|
People of The Living God |
|
March 2020
WATCHMEN ON THE WALLS
THEY SHALL BE A SNARE UNTO YOU
Warren Berry
“These are the statutes and judgments, which ye shall observe to do in the land, which the Lord God of thy fathers giveth thee to possess it, all the days that ye live upon the earth. Ye shall utterly destroy all the places, wherein the nations which ye shall possess served their gods, upon the high mountains, and upon the hills, and under every green tree: And ye shall overthrow their altars, and break their pillars, and burn their groves with fire; and ye shall hew down the graven images of their gods, and destroy the names of them out of that place” (Deut.12:1-3).
“Thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor with their gods. They shall not dwell in thy land, lest they make thee sin against me: for if thou serve their gods, it will surely be a snare unto thee” (Ex.23:32-33).
“And thou shalt consume all the people which the Lord thy God shall deliver thee; thine eye shall have no pity upon them: neither shalt thou serve their gods; for that will be a snare unto thee” (Deut.7:16).
“And an angel of the Lord came up from Gilgal to Bochim, and said, I made you to go up out of Egypt, and have brought you unto the land which I sware unto your fathers; and I said, I will never break my covenant with you. And ye shall make no league with the inhabitants of this land; ye shall throw down their altars: but ye have not obeyed my voice: why have ye done this? Wherefore I also said, I will not drive them out from before you; but they shall be as thorns in your sides, and their gods shall be a snare unto you” (Judg.2:1-3).
Divided Sentiments
The subject upon which I feel compelled and yet, hesitant to write is most sensitive to many people and therefore somewhat fragile. It is for this reason that I am rather reluctant to address this issue, knowing that among our Christian brothers and sisters throughout the USA, we are somewhat divided on this topic. It is the topic of immigration. I can only hope to bring some understanding between brethren so, although disagreeing, we might at least understand why each holds to the position they have relative to immigration. I also pray that those who read this, whether citizens or immigrants, will not be offended or angered by what I feel is very important to the Christian church in America.
All true Christians have a concern and burden for the lost as well as for those who suffer in foreign lands. American Christians send millions of dollars every year to aid the poor and suffering in third world countries, and we desire to do even more. Such is the heart of every true Christian. We feel great sadness when we see children suffering from malnutrition and plagued with disease. We spend time praying for them and especially for those who have found Christ and are striving to live the Christian life. We all agree that these souls need help and desire to aid them in any way we possibly can. This is not the only issue nor the real one in regard to immigration.
The problem is not even the issue of whether they should be allowed into this country or not but the means by which they enter. America has always been open to “legal” immigration and still is. It is the illegal immigration that is the problem. It is the vetting process that is cast aside with illegal immigration. But some will say, “All people need to hear the Gospel, whether they are criminals or not.” Yes, that is true and many notorious criminals have come to know the saving grace of Jesus Christ. But there are some very serious dangers here, not only for the welfare and safety of America’s citizens but for the church itself.
Let me give just one illustration of what I mean in which some churches have been derailed and sent down the wrong track. Many Christian groups have reached out to the homosexual community with the desire to see them come to the knowledge of God’s saving grace (and many homosexuals have come to know Christ). Those who have truly found Christ and are born again find themselves abhorring their past life and either have overcome it or are in the process of overcoming. The problem doesn’t lie in the area of reaching out to homosexuals, rather it lies in the fact that many Christians are beginning to accept homosexuality as though it is normal for some people and therefore okay. This ideology is not Biblical, and therefore they are not only sending them on down the road to perdition but also condoning perverted lifestyles in the eyes of others, especially to the younger generation who are already bombarded with the same lie from our schools, universities, and even our nation’s leaders. Once the church condones homosexuality, the door is wide open for all other sexual sins to squeeze in and the Spirit of God shoved out. Homosexuals who are allowed to join a church but refuse to live by the standards set forth in scripture (assimilate) are a snare to the church. (This premise not only applies to homosexuality but to all other sexual sins, such as premarital sex, living together while unmarried, divorce, etc., some of which many churches no longer preach against. Even abortion is acceptable in some churches today. [These sins can be forgiven but they must be forsaken.])
Gravitation Toward Evil
God warned Israel of the danger in allowing any of the Canaanites to remain in the land when Israel went in to possess it. God told Israel why: it would be a snare to them. It might be well to consider why this would be a snare. Aren’t Christians given the power over all enemies? Don’t Christians have weapons of warfare that are mighty through God? (IICor.10:4) Aren’t Christians empowered by the Holy Spirit to live in the midst of evil and survive? Of course this is true. However, the power given to Christians is acquired to a large degree as we mature. Paul speaks about those that are weak in the faith (Rom.14:1-2). Those that are strong in the faith must help those who are weak. Paul and Barnabas separated from one another because Mark had traveled with them but, while in Corinth, he suddenly left and returned home. Mark was young and could not endure the hardships, the mocking, the threats, and the opposition to the gospel he was declaring. On the next journey, Barnabas wanted to take Mark with them but Paul refused to allow Mark to go. The tension was so intense that they separated one from another. Barnabas took Mark and Paul chose Silas (Acts15:36-30). Mark was a young and immature Christian and not strong enough to endure the hardships which he encountered.
But a question must be answered in order that we might understand why it is that so many Christians fall into sin. Why do those who claim to have been born again, have been baptized, and walked very faithful for a season, only later return as the sow to their wallowing in the mire? It is because they are weak in the faith. Jeremiah informs us “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? (Jer.17:9). Paul in Romans seven describes the walk of most (if not all) Christians. We don’t always do what we know is right, and sometimes we do the things we know are wrong. He is telling us how our deceitful and desperately wicked hearts operate. This evil in the heart is not totally destroyed when one is born again. It is an ongoing work of the Holy Spirit to bring us to maturity where we no longer yield to the demands of the carnal nature. It’s not that we don’t desire to obey God, but it is the weakness of spiritual immaturity. The natural heart gravitates toward sin. Sin is its nature and even after being saved, lust still exists within the heart; selfishness still exists within the heart; as does pride, being critical, gossiping, spiritual laziness, etc. Sometimes we call this “remaining sin,” or “the old man,” or “self.”
Changing the Landscape
Our example of the church opening itself to accept homosexuality is basically the same problem as that of open borders; it allows those who have no intention of assimilating (gain the same morals and standards) into the country. Just as the LGBT community is set to change the environment of the church (as well as that of America) many of those coming illegally into this country are determined to change the landscape of America.
When Joshua led Israel into the land of Canaan, God told him to destroy all the nations. He was not to allow them to remain in the land. The reason was that they would serve their idols and would persuade Israel to bow to them also. In Joshua nine we have the account in which the Gibeonites deceived Joshua causing Joshua to ignorantly make a league with them. God’s word was absolutely true, for years later, the Gibeonites (and others who remained) encouraged Israel to sin and brought God’s judgment upon Israel. Why did Israel take on the customs of the Gibeonites? Because the heart gravitates toward evil. Why are some “Christians” inclined to online pornography? Why do many “Christians” find themselves stooping to gossip? Why do “Christians” at times break God’s law? It’s because of the carnal nature, the flesh, or “remaining sin.” This is why the man of great wisdom said, “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life” (Pro. 4:23).
God blessed America because she was founded upon Godly principles, principles found in scripture. Benjamin Franklin said that the type of government set up for the United States was for a “moral people.” A moral people are those who respect others. A moral people are those who strive always to do what is right. A moral people are people who face truth, whether it is convenient or whether it is costly. A moral people are people who work hard, are generous to others and help those in need even when it hurts. There are no more moral people than true Christians, followers of Jesus Christ. However, in order for Christians to remain moral and godly, they must keep evil out. They must require those who come among them to assimilate, or strive to live as do those among whom they come. If they do not, then evil has entered into the ranks and its pollutions will spread like wildfire. Jesus said, “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy…” (John10:10).
The modern philosophy that the whole world is to assimilate and be one big happy family, is a lie from the pit of hell and it will never happen. The culture of the USA is anathema to the Islamic nations. Their culture is built upon hate, murder, rape, and blasphemy. The culture of many of the nations in Africa is connected to Voodoo and other forms of witchcraft, which are designed to brew strife and contention between individuals and various groups. The religion of China and Russia is Atheism. They hate Christians, and their laws and standards are anything but moral or right. They have no problem imprisoning Christians (or others that buck the government), torturing them or killing them. Not only do they hate Christians, they hate Muslims as well. How, then, can Atheists and Muslims live peaceably in one world? Some say that not all Muslims are rapists or murderers. That’s true. However, they do not have the same morals and standards as America has held to for over 250 years. Already, many Muslim communities in America are setting up Sharia law and ignoring the laws that have kept our communities safe over the centuries. It is unfortunate that those who do desire to assimilate have to be affected by those who refuse to live the way the rest of Americans live.
The Great Commission
Some may wonder about the Great Commission, in which Jesus commanded His disciples to go into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature. However, notice two things in this commission. First: They were commanded to go into all the world, not bring all the world to Jerusalem or even into Palestine. They were commanded to affect the societies and cultures where they went spreading the gospel. Second: They were to teach “them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.” I wonder why He specified the part about teaching. It was because the lives of those who received the Gospel were to change, and they needed to be taught how to live in a manner which would bring glory to God. Their lifestyle, their habits, their traditions, their understanding, their reasonings, and in many cases, their very occupation would be changed.
Jesus said that His words are spirit and they are life (John6:63). His words are the only way to God and the only way to heaven. The teaching today that there are many ways to God is a lie from the pit, and it is in total opposition to what Jesus taught and commanded. Jesus expected new converts to assimilate with mature Christians (hence the church), living according to His teachings. Those who make it to heaven will assimilate with Jesus’ pattern.
This is why opening the borders is so dangerous to our society. Keeping the borders closed except for those who want to assimilate is the only way to keep Americans safe. Jesus did not command His disciples to bring everyone to Jerusalem, but He told them to go into all the world. America has sent missionaries all over the world and Christianity has spread because men and women were faithful to this commission.
Some may wonder why America and the world is in such turmoil. The reason is clear. It is because we have cast aside God’s word and decided that we know more than God. We have become a sentimental people void of common sense and absent of the knowledge of God’s word. We have rejected history and are allowing it to repeat itself once again. We have forsaken God and His ways and we are reaping and will continue to reap what we have sown. We will experience God’s judgment unless America repents and turns back to God. To think that man has the answers to the problems we face is foolish, and this fact has been proven over and over again throughout history. Today is the day to turn back to God with our whole hearts and return to His word. God promised that if we repent He will hear and restore. Even if He had at first scattered and divided us, He will bring us back together if we will turn back to Him. I pray God will stir the hearts of His people and there will be again a seeking of God through His word and through fervent prayer.
THE KINGDOM VIRGINS
Harry Miller
(Matthew 25:1-13)
1 “Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.
2 And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.
3 They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:
4 But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.
5 While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.
6 And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.
7 Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.
8 And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.
9 But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.
10 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.
11 Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.
12 But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.
13 Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.”
CERTAIN THINGS ALL OF THE TEN HAD IN COMMON:
1) They all were virgins (v. 1).
2) They all had lamps (v. 1).
3) They all “went forth” to meet the Bridegroom (v. 1).
4) They all slumbered and slept (v. 5).
5) They all heard the midnight cry (vs. 6,7).
6) They all arose (v. 7).
7) They all trimmed their lamps (v. 7).
This seven-fold description of the virgins of the parable indisputably identifies all ten of them as being members of that body of people generally known as the church of Jesus Christ. Many scholars have made an attempt to separate the “wise” and the “foolish” into two groups to represent the “converted” and the “unconverted,” but there is nothing in this parable to sustain such a conclusion. They all were virgins. The apostle Paul used this same figure of speech in his letter to the Corinthian Church: “I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ” (IICor.11:2). And in the seventh and fourteenth chapters of the Book of Revelation we find that the “virgins” of the one hundred and forty-four thousand group are people “who were redeemed from among men” (Rev.14:4).
By means of conversion a sinner becomes a saint. He is immediately “espoused to Christ,” and is a man “redeemed from among men": metaphorically speaking, he is a virgin. Time may prove him to be a “foolish” or a “wise” virgin, but his faith in Christ is what makes him a candidate for that marriage which is yet to appear.
In this parable, the Lord is plainly teaching that it is the conduct of the virgins which determines whether they are “wise” or “foolish.” Each and every single one of these “virgins” bears the full responsibility for her own particular success or failure as an entrant to the marriage chamber. Jesus sealed this message on individual responsibility by admonishing: “Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh” (Matt.25:13).
All of them had “lamps.” The Psalmist says, “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalm119:105). The “virgins” of this latter day are blessed with the Holy Scriptures. We are the fortunate possessors of countless Bibles; and the Word is now written in so many languages that it has become a common possession among almost all literate people. Every Christian should own a Bible: it is not difficult for anyone to get a “lamp” in this day and age.
These virgins all expected to meet the Bridegroom. The hope of the return of the Saviour is, at present, being fanned to a white heat in all nations of the world. Professing Christendom has looked for the coming of the Bridegroom for many centuries; but now, as the end of time draws near, there is definitely a stirring among the sleeping “virgins.”
“They all slumbered and slept.” One great tragedy of the Christian church is that she has failed to stay awake: “While men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat” (Matt.13:25). The “tares” which are “the children of the wicked one,” are the instruments of evil that have corrupted the work of Christ. While the virgins slept, the apostolic gifts and miracles disappeared from the church; and paganism, with its ritualistic practices, has taken the place of the departed Holy Comforter. While the church slumbered, the enemy crucified the apostles and prophets; and professional clergymen were allowed to rise in their places. For a price, many men of the cloth will sing sweet lullabies, and rock the cradles of the sleeping church, even unto this day.
In many respects, the “wise” and the “foolish” virgins are very much alike: notice that they all hear the midnight cry. Something big is on the program for our generation – the whole professing Christian church is about to awake! Something will happen to make enough noise so that everyone who claims to know the Saviour will be stirred from sleep.
“They all arose.” This, too, is most significant. Surely, this will be an hour of cataclysmic events, an upheaval of society that will astonish the whole world: an alert, awakened Christian church! “And there was a great earthquake (a social disturbance unparalleled in the history of man), such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great” (Rev.16:18). The prophet Isaiah wrote concerning this same event: “Awake, awake; put on thy strength, O Zion (the heavenly people)…Shake thyself from the dust; arise” (Isa.52:1,2).
After the awakening and the rising, there is feverish activity which takes place regarding the lamps. Since the “lamp” is the “Word of God,” it is evident that this great midnight-hour activity has to do with the believers’ relationship to the lamp. It is quite obvious that there is nothing wrong with the Word; it is man’s perception that is out of focus: the “wick” must be trimmed. It certainly will be a momentous day when all professing Christians trim their lamps; but the Word declares that this will be done.
THE TWO-EDGED SWORD
Alfred King
In Luke seven, we have an account of a Centurion who sent elders of the Jews to ask Jesus to come and heal his servant who was sick and ready to die. When Jesus heard the request, He started towards the Centurion’s house. But before he arrived, the Centurion sent some of his friends to tell Jesus that Jesus did not need to be present for his servant to be healed. This man understood authority, being himself a man under authority and yet possessing a certain authority himself. He also understood that Jesus held much more power than he, for he recognized Him to be the Son of God. He sent word to tell Jesus that he had not gone himself to request healing for his servant because he did not feel worthy. Though he was a man who had authority, he was also a humble man. The Centurion told Jesus to just speak the word and his servant would be healed. This was a man who understood authority and recognized the great power which was innate within Jesus Christ.
Scripture says that Jesus marveled at this man’s faith and said He had not seen such great faith in Israel, God’s chosen people.
Faith
One of the most important requirements of Christianity is faith. Hebrews11:6 reads, “But without faith it is impossible to please him” (God). In spite of this truth, we all struggle with unbelief, which is the antithesis of faith and is one of our greatest hindrances. The basic topic or theme of the book of Hebrews is faith. The book begins speaking of how God spoke in past times through prophets but now speaks through His Son, Jesus Christ. He proceeds to exalt Jesus above the angels, clearly showing that Jesus was not and is not an angel. (Contrary to what some groups teach. There are several “Christian” groups which teach that Jesus was/is Michael, the archangel.) The angels are much lower than Jesus Christ. Yet the writer speaks of how Jesus became flesh and dwelt among mankind. The book continues, referring to God’s call to Israel, speaking of their failure to enter into God’s rest because of unbelief. They did not believe God’s word. They didn’t possess the faith that the Centurion had in Jesus’ day. It was because of their unbelief that they could not enter into the rest God had prepared for them. Instead, they all died in the wilderness.
From chapter five through chapter ten, the priesthood of Christ is presented, comparing it to the priesthood of Israel. This letter was written to the Hebrews who, having an understanding of various duties, ordinances, and activities of the Levitical order, were better able to comprehend the work of Jesus Christ as the High Priest of the New Covenant than the Gentiles or even today’s Christians. In chapter eleven, we have the well-known chapter of faith in which many of the great men of faith were held up as examples for us so that we might walk by faith.
The Word of God is Living
In Hebrews four, we find a most wonderful verse relative to the power and functions of God’s word, where rests the promises and provisions upon which Christianity is founded. Verse twelve reads, “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
The Old English word quick in this verse means living. The word of God is a living word. It is not something spoken that goes into the atmosphere and vanishes into nothingness; it is that which gives life to those who receive it. God spoke through His prophet Isaiah in chapter 55, verses 10-11, “For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.”
When God speaks, the world receives it just as the earth receives the rain which falls from heaven. The rain has an effect upon the land upon which it falls. So, God’s word falls from heaven being spoken by His Son and through His prophets, and it will accomplish something in those who hear. It may be totally rejected and the heart become hardened much like Pharaoh’s in Egypt, or it could be received and bring forth a new creation, a new son of God. It depends on how one receives the word. One who receives it into his heart is saved; God’s word will continue to work and have an effect upon his heart in transforming power. It is sad that all too often when we know God’s word we don’t make right choices in responding to it. Yet, God in His great mercy continues to work with us as He patiently applies His word to our lives to bring us to a state of holiness. God is using His word to bring many sons to glory, and His word is the cleansing agent of that process. Paul expresses this in Ephesians 5:26, “That he might sanctify and cleanse it (the church) with the washing of water by the word.”
The only way God’s word can have a positive effect upon a believer’s heart is that it is a living word. If the written word is merely intellectual, a mental concept of religious facts, it lacks its life-giving qualities and, therefore, fails to be a living word. Intellectual knowledge alone produces death. Many Christians approach the Bible from an intellectual perspective. They feel they have the truth because they can quote scripture, argue persuasively their church’s specific doctrines, and can debate with the best, and that this is all there is to Christianity. They are dead wrong. It is good that we understand why we hold to particular doctrines, but knowing all the correct doctrines does not mean the word is living. Jesus said, “It is the spirit that quickeneth (makes alive); the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life” (John6:63). Jesus’ words and teachings are intended to minister life to the hearer, but if the hearer gathers only mental information that gives a person a sense of religious satisfaction, it can very easily produce the pride which is commonly called, “Phariseeism.” The question, then, which we must ask ourselves is: “Is God’s word truly ministering life in my heart?” “Is it bringing me into a deeper and personal relationship with Jesus Christ?” Is it creating within me a greater desire to please God and conform to His commandments?”
To gain life from scripture requires one to hear the word through the teaching, anointing, and inspiration of the Holy Spirit. “It is the Spirit that quickeneth (gives life), the flesh (intellectual knowledge) profited nothing” (John6:63). In ICor.8:1, Paul warns intellectuals to be careful because “knowledge puffeth up, but charity (love) edifieth”.
The Word of God is Powerful
Hebrews four, verse twelve informs us that there is power in the word of God. Many times when we think of the power of God through the word, we think of the power to heal, perform miracles, or maybe even raising the dead. These are all teachings conveyed in the word, but the greatest healing and the most wonderful miracle of scripture is the raising of one, spiritually dead in trespasses and sins, to life in Christ Jesus. This we see fairly often, yet we seem to consider these most important miracles as common and mundane. May we never believe that one’s conversion is routine and unexciting; rather let us rejoice with the angels in heaven when one soul comes to Christ.
Another miracle accomplished by the word of God is when it shines a great light upon our hearts and causes us to see things which are displeasing to our Lord. This is truly invaluable to us, for it exposes the sinful heart and one’s hopelessness in himself. The word at times comes as piercing arrows exposing sin and instilling godly fear in one’s heart. Many souls have been rescued from eternal death when a “hell fire and brimstone” message is preached. Jonathan Edwards was one of those type of preachers and his preaching had a very great impact upon the Great Awakening in early America. This style of preaching is not encouraged by most seminaries today because, we are told, “a message like Jonathan Edwards preached will drive people away.” It won’t if it is anointed by the Holy Spirit and is preached fervently with compassion, zeal, and love. The technique or style many of the old “fire and brimstone” preachers used was to spend the first few days of a revival pointing out men’s sins. It was to bring them to the place where they clearly saw their personal sins and their hopelessness. That would then bring them to the place where they would fall down at the foot of the cross in true repentance as the Gospel was preached. This was what Jude said was, “pulling them out of the fire” (Jude23).
This was the manner the Apostle Peter preached in his sermon after Pentecost, recorded in Acts2. The scripture tells us that some of those who had been involved in the crucifixion of Jesus (Acts2:37), were “pricked in their heart” and asked, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” This is a great example of the power of the word of God convicting and bringing souls to repentance and salvation in Christ.
The word of God is also powerful in producing a genuine and deep reverence for God and for those things which are sacred and holy. Very often in today’s Christianity, reverence in church has been lost. Not only is it lost outside the church, but irreverence exists in Christian assemblies as members eat, drink, talk, browse through their phones or tablets, paying little attention to what is going on in the service. When reverence exists within one’s heart, he is attentive and engaged with the proceedings of the service and ready to offer praise in the worship and receive instruction in the preaching.
God’s word is powerful in resisting the devil and all his fiendish attacks. Jesus resisted Satan’s temptations in the wilderness with God’s word. However, we must also realize that Satan knows God’s word probably better than we do, and he will use it against us every time he gets a chance. Satan many times uses the word of God to condemn and discourage. He is crafty and scripture tells us that he is as a roaring lion, walking about seeking whom he may devour. But scripture also tells us to “resist him stedfast in the faith” (IPeter5:8-9). Through the word and prayer, every child of God can find the strength to overcome all the attacks of the devil and all his evil cohorts.
The word of God is also powerful in producing genuine and lasting faith in God. The faith without which one cannot please God. The word of God is powerful to do in us what is essential for a loving relationship with Jesus Christ. Stay close to God by staying in His word.
Piercing
Truly the sword of the Spirit is more than sufficient to overcome the devil and provides the weapons necessary to be victorious over the strong holds in our own human hearts. It pierces deep into our hearts in such a way as to unveil the desperately wicked and deceitfulness hidden within (Jer.17:9). This function of the word of God coupled with the ministry of the Holy Spirit within the heart is most important, for it is that necessary part of producing holiness and sanctification. The more we allow the Holy Spirit to open God’s living word to us, the more like Jesus we become. It is through these means that the works of the flesh are crucified and the fruits of the Spirit are produced within.
Let us then be true and faithful in hiding God’s word within our hearts, thereby restraining the sin nature, crucifying the flesh with the affections and lusts (Gal.5:24). Let the written word, coupled with the glorious operation of the Holy Spirit, bring forth the fruits of the Spirit unto perfection.
The word of God is a most wonderful blessing, graciously given to us of God, and by staying in God’s word and being diligent in prayer, we will find a strength and joy that we never knew before. May God open our eyes and hearts to believe every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.
“HEAR YE HIM”
Marjorie Hidley
(Matt.17:5)
Night filled the heart of the great student of Gamaliel as he set about to further the cause for which he was fighting. Making “havock of the church,” the mighty Saul of Tarsus entered “into every house, and haling men and women, committed them to prison” (Acts8:3). He thought surely he was working for God’s cause, as he upheld the teachings of the Pharisees. The saints he was after were following the Man of Galilee, who taught a way of life which completely revolutionized every man who followed His teachings.
The church felt that these fanatical followers of Jesus must be put out of the way, for they were turning the world upside down with their strange doctrine. “And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, and desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem” (Acts9:1,2).
As he drew near the city of Damascus, suddenly a light from heaven shone ‘round about him,' and he fell to the earth. Then a voice sounded, saying, “Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?” (Acts9:3,4) Saul was not yet acquainted with the voice of Jesus and did not know our Saviour, yet there was a heavenly majesty about those words, something that made him realize that his Lord was addressing him. “Who art thou, Lord?” he asked, and again the voice spoke to him, saying, “I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.” Conviction of Spirit filled his soul, “And he, trembling and astonished, said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” (Acts9:4-6)
This same question must be the heart’s cry of every man, woman, and child who comes to God. Brother Peter, in one of his great sermons, puts the same message before us in a little different manner. “A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you…Him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. And it shall come to pass, that every soul which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people” (Acts3:22,23). Jesus was that prophet (verses 18-21, and 26).
What does it mean to hear?
How can we hear Jesus?
What does Jesus say to us?
Are we obligated to obey?
God calls to every man, woman, and child. Not one has He left out. “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me” (John12:32). “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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” (Matt.11:28,29).
Although God gives grace to everyone (Eph.4:7), and would have all men saved (IIPeter3:9), He will force no man, for His is a rule of love. He made us free moral agents and gave into our hands the power to choose our own eternal destiny. His everlasting love is revealed as His Spirit faithfully draws all mankind. The response we make is left to the choice of our own will. And oh, the joy, the peace, the blessing He gives to those who answer His call and follow in His pathway! To these He gives a little taste of the glories of heaven, for in their hearts His Spirit has found an abiding place.
“Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” Is this the constant cry of our hearts? Do we desire to please Him more than to please our own selves? Is doing His will the supreme goal of our lives? Jesus said, “If any man serve me, let him follow me” (John12:26). He always did that which pleased the Father. In fact, His meat was to do the Father’s will. He spoke the words of His Father and lived the message God had given Him.
“God who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by His Son” (Heb.1:1,2).
“We ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward; how shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?” (Heb.2:1-3)
Just what is the message we are to hear from the Son? What is so important about the words of Jesus? It is a matter of life or death.
“This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent” (John6:29). And he that comes to Jesus shall never hunger, and he that believes on Him shall never thirst. The conviction of the Spirit of God brings men to repentance, as they see the horrible condition within themselves. Water cannot cleanse a man’s soul. Only the priceless blood of the Saviour can wash away his sin and guilt. Pouring himself out unreservedly at the foot of the cross, he cries out for help from our loving Saviour. The sacrifice of the atoning blood of Jesus avails, and the promise from heaven becomes a reality to him. “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool” (Isa.1:18).
“I will make a man more precious than fine gold” (Isa.13:12).
“I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh: That they may walk in my statutes, and keep mine ordinances, and do them: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God” (Ezek.11:19,20).
“But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the Lord, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people” (Jer.31:33).
This new creature in Jesus Christ now begins his walk with God. He has been cleansed by the blood, and heaven counts him holy. The Comforter walks with him, for the Spirit of Christ has been given for a guide to help lead him in the way of righteousness. As long as he remains walking in the light that the Spirit brings him, he is cleansed by the blood of Jesus (IJohn1:7).
The righteousness God imputed to him at the moment of his conversion will be seen in actuality if he continues to follow the words of Jesus and the voice of His Spirit. This newborn babe in Christ Jesus must learn to grow. Meat in due season he must be fed (Matt.24:45), and just as the flowers of the field are nourished and cared for, developing from tiny buds to full bloom of beauty, so the child of God must develop and mature, until the fruit of the Spirit has become an actuality in his life; and the image of Jesus Christ is seen in all its beauty.
This spiritual growth, this depth in God, is brought about by the work of the Spirit as the individual yields obedience to God and to His Words. He becomes a bond servant, a love servant of the Lord of glory. A faithful servant follows explicitly the words of his master. “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John14:15). Jesus’ words have been designed to crucify our self-nature and bring forth the fruit that pleases Him. As we obey His commands, we become overcomers, while the image of Jesus is being formed within us. “We are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end” (Heb.3:14).
Friends, God’s children must grow. We must put on Jesus Christ and let His image be formed within us. “Let us go on unto perfection,” the writer of the book of Hebrews admonishes us (Heb.6:1). Christ must remain in heaven until the time of restoration of all things spoken by the mouths of all the holy prophets since the world began (Acts3:20,21). We are living in the last days. There must be a manifestation of the sons of God before Jesus returns. This is on God’s program. All creation groans and waits to see it come to pass (Rom.8:18-23). This is the rest to which Jesus has called us. It is then that we shall be like Him.
“He that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his” (Heb.4:10).
“Let us therefore fear, lest a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it” (Heb.4:1).
“Some must enter therein” (Heb.4:6).
THE MAN CHILD
Alfred King
Some of the most glorious portions of scripture are those revealing God’s love for His creation and His tremendous sacrifice to redeem mankind and reconcile them to Himself. Those who have been washed in the blood of Christ and experienced His forgiving grace bask in the glories of God’s benevolence. Yet there are many other wonders and precious truths presented in the Bible which are not so clear. Countless truths are cloaked in mystery and presented in scripture through parables, allegories, symbols, and what is commonly termed, “dark speech.” It seems that some of the deeper truths are presented this way. Jesus told His disciples that He spoke in parables so that those who had ears to hear would hear, but those who did not have ears to hear would be confounded (Matt.13:34-34). The same can be said concerning the many revelations given to the major and minor prophets of the Old Testament, and also to those revelations given to John on the Isle of Patmos.
The book of Revelation is a book that multitudes have studied, examined, and sought for understanding and meaning of its many signs and symbols, yet rarely do they agree and it seems relatively little definite or indisputable truth has been discovered. It is surprising in some ways, because in the very first chapter and first verse it reads, “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave to him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass.” If God gave these revelations to show His servants events to come and to reveal certain facts or truths to them, then He must want His servants to understand the things written therein; otherwise, His words are meaningless. In verse three He says, “Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.” How can one keep the things contained in this book if he doesn’t understand them and are afraid to study it because of its symbolic language?
Not only in the beginning of this book does it speak of obeying the things revealed, but in the last chapter as the Revelation comes to an end, the necessity of observing the prophecies is again presented. In Revelation 22 verse 7, it says, “blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book.” Again, the questions must be asked: How can one keep these prophecies if he doesn’t know what they mean? And verse 16 of the same chapter reads, “I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches.” If we never read this book, we never find out what Jesus is saying to His church. Some Christians are afraid of this book because what is written is beyond man’s wisdom and ability to figure it all out. It is wise to be cautious when approaching the revelations given to John, but it should not be discarded as beyond one’s ability to gain some insight from its contents.
To approach the book of Revelation merely intellectually is a sure way to miss the truths contained therein and to bring more confusion regarding the prophecies given. These revelations must be revealed by the teaching of the Holy Spirit, for He is the only one who can unlock the message given to God’s people.
I usually encourage Christians who are fearful of looking into Revelation to at least read it through from time to time. Years ago, I was leery of reading it myself, but I decided to at least read it through and, while I understood very little, I found great encouragement in it. I could tell that some portions were speaking of God’s judgments while others were glorious promises to God’s church. I only wished I could understand them better. So through the years, I have read through the book many times and each time it seemed I gained a little more insight into the wonderful truths presented there. I don’t begin to claim to understand all of it, for I feel I still only see a few precious truths of the many divine mysteries concealed under the cloak of symbolism. In spite of the lack of complete understanding, there are parts which I believe the Holy Spirit has given a glimpse of God’s plan for His people in the last days.
One very important fact that anyone who delves into Revelation must embrace is that any portion that is to be interpreted, must agree with the teachings and doctrines that are plainly and clearly taught in other portions of scripture. For instance; there are different women spoken of in Revelation. In the second chapter there is an evil woman mentioned named “Jezebel.” The twelfth chapter presents a woman who is good, while chapter seventeen speaks of another woman, who is evil and is called “Babylon.” If we search through scripture we find that women speaks of religious activity or religious groups. The Christian church is referred to as the Bride of Christ. In fact, we find in the Old Testament Israel was considered His wife (Jer.3:20, Jer.31:32). Paul in IICor.11:2 writes, “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.” In plain words of scripture, we find that women refer to either good or bad religious movements.
Revelation 12
There is a special woman shown to John in Revelation twelve that brought forth a man child (Rev.12:5). This child was to rule the nations with a rod of iron. It is clear in this prophecy that this woman is a good woman, but we need to identify her. We find that there is a dragon (obviously evil) who seeks to destroy the woman. Many people when studying this chapter have concluded that this man child is Jesus, because we know that Jesus was born of a woman and He was/is to rule with a rod of iron. After He was crucified and rose from the dead, He ascended into heaven while His disciples looked on. If this man child is Jesus, the question must be asked: How does the rest of this chapter fit in with this supposition?
We know that Satan did try to destroy Jesus many times and severely tempted Jesus immediately after His baptism. After this time of temptation, scripture says that the devil left Him for a season (Luke4:13). This wasn’t the only time Jesus was tempted or tested by the devil. However, Revelation 12 states that the man child was caught up to God but does not mention the death of the man child. It appears in Revelation 12 that this man child was not killed or crucified, rather he was protected from the devil by being caught up to God and to His throne (Rev.12:5). We also encounter a problem when we attempt to discover who this woman is who bore the man child, for the chapter we are considering states that the dragon goes forth to persecute the woman who bore the man child. Was Mary the one Satan persecuted? And if so: what and where is the wilderness which was “prepared of God” (Rev.12:6) for her safety? According to Revelation12:14, the woman was given two wings as of a great eagle in order that she might fly into “her place in the wilderness where she was nourished for a time, times, and half a time from the serpent.” The serpent then cast out a flood to destroy the woman, but the text says the earth helped the woman and swallowed up the flood (verses 15-16). It is obvious that this book of Revelation is speaking to us in sign language, allegories, and dark speech which must be interpreted in order to be understood.
It might be said this woman was Israel, God’s chosen people, since Jesus was born of the tribe of Judah. However, Israel does not fit the description of this woman. One of the confusing verses in this chapter is Rev12:10-12. “And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.” These three verses are definitely in reference to Jesus, for it says, “Now is come salvation and strength, and the kingdom of our God and the power of his Christ.” Jesus came preaching the kingdom and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel” (Mark1:15). Jesus came to establish His kingdom, which He said is within the hearts of those who are saved (Luke17:21). It is a spiritual kingdom in men’s hearts established when they make Jesus the Lord and King of their lives.
But let’s not drift too far from the purpose of this article: These three verses are more plain than the rest of this chapter, because as Jesus is giving this revelation to John, He gives, what I would call, “a flash back.” It was a flash back of what was accomplished by our Lord Jesus’ birth, life, death, resurrection, and ascension. The time period of Revelation 12 is the time of the end just prior to Jesus’ return, and this chapter speaks of certain things which will take place at that time, and these events are most critical to believers who are living in those days. Verses 10-12, quoted above, are inserted to remind or reestablish, and recertify the fully acceptable ministry and sacrifice of our Lord in His birth, life, death, and resurrection.
The Woman and The Man Child
Who is this woman and who is this man child? We must determine who these are before we can proceed to the rest of the revelation contained in Revelation 12. Verse one states that this woman is “clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars.” Sun has to do with light: the Light of the world, first of all, was Jesus. However, Jesus told His followers that they were to be the light of the world. God’s people are those in whom the glorious light of the gospel has shined into their hearts, and this divine light is what clothes them with the sun. This woman then consists of God’s people, the church of the New Covenant. She has the moon (powers of the night or of darkness) under her feet. Jesus has given to His church power over all the power of the enemy (Luke10:19). Although not void of spiritual warfare, she lives a victorious life over the power of sin, temptations, and all other forces from the pit. She is crowned with 12 stars: The number twelve in scripture has to do with government, specifically God’s government. The woman follows the Lamb wherever He leads. She is an obedient church, living under the government, the laws, and the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is this woman or church which brings forth the man child spoken of in Revelation 12.
This brings up two questions which must be answered: In what way does the church bear or produce this man child? And: Who or what is this man child that comes from the woman? Maybe we can understand this more clearly if we take a brief overview of the Old Testament. There were millions of Israelites throughout Israel’s existence, but among those millions, there were a few who rose to such a place of significance that a portion of their lives is recorded in scripture. Some of those men are Abraham, Moses, Joshua, Elijah, Elisha, Ezra, Nehemiah, David, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Daniel, Ezekiel, etc. You get the idea. All Israel were God’s people, but a few were chosen for a special ministry and work at a particular time. Why did these men rise to the place where God used them so mightily? These men were men who sought God and were raised up by God for specific jobs at a determined time. They came out of the nation Israel; they were of the seed of Israel. Likewise, the man child will be, not one or two men (or women), but a group of people which are a product of the church (woman) and are raised up by God for a special and specific end-time work. The work and ministry to which this group is commissioned is for an extraordinary and specific job which God ordained, even before the world began. This man child is so similar to Jesus Christ that this chapter is misinterpreted because of the similarities of the two.
In Ephesians 5, Paul tells us that God is going to present to Himself a glorious church without spot or wrinkle, a holy church without fault, and without blemish (Eph.5:27). The writer of Hebrews speaks about the rest of God, a state of being where one sells himself to God completely, where he can truly say, “not I but Christ.” Chapter four verse six states, “Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein.” Even in the Old Testament, we have many scriptures which speak of this man child but in different words. To Daniel it was revealed that the saints would eventually operate in kingdom power and authority. “But the saints of the most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom for ever, even for ever and ever” (Dan.7:18). To Daniel it was revealed that there would come a day when some men (and women) would begin to live and operate in the power of Christ’s kingdom. Jesus gave to His disciples power to tread upon serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy (Luke10:19). Scripture speaks many times about the triumph of Jesus over all the power of the devil and that He has given this same power to His servants. The problem is that while the church has been given this power, it has not possessed it in its fullness. She has not fully entered into that place to which she has been called. There are many reasons for this, but I believe one very important reason is that the cup of iniquity is not yet full. It is as it was with Abraham who was called to go out into a land which was promised to him and his offspring. Abraham never possessed that land; he was only a stranger in it. Today, most Christians, while we have been translated out of the kingdom of darkness and into the kingdom of God’s dear Son (Col.1:13), have not possessed that kingdom into which we have been translated. As the cup of iniquity reaches the point to where it begins to overflow, much like it was in the days of Noah, God will, through His church, bring forth His man child.
Notice a very important point in Revelation12:5. “And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne.” The Greek word for “caught up” is ηρπaσθη which carries the idea of being seized or taken hold of. This word is often connected with the rapture doctrine or the catching away of God’s people when Jesus returns. (PLG does not hold to the doctrine of a pretribulation rapture.) In Revelation twelve, the idea is that of being seized by the Holy Spirit in such a way that the person is completely controlled by the Holy Spirit. It can be likened to Elijah when he called for three and a half years of famine or when he called fire down from heaven. He possessed a power through God that was totally supernatural, and with that power he executed judgment upon God’s enemies while, at the same time, he was able to pray for the dead and see them resurrected to life and other supernatural works. The same power was present in Moses and Elisha, as well as the early church. However, the authority and power that will be manifest with the man child will not be limited to one person or a couple of people but through a body of men and women who are completely sold out to Jesus Christ and through whom God can bring forth great blessings upon His people and at the same time bring great judgments upon God’s enemies.
While Jesus was manifested to destroy the works of the devil (IJohn3:8) and “destroy him that had the power of death, that is the devil” (Heb.2:14), scripture reveals to us that He is sitting on the right hand of God until His enemies be made His footstool (Psalm110:1, Heb.1:13, Heb.10:12-13). According to the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Corinthian church, Jesus will remain on the right hand of the Father until all enemies are put under His feet, at which time He will deliver the kingdom to His Father (ICor.15:24-26). Who is it that will put all enemies under His feet? It is the man child; that group which comes forth from the woman (church) called out for this special end time work and ministry. It is through this “man child” group that God will finish purifying and beautifying His bride, preparing her for the marriage supper of the Lamb. And it is also through this group that He will bring judgment upon the ungodly much like Elijah calling down fire (judgment) from heaven and Moses calling forth the plagues upon Egypt. The judgments brought about through the “man child” group will cause the ungodly to rise up against them, for they will be hated of all nations. They will not compromise or show mercy to the rebels in that day.
Notice that the dragon attempts to destroy the woman before and after the man child is delivered. The enemies of God are working tirelessly to destroy Christianity, God’s word, and all that is moral, holy, and just. In spite of the tremendous onslaught of the devil, God has left His “seven thousand” who have not, and will not, bow their knee to Baal or to the gods of this world. From this stedfast church, will come forth a group (man child) whom God will use mightily, much as He used Moses, the judges in Israel, Joshua, Elijah, David and others. The woman, however, must flee to the place prepared of God for her to be protected.
For the woman, the power of God will work through this man child for her protection and her spiritual growth. It is through the man child that the woman will be made ready, will put on her beautiful robes of righteousness, clean and white, made ready for the marriage supper of the Lamb. It is through the mighty power of God working among them (the church – woman) that will accomplish that which can never be produced any other way. She will be spotless, clean, holy, beautifully adorned for her Husband, the Lord Jesus Christ. This is the purpose and role of the man child. It is a mystery that has been hidden throughout the ages, when Jesus shall see the travail of His soul and be satisfied (Isa.53:11). It will be through the man child that all of Jesus’ enemies will be made His footstool, for the church will be triumphant and victorious over all of hell’s power. Great day for God’s people!
In case there is a question about what happens to the man child when the woman/church is so beautifully adorned, they will be a part of that glorious church. There are many other aspects of this work that God is going to do, but those things involve quite a bit of time and space that this article cannot address. Our council to all our readers is that you prayerfully study this for yourselves and listen closely to the voice of the Holy Spirit. The days are perilous and the time is close, so let us stay in tune with the Holy Spirit and tune our ears to hear what the Spirit is saying to the church. We are always open for questions regarding these events or any others that our readers may have. Please, feel free to write and we will do our best to respond and prayerfully answer to the best of our understanding.
PASSOVER 2020
Another Passover is drawing nigh and we like to draw our readers’ attention to this yearly feast. We realize that some of the readers of “The Testimony of Truth” do not see the need to keep this feast or any of the feasts Israel observed. People of the Living God only observes the Feast of the Passover and not the other feasts, and we do not feel that observance of the Passover is a salvation issue. We observe it because we see it as a feast or celebration of our Passover, Jesus Christ being offered for us, and we desire to honor Him and give Him praise and glory for that wonderful and glorious salvation He has procured for us. It is a yearly reminder of that day when Jesus washed away our sins and brought us into His divine family. What can be more glorious than this?
People of the Living God church will be observing the Passover this year beginning April 7th at sundown. April 8th will be a day of convocation, a Sabbath which we observe much as we do the weekly Sabbath. This feast includes the Feast of Unleavened Bread and lasts for seven days. We observe the seventh day as a Sabbath, also. The Feasts will end on April the 14th at sundown. We like to give this notice so those who intend to observe these feasts will know the time which we believe is correct for its observance. We pray that God will bless each one as we celebrate and acknowledge Jesus’ great sacrifice for man’s salvation. “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John1:29).