Dispensational And Covenant Theologies - What Difference Does It Make?

Last Sunday after our worship service my Christian brother, Ben Gallardo, and I found ourselves indulging in one of my favorite activities - a discussion on theology and the meaning of certain aspects of theology.  Somehow our discussion centered on a subject that is often ignored, overlooked, and/or misunderstood - Dispensationalism - or Dispensational Theology.

Wow, what does that long word mean - and how does it apply to our Christian life? 

Dispensationalism is a belief system, or method of interpreting the Bible, which centers around the fact that the Bible is the inspired, inerrant, literal Written Word of God.   The other side of the coin from Dispensational Theology is Covenant Theology, the Bible interpretation system favored by those in Reformed and Calvinistic churches - most often reading the Bible from an allegorical, metaphorical, and symbolic point of view - not as the literal Written Word of God.

Most believers are not familiar with the meaning of "Dispensational Theology" and "Covenant Theology."  So, what is the difference between the two and where does your church stand on these differing, divergent theologies?

For me, the biggest stumbling block in Covenant Theology is the way proponents of that teaching view the nation Israel and the church.  Simply stated, in Dispensational Theology we view Israel and the church as two distinct entities.  Israel is the chosen people of God and distinct from the church.  You might view Israel as the wife of God, the unfaithful wife.  And the church is the faithful promised bride of Christ.

All in the church have His promise of eternal life in Christ.  While the seven year Tribulation, the time of Jacob's Troubles, has been fore-ordained by God as the time when He will bring a remnant of His chosen people, Israel, His wife, into the family of God.

Deuteronomy 7:6, "For you are a holy people to the LORD your God; the LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a special treasure above all the peoples on the face of the earth."

Genesis 12:1-3, "Now the LORD had said to Abram: 'Get out of your country, From your family And from your father's house, To a land that I will show you.  I will make you a great nation; I will bless you And make your name great; And you shall be a blessing.  I will bless those who bless you, And I will curse him who curses you; And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.' "

God's message to King David:   2 Samuel 7:16, "And your house and your kingdom shall be established forever before you.  Your throne shall be established forever."

And God does not change His mind as we see in Malachi 3:6a, "For I am the LORD, I do not change; .  .  ."

In Covenant Theology, they teach that the nation Israel has been replaced by the church.  Where Israel was the "physical" chosen people of God, in this teaching they are no more. They have been replaced by the "spiritual" people of God, the church.  To support that teaching they also deny that the Day of Pentecost 33 AD was the beginning of the Christian church.  They see the church, the body of Christ, as starting back in the Old Testament - even though it was never mentioned there.

The apostle Paul, the most prolific writer in the New Testament, tells us the church was a mystery in the Old Testament - only to be manifested in the Incarnate God, Jesus Christ, in the New Testament.

Romans 16:25-27, "Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery kept secret since the world began but now made manifest, and by the prophetic Scriptures made known to all nations, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, for obedience to the faith - to God, alone wise, be glory through Jesus Christ forever. Amen."

From Pastor David Guzik's commentary on Romans:   According to the revelation of the mystery:  Paul means this as the whole plan of redemption through Jesus Christ.  Though God announced much of the plan previously through prophecy, its final outworking wasn't evident until revealed by God through Jesus.

This teaching of Covenant Theology regarding Israel is most often referred to as Replacement Theology, i.e., the church replaced Israel as the chosen people of God.  That teaching only encourages anti-Semitism - as we have seen when several major Protestant denominations who support Covenant Theology - encouraged people to boycott Israel and asked corporations to not trade with Israel.

Denominations which have made this anti-Semitic decision against Israel include:  United Methodist Church USA – Presbyterian Church USA – British Methodist Church – United Church of Canada – South African Council of Churches – Malaysia Council of Churches – Church of Sweden – World Council of Churches Central Committee.   They do this because they support Replacement Theology, i.e., the heart of Covenant Theology.

Dispensational Theology is interpreting Biblical history as defined periods, or ages of time, which represent different ways that God deals with mankind.  Classical dispensationalists such as C. I. Scofield identify the Day of Pentecost, in the second chapter of Acts, as the start of the church, the body of Christ, (a new people of God) - distinct from Israel as the historical chosen nation of God.

Most dispensationalists identify seven dispensations:

1.  Innocence  ~  Genesis 1:1–3:7  ~  Prior to Adam's fall

2.  Conscience  ~  Genesis 3:8–8:22  ~  Adam to Noah

3.  Government  ~  Genesis 9:1–11:32  ~  Noah to Abraham

4.  Promise  ~  Genesis 12:1–Exodus 19:25  ~  Abraham to Moses

5.  Law  ~  Exodus 20:1–Acts 2:4  ~  Moses to Christ

6.  Grace  ~  Acts 2:4–Revelation 20:3  ~  Church age which began at Pentecost 33 AD

7.  Kingdom  ~  Revelation 20:4–20:6  ~   Millennial Kingdom which has yet to come.

Where Dispensationalism typically views Scripture unfolding in a series of seven “dispensations” - the particular means God uses to deal with man and creation during a given period in redemptive history - Covenant Theology looks at Scripture through the grid of Covenants.  Covenant Theology defines two major covenants: the covenant of Works and the covenant of Grace.  A third covenant is sometimes mentioned; namely, the covenant of Redemption.

Covenant Theology defines the period from the Creation to Adam's fall as the Covenant of Works - for Adam is "working" for the Lord taking care of His creation.

Covenant Theology defines the Covenant of Grace starting after Adam's fall - and lasting until Christ comes again, either Post-Millennial (after the Millennial Kingdom), or Amillennial (no Millennial Kingdom) - just in time to take us all into Eternity.

Covenant Theology sometimes defines a Covenant of Redemption - but that takes place in heaven and only exists within the three Persons of the Trinity.

It is important to recognized that Covenant Theology interprets Scripture based upon two or three inferred covenants. These covenants are not explicitly found within the Bible:

Covenant theology holds to two or three theological covenants.  They believe there is a Covenant of Works (between God and Adam) - a Covenant of Grace (between God and the elect, some say all of fallen humanity) - and possibly a Covenant of Redemption (among the Members of the Godhead).  None of these are found in the Bible.  Concerning the Covenant of Works, Hodge states directly that it “does not rest upon any express declaration of the Scriptures.” — Charles Ray, “Systematic Theology and Premillennialism,” The Conservative Theological Journal, Vol. 8 No. 24, August, 2004, 165-191, p. 168.

http://www.spiritandtruth.org/questions/137.htm?x=x

In most of our Christian fellowships in America, we often find two distinct types of persons.  And by saying this I am not casting aspersions on anyone.  It is just that some folks are more comfortable assuming the position, "I am a believer who wants to simply love God, study His Word, and worship the Lord Jesus Christ.  I don't want to get into a lot of heavy discussions."  

While other persons, like myself, want to dig deeper so that we may be stronger witnesses for the Lord.  Personally, I love to study, discuss, and write about theology, prophecy, and other aspects of our Christian faith.  Some may ask, "Bill, why do you bother spending a lot of time studying and writing about all this stuff - when you admit that none of it affects our salvation?"

That is true.  Discussions of such issues as prophecy ~ different theologies ~ varying beliefs such as baptism method and timing, communion methods and frequency, tithing, etc. ~ six days of Creation versus millions of years ~ and many other interesting subjects truthfully do not directly affect our salvation.  So why discuss them?

Glad you asked.  If you are a professional athlete, a combatant such as a boxer, wrestler, a military soldier whose very life may depend upon your physical strength and conditioning - will you slack off, tell yourself that you have done enough and there is no sense working too hard?   I don't think so.  You will be diligently working to gain your maximum strength and capabilities.  Why?  Because when you go into battle - you know that those extra efforts may be the difference between life and death.

And your extra knowledge of God's Word and His message of salvation - may be the difference between spiritual life and death for the person to whom you are witnessing.  Will that person believe and be saved?  Or walk away, disbelieving?   Are you prepared to do battle for the eternal soul of that person?

Most of us are familiar with the terms "Liberal Christian" and "Conservative Christian" - even though we may not necessarily be able to explain the differences   And we often hear people discussing the difference between Calvinists and Arminians - and often using the term "Calvinist" as a stone to be thrown at a Conservative Christian, i..e., "You're a Calvinist Fundamentalist Bible-basher!"   Yes, I have been called all those and more.

Even though I could never be a Calvinist nor an Arminian, the Calvinist label has been thrown at me many times over the years on different forums and social media.  Why?  Because I will stand and defend our Christian faith.  That is called apologetics, defending the faith.

Now I would like to offer you several resources to help you better understand Dispensational and Covenant Theologies.  The first three are short videos which clearly address this issue:
 
1.  Dispensations - Chuck Missler  (3 minutes)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Au6_lG_Euks

Dr. Chuck Missler's career is distinguished.  While serving as CEO and Chairman of technology companies in Southern California, serving on the Board of Directors of advanced technology companies with the likes of William E. Simon (former Secretary of Treasury), General David C. Jones (Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff), Admiral Tom Hayward (Chief of Naval Operations) and Dr. Edward Teller, (Scientific Advisor to the President) - he was also involved as a consultant in highly sensitive advanced technology projects, and on the Board of Directors of the Computer and Communications Industry Association in Washington D.C.

In the 1970s, while still in the corporate world, Chuck began leading weekly Bible studies at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa, California - where thousands of cassette tapes of his Bible studies were distributed.  At the same time he was one of the founding members of the Biblical Research Center, and in 1973 he established Koinonia House to create and distribute materials to stimulate, encourage, and facilitate serious study of the Bible as the inerrant Word of God,  He also helped start the Bible web site, BlueLetterBible.org, which has been indispensable to me in my writing ministry. 

2.  Covenant Theology and Dispensationalism -Greg Koukl  (8 minutes)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLT1FEzjz_E

Greg Koukl, Founder and President of "Stand to Reason" - a Christian ministry whose goal is to equip Christians with knowledge, wisdom, and character - focusing on the basics, the fundamentals of theology and ethics, and the fundamental tools of thought.   He received his Masters in Philosophy of Religion and Ethics at Talbot School of Theology (Biola University), graduating with high honors - and his Masters in Christian Apologetics with honors from Simon Greenleaf University.  He is an adjunct professor in Christian apologetics at Biola University. 

3.  What is the difference between dispensationalism and covenant theology? -John Barnett  (19 minutes)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5E1FA5kCFk&t=153s

Dr. John Barnett has been teaching the Word of God for 30+ years.  Born and raised in Michigan, John has studied at Michigan State University, Bob Jones University (B.S., B.A., M.A., M. Div.), The Master's Seminary (faculty and Th. M. work), Dallas Theological Seminary (Dr. of Biblical Ministry) and with Francis Schaeffer at L'Abri Fellowship.   

He has served over 30 years in the pastorate, and also as a Seminary Professor of Theology, Church History and the English Bible.  His work reflects the background of the Scripture from the ancient biblical world, the history of the church, and the daily life in far corners of the planet. In 1998 a new ministry called Discover the Book Ministry was launched to provide electronic copies of Pastor John's audio, video, and text studies free of charge to pastors, missionaries, and other believers.  

And the virtual text book on Dispensationalism and Covenant Theology is "Dispensationalism Today" by Dr.Charles Ryrie.  I have had this book in my personal library for years - and I have downloaded the PDF format version.  When reading I prefer the hard copy book.  But when I am quoting from the book, I prefer the PDF version in my archives so that I can copy/paste without errors.  If you are interested in an indepth study of these methods of Bible interpretation, I highly suggest you download this book.  The price is right:  FREE!

4.  Dispensationalism, Revised And Expanded - Charles C. Ryrie - PDF Format

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0ahUKEwjSota25ffbAhVOMqwKHXsUBe0QFggrMAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fshopeshop.org%2FSearchable%2520Riches!%2FAuthors%2FRyrie%2C%2520Charles%2FDispensationalism.pdf&usg=AOvVaw2dDgBgyRJuxIyWI3nhlany

Dr. Charles Caldwell Ryrie (1925 – 2016), American Bible scholar and Christian theologian.  He served as professor of Systematic Theology and Dean of Doctoral Studies at Dallas Theological Seminary, and as president and professor at what is now Cairn University.

He received his B.A. from Haverford College, his Ph.D from the University of Edinburgh, and his Th.M. and Th.D. with high honors from Dallas Theological Seminary.  He has served as president of Philadelphia College of the Bible (now Cairn University), taught at Westmont College, and Midwest Bible & Missionary Institute.

I realize that I have dumped a load of information and resources on you.  I pray that, as you and I continue to mature in our knowledge of His Word, this blog has been helpful to you.   Let us all strive each day to become better witnesses for Him as we live out His Great Commission -  "Go, Make disciples, Teach them, Baptize them.  .  .  . Be My witnesses in all the world"  (Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 1:8, Mark 16:15).

God bless, have a wonderful, blessed day,

Bill 

Prophecy Update Interview With Mike Macintosh And Pastor Tom Hughes

A VIDEO I WOULD RECOMMEND TO ALL PEOPLE, believer and non-believer  ~   Yes, it is a Prophecy Update Interview With Mike MacIntosh And Pastor Tom Hughes of Calvary Chapel, San Jacinto, California - but the issues they speak on in this interview, while mostly related to Biblical prophecy, definitely speak clearly about what is happening in America, and around the world, today.

Since it is a rather long video, I began watching it with the intent of only watching a portion of it.  I became so engrossed with the issues they discussed - that I watched the whole video in one sitting.  And I was very glad that I did - for in the closing minutes Mike MacIntosh shares about Pastor Chuck Smith being invited to China by the Chinese government. 

They were in a meeting in the huge Government State House with many dignitaries and Chinese leaders - when God made it possible for Chuck Smith to give a thirty minute teaching on Scripture - in a Communist Chinese government building, to dignitaries and leaders.  You can find that at the 1:05.00 minute point in the video.  For that alone I am happy that I watched the video to the end.

A little background. In 1965 Chuck Smith went to Calvary Chapel, Costa Mesa - then less than 20 members.  He and his wife, Kay, were burdened by God to reach out to the local Hippie drug community in Orange County.  To make a long story short, the growth at Calvary Chapel was explosive, mostly young people with heads messed up from drugs. 

Pastor Chuck and Mike MacIntosh, then just a young disciple, knew that those kids were into music - but would be bloated by the typical church music of that time, i.e., predominately hymns.  Pastor Chuck and Mike reached out to Christian musicians, professional and amateur, seeking "milk" music at the time, instead of the heavier "meat" music, hymns.

Thus Contemporary Christian Music as a movement began.  The musicians wrote songs, recorded their new contemporary Christian music, and Mike MacIntosh loaded the trunk of his car with cassettes and drove around Southern California encouraging Christian Book & Music Stores to carry this new music.  That led to Pastor Chuck and Mike MacIntosh startingMaranatha! Music, a Christian music record label founded as a nonprofit ministry of Calvary Chapel in 1971.  Mike MacIntosh was the Director of Marketing (and in the beginning, most likely the sole employee) of Maranatha! Music.

In 1974, Mike MacIntosh, then director of Maranatha! Music and on the Pastoral team at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa, began driving from Orange County to San Diego every week to lead a Bible study group.  That Bible study eventually led to the founding of Horizon Christian Fellowship with headquarters in San Diego - which today includes hundreds of church fellowship. 

A year earlier, 1973, Pastor Chuck sent a young 19 year old Greg Laurie to Riverside, California, to lead a Bible study.  That Bible study grew into the Harvest Christian Fellowship, which also includes the Harvest Crusades, with church fellowships across America. 

Today, the Calvary Chapel Movement has thousands of church fellowships across America and in virtually every free nation in the world.  Both Horizon and Harvest are still officially under the umbrella of Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa.  Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa is responsible for thousands of church fellowships across America and in virtually all free nations of the world. 

So, with that said, let's watch this video of the interview with Pastor Mike MacIntosh.  Pastor Tom and Pastor Mike are discussing current events and their implications on Bible prophecy.   I was edified by this viewing.  I pray you will also be edified and have a better understanding of where we are today as world events and Bible prophecy begin to come together. 

Prophecy Update Interview With Mike Macintosh And Pastor Tom Hughes - Posted:  June 25, 2018
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zy2YBS7szrY&feature=youtu.be

God bless, have a wonderful, blessed day,

Bill 

Is The Apostasy Today Reaching Critical Mass?

Should we worry that the apostasy (or falling away) spoken of in 2 Thessalonians 2:3 is fast becoming a reality in the Christian world?  Let's consider some of the more concerning changes which have happened in mostly liturgical churches over the past few decades.

1.  In 1972, the United Church of Christ became the first mainline Protestant denomination in the United States to ordain an openly gay clergy.

2.  In 2003, the Episcopal church in New Hampshire ordained an openly gay man to the position of bishop.

3.  Since 2010, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America has been ordaining gay clergy.

4.  Since 2012, the Presbyterian Church (USA) has been ordaining gay clergy.

5.  The Presbyterian Church (USA) voted to allow Same-Sex Marriages in June 2014.

6.  The Episcopal Church in the United States and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) also allow ordination of openly gay and lesbian clergy.

7.  Internationally, many churches have ordained openly lesbian or gay clergy.

8.   And, in recent years we have seen clergy from many denominations publicly speaking and demonstrating FOR abortions.

And now the United Methodist Church (UMC) Minnesota Conference has voted to removes "Father" from the Apostles' Creed for their worship service.  In other words, even though the Bible refers to God as Father and He - this United Methodist Conference refuses to acknowledge Him as Father - because they insist that God be genderless. 

In other words, they are acceding to the Secular Society's demand that all our world be genderless - that our world be seen as an LGBTQ+++ world.  In this new UMC teaching, regardless of what God has authored in His Bible - whatever you want to be, just name it and claim it.  You can be male, female, or anything in between.  Or, you can be the newest fad - completely GENDERLESS!

I have long been a Baptist-flavored Christian and while our Statement of Beliefs, i.e., what we believe and teach, mirrors the Creeds of liturgical churches (Apostles' Creed, Nicene Creed) - those are not integral parts of our worship service.

As Baptists our beliefs do reflect most of the theological positions articulated in those early creeds.  For example, the Apostles' Creed expresses belief in the virgin birth, the resurrection, and the Second Coming.  We Baptists embrace those beliefs.  The Nicene Creed describes the doctrine of the Trinity as one God manifested in three distinct and equal persons.  Baptists also believe and teach the doctrine of the Trinity.  The difference being that we stop short of officially embracing the creeds and instead focus on individual saving faith.

Yet, for me personally, having spent a number of years in my younger life attending and studying in the Roman Catholic church - I do find some beauty in the Apostles' Creed.  And now to have churches which have long been true to the Bible and our Christian faith - beginning to grow more and more secular, to see them actively adopting secular norms and teachings - I find very disturbing.

NO, I do not wish folks "Happy Holidays" - I wish them a "Very Merry Christmas!"   NO, I do not have a Holiday Tree, I have a Christmas Tree.  And when folks start taking CHRIST out of Christian, when folks start taking CHRIST out of Christmas - that sincerely bothers me.

And today when I find that thisUnited Methodist Church (UMC) Minnesota Conference has gone against His Bible and made God the Father genderless - I do begin to think that the apostasy is reaching End Times level.

The Apostles' Creed - Traditional Version:

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth;

And in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.  He descended into hell.  The third day He rose from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic (universal) church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

Newly modified United Methodist Genderless Version:

I believe in God, the CREATOR Almighty, creator of heaven and earth.  I believe in Jesus Christ, GOD'S only Son, our Lord.  He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. 

He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried.  He descended TO THE DEAD.  On the third day He rose AGAIN.  He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the CREATOR.  He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic (universal) Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

Let me point out a typical flaw in their version. Even though this new UMC version is careful to remove all gender from the name of God - they still refer to Jesus Christ as "He."   So, it seems that, to them, God the Father is genderless - while God the Son is not!  Hmmm?  Wonder how they will justify that?

Folks, I sincerely pray that you have your Eternal Life Insurance (the free gift of life in Jesus Christ) all in order.  For, based upon current events, in the not too distant future we believers may be hearing Jesus Christ telling us, "Come up here" (Revelation 4:1) and we will be in glory with our Lord.

However, before that happens - are your Eternal Life Insurance premiums in order?  Or is there a FRAN (Friend, Relative, Associate, Neighbor) who does not have his or her Eternal Life Insurance in place, i.e., the Holy Spirit indwelling, guiding, teaching, convicting, protecting? 

Is there a FRAN with whom you should be sharing Jesus Christ and helping that FRAN become part of the Family of God?  After all, that is OUR Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 1:8, Mark 16:15) - to Go, Make disciples of all our FRANs, Teach them, and bring them into our church fellowships where, as a Family member, they can be baptized in the presence of their new spiritual family - confirming that their Eternal Life Insurance is valid.

God bless, have a wonderful, blessed day,

Bill 

Born Free? - Yes! ~ Born Gay? - NO!

Today Facebook reminded me of this dialogue I posted in June 2013.  But it is even more relevant today, because of the Liberal Socialists' continued war against the Positive Moral Values of our Christian faith.    Folks, we now have a president, Donald Trump, who will work with us to keep our Christian faith from being relegated to the shadows or hidden in a closet.

I believe that God is showing us that we, all Christian believers, need to stand up and declare our God and our Christian faith to the secular world.  That is why I am reposting this 2013 dialogue.  For if it helps just one person to better understand the current task we have of bringing God's promise of eternal life to an unwilling world - then reposting has been worthwhile.

Born Free: Yes!  ~  Born Gay: NO!
Posted June 23, 2013 at 1:16 AM on Facebook Notes

In a discussion I began on the Religion Forum titled "Did Exodus International Cave To Societal Pressures?" - I opened by writing:

The Los Angeles Times, a Secular Newspaper, and Liberals cheer the closing of a Christian ministry.   Was Exodus International right in closing that ministry - or did it just cave to societal peer pressure?

And, a Religion Forum Friend who tells us he is a Christian believer, but does not believe most of what the Bible teaches, and admits that he has not been in a church in many years - yet, feels he is a good spokesman for the Christian community, tells me, "It closed because homosexuality isn't a choice.  You can't be 'cured' of it.  And even the founder (of Exodus International) admitted it didn't work.  If you believe God is behind every birth, then you also have to believe that God made them that way - and did it on purpose."

I reply to him:

Regardless of whether people are born gay (which they are NOT!) as you believe - or chooses to be gay as the Bible teaches; that is not the issue.

We all have sin in our lives, believers and non-believers.  The trick is to NOT allow that sin to become the god of your life.  And, that is exactly what happens when a person CHOOSES to live a homosexual or lesbian lifestyle.

Being homosexual or lesbian is NOT a sin.  But, living an active homosexual or lesbian lifestyle - IS a sin.   For God declared that lifestyle to be an abomination, unnatural, and against sound teaching.  In other words, God loves the homosexual/lesbian - but, God hates the sin lifestyle, any and all sin lifestyles.

Then, another Forum Friend responds, "Bill, the gay community disagrees.  But, SOME theorists feel there are three types of gays.  Of course, the rationales could cross over, so that some might have two traits, not just one.  (More) to the point, one of the reasons is a genetic propensity in males to be gay.  That doesn't mean that anyone has to act on any propensity they may have, whether to have homosexual sex, steal, or be sarcastic."

And, I tell her:
 

Not sure what you mean by "three types of gays" - but, I do believe you are right that everyone is born with some degree of feeling, curiosity, desire to experiment, or whatever one will call it - about homosexual desires.  I would probably lean more toward believing it is curiosity and a desire to experiment.  But I cannot speak for everyone.

I do not believe this occurs only in males.  I believe it is equally true in females, that desire to experiment.

And, that is why it is so important to have Traditional Marriage - so that every boy and girl has the right role models in those young years.  Same-Sex Marriages, i.e., two mommies or two daddies, cannot offer those types of role models to young children.

She responds, "Three types:  (1) Born that way,  (2) Sexually abused/molested at young age, and (3) Taunted as gay because of small stature or lack of athleticism.  Your post reminded me of an old joke, 'He could have married anyone he pleased.  He just didn't please anyone.' "

Luckily, I do not have that latter problem.  For God prepared a very special woman for me whom, despite my many faults I would please (some might say fooled) enough that she married me almost 36 years ago.  And, biggest miracle of all - she still loves me.

At this point, let's look at reasons why homosexuality is not an inherited trait, nor is anyone born gay.

In your list, items 2 and 3 have validity, and could be viewed as emotional or psychological reasons which might cause a person to have such low self-esteem that he/she would avoid relationships with people of the opposite sex.  And, as a result, some seek solace in a person of the same sex.  The reasons and understanding of all the emotions and feelings which are a part of this - are far above my intellectual knowledge and beyond my pay scale.

However, I do not believe that your item 1 has any validity.   Why would God, the God who has declared:

2 Peter 3:9 (nasb), "The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for ALL to come to repentance."

Why would He create people that are condemned to hell before birth, and before they have an opportunity to choose eternal life in Christ?  That would be the highest form of cruelty.  And God is not cruel.

We know that not ALL people will accept the "free gift" of eternal life which Christ purchased with His blood on the cross.  But this Scripture verse tells us that God truly desires ALL to be saved.

Would a God who wants ALL to be saved - create some to be the abomination, the unnatural person whom He, in the Bible, has said condemns himself or herself to eternal hell?  NO!  God would not create anyone specifically to be sent to hell - in spite of the Calvinist teaching of Reprobates.

1 Corinthians 6:9-10 (nasb), "Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither  fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers - will inherit the kingdom of God."

In this Scripture passage, God has listed specific sin lifestyles, not people or sins, but sin lifestyles - which those who live them will not inherit the kingdom of God.  In other words, they will not be saved into eternal life, for they have chosen to live an active sin lifestyle, condemning themselves to eternal hell.

All of us, believers and non-believers, may commit some, or all, of those sins at times.  But, if we are believers, if we have a saving relationship with Christ - we have been forgiven.  Yes, we have to repent, ask His forgiveness, and ask His strength to help us not commit those sins again.  We do this, not so that God will know what we did (for He knows every hair on our head, every breath we take, every thought we have) - but, so that we personally recognize, understand, and accept our sins, i.e., that we own our sins - and strive, through prayer and His help, to avoid them in the future.

When Christ went to the cross, He took all the sins of all the world, the sins of all people who have been born, or will ever be born - to the cross with Him.  He took all those sins upon His perfect, sinless Self on the cross, so that we - you, me, all the world (John 3:16) - can be forgiven by grace, through faith.

Not, will be forgiven, but, can be forgiven.  If by the grace of God, through faith in the finished work of Christ on the cross - a person will believe the Gospel and receive (John 1:12) His precious gift of eternal life - "paid in full" by His blood spilled on the cross - that person is saved and has eternal life in Christ.

In other words, He is our High Priest who offered the sacrificial Lamb, Himself, to be the "once for all time, for all people" blood sacrifice which would satisfy the perfect justice of God (Hebrews 7:27, Hebrews 9:12, 1 Peter 3:18).

Colossians 2:14 (nasb), "Having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us (sins: past, present, and future), which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross."

On the cross, Jesus Christ "paid in full" the sin debt for all people - so that we who believe and receive His "full pardon" - have received forgiveness for all our sins:  past, present, and future.

Does this mean that we have a "license to sin"?  Absolutely not.  For we WILL have to account for every sin, by word or deed, done by commission or omission in this life when we stand before Him in judgment - the Bema Seat Judgment of rewards or lack of rewards for believers - or the Great White Throne Judgment of punishment for all non-believers.

Do you recall, when you were a small child, having to stand before that authority figure, dad or mom, and admit your guilt for a wrong that you had done?  Do you recall how you felt?   Well, multiply that about a million times - and that is what it will feel like to stand before Jesus Christ, the Son who died a cruel death on the cross to buy your pardon - and admit that you have disobeyed Him.

No, my Friend, being a "forgiven sinner" is definitely NOT a license to sin.  But it is the blessed assurance that, one day, you WILL stand before the Jesus Christ we love and receive the great reward of being in heaven eternally with Him.

So, back to my original point:  I am sad to see Exodus International close its ministry.  For even saving one soul who had been led down the wrong path in life - is worth the effort to keep the ministry active.  I can understand how missionaries, pastors, and evangelist who have been in the service of the Lord for many years - and have not personally experienced the elation of bringing a soul to Christ - would feel. 

But, that is short sighted.  It is not the ones we can personally attest have come to the Lord through our work, that matters.  What matters is how many "salvation seeds" we have personally sown into the winds of eternity.

Some years ago, a Christian brother, Fernando, was doing the quarterly newsletter for our church.  I recall hearing him say once, after the newsletter had been distributed at worship service, and after the worship service - to see so many of them laying in the pews, laying on the floor, or thrown into the trash can, "I feel like they are throwing my baby away."

Later, I mentioned that to a Christian sister, May, the wife of my Friend, Pastor Charles Patam.  Her reply was so true that it led me to publishing my own Christian newsletter.  She told me, "But, if only one soul is touched or saved through that effort - then, all the work is worth it."

That thought resonated within me.  And, that is why, almost 25 years later, I am still doing Christian apologetic writing - even though I frequently do get stones thrown at me, i.e., name calling, accusations, untruths, misrepresentations, etc.  Each stone, each name called or derogatory comment, thrown when I share the Truth of God's Word - is a rare gem in the coming Crown of Life I will receive in heaven.  And, each one makes me smile with elated anticipation.

James 1:12 (nkjv), "Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him."

Revelation 2:10 (nkjv), "Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer.  Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days.  Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life."

It makes me sad that this badly needed ministry, Exodus International, has been abandoned because of what appears to be our Liberal society's pressure.  Did Exodus International make mistakes?  What ministry does not, for we are only human?  But, do we quit because we have made mistakes?  No!

We adjust.  And work even more diligently to make that ministry more effective and more glorifying to our Lord, who, ". . . not wishing for any to perish but for ALL to come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9) - waits patiently at the door of every heart: male or female, gay or straight - waiting to be invited in as your Best Friend (Revelation 3:20).   If you have not yet invited Him to come into your life, into your heart - why are you waiting?

For any of my Friends, or my Friends' Friends, still living in an active sin lifestyle, regardless of which sin - God has not given up on you.   So, why are you giving up on Him?

That is why He has appointed pastors, teachers, leaders - and yes, apologetic writers such as me.  He wants us to like like the blister on your buttock, not life threatening - but uncomfortable when you continue to sit and not receive His precious gift of eternal life.  God does not want you to be comfortable living a sin lifestyle.

Christ is patiently waiting at the door of your heart, waiting for YOU to open the door which He cannot (Revelation 3:20) - ready to come into your heart and be your very Best Friend.  Give Him a chance.  What do you have to lose - except an eternity in hell?

God bless, have a wonderful, blessed day,

Bill 

What Is The Difference Between The Cross And The Crucifix?

Today Facebook reminded me of a blog I had written in 2012, while posting on the TimesDaily Religion Forum.  It is a dialogue between a Roman Catholic Friend and a nominal, at best very liberal, Christian Friend.  When I challenged my Roman Catholic Friend about showing Christ still hanging on the cross, i.e., the crucifix - my nominal Christian Friend challenged the Protestant church's use of the empty cross in our churches.

I pray that my brief explanation from 2012 will be useful to you.

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What Is The Difference Between The Cross And The Crucifix?
June 21, 2012 at 10:13 PM

In the TimesDaily Religion Forum discussion begun by my Roman Catholic Friend, Vic, titled "The Commandments" I shared the reason why I believe the Protestant version of the Ten Commandments is more faithful to the Biblical Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17).   It is because we retain Exodus 20:4, "You shall not make for yourself an idol" (nasb) or "Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image" (kjv) - as the Second Commandment.

My Protestant Christian Friend, O No, tells me, "And by the way, Catholics don't worship 'idols' any more than protestants do.  What is the difference between a crucifix and an empty cross?  Do 'YOU' worship that cross hanging in your church?  Why is it OK for protestants to hang a symbol in their churches, but not Catholics?"

I am surprised you have to ask that question.  But, since you have, I have to assume there may be one or two others who also do not understand the difference between the cross and the crucifix.

The cross is the symbol of what Christ has done for all of us, for all people.  He left his heavenly home, his divine existence, to come to earth in a frail human body.  He became like us so that He could be our high priest before God the Father:

Hebrews 2:17, "Therefore, He had to be made like His brethren in all things, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people."

He came to die a cruel death on the cross in our stead.  Then, as He hung on the cross, He declared, "It is finished!" (John 19:30) and died.

What was finished?  The work of redemption which He came to earth to accomplish - making redemption and salvation available to every person who will, by the grace of God, through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9, John 1:12) believe and receive this "free gift" which He has "paid in full" with His precious blood.

When He resurrected, that was to assure that ALL people will resurrect into immortal, eternal bodies.  Those who believe to a resurrection of life, those who will not believe to a resurrection of judgment (John 5:29).

And, when He ascended into heaven - this was so that He might be the one and only mediator (1 Timothy 2:5) between man and God.

So, when Christ died, resurrected, and ascended into heaven - His full work of redemption and salvation was finished, fully accomplished.  There is no longer any reason for Him to be hanging on a cross as we see on the crucifix.

He is not hanging on the cross, or crucifix.  He is in heaven with God the Father.  So why put Him back on the cross, i.e., the crucifix?  Why continue to re-crucify Him daily, i.e., the Eucharist in the daily mass?

Therefore, when we come to the foot of the cross for redemption - it is in recognition of the work He accomplished and finished there.  It is not to find Him still hanging on the cross.  It is to honor Him for the work He has finished, over 2000 years ago, upon the cross.

That, my Friend, is why you will see only the empty cross hanging in mainstream Protestant Christian churches today.

God bless, have a wonderful, blessed day,

Bill 

Don't The Sincere Beliefs Of Non-Christians Matter To God? - Greg Koukl

The video below from the Stand To Reason ministry is only 4 minutes long, but it is definitely worth watching and sharing.

Greg Koukl, who is presenting the message in the video, is the Founder and President of "Stand to Reason" - a Christian ministry whose goal is to equip Christian ambassadors with knowledge, wisdom, and character.  .  .  .  STR focuses on the basics, the fundamentals of theology and ethics, and the fundamental tools of thought. .  .  .  While STR may not be unique in the information they give, they are distinctive in the way they use the information.

STR teaches careful reasoning and well thought-out answers - so that Christians will be able to participate in public discussions (at home, at work, or at the university) - and present the Christian worldview in the debate.  STR encourages Christians to develop coherent answers to questions that challenge Christianity so that your faith is deepened, and thereby (you) are emboldened to share the Gospel in a gracious and compelling manner.

Greg Koukl received his Masters in Philosophy of Religion and Ethics at Talbot School of Theology (Biola University), graduating with high honors - and his Masters in Christian Apologetics with honors from Simon Greenleaf University.  He is an adjunct professor in Christian apologetics at Biola University.

Greg has spoken on more than 70 college and university campuses, both in the U.S. and abroad, and has hosted his own call-in radio show for 27 years advocating “Christianity Worth Thinking About.”  He has debated atheist Michael Shermer on national radio, and Deepak Chopra on national television on Lee Strobel's “Faith Under Fire” television series.

Greg Koukl tells us:

"I’m animated by the conviction that Christianity and Christian values, if properly understood and properly articulated, can “stand to reason” in the public square.  The truth is on our side, but whether that truth will make a difference depends on whether or not the church (you and I) is trained to engage others in gracious yet incisive dialog.

There’s a desperate need to equip followers of Jesus Christ to explain and defend Christian beliefs and values with people who don’t understand our language and who don’t accept our source of authority (the Bible). 

That need is especially acute for two groups: (1) an emerging post-modern generation that has lost confidence that any claims to truth are legitimate, and (2) an increasingly relativistic church grounded more on personal experience than in biblical truth."

We see two effects of the 1963 decision by the Supreme Court to remove God from our schools, and eventually from the public square: 

(1) the Post-Modern, i.e., Secular Liberal worldview which declares there is no absolute truth, and

(2) the spread of Liberalism in many churches and denominations, based upon their view that the Bible is not the Holy Spirit INSPIRED, Holy Spirit INERRANT, Holy Spirit LITERAL Written Word of God - but is a only a metaphorical, mystical, but effective guideline for Christian living.  Based upon that Liberal view of the Bible - a theology can be defined which will support any pre-chosen theological compromise with the Secular world.

There is a name for those beliefs.  It is called RELATIVISM - and its only criteria is:  "If it feels right to you, it IS right for you!"   Since 1963 the government controlled American Education System has been teaching those Relative Moral Values to our children, starting in Kindergarten and extending through their college/university life. 

Standing on the strength of that 1963 Supreme Court Decision - Relative Moral Values have replaced Positive Moral Values in our educational institutions all across America.

In this short video, Greg Koukl emphasizes standards that I have long espoused:

1. Your theology, your Christian beliefs, must be based solely upon the Bible - and YOU should be able to defend, from Scripture, your Statement of Faith, your Statement of Biblical Beliefs.  I would suggest that EVERY Christian should take the time to put your personal Statement of Faith in writing.  That affirms in your mind what you believe - and it gives you the Biblical knowledge and courage needed when witnessing to non-believers.

2. When you encounter a new ministry, be it a church (pastor, teacher, theologian, scholar) - a parachurch organization or ministry - or any alleged Christian online ministry  ~  the first thing you should should look at is their Statement of Faith.  Why?  What they declare in their Statement of Faith - is what they teach.  And if that is not built upon and supported by Scripture - it is a false theology. 

I once had a church in the Midwest tell me that they will not post their Statement of Faith on their web site - "Because they do not want to offend anyone."   Really?  You will hide what you believe about God and His Word - to not offend the non-believing world?  Folks, would YOU be comfortable worshiping in such a church?  Not me!

This I found on the Stand To Reason "Statement of Faith" web page:

10. Men are justified on the simple and single ground of the shed blood of Christ and upon the simple and single condition of faith in Him Who shed His blood, and are born again by the quickening, renewing, cleansing work of the Holy Spirit, through the instrumentality of the Word of God.  These alone become children of God and receive eternal life.

After viewing this video, you might want to further explore that web site.  I would suggest that since you are already on their web site, click on ABOUT, then on Statement of Faith - and explore that page more thoroughly.

Now, take four minutes and see what you think about the STR video:

DON'T THE SINCERE BELIEFS OF NON-CHRISTIANS MATTER TO GOD?
Greg Koukl, Stand To Reason, 2-12-2018
https://www.str.org/video/dont-sincere-beliefs-non-christians-matter-god

I pray that this discussion and video have been edifying for you and that it suggests ways to enhance your Christian faith and  your Christian witness.

God bless, have a wonderful, blessed day,

Bill 

A Great Article From A Great American - About President Trump

A GREAT ARTICLE ABOUT PRESIDENT TRUMP, written by one great American Conservative, Mychal Massie, and often erroneously attributed to another great American, Charles Krauthammer.  Let's set the record straight.

The Courier-Tribune of Asheboro, North Carolina, posted an op-ed titled “A different take on Trump the pragmatist” - that it credited to Charles Krauthammer, along with an editor’s note claiming that “Krauthammer is back on a partial basis after taking time off for surgery.”

Note: Charles Krauthammer is in his final weeks of terminal cancer.   Fox News, June 8 at 9:04am, shared on Facebook a post titled: "A letter from Charles Krauthammer" - and it shares his thoughts on his career and on this, his final battle.

Charles Krauthammer has spent decades as a leading commentator, expressing clear and new perspectives - on politics, foreign policy, and culture, often from the right.

However, Krauthammer, is NOT the author of the essay below which has been attributed to him.  That essay was written by Mychal Massie in January 2016 and posted on his personal blog at the time.  Since then, the article has been misattributed to Krauthammer several times.  ("Fact Check: Did Charles Krauthammer Write an Op-Ed Arguing for 'Trump the Pragmatist'?" - The Weekly Standard, May 3, 2018 4:42 PM)

The real author is Mychal Massie, also a nationally syndicated op-ed columnist and former host of the talk show“Straight Talk with Mychal Massie” on the Rightalk Radio Network.  He is a former self-employed business owner of 30-plus years.  Mychal is an inspirational / motivational speaker and a regularly featured guest on TV / Talk Radio programs. 

The online version of his column is carried by WorldNetDaily.com and enjoys a loyal, supportive readership around the world.  Mychal has appeared on every major news-talk television and radio program in the U.S., as well as top international news programs.  He is recognized as one of America’s most articulate, passionate, and outspoken conservative voices.

Mychal Massie is also an ordained minister who spent 13 years in full-time Christian Ministry.  Today he serves as founder and Chairman of the Racial Policy Center (RPC), a think tank he officially founded in September 2015.  RPC advocates for a colorblind society.  He was founder and president of the non-profit “In His Name Ministries.”  He is the former National Chairman of a conservative Capitol Hill think tank; and a former member of the think tank "National Center for Public Policy Research." 

In his official capacity with this free-market, public-policy think tank, he has spoken at the U.S. Capitol, CPAC, participated in numerous press conferences on Capitol Hill, the National Press Club, and testified in private session concerning property rights pursuant to the “Endangered Species Act” before the Chairman of the House Committee on Resources.

That said, I believe his blog below about President Trump, written in 2016 is absolutely on target: 

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We recently enjoyed a belated holiday dinner with friends at the home of other friends.  The dinner conversation varied from discussions about antique glass and china, to theology and politics.  At one point, reference was made to Donald Trump being a Conservative, to which I responded that Trump is not a Conservative.  I said that I neither view, nor do I believe Trump views himself, as a Conservative. 

I stated it was my opinion that Trump is a pragmatist.  He sees a problem and understands it must be fixed.  He doesn't see the problem as Liberal or Conservative.  He sees it only as a problem.  That is a quality that should be admired and applauded, not condemned.  But I get ahead of myself.

Viewing problems from a Liberal perspective has resulted in the creation of more problems, more entitlement programs, more victims, more government, more political correctness, and more attacks on the working class in all economic strata.

Viewing things according to the so-called Republican Conservative perspective has brought continued spending and globalism to the detriment of American interests and well being - denial of what the real problems are: weak, ineffective, milquetoast, leadership that amounts to Barney Fife Deputy Sheriff (type) appeasement oriented and (is) afraid of its own shadow.  In brief, it has brought Liberal ideology, with a pachyderm as a mascot, juxtaposed to the ass of the Democrat Party.

Immigration isn't a Republican problem, it isn't a Liberal problem - it is a problem that threatens the very fabric and infrastructure of America.  It demands a pragmatic approach - not an approach that is intended to appease one group or another.

The impending collapse of the economy wasn't a Liberal or Conservative problem, it is an American problem.  That said, until it is viewed as a problem that demands a common sense approach to resolution, it will never be fixed - because the Democrats and Republicans know only one way to fix things, and the longevity of their impracticality has proven to have no lasting effect.  Successful businessmen like Donald Trump find ways to make things work, they do not promise to accommodate.

Trump uniquely understands that China's manipulation of currency is not a Republican problem, nor a Democrat problem.  It is a problem that threatens our financial stability and he understands the proper balance needed to fix it.  Here again, successful businessmen, like Trump, who have weathered the changing tides of economic reality understand what is necessary to make business work.  And they, unlike both sides of the political aisle, know that if something doesn't work, you don't continue trying to make it work - hoping that at some point it will.

As a pragmatist, Donald Trump hasn't made wild pie-in-the-sky promises of a cell phone in every pocket, free college tuition, and a $15 hour minimum wage for working the drive-through at Carl's Hamburgers.

(Definition: A pragmatist is someone who is practical and focused on reaching a goal.  A pragmatist usually has a straightforward, matter-of-fact approach and doesn't let emotion distract him or her.)

I argue that America needs pragmatists because pragmatists see a problem and find ways to fix them.  They do not see a problem and compound it by creating more problems.

You may not like Donald Trump, but I suspect that the reason some people do not like him is because:

(1) he is antithetical to the "good old boy" method of brokering backroom deals that fatten the coffers of politicians;

(2) they are not accustomed to hearing a president speak who is unencumbered by the financial shackles of those he owes vis-a-vis donations;

(3) he is someone who is free of idiomatic political ideology;

(4) he says what he is thinking, is unapologetic for his outspoken thoughts, speaks very straightforward using everyday language that can be understood by all - and is offensive to some who dislike him anyway - making him a great communicator.  Who, for the most part, does what he says he will do, and;

(5) he is someone who understands that it takes more than hollow promises and political correctness to make America great again.

Listening to Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders talk about fixing America is like listening to two lunatics trying to "out crazy" one another.  Jeb Bush, John Kasich, and Marco Rubio are owned lock, stock, and barrel by the bankers, corporations, and big dollar donors funding their campaigns.  Bush can deny it, but common sense tells anyone willing to face facts, that people don't give tens of millions without expecting something in return.

We have had Democrats and Republican ideologues and what has it brought us?  Are we better off today or worse off?  Has it happened overnight or has it been a steady decline brought on by both parties?

I submit that a pragmatist is just what America needs right now.  People are quick to confuse and despise confidence as arrogance, but that is common among those who have never accomplished anything in their lives.  Or politicians who never really solved a problem, because it's better to still have "issue(s) to be solved - so re-elect me to solve it" - which never happens.  And those who have always played it safe.  Again, all politicians not willing to risk failure, to try and achieve success.

Donald Trump put his total financial empire at risk in running for president and certainly did not need or possibly even want the job.  That says it all.

He wants success for the U.S. and her citizens because he loves his country.

God Bless America!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

My Friends, first I ask that we all join together to pray for Charles Krauthammer and his family - in this, the final leg of a long journey - his battle against cancer.

Then let us really listen, and share, what Mychal Massie, a true Conservative American, an articulate American, and by the way, an American of African-American ancestry - as he tells us about the true Donald Trump - the president America has been needing for the last 30 years. 

The last truly Conservative American president was Ronald Reagan in the 1980s.  And America has desperately needed to get back to that level of Conservative leadership in the White House again.   In 2016 we began that transition to a stronger, better America - when we elected President Trump.

I believe that Mychal Massie is smack on target with his assessment of President Donald Trump.  And I strongly believe that, if we want to have a strong America to leave to our children and grandchildren - WE MUST get behind President Trump and support his efforts to Make America Great Again.

God bless, have a wonderful, blessed day,

Bill 

Click on the graphic to make it larger:

God's Surprise ~ Bible Study Notes - June 9, 2018

In 1937, John Steinbeck took the title of his novel "Of Mice and Men" from this line contained in the poem “To a Mouse,” by Robert Burns:  "The best laid schemes o' mice an' men / Gang aft agley" (paraphrased in English as "The best-laid plans of mice and men / Go oft awry").

Well, that is exactly what happened to our Friday night Bible Study last week.  Since we only had one week to cover the subject.  And since the subject of our Bible study is the End Times - well, you know that one evening can only scratch the surface.   So we were going for an Overview of End Times Prophecy.

Before our study began I was standing in our church Assembly Room chatting with one of our young adults, Jonelle Vega, and we saw a couple on the sidewalk looking into our door.  Right away Jonelle and I went out to greet them and invite them to come in and join us.  We talked a while and they asked about our Sunday services.  Again I invited them to come into our Bible study that evening, but they declined and walked on, promising to come Sunday.

In the middle of our study discussion, the couple walked in to join us.  Wow, I was excited.  Since we moved into our new church building several months ago, we have been praying to be a beacon of His Light to this new neighborhood.  Every week people from our church go door-knocking, talking to folks, and inviting them to church.  Our door-knockers had not made it to their block yet - but God brought Diego and Micki to us.

As I mentioned earlier, "the best laid plans of mice and men" - not knowing the spiritual position of this new couple - how to adjust our End Times Prophecies discussion to include them?   I may not have done a very good job of adjusting - but the new couple, Diego and Micki, did come to our 2:30 PM worship service this past Sunday and asked that we pray for them.  Jonathan Dave Nolasco, who was giving our message last week took time before his message, I escorted Diego and Micki to the altar, and Dave and I prayed for them.

I pray that Diego and Micki are just the first of a flood of our new neighbors who will come and join us in worship.   May God always continue to interrupt our meetings, discussions, and services - when He wants to bring new folks into our church family.

That said, the following are the study notes I planned to use last Friday, hoping to get active discussions started:

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BIBLE STUDY NOTES - JUNE 9, 2018

LET'S SIT AND HAVE A FIRESIDE CHAT.   From your history classes, does anyone remember who made the "Fireside Chat" famous?   Yes, it was President Roosevelt during World War 2 - history for most of you.  But Dory, a few of our senior members, and I lived through that period of history.  I was 4 years old when Pearl Harbor happened, 8 years old when the war ended.

Dory's family in the Philippines struggled to survive the Japanese occupation, often in caves - and seeing a family member executed.

My high school teacher's son died on the USS Arizona, the first war death from my home town area of Colbert County, Alabama.

Opening Prayer.

Normally I like to lead a Bible study expositionally, with us studying a book of the Bible by starting in chapter 1, verse 1 - and, together, reading and discussing that passage or chapter verse by verse.  That way we know that no "meat of the Word" is skipped over or ignored, for any reason.

However, since our study tonight is a one-shot event - let's take a key book of the Bible and do an overview.

In 1991 during the Gulf War in Kuwait and Iraq there was a point in the war where Iraqi soldiers set fire to many oil fields in Kuwait - and the sky for hundreds of miles was literally filled with black smoke.  The result - many Bible studies that week dwelt on the book of Revelation and the End Times.

Revelation 6:12, "I looked when He opened the sixth seal, and behold, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became like blood."

I was a relatively new believer, knowing virtually nothing about Revelation, the End Times, prophecy, etc.  So that fateful Friday evening when our Bible study leader, Tom Fletcher, began to talk about the Tribulation, the Rapture, the End Times, etc. - I had no idea what he meant.  But no way was I going to admit that I was totally lost - prophetically illiterate.  So, I just smiled and kept my mouth shut -  not wanting to show my apparent Biblical ignorance.

 Why is it important that we study prophecy?

1. Prophecy validates our Bible:  There are over 1800 prophecies in our Bible - and except for those relating to the End Times, to the Second Coming of Christ - all have been proven, by secular and religious writings, to have been fulfilled - 100%

2. No other sacred book of any of the world religions contain prophecy. 

3. Many people pay lots of money and spend years of their lives - seeking to know the future.   They go to psychics, fortune tellers, and others who deal in dark spirits.  They open themselves up to the power of Satanic spirits.  And since non-believers do not have the protection of an indwelling Holy Spirit, they put themselves at great spiritual risk.

Yet, God has told us our future.  He has put it in writing, the Bible.  He has told us what will happen in the End Times.  He has told us about our eternal home and our eternal life.  We can know, for the price of a Bible and sincere Bible study, what will happen to us throughout never-ending eternity.  What else is important?

Virtually every book of the Old Testament contains prophecy.  And while many prophecies are referenced in the New Testament - the New Testament concludes with the key prophecy book, Revelation.

Matthew 1:23, "'Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,' which is translated, 'God with us.'"

Isaiah 7:14, "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel."

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

John 1:23 He said: "I am 'The voice of one crying in the wilderness: "Make straight the way of the LORD," ' - as the prophet Isaiah said."

Isaiah 40:3, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the LORD; Make straight in the desert a highway for our God.'"

1.  Christ was to be of king David’s Family  (John 7:42  -  Isaiah 9:6-7)
2.  Christ was to be Born of a Virgin (Matthew 1:23  -  Isaiah 7:14)

3.  Christ was to be Born in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:6  -  Micah 5:2)

4.  Christ would Sojourn in Egypt (Matthew 2:14-15  -  Hosea 11:1)

5.  Christ would make a Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem (John 12:12-15  -  Zechariah 9:9)

Let's look at an overview of the book of Revelation, encapsulated in Revelation 1:19:

Revelation 1:19, "Write the things which you have seen (Past: Jesus' earthly ministry and His glory)  -  and the things which are  (Present: church age)  -   and the things which will take place after this  (Future:  Rapture, Tribulation, Millennial Kingdom, Eternity)."

1. The things which you have seen:  John was to write the things he had just seen in his vision of the glorious, heavenly Jesus. (Rev 1)

2. The things which are:   John was to write about the things of his present day, the things reflected in the seven churches.  (Rev 2-3)

3. The things which will take place after this:  John was to write about the things that will happen in the last days.  (Rev 4-22)

Chapter 1 ~  The revelation given:  God - to Jesus Christ - to His Angel - to His bond-servant John - to the Seven Churches and to us.   His promised blessing for all who read or hear this book of prophecy.

Chapter 2 - 3  ~  Jesus' messages to the Seven Churches.

Chapter 4  ~  Rapture and Heavenly Worship; Bema Seat Judgment (part of the Rapture, during Tribulation).

Chapter 5  ~  Scrolls opened and the Lamb adored.

Chapter 6 - 18  ~  The Tribulation: Trials for Israel – purging of Israel and the nations.  The church is conspicuously absent in these chapters.

1.  The Seven Seals

2.  The Seven Trumpets

3.  The Seven Bowls of Wrath

Chapter 19  ~  Wedding Feast of the Lamb - King of king returns - Battle of Armageddon - Antichrist defeated.

Chapter 20  ~  Satan to the abyss - Millennial Reign of Christ - Satan released and final battle - Great White Throne Judgment.

Chapter 21  ~  New Heaven, New Earth, New Jerusalem, Eternal Sonshine!

Chapter 22  ~  ETERNITY!    Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!   

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Now let's look at some key promises and teachings:

1. We often hear the word "Imminent."  What does it mean and, more important, WHICH event is Imminent?

2. Where do we find the doctrine of Imminency taught in the Bible?

Matthew 24:36, "But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only." 

Matthew 25:13, "Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming."

Luke 12:40, "Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect."

Acts 1:7, "And He said to them, 'It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority.' "

1 Thessalonians 5:2, "For you yourselves know perfectly that the Day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night."

3.  What is the Rapture?   Does it occur before the Tribulation (Pre-Trib)  -  in the middle of the Tribulation (Mid-Trib)  -  4/5 of the way through the Tribulation (Pre-Wrath)  -  or at the end of the Tribulation (Post-Trib)?

4.  Consider those Rapture alternatives:  Which Rapture scenario can truly be Imminent?  And why can't the others be Imminent?

5.  Is the "Rapture" really in the Bible?

About 400 AD the Bible was translated into Latin, called the Latin Vulgate.   In 1 Thessalonians 4:17 we are told, “Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air. . .”   In Strong's Bible Concordance, the Greek word “harpazo” means “shall be caught up.”  In the Latin Vulgate translation of the Bible, the Greek word “harpazo” is translated into the Latin word “rapiemur” or “rapere” - from which we get our English word Rapture.  So, yes, the Bible does teach the Rapture, both in word and in concept.

6.  What Scripture verses/passages teach the Rapture?

John 14:1-3, "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.  In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also."

1 Corinthians 15:50-54, "Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does corruption inherit incorruption.  Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed - in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.  For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.  So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: 'Death is swallowed up in victory.' "

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, "But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope.  For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.  For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep.  For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.  Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.  And thus we shall always be with the Lord.   Therefore comfort one another with these words."

7.  Based upon the following Scripture verses, I believe the Bible teaches that the Christian church will be taken out before the Tribulation begins, i.e., a “PreTribulation” Rapture:

Revelation 3:10, “Because you have kept the word of My perseverance, I also will keep you from the hour of testing, that hour which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.”

1 Thessalonians 5:9-10, “For God has not destined us for wrath, but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep (when the Rapture occurs), we will live together with Him.”

        
8.  What is theTribulation and what is God's purpose in the Tribulation?

Often in Scripture, some event must happen before a prophecy can occur.   For example, in Daniel 9:24 the Messiah had to be cut off (crucified) before the Holy Spirit would come into all believers in the Upper Room, indwelling those 120 disciples, and beginning the church age. 

In Daniel 9:27 the Antichrist must sign a false peace covenant with the nation Israel before the seven year Tribulation can begin. 

That seven year period, the Tribulation, is God's planned time to bring the remnant of His chosen people, Israel, back into His family.  That is the main purpose of the Tribulation, to bring the remnant of Israel into the family of God:

Daniel 9:24. "Seventy weeks are determined For your people (Israel) and for your holy city (Jerusalem), To finish the transgression, To make an end of sins, To make reconciliation for iniquity, To bring in everlasting righteousness, To seal up vision and prophecy, And to anoint the Most Holy."

The Tribulation, Israel's reconciliation with God, must happen before Christ will come again, His Second Coming in Glory.   Only one event, or prophecy, remains that is a gating factor for those End Time prophecies - (Tribulation, Second Coming, Millennial Kingdom, Great White Throne Judgment, Final Battle, Eternity) -  to be fulfilled.  That event is the Imminent Rapture of the church.  The Tribulation clock will not start ticking until after the PreTribulational Rapture when Israel signs a seven year covenant with the Antichrist.

What is the gating factor for the Imminent Rapture of the church?  There are no signs, no prophecies, left which must occur before the Rapture.  Does that mean that the Rapture is going to occur in my lifetime?  I cannot say and neither can anyone else.  We just know that it can happen at any moment - for there is nothing left which can hold it back.

Shortly after the Rapture the seven year Tribulation begins (Daniel 9:27).  The Tribulation is God's Judgment of Israel (Ezekiel 20:32-38, 34:17-22), His Refiner's Fire which will bring the remnant of His chosen people, Israel, into the fold - along with many Gentiles who will also be saved during the Tribulation:

Malachi 3:2-5, "But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He is like a refiner's fire And like launderers' soap.  He will sit as a refiner and a purifier of silver; He will purify the sons of Levi, And purge them as gold and silver, That they may offer to the LORD An offering in righteousness. Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem Will be pleasant to the LORD, As in the days of old, As in former years.  And I will come near you for judgment.  .  ."

Revelation 7:9-10, "After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could number (Jews and Gentiles), of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, saying, 'Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!' "

The church, the universal body of Christ, will be in heaven during the Tribulation (Revelation 3:10, 1 Thessalonians 1:10, 5:9).   We are told that, at this time prior to the Rapture, the Holy Spirit is restraining the Antichrist.  After the Rapture, the Holy Spirit will no longer be a restraining force holding back the appearance of the Antichrist.  But, He will still be working among the people left behind during the Tribulation, bringing many to faith.

9.  What is the Millennial Kingdom?

When "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" - He created a perfect Garden of Eden environment to be the home of all His creation - man, animal, fish, and fowl.   When Christ returns to earth in glory, He will rule over an earth which has been restored to Edenic glory.  He will rule the earth from the throne of David in Jerusalem.

Who will populate the Millennial Kingdom?  We who return with Christ at His Second Coming will be there in our glorified immortal bodies.  And, at the end of the terrible Tribulation when Christ returns, although billions will have died during the Tribulation -- there will be many survivors, believers and non-believers.  What is Christ to do with these mortal survivors of the Tribulation?  He will convene the Sheep and Goat Judgment (Matthew 25:31-46) and mortal non-believers who have survived the Tribulation will go into eternal punishment (Matthew 25:46).  However, the believers who have survived the Tribulation will go into His Millennial Kingdom in their earthly mortal bodies (Matthew 25:34). 

10.  What are the Judgments of the End Time?  

Bema Seat Judgment / Believers' Judgment  -  Must happen concurrent with the Rapture (Romans 14:10, 1 Corinthians 15:50-54)

Sheep & Goat Judgment  -  Follows the Tribulation and the Second Coming of Christ (Matthew 25:31-46)

Great White Throne Judgment  -  Follows the Millennial Kingdom  (Revelation 20:1-15)

11.  What are the Final Battles of history?

Battle of Ezekiel 38, 39  - Prior to the Tribulation ~ Gog, Prince of Magog (Russia), with Iran, Ethiopia, Libya (Put), Gomer (Germanic and Crimean nations), and Beth-Togarmah (Armenian area) come to make war against Israel.  God will supernaturally destroy their armies.

Battle of Armageddon  - Following the Tribulation  ~ Revelation 16:14-16 (Preparation), Revelation 19:17-19 (Antichrist & False Prophet defeated, into lake of fire)

Satan's Final War with Christ  -  Following the Millennial Kingdom  ~ Revelation 20:7-10 - Satan will gather an enormous army from the apathetic Millennial born and come against Christ and the holy city, Jerusalem.   God will supernaturally destroy his army and send Satan to the lake of fire.

12.   My Acts 17:11 Moment with Dr. Tim LaHaye and other End Times expositors.

Dr. Tim LaHaye, in his book "Revelation Unveiled" page 325-326, tells us there are three phases to the First Resurrection (Revelation 20:5b):

1. The Church at the Rapture - the dead in Christ resurrected, those alive "caught up" or raptured.

2.  Seven years later the Old Testament Saints - after the Wedding Feast of the Lamb, but before the Second Coming.

3.  The Tribulation Saints will be resurrected at or following His Second Coming.

In Revelation 5b and 6, John merges them all together when he says, "Blessed and holy are those who have part in the first resurrection."

Let's just take a common sense look at that position.  We know from 1 Corinthians 15:50-54 that the only way to enter heaven is in spirit, such as happens for our church age believers, or in glorified bodies, such as we will be at the Rapture. We will have glorified bodies like Christ when we meet Him.

1 John 3:2, "Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is."

We are told that upon His death Christ went into Hades/Paradise (Bosom of Abraham) where all Old Testament saints waited to enter heaven through Jesus Christ.  In Ephesians 4:8 we are told that He led the captives (those saints waiting in Paradise) into heaven.

Since when we meet Him in the air at the Rapture and receive our glorified bodies to be like Him - why would He not have given those OT saints their glorified bodies when they met Him in Paradise and He led them into heaven?  So I am convinced that the OT saints are in heaven in their glorified bodies and we will join them at the Rapture.

Revelation 7:9-10 tells us that a large multitude, too large to count, of martyred Tribulation saints are in heaven, standing before the throne of God. Are they still in spirit only - while the church and the OT saints are already in their glorified bodies?  Since they and the OT saints are surely all invited to the Marriage Supper of the Lamb - I would suggest that the Bride and the guests, OT saints and Tribulation saints are all in our glorified bodies.

Those Tribulation believers who were not martyred, but survived the seven year Tribulation - will stand before Christ at the Sheep & Goat Judgment - and then enter His Millennial Kingdom in their mortal bodies.

Revelation 7:9-10, "After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could number (Jews and Gentiles), of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, saying, 'Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!' "

13.  Let's talk about the Seven Churches of Revelation 2-3:

A discussion of the Seven Churches of Asia is very important - for in those seven ancient churches we see so much of what is good and what is bad in our churches today.  It is important for us to have a good understanding of these seven churches - for they give us a clear picture of what Jesus sees in our churches today.  And Revelation chapters 2-3 gives us a vision of how He will judge the false, apostate, dead, and compromising churches of our day.