). Satan is absolutely mad that he was not offered as member of God's divine family but puny man can have it! You read it right, you and I can be part of God's divine family - literally - when Jesus Christ returns to rule and reign in the Kingdom of God during the Millennial Age. Not even the angels in heaven were given the privilege. This is clearly reveals in Hebrews, beginning with chapter 1 (more about that in future blog). David's writing in Psalm 8 shows his understanding of things to come (little wonder he is a man after God's own heart and will be resurrected - because he is stiil sleeping in the dust, Acts 2:34 - in the First Resurrection to rule and reign over Israel).
The Holy Spirit dwells in the minds of believers to renew and guide us into the truth - for only the truth will set us free (John 8:32). Free from what? - from the deceptions of Satan and his demons. God's plan for believers (potential sons) is not either faith or works, but FAITH AND WORKS - in order to qualify us for the Kingdom as part of His divine family which He is working now to expand to include all believers who will heed His calling and commandments.
In a sense, the church is currently being judged - 'For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God' (1 Peter 4:17). What is the purpose of God's judging His people now if our character, conduct and works make no difference to Him. God is sieving out His chosen ones - the overcomers - to be part of His 'A' team in His government! No one is fit to rule and reign in the Kingdom of God if he/she cannot be ruled or refuse to submit to the government of God which is based on the laws and commandments of God as stipulated in the holy scriptures. Do not be like the stubborn mules in the parable of Luke 19:14. Christians must learn to 'grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ' (2 Peter 3:18). For one's status, position, office, rank and glory will depend on your character building and works accomplished - assessed when you are resurrected or walk (transformed) into the Kingdom of God, whichever comes first. That is your destiny - for your future quality of life depends on what you do NOW!
John 15 records the words of our Lord Jesus Christ on the night before the betrayal. He kept the Passover with His disciples and taught them the importance of bearing fruit. However, the believer must understand God's role in the building of character, good works and righteousness (Rom 10:3). Doing our own thing or God's work in our own way will amount to nothing as far as reward in the life to come is concern. God is the potter and we are the clay. Let His Holy Spirit work in and through us to produce the Godly character (partakers of the divine nature) He desires of us first before we can be useful for the extension of His Kingdom both now and in the age to come. For we must seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things (our current needs and future rewards) shall be added to you (Matt 6:33).
Before I dwell into reward, we need to be absolutely clear what is salvation. I used to think that I am saved by the blood of Jesus Christ. This is only half the truth. We are 'saved by His (Jesus Christ) life (Romans 5:10). While we are reconciled to God and justified by His blood (Rom 5:9) of all our past transgressions and sins, He saved us completely based on our repentance - turning from our evil past (kingdom of darkness) to FUTURE obedience on God's laws and commandments (Kingdom of Light).
This is made possible because God's Spirit dwells upon those who repent and obey Him (Acts 5:31-32). In other words, the authority and works (fruits) of the believer is dependent upon the power of the Holy Spirit which is conditional on repentance and obedience on the part of the Christian. And not dependent on some 'soaking meeting' or 'Holy Spirit meeting' to prop up dwindling spiritual power. This will NOT work and is unbiblical, but can cause confusion and deception in the body of Christ! Don't get me wrong, those who are not full of God's Holy Spirit but are nevertheless believer of Jesus Christ, will not lose their salvation, though they could lose their reward if their lives are found to be unfruitful - like being deceived into doing the wrong kind of work in the name of the Lord ( Matthew 15:13-14; Mark 7:7; 1 Cor 3:15).
Salvation is by grace through faith, even the saving faith itself is a gift. 'For by grace are you saved through faith, and that (faith) not of yourself; it (faith) is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast' (Ephesians 2:8-9). That is why there is another level of faith, 'For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith (the faith of Christ) (Rom 1:17). But that will be the subject of another blog.
Make no mistake, a Christian is one who has the Holy Spirit leading and guiding him/her. 'For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God' (Rom 8:14) - for we are not in the flesh but in the Spirit (verse 9). From these verses alone, we gather that God the father is building His divine family with Jesus as the Firstborn and born again believers (resurrected in the First Resurrection) are His brethren (Rom 8:29), being the church of the firstborn (Hebrews 12:23). Satan is absolutely mad that he was not offered as member of God's divine family but puny man can have it! You read it right, you and I can be part of God's divine family - literally - when Jesus Christ returns to rule and reign in the Kingdom of God during the Millennial Age. Not even the angels in heaven were given the privilege. This is clearly reveals in Hebrews, beginning with chapter 1 (more about that in future blog). David's writing in Psalm 8 shows his understanding of things to come (little wonder he is a man after God's own heart and will be resurrected - because he is stiil sleeping in the dust, Acts 2:34 - in the First Resurrection to rule and reign over Israel).
The Holy Spirit dwells in the minds of believers to renew and guide us into the truth - for only the truth will set us free (John 8:32). Free from what? - from the deceptions of Satan and his demons. God's plan for believers (potential sons) is not either faith or works, but FAITH AND WORKS - in order to qualify us for the Kingdom as part of His divine family which He is working now to expand to include all believers who will heed His calling and commandments.
In a sense, the church is currently being judged - 'For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God' (1 Peter 4:17). What is the purpose of God's judging His people now if our character, conduct and works make no difference to Him. God is sieving out His chosen ones - the overcomers - to be part of His 'A' team in His government! No one is fit to rule and reign in the Kingdom of God if he/she cannot be ruled or refuse to submit to the government of God which is based on the laws and commandments of God as stipulated in the holy scriptures. Do not be like the stubborn mules in the parable of Luke 19:14. Christians must learn to 'grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ' (2 Peter 3:18). For one's status, position, office, rank and glory will depend on your character building and works accomplished - assessed when you are resurrected or walk (transformed) into the Kingdom of God, whichever comes first. That is your destiny - for your future quality of life depends on what you do NOW!
John 15 records the words of our Lord Jesus Christ on the night before the betrayal. He kept the Passover with His disciples and taught them the importance of bearing fruit. However, the believer must understand God's role in the building of character, good works and righteousness (Rom 10:3). Doing our own thing or God's work in our own way will amount to nothing as far as reward in the life to come is concern. God is the potter and we are the clay. Let His Holy Spirit work in and through us to produce the Godly character (partakers of the divine nature) He desires of us first before we can be useful for the extension of His Kingdom both now and in the age to come. For we must seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things (our current needs and future rewards) shall be added to you (Matt 6:33).
Sunday, February 3, 2008
The Judgment Seat of Christ
In my last few blogs, I shared with readers about the Kingdom of God which is God's Government on earth during the Millennial Age - to be inaugurated after the Second Coming of Christ. In this blog I am going to share about the Judgment Seat of Christ which will precede Christ's rule. This Judgment is all about rewards or loss of rewards and has nothing to do with salvation - since only saved believers of the church age will appear before the Judgment Seat of Christ. This is because all who appear there will have the same foundation, which is the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross (1 Cor 3 11).
Please note that salvation is not the end of the Christian race, but rather the beginning! The end will come at the Judgment Seat of Christ where every will, work and word will be judged through the 'baptism of fire'. This is precisely what John the Baptist meant in Matthew 3:11 when he said that the Lord Jesus will come to baptise His disciples will the Holy Spirit and fire. So Charismatics beware - you folks ought to know what you are singing and asking - otherwise you are unknowingly pronouncing curses upon yourselves !
Understand this, while salvation is secure (it cannot be easily lost except like when it is renounced or adopt another faith subsequently), reward can be easily lost if one is foolish enough and lack wisdom. When the Scriptures say that it is a gift not based on works, that something is salvation and cannot be easily lost (Ephesians 2:8-9). Conversely, when something needs to be attained through works, that is a reward which can be easily lost (2 John 8). As Christians we must learn to clearly divide the Word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).
Make no mistake, not all believers will inherit the Kingdom of God. For many are called (unto salvation) but few are chosen (to rule and reign in the Kingdom of God) - Matthew 20:16b; 22:14. But only those who have received a reward, whose works are counted as gold, silver and precious stones (1 Cor 3: 12-15). Those whose works are wood, hay and straw will lose their reward though they themselves will be saved, even through the fire. This is consistent with what the Lord taught His disciples on numerous occasions, especially through the parable of the wedding feast in Matthew 22: 1-14 and the parable of the minas (talent) in Luke 19:12-27. Jesus also told His disciples that He (Son of Man) will come in the glory of His Father and reward each according to his works (Matt 16:27; Rev 22:12).
The Apostle Paul again in 2 Cor 5:10 reiterated that all Christians must appear before the Judgment Seat of Christ. Again in Hebrews 2:2, the writer (whom I believe is Paul) reminded us that everyone who appears there will receive exactly what he deserves. So there can be no miscarriage of judgment - unlike judgments handed out by leaders and governments of this world!
God is loving and gracious, sometimes He chastened us for our own good so that we will not lose our reward but rather 'yield the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it' (Hebrews 12:5-11). Hence, it is a very good idea to do our own soul searching periodically to cleanse out the 'skeleton in our closet' (2 Cor 11:31-32). Sadly, many failed to heed the example of Esau when he sold his birthright to his younger brother Jacob for a pottage (typology for the trinkets of this world) and found to his deep regret that there is no tears left for repentance. When we appear before Christ, it will be too late for any remedy, and those who lost their reward will be marginalised in the outer darkness with weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matt 22:13)!
That is why chastisement and the fear (reverential) of the Lord will drive the foolishness out of believers into wisdom and right living (righteousness) - Proverbs 22:15. This is what kingdom living will be like in the Age to come under the government of the King of kings and Lord of lords - the kings and lords are the saints who will rule and reign with Him!
Please note that salvation is not the end of the Christian race, but rather the beginning! The end will come at the Judgment Seat of Christ where every will, work and word will be judged through the 'baptism of fire'. This is precisely what John the Baptist meant in Matthew 3:11 when he said that the Lord Jesus will come to baptise His disciples will the Holy Spirit and fire. So Charismatics beware - you folks ought to know what you are singing and asking - otherwise you are unknowingly pronouncing curses upon yourselves !
Understand this, while salvation is secure (it cannot be easily lost except like when it is renounced or adopt another faith subsequently), reward can be easily lost if one is foolish enough and lack wisdom. When the Scriptures say that it is a gift not based on works, that something is salvation and cannot be easily lost (Ephesians 2:8-9). Conversely, when something needs to be attained through works, that is a reward which can be easily lost (2 John 8). As Christians we must learn to clearly divide the Word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).
Make no mistake, not all believers will inherit the Kingdom of God. For many are called (unto salvation) but few are chosen (to rule and reign in the Kingdom of God) - Matthew 20:16b; 22:14. But only those who have received a reward, whose works are counted as gold, silver and precious stones (1 Cor 3: 12-15). Those whose works are wood, hay and straw will lose their reward though they themselves will be saved, even through the fire. This is consistent with what the Lord taught His disciples on numerous occasions, especially through the parable of the wedding feast in Matthew 22: 1-14 and the parable of the minas (talent) in Luke 19:12-27. Jesus also told His disciples that He (Son of Man) will come in the glory of His Father and reward each according to his works (Matt 16:27; Rev 22:12).
The Apostle Paul again in 2 Cor 5:10 reiterated that all Christians must appear before the Judgment Seat of Christ. Again in Hebrews 2:2, the writer (whom I believe is Paul) reminded us that everyone who appears there will receive exactly what he deserves. So there can be no miscarriage of judgment - unlike judgments handed out by leaders and governments of this world!
God is loving and gracious, sometimes He chastened us for our own good so that we will not lose our reward but rather 'yield the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it' (Hebrews 12:5-11). Hence, it is a very good idea to do our own soul searching periodically to cleanse out the 'skeleton in our closet' (2 Cor 11:31-32). Sadly, many failed to heed the example of Esau when he sold his birthright to his younger brother Jacob for a pottage (typology for the trinkets of this world) and found to his deep regret that there is no tears left for repentance. When we appear before Christ, it will be too late for any remedy, and those who lost their reward will be marginalised in the outer darkness with weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matt 22:13)!
That is why chastisement and the fear (reverential) of the Lord will drive the foolishness out of believers into wisdom and right living (righteousness) - Proverbs 22:15. This is what kingdom living will be like in the Age to come under the government of the King of kings and Lord of lords - the kings and lords are the saints who will rule and reign with Him!
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
The Gospel of the Kingdom of God
In my reading of Psalms, I discover that David 'preached' the Kingdom of God in many of the Psalms he penned almost 3,000 years ago. Take Psalm 22:28 for example, 'For the kingdom is the Lord's, and He rules over the nations'. David understood full well that he will be king one day after his resurrection, 'You have made me the head of the nations; A people I have not known shall serve me.' (Psalm 18:43a-b). So is the famous Psalm 2:8, where it states - 'Ask of Me (God the Father), and I will give You ( God the Son) the nations for Your inheritance, and the ends of the earth for Your possession. Millions have quoted this verse without understanding what it means!
Interestingly, in Psalm 37, David refers to the term, 'inherit the earth' or 'inherit the land' FIVE times (Ps 37: 9, 11, 22, 29, 34). Such is his faith and trust in the Lord - knowing his destiny and the rewards to come when the Lord will set up His Kingdom on earth after His Second Coming. He understood that that is the reward of the righteous and they shall dwell in the land on earth forever!
Let's now take a look at he New Testament, it records for us that the early Apostles preached the gospel of the Kingdom of God. In 2 Peter 1, Peter enumerates the virtues to emulate so that 'an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ' (verse 11).
The Apostle James wrote, 'Listen, my beloved brethren: Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?' (James 2:5).
The Gospel of Matthew records for us the work of Jesus. Matthew 4:23 and again in 9:35, 'Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people'. It looks like healing accompanies the preaching of the Kingdom of God! In the Matthew Gospel alone, over fifty references were made of the Kingdom of God, and most of them through the use of parables taught by Jesus.
In the Gospel of Luke, it was recorded that the Lord Jesus commanded His disciples to preach the Kingdom of God. 'Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick (Luke 9:1-2). Similarly, in Luke 10:1-9, Jesus appointed seventy others to do likewise - preaching the gospel of the Kingdom of God and heal the sick. Can anything be more clear than these specific commandments of our Lord?
In John 18:36, Jesus stood before the Roman governor Pontius Pilate and uttered these words: 'My kingdom is not of this world' - meaning that God's Government is not found in this present system of human government. In the next verse, Jesus answered Pilate that He was born into this world to be King (Revelation 19:16) and for this purpose He had come - meaning that He came in His first advent to proclaim the message of the Kingdom of God - first to the Jews and when they rejected His message, it was later proclaim to the church (Matthew 21:43).
One of Jesus' disciples - Philip - preached the things concerning the Kingdom of God AND the name of Jesus Christ (clearly showing that they are two separate subjects). Subsequently, both men and women were baptized (Acts 8:12).
I shall now turn to the works of Apostle Paul. This faithful Apostle preached the Kingdom of God to the Gentiles. 'And he went into the synagogue and spoke boldly for three months, reasoning and persuading concerning the things of the kingdom of God' (Acts 19:8). Also, in Acts 20:25 '...I have gone preaching the kingdom of God' and this was preached alongside the gospel of the grace of God (verse 24). Take note that in Acts 28:30-31, 'Then Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God AND teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him'.
From all the above evidences found in Scriptures, it is clear that the Kingdom of God is separate from the gospel of grace or gospel of salvation which is equally important to comprehend. It is not one or the other but one with the other!
Interestingly, in Psalm 37, David refers to the term, 'inherit the earth' or 'inherit the land' FIVE times (Ps 37: 9, 11, 22, 29, 34). Such is his faith and trust in the Lord - knowing his destiny and the rewards to come when the Lord will set up His Kingdom on earth after His Second Coming. He understood that that is the reward of the righteous and they shall dwell in the land on earth forever!
Let's now take a look at he New Testament, it records for us that the early Apostles preached the gospel of the Kingdom of God. In 2 Peter 1, Peter enumerates the virtues to emulate so that 'an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ' (verse 11).
The Apostle James wrote, 'Listen, my beloved brethren: Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?' (James 2:5).
The Gospel of Matthew records for us the work of Jesus. Matthew 4:23 and again in 9:35, 'Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people'. It looks like healing accompanies the preaching of the Kingdom of God! In the Matthew Gospel alone, over fifty references were made of the Kingdom of God, and most of them through the use of parables taught by Jesus.
In the Gospel of Luke, it was recorded that the Lord Jesus commanded His disciples to preach the Kingdom of God. 'Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick (Luke 9:1-2). Similarly, in Luke 10:1-9, Jesus appointed seventy others to do likewise - preaching the gospel of the Kingdom of God and heal the sick. Can anything be more clear than these specific commandments of our Lord?
In John 18:36, Jesus stood before the Roman governor Pontius Pilate and uttered these words: 'My kingdom is not of this world' - meaning that God's Government is not found in this present system of human government. In the next verse, Jesus answered Pilate that He was born into this world to be King (Revelation 19:16) and for this purpose He had come - meaning that He came in His first advent to proclaim the message of the Kingdom of God - first to the Jews and when they rejected His message, it was later proclaim to the church (Matthew 21:43).
One of Jesus' disciples - Philip - preached the things concerning the Kingdom of God AND the name of Jesus Christ (clearly showing that they are two separate subjects). Subsequently, both men and women were baptized (Acts 8:12).
I shall now turn to the works of Apostle Paul. This faithful Apostle preached the Kingdom of God to the Gentiles. 'And he went into the synagogue and spoke boldly for three months, reasoning and persuading concerning the things of the kingdom of God' (Acts 19:8). Also, in Acts 20:25 '...I have gone preaching the kingdom of God' and this was preached alongside the gospel of the grace of God (verse 24). Take note that in Acts 28:30-31, 'Then Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God AND teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him'.
From all the above evidences found in Scriptures, it is clear that the Kingdom of God is separate from the gospel of grace or gospel of salvation which is equally important to comprehend. It is not one or the other but one with the other!
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Escape All These Things
The main purpose of bible prophecy is twofold- to impress upon humankind that the Government of God is in control and not the powers and wisdom of man; secondly, it serves to warn His people of future crises that will inevitably happen according to His prophetic Word.
The Lord Jesus, in Matthew 24, Mark 13 and Luke 21, spoke to His disciples about the signs and events of end times which will unfold just before His return. Some of these are earthquakes, famines and pestilences. But some very serious warnings were also spoken of by the Lord - false prophets (and prophecies) will arise to deceive His people, even His elect! As he sat on the Mount of Olives, he issued out this warning THREE TIMES (Matt 24:2-4, 11, 24). So be sure you know what you are believing! There will be betrayal, defection, martyrdom and many will grow cold in the things of God. So when you see these things, know that the Kingdom of God (His Government on earth) is drawing near (Luke 21:31).
Man by his sinful nature is rebellious. He does not want to be ruled by any governmental authority, not least from the throne of God. That is why crime is a big problem in almost every society on planet earth. Can you imagine what will happen if there is no law and order? - there will be mayhem for sure! Similarly, Satan as the father of all evil and deceptions does not want to be ruled under God's authority. So, all those who are his followers will not want to have God's Kingdom come upon earth as that would mean the end of satanic rule and influence. Such forces are coming to steal (take away the truth from you and substitute with heresy, half-truth and falsehood), kill and destroy (cause persecutions, confusion and division like church split etc.) (John 10:10). Can you see why the forces of darkness are working overtime to prevent you from knowing the truth, especially the truth about the coming Kingdom of God?
The present church era is one of Laodicean - mostly lukewarm (Rev 3: 15-16), ignorant (Hosea 4:6) and in love with the world but seemingly unaware that they need to anoint their eyes with eye salve in order to see the truth of reality(Rev 3:17-18). Most Laodicean Christians think they are all right (rich and wealthy -Rev 3:17), and probably never realised that the greatest goal of being a disciple of Jesus Christ is to develop characters that will ultimately receive God's approval so that they can inherit the Kingdom of God. What tremendous riches, glory and honour await those faithful servants of God that all the wealth, power and status one can accumulate in this life are nothing but trinkets by comparison!
Note that Rev 3:18 warns the Laodiceans to clothe themselves with white garments to avoid exposing their loins of nakedness (see also Eph 6:14 -KJV).
What this means is that a disciple should study the Word of God (2 Tim 2:15), so that he will be approved of God and not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth, so that the Spirit of truth will guide him into right thinking, right understanding which leads to right living. And right living will lead to righteous works approved of God at the Judgment Seat of Christ (1 Cor 3:12-13). Only with the real truth will we have purity of heart- gold refined in fire, without mixture - for they are the blessed ones who will see God (Matt 5:8). It is now obvious that Christ is offering this rebuke to Laodiceans seeking for their repentance and correction while there is still time (Rev 3: 19-20).
Psalm 51 depicts David's repentance and seeking for God's mercy after his adultery with Bathsheba and murder of her husband Uriah. The Spirit of God was waning in his life and he asked the Lord not to take the Holy Spirit away from him (verse 11). David asked the Lord to wash and cleanse him from his sins (verse 2). Similarly, we can ask the Lord to do so through His Word (John 15:3; John 17:17; Eph 5: 25-26). Only Jesus Christ can do this supernatural act of spiritual surgery of purifying the soul, if only we allow Him.
Remember, that in the coming Great Tribulation, only faithful and overcoming disciples of Jesus Christ will escape the cataclysm that will surely befall upon the earth. Will you stand up and be counted as among the faithful and obedient disciples who will escape all these things (Luke 21:36c)? If you make the right choices now, when all is over and the chips are cast with the books open, you will sit down with the Lord in His Kingdom ruling and reigning with Him (Rev 3:21; 2 Tim 2:12a). What a wonderful world awaits your destiny!
The Lord Jesus, in Matthew 24, Mark 13 and Luke 21, spoke to His disciples about the signs and events of end times which will unfold just before His return. Some of these are earthquakes, famines and pestilences. But some very serious warnings were also spoken of by the Lord - false prophets (and prophecies) will arise to deceive His people, even His elect! As he sat on the Mount of Olives, he issued out this warning THREE TIMES (Matt 24:2-4, 11, 24). So be sure you know what you are believing! There will be betrayal, defection, martyrdom and many will grow cold in the things of God. So when you see these things, know that the Kingdom of God (His Government on earth) is drawing near (Luke 21:31).
Man by his sinful nature is rebellious. He does not want to be ruled by any governmental authority, not least from the throne of God. That is why crime is a big problem in almost every society on planet earth. Can you imagine what will happen if there is no law and order? - there will be mayhem for sure! Similarly, Satan as the father of all evil and deceptions does not want to be ruled under God's authority. So, all those who are his followers will not want to have God's Kingdom come upon earth as that would mean the end of satanic rule and influence. Such forces are coming to steal (take away the truth from you and substitute with heresy, half-truth and falsehood), kill and destroy (cause persecutions, confusion and division like church split etc.) (John 10:10). Can you see why the forces of darkness are working overtime to prevent you from knowing the truth, especially the truth about the coming Kingdom of God?
The present church era is one of Laodicean - mostly lukewarm (Rev 3: 15-16), ignorant (Hosea 4:6) and in love with the world but seemingly unaware that they need to anoint their eyes with eye salve in order to see the truth of reality(Rev 3:17-18). Most Laodicean Christians think they are all right (rich and wealthy -Rev 3:17), and probably never realised that the greatest goal of being a disciple of Jesus Christ is to develop characters that will ultimately receive God's approval so that they can inherit the Kingdom of God. What tremendous riches, glory and honour await those faithful servants of God that all the wealth, power and status one can accumulate in this life are nothing but trinkets by comparison!
Note that Rev 3:18 warns the Laodiceans to clothe themselves with white garments to avoid exposing their loins of nakedness (see also Eph 6:14 -KJV).
What this means is that a disciple should study the Word of God (2 Tim 2:15), so that he will be approved of God and not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth, so that the Spirit of truth will guide him into right thinking, right understanding which leads to right living. And right living will lead to righteous works approved of God at the Judgment Seat of Christ (1 Cor 3:12-13). Only with the real truth will we have purity of heart- gold refined in fire, without mixture - for they are the blessed ones who will see God (Matt 5:8). It is now obvious that Christ is offering this rebuke to Laodiceans seeking for their repentance and correction while there is still time (Rev 3: 19-20).
Psalm 51 depicts David's repentance and seeking for God's mercy after his adultery with Bathsheba and murder of her husband Uriah. The Spirit of God was waning in his life and he asked the Lord not to take the Holy Spirit away from him (verse 11). David asked the Lord to wash and cleanse him from his sins (verse 2). Similarly, we can ask the Lord to do so through His Word (John 15:3; John 17:17; Eph 5: 25-26). Only Jesus Christ can do this supernatural act of spiritual surgery of purifying the soul, if only we allow Him.
Remember, that in the coming Great Tribulation, only faithful and overcoming disciples of Jesus Christ will escape the cataclysm that will surely befall upon the earth. Will you stand up and be counted as among the faithful and obedient disciples who will escape all these things (Luke 21:36c)? If you make the right choices now, when all is over and the chips are cast with the books open, you will sit down with the Lord in His Kingdom ruling and reigning with Him (Rev 3:21; 2 Tim 2:12a). What a wonderful world awaits your destiny!
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
The Ezekiel Warning
The Lord Jesus in the Olivet prophecy told His disciples: 'And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to ALL THE NATIONS, and then the end will come.' (Matthew 24:14). Similarly, Jesus commanded His disciples to make 'disciples of ALL THE NATIONS' in the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19. Therein lies the link between the good news of the Kingdom of God and making disciples OF ALL NATIONS in these last days.
Following from my previous blog regarding the Work of God in these last days, I mention about the Ezekiel Warning from Ezekiel 33:1-9 and Ezekiel 3:17 about a watchman's warning to the House of Israel just before the coming Great Tribulation that will come upon planet earth with destruction like never before. The House of Israel consists of the Jews (from the Southern Kingdom of Judah) and the descendants of the 'ten lost tribes' (from the Northern Kingdom of Israel). While the former are mainly in the land of Israel, the latter are primarily the Anglo-Saxon people scattered throughout Europe, America, Canada, Australia and New Zealand today. Many in the House of Israel have no idea of their identity, let alone what lies ahead for their destiny. The Ezekiel Warning is meant primarily for these people and the church has a vital role to play!
The vast majority of the House of Israel have never been warned of what prophecy lies ahead for the descendants of the twelve tribes of Israel. These sons of Abraham, probably numbered in the hundreds of millions worldwide, have no clue of what is coming upon their land and on their peoples. This generation alive today is probably the most rebellious and idolatrous likened to the days of Noah, Sodom and Gomorrah (Luke 17:26-30). The Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 10:6-12 warns in typology of similar past events recorded for our learning.
The Apostle Paul in Romans 9:27-28 quoted from Isaiah 10:20-23 about the remnant of Israel who will return to the Lord and to the land of their fathers. After shaking off the enslavement from the Assyrians and the Babylonians, the House of Israel is under a different kind of bondage - the systems of the world under the control of Satan who is the god of this world (2 Cor 4:4) which has blinded them from the truth of their identity and destiny for over two-and-half millennia!
But a time will come (in the Millennial Age after Christ' Return) when they will be freed from all these enslavements as Isaiah prophesied in chapter 52:2, 'Shake yourself from the dust, arise; Sit down, O Jerusalem! Loose yourself from the bonds of your neck, O captive daughter of Zion!'
During World War II, the Jews from the tribes of Judah and Benjamin were enslaved by the Germans (of the Aryan race who are primarily the modern descendants of Assyria). Some six million Jews were massacred in death camps throughout Germany and Poland such as Auschwitz, Dachau, Treblinka, Sobibor, Bergen-Belsen and Buchenwald. My wife and I visited the Holocaust Histroy Museum at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem just last December. It was really touching as I view the photographs and film clips and hear the testimonies of some of the survivors. A word of comfort brought to mind from the prophecy of Jeremiah in Jeremiah 23:3 that the Lord 'will gather His flock out of all countries where He have driven them, and bring them back to their folds, and they shall be fruitful and increase'. Such is their future and hope.
Following in verses 5 and 6 of the same chapter in Jeremiah, the Lord says, 'Behold, the days are coming, That I will raise to David a Branch of righteousness; A King (Jesus Christ) shall reign and prosper, And execute judgment and righteousness in the earth. In His days (the Millennial Kingdom of God) Judah (Jews) will be saved, And Israel (Israelites -the lost ten tribes) will dwell safely; Now this is His name by which He will be called: THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS'. Their (House of Israel) hope and future is the soon coming Government of God to be established on planet earth where there will be peace and righteousness with the Prince of Peace on the throne. The prophecy of Jeremiah 29:11 ('to give you a future and a hope') will be twice fulfilled (duality of prophecy), the first upon the return of the Jews (fulfilled) and next the return of the House of Israel to their motherland!
God's warning to the House of Israel is repeated in Ezekiel 6:6-8 about the coming punishment of their rebellious and idolatrous ways. Only a remnant (one-third - Ezekiel 5:12) will be saved during the coming Great Tribulation. Again in Ezekiel 20, God's warning to His people of the coming punishment for those who refused to repent of their sins. In fact, the warning is so severe that in Amos 8:11 it states, 'Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord God, That I will send a famine on the land, Not a famine of bread, Nor a thirst for water, But of hearing the word of the Lord'!
Some people from within the church will be called of the Lord to warn the House of Israel that are presently scattered in various lands. The Day of the Lord is coming to strike the earth in the last year of the Great Tribulation (the wrath of God). Will all those who hear the Word of God take heed and take action to repent while there is still time? Only the overcomers and the faithful will be counted worthy to escape all these things (Luke 21:36c).
Following from my previous blog regarding the Work of God in these last days, I mention about the Ezekiel Warning from Ezekiel 33:1-9 and Ezekiel 3:17 about a watchman's warning to the House of Israel just before the coming Great Tribulation that will come upon planet earth with destruction like never before. The House of Israel consists of the Jews (from the Southern Kingdom of Judah) and the descendants of the 'ten lost tribes' (from the Northern Kingdom of Israel). While the former are mainly in the land of Israel, the latter are primarily the Anglo-Saxon people scattered throughout Europe, America, Canada, Australia and New Zealand today. Many in the House of Israel have no idea of their identity, let alone what lies ahead for their destiny. The Ezekiel Warning is meant primarily for these people and the church has a vital role to play!
The vast majority of the House of Israel have never been warned of what prophecy lies ahead for the descendants of the twelve tribes of Israel. These sons of Abraham, probably numbered in the hundreds of millions worldwide, have no clue of what is coming upon their land and on their peoples. This generation alive today is probably the most rebellious and idolatrous likened to the days of Noah, Sodom and Gomorrah (Luke 17:26-30). The Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 10:6-12 warns in typology of similar past events recorded for our learning.
The Apostle Paul in Romans 9:27-28 quoted from Isaiah 10:20-23 about the remnant of Israel who will return to the Lord and to the land of their fathers. After shaking off the enslavement from the Assyrians and the Babylonians, the House of Israel is under a different kind of bondage - the systems of the world under the control of Satan who is the god of this world (2 Cor 4:4) which has blinded them from the truth of their identity and destiny for over two-and-half millennia!
But a time will come (in the Millennial Age after Christ' Return) when they will be freed from all these enslavements as Isaiah prophesied in chapter 52:2, 'Shake yourself from the dust, arise; Sit down, O Jerusalem! Loose yourself from the bonds of your neck, O captive daughter of Zion!'
During World War II, the Jews from the tribes of Judah and Benjamin were enslaved by the Germans (of the Aryan race who are primarily the modern descendants of Assyria). Some six million Jews were massacred in death camps throughout Germany and Poland such as Auschwitz, Dachau, Treblinka, Sobibor, Bergen-Belsen and Buchenwald. My wife and I visited the Holocaust Histroy Museum at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem just last December. It was really touching as I view the photographs and film clips and hear the testimonies of some of the survivors. A word of comfort brought to mind from the prophecy of Jeremiah in Jeremiah 23:3 that the Lord 'will gather His flock out of all countries where He have driven them, and bring them back to their folds, and they shall be fruitful and increase'. Such is their future and hope.
Following in verses 5 and 6 of the same chapter in Jeremiah, the Lord says, 'Behold, the days are coming, That I will raise to David a Branch of righteousness; A King (Jesus Christ) shall reign and prosper, And execute judgment and righteousness in the earth. In His days (the Millennial Kingdom of God) Judah (Jews) will be saved, And Israel (Israelites -the lost ten tribes) will dwell safely; Now this is His name by which He will be called: THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS'. Their (House of Israel) hope and future is the soon coming Government of God to be established on planet earth where there will be peace and righteousness with the Prince of Peace on the throne. The prophecy of Jeremiah 29:11 ('to give you a future and a hope') will be twice fulfilled (duality of prophecy), the first upon the return of the Jews (fulfilled) and next the return of the House of Israel to their motherland!
God's warning to the House of Israel is repeated in Ezekiel 6:6-8 about the coming punishment of their rebellious and idolatrous ways. Only a remnant (one-third - Ezekiel 5:12) will be saved during the coming Great Tribulation. Again in Ezekiel 20, God's warning to His people of the coming punishment for those who refused to repent of their sins. In fact, the warning is so severe that in Amos 8:11 it states, 'Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord God, That I will send a famine on the land, Not a famine of bread, Nor a thirst for water, But of hearing the word of the Lord'!
Some people from within the church will be called of the Lord to warn the House of Israel that are presently scattered in various lands. The Day of the Lord is coming to strike the earth in the last year of the Great Tribulation (the wrath of God). Will all those who hear the Word of God take heed and take action to repent while there is still time? Only the overcomers and the faithful will be counted worthy to escape all these things (Luke 21:36c).
Monday, December 24, 2007
God's Work In These Last Days
Many in the church today understand the Great Commission of Matthew 28:19-20 to mean primarily the spreading of the 'Gospel of Salvation'. While this is true, it is by no means the only work God has commissioned for His church when the Lord Jesus commanded His disciples to 'make disciples of all nations' and 'teaching them to observe ALL THINGS that He has commanded them to do'.
In this blog, I would like to briefly run through FOUR keys areas which I believe are the work God has commissioned the church to do in these last days (the term 'last days' mean post June 1967 when Jerusalem was completely restored to Jewish control after the Six-Day War. It means the end of over two-and-a-half millennia of Gentile rule - 'times of the Gentiles are fulfilled', Luke 21:24 - since Jerusalem was captured by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon in 586 B.C.).
The four key areas of God's Work in these last days can be summarised as follows:
1. Preaching the Gospel of Salvation
2. Proclaiming the Message of the Kingdom Of God
3. Teaching the Word Of God ('Feeding the Lamb/Sheep')
4. Warning Physical & Spiritual Israel of the Great Tribulation
The 'Gospel of Salvation' is about the love of God for mankind that He sent His only begotten Son Jesus Christ to die for our sins. Without His death and resurrection, there is no hope for mankind. But with His death and resurrection, all human beings who have placed their faith and trust in Jesus Christ will be forgiven of their sins with the hope of resurrection to a new spirit body one day at His Second Coming.
Jesus Christ first advent was on a mission sent by God the Father to proclaim the message of the Kingdom of God - first to His brethren the Jews (Matthew 4:17; Mark 1:14-15; Luke 4:43). Subsequently, when they failed to repent of their disobedience and rejected His message, the Good News was given to the church to proclaim it (Matt 21:43; 1Pet 2:9). The Kingdom of God is the government God is going to install during the Millennial reign of Christ on earth upon His return (Rev 20:4-6). Its headquarters will be in Jerusalem. Christ will rule and reign as the King of kings and Lord of lords (Rev 19:16) with the true church as His bride and the saints from all ages ruling and reigning with Him. It will be the time for the marriage supper of the Lamb with the bride clothed in fine linen, representing the righteous works of the saints for all ages (Rev 19:7-9).
The disciple Peter denied Jesus three times. Peter was reinstalled by the Lord and three times told Peter that if he loves Him, then feed His lamb/sheep. Subsequently, when he wrote his first epistle, Peter instructed the church leaders in various lands to feed the flock of God (1 Pet 5:1-2) - meaning to teach the disciples the whole truth from the Word of God. This is absolutely important in these last days as all kinds of half-truths and false teachings have crept into the church (2 Thess 2: 1-12; 2 Tim 3:1-5). Those who are faithful in carrying out this command will eventually receive from the Lord a 'crown of glory that does not fade away' (1 Pet 5:4).
The prophet Ezekiel in the Old Testament book that bears his name, chapter 33:1-9 sounded the warning to the house of Israel (physical Israel) about the coming cataclysm and the judgment of God during the Great Tribulation. This warning is also for the spiritual Israel (the church) when lukewarm believers will face similar ('I will vomit you out of my mouth' - Rev 3:16) punishment (2 Pet 2:9).
The disciple of Jesus Christ is called to be a 'watchman' , especially in these last days, to warn others (physical and spiritual Israel) of the coming cataclysm (initiated by Satan) and the the wrath of God (judgment from God) during the Great Tribulation (last three-and-half years). If we do so and others ignored the warning, we are free from their blood. However, if we know of the impending catastrophe to come and failed to warn our brethren, God will hold us accountable (Ezekeil 33:6). This is something we should not take lightly, for we have been told ahead of time!
Lest the reader misunderstands and concludes that all other works are wood, hay and straw, I like to stress that any work done with a pure motive that glorify the Lord will not go unrewarded. What I am talking about is the big picture for the church in these last days to channel more of their resources to fulfill all facets of the Great Commission, not just one aspect of it.
In this blog, I would like to briefly run through FOUR keys areas which I believe are the work God has commissioned the church to do in these last days (the term 'last days' mean post June 1967 when Jerusalem was completely restored to Jewish control after the Six-Day War. It means the end of over two-and-a-half millennia of Gentile rule - 'times of the Gentiles are fulfilled', Luke 21:24 - since Jerusalem was captured by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon in 586 B.C.).
The four key areas of God's Work in these last days can be summarised as follows:
1. Preaching the Gospel of Salvation
2. Proclaiming the Message of the Kingdom Of God
3. Teaching the Word Of God ('Feeding the Lamb/Sheep')
4. Warning Physical & Spiritual Israel of the Great Tribulation
The 'Gospel of Salvation' is about the love of God for mankind that He sent His only begotten Son Jesus Christ to die for our sins. Without His death and resurrection, there is no hope for mankind. But with His death and resurrection, all human beings who have placed their faith and trust in Jesus Christ will be forgiven of their sins with the hope of resurrection to a new spirit body one day at His Second Coming.
Jesus Christ first advent was on a mission sent by God the Father to proclaim the message of the Kingdom of God - first to His brethren the Jews (Matthew 4:17; Mark 1:14-15; Luke 4:43). Subsequently, when they failed to repent of their disobedience and rejected His message, the Good News was given to the church to proclaim it (Matt 21:43; 1Pet 2:9). The Kingdom of God is the government God is going to install during the Millennial reign of Christ on earth upon His return (Rev 20:4-6). Its headquarters will be in Jerusalem. Christ will rule and reign as the King of kings and Lord of lords (Rev 19:16) with the true church as His bride and the saints from all ages ruling and reigning with Him. It will be the time for the marriage supper of the Lamb with the bride clothed in fine linen, representing the righteous works of the saints for all ages (Rev 19:7-9).
The disciple Peter denied Jesus three times. Peter was reinstalled by the Lord and three times told Peter that if he loves Him, then feed His lamb/sheep. Subsequently, when he wrote his first epistle, Peter instructed the church leaders in various lands to feed the flock of God (1 Pet 5:1-2) - meaning to teach the disciples the whole truth from the Word of God. This is absolutely important in these last days as all kinds of half-truths and false teachings have crept into the church (2 Thess 2: 1-12; 2 Tim 3:1-5). Those who are faithful in carrying out this command will eventually receive from the Lord a 'crown of glory that does not fade away' (1 Pet 5:4).
The prophet Ezekiel in the Old Testament book that bears his name, chapter 33:1-9 sounded the warning to the house of Israel (physical Israel) about the coming cataclysm and the judgment of God during the Great Tribulation. This warning is also for the spiritual Israel (the church) when lukewarm believers will face similar ('I will vomit you out of my mouth' - Rev 3:16) punishment (2 Pet 2:9).
The disciple of Jesus Christ is called to be a 'watchman' , especially in these last days, to warn others (physical and spiritual Israel) of the coming cataclysm (initiated by Satan) and the the wrath of God (judgment from God) during the Great Tribulation (last three-and-half years). If we do so and others ignored the warning, we are free from their blood. However, if we know of the impending catastrophe to come and failed to warn our brethren, God will hold us accountable (Ezekeil 33:6). This is something we should not take lightly, for we have been told ahead of time!
Lest the reader misunderstands and concludes that all other works are wood, hay and straw, I like to stress that any work done with a pure motive that glorify the Lord will not go unrewarded. What I am talking about is the big picture for the church in these last days to channel more of their resources to fulfill all facets of the Great Commission, not just one aspect of it.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)