Nothing Comes To Forumland ~ One More Time!

Over twenty years ago, at the suggestion of my good Friend, Pastor Freddy Cortez, I began to share my writing ministry on the internet.  And I found a lot of fertile ground for planting seeds of eternal life.  Then I found my Alabama hometown newspaper, the TimesDaily, online and began to follow the activities of my hometown friends and neighbors. 

Since I am an Alabamian living in Southern California, for several years I read the TimesDaily online just to keep up with my hometown folks.  But I stayed clear of the forums - for to me most forums were just "spitting contests."  However in January 2007 I noticed on the TimesDaily Forums a post titled "What Is A Christian?"  Knowing that my home state is the Belt Buckle of the Bible Belt - I had to see what that post had to say.

What I found in that forum discussion and on the Timesdaily Forum, later renamed the TimesDaily Religion Forum, was that the majority of the dialogues were dominated by two atheists, DeepFat and GoFish.  DeepFat was, like me, an Alabamian transplanted to Southern California, and GoFish was still living in the Shoals area of north Alabama.  Both were devout atheists.  To refute their atheistic teachings I joined the forum and stayed for seven years - until in 2015 a new atheist-leaning Publisher banned me for posting conservative Christian thoughts on "his" Religion Forum. 

Using a wee bit of satire to balance the atheist teachings on the Religion Forum, in 2007 I shared a story of my jousting with Forum Friends, Deep and Fish.  I pray you will enjoy this satirical view of our dialogues.  Keep in mind that while the story is fictional, and the characters are fictional, there is so much truth in the tale itself.  You might call it a prophetic short story.  And, as you will quickly surmise, the fictional characters Argue and Debate in the story, are in reality my Forum Friends Deep and Fish.

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NOTHING COMES TO FORUMLAND!  (From 2007)

Once upon a time, long ago, in a land far away named Oblivion, there lived two atheist friends.  These friends were named Argue and Debate.  One thing that both Argue and Debate agreed upon was that they believed strongly in Nothing.  That was their faith, their religion, the Religion of Nothing.  They worshiped Nothing, they adored Nothing, their lives were dedicated to Nothing.

One day, as they were wandering around in search of Nothing, they happened to stumble upon a new valley, the valley of Forumland.  Oh, they were so excited.  "Maybe," chimed Argue, "we can find others here who know Nothing!"

"Yes," declared Debate, "if not, we can surely introduce them to Nothing!"

They were so excited.  Possibly there were many people here in this beautiful valley who either knew Nothing - or could be lured into knowing Nothing.

"Just imagine the possibilities, if we can convince many others to also believe in Nothing," Debate told Argue.  "Then maybe we can build a cathedral dedicated to Nothing.  That will be a glorious tribute to our god, Nothing."

So, in the new valley of Forumland, Argue and Debate began a concerted effort to plant their seeds and to lay plans for building their cathedral to Nothing.  First, they had to develop a relationship with the people of Forumland.  "Come," said Debate, "we will get into a  conversation with them, assure them that we are Friends - and then we can talk about Nothing."

Walking along in Forumland, the two friends happened upon a small group of Forumland residents.  Right away Argue and Debate began to talk with these good folks.  Discovering that many of these folks believed in someone called God, the two friends were somewhat taken aback.  But that did not deter them.  They were determined that these folks were going to become followers of Nothing.

Argue began, in his sly way, to lead the group of Forumland residents into a discussion.  He asked, "Do you really believe in this God?  Why do you believe that He really exists?"

One local fellow, Bill, replied, "Truthfully, until twenty years ago, I was very much like the two of you.  I wandered in the world, loving the ways of the world, and following Nothing.  But then a Friend named Sam told me about God - and this Friend was so full of love, warmth, and peace.  I realized he must have something that I was lacking.  I had Nothing.  But he had his God.  I was wandering, but he was grounded in love and peace."

"So when he told me about his God, I began to investigate this new Person.  I went to Sam's church, I went to their Bible studies - and I found that these folks in church and Bible study also had this love and peace I was lacking.  Because of this, I kept going to church and Bible study.  I kept learning more and more about this God.  And the more I learned, the more I realized that the god, Nothing, whom I had been following was just that - he was Nothing."

"After about six months, I began to feel this love and peace coming into my heart.  I was surprised.  That is when I said, 'Yes, God, please come into my heart and bring all of Your love and peace.  I want to follow You and Your Son, Jesus Christ.'

"Since then, I have had God's love and peace in my life.  Really, Argue and Debate, you should try it.  You should go to a Bible-teaching church and their Bible study and see if you can rid yourself of Nothing and find God."

Of course, Argue began to argue, "You say that this love and peace JUST came into your heart?"

"No," replied Bill.  "As I learned more about God, I began to realize that He had what was missing in my life.  Then I began to seek Him, I wanted to know more about Him.  It took me about six months to realize that I wanted Him to be my Lord and Savior.   That is when I prayed and asked Him to come into my heart.  That is when I was saved - and His love and peace came into my heart - for He forgave me all my my sins."

So, debated Debate, "If it is that easy, I guess that even Hitler might have been saved?"

"Yes," Bill told him, "even Hitler could have been saved if he had sincerely turned to God in repentance and asked Jesus to come into his heart.  That said, I truly doubt that he did - for he scoffed at everything of God."

"You see," Bill continues, "the only sin which cannot be forgiven is the sin of rejecting Jesus Christ.  For by rejecting Him you condemn yourself.  By rejecting Him, you, by default, choose to follow Satan.  And that personal choice you make will condemn you to an eternity with Satan, without God."

Then Bill told them, "Even Judas Iscariot could have been saved if he had truly repented.  Yet, the Bible tells us that Judas was indwelt by Satan at the Last Supper and never repented.  We read about this in John 13:26-27 and Mark 14:21.  Yes, Judas was sorry about his action of taking thirty pieces of silver as his price to betray Jesus.  And Judas ended much like Hitler, by taking his own life.  We read about this in Matthew 27:3-10."

By now Debate is incensed, "I suppose you even believe in the myth of Creationism?"

"Actually," Bill smiled, "Yes, I do.  If you are sincerely interested I can explain.  You see, nature, the human body, the universe, the relationship between the earth, the sun, the planets, moon, and stars - all of these things declare the glory of God and His Creation.  Later, if you are interested I can give you much more detail to prove that Creation is indeed true and factual."

This really gets under Debate's skin.  He responds, "Evolution is the only thing that is factual and true.  I can give you many web sites which prove evolution!"

Bill responds to Debate's challenge, "No, Debate, rather than showing me what other evolutionists who are devoted to Nothing write - why don't you tell me, in detail, why you believe in evolution."

Debate sputters and fumes, "No.  You are really stupid.  I tell you that evolution is factual, but you will not listen!"

"No, Debate," said Bill, "you tell me to look at web sites written by other followers of Nothing.  But you have not given me any knowledge or facts which come from you.  Why don't you tell me exactly what you know about evolution and why it is factual.  Remember, even Charles Darwin said that if scientist cannot show a transitional 'missing link' fossil record - then, evolution is gasping its last breath.  What can you personally tell me, from your own knowledge, that will show me, absolutely, that evolution is alive and well?"

Angrily, Debate declares, "Bill, you are really stupid.  Look at this web site, Blah-Blah-Blah dot com.  And there are others.  Go to this web site, HotAir dot com. Are you so thick headed and moronic that you cannot read what these honest, sincere evolutionists, followers of Nothing, have written?"

"No," Bill once again replied, "I want to know what you, Debate, and you, Argue, know.  Not what a bunch of other Nothing followers tell you.  What do you know?  Can you, from your own knowledge, tell me why evolution is factual?  Don't just huff and puff, calling me names.  Show me the beef!  Show me the 'missing link' fossils.  Lay it on me!"

Now, both Debate and Argue are boiling, "Bill, you are too stupid for us to waste our time.  We don't want to talk with you anymore.  Just go away and leave us to tell these good people about Nothing."

Smiling, Bill tells them, "I am sorry, my atheist Friends, but I cannot leave Forumland and allow you to build your cathedral to Nothing.  I must make sure that these good folks, my home town family, at least have the Word of God to balance against your words of Nothing."

And, so, the saga of God versus Nothing continues in Forumland; each with their champions, each continuing to share His Truth or his truth - until one day Jesus will come and Rapture His followers away - leaving Forumland totally in the hands of Nothing.

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Stay tuned for the next exciting episode of "Nothing Comes To Forumland."

God bless, have a wonderful, blessed day,

Bill 

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Do You Know Your Church's Statement Of Faith?

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How Many Of Your Church Members Can Pass A SAT Test?

How many of your church members could pass a spiritual SAT Test (SAT - Spiritual Awareness Test)?  I know, many of my Friends will be wondering, "Bill have you been smoking funny cigarettes?"   No, my Friends, I am asking a very legitimate question.

Next Sunday if your pastor takes a congregation SAT poll and asks the following questions, how will your church fare?

1.  How many of you can stand and tell us the Biblical Doctrinal Beliefs (Statement of Faith) of our church?

2.  How many of you can stand and tell us your own personal Statement of Faith?

3.  Who can recite the Biblical Doctrinal Beliefs (Essential Doctrinal Beliefs) which assure your salvation and your eternal life?

4.  Who can tell us some of the Non-Essential Doctrinal Beliefs - and why it is important to also know them?

5.  What is the difference between Essential Christian Beliefs and Non-Essential Christian Beliefs? 

6.  Is our church a Covenantal Theology church or a Dispensational Theology church? 

One major difference is how we view the nation Israel.  Covenantal Theology teaches that the church has become the "spiritual Israel" replacing the national Israel - and that all of God's promises to Israel now belong to the church (Replacement Theology).  Dispensational Theology teaches that the church and Israel are two different entities in God's eternal plan and that the promises God made to Abraham, Jacob, Moses, Noah in the Old Testament have not changed and that He will save for Himself an eternal remnant of Israel, His wife - while we in the church are the separate bride of Christ.

7.  What are the Eschatological Beliefs of your church?  What does that mean and why does it matter? 

8.  What does your church believe about the Rapture, the Second Coming, the Millennium, the Judgments?

9.  Is your church a Soul Winning church?

10.  Specifically, what is your church doing to be called a Soul Winning church?

Those ten questions only scratch the surface of Christian maturity.  But they are important.  What are steps your church can take to assure that a greater number of members will be able to answer those SAT questions (1 through 8)?  What can your church do to become a stronger Soul Winning church (questions 9 and 10)?

Strong interactive, discussion style Bible studies and Sunday School classes will absolutely help church members with the first 8 questions. Sitting with other Christian believers and having an indepth discussion based upon Scripture, especially those dealing with salvation and eternal life - will make us all more mature in our knowledge of God's Word - and it will make us better Great Commission witnesses.

And for questions 9 and 10 the world of technology today offers us so many great tools for witnessing and sharing.   Yes, 90% of social media, i.e., Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, etc. - are, for the most part, a waste of time.  But that other 10% - WOW!  That could be a goldmine for sharing the Gospel, witnessing, and following the Great Commission.

I joke with my wife, Dory, that I am a Matthew 13:57 witness:   "But Jesus said to them, 'A prophet is not without honor except in his own country and in his own house.' "

Matthew 13:54-58, "When He had come to His own country, He taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished and said, 'Where did this Man get this wisdom and these mighty works?  (55) Is this not the carpenter's son?  Is not His mother called Mary? And His brothers James, Joses, Simon, and Judas? (56)  And His sisters, are they not all with us?  Where then did this Man get all these things?'  (57) So they were offended at Him.  But Jesus said to them, 'A prophet is not without honor except in his own country and in his own house.'  (58) Now He did not do many mighty works there because of their unbelief."

Now before you pick up stones to throw, no, I am not comparing myself with Jesus Christ.  I am only saying that the general meaning of that phrase today is often stated, "Familiarity breeds contempt."  In my case it is not so much contempt, as it is, "Hey, that is only Bill.  What does he know?  Did he go to seminary?"  

So when I post a new writing or blog on my Friends Ministry eNewsletters, on our Bill & Dory Gray Christian Ministries blog site, or on Facebook -  I get responses from all across America and from around the world.  But I get none from my family nor from my local church.  Hmmm?  "Hey, that is only Bill"?    

Let me give you an example:  About a month ago, in a two day period, I posted two Urgent Prayer Requests, and later that week the mother of one Christian sister died.  To those prayer requests I received over 100 responses and likes - but none from my family or from my local church fellowship.  Does that mean that my family and my local church fellowship do not believe in prayer? 

Absolutely not.  My family is devout in their prayer life - and my local church fellowship puts great emphasis on prayer.  So, why the lack of response to those prayer requests?  Could it be, "Hey, that is only Bill."  Or as Jesus tells us, "A prophet is not without honor except in his own country and in his own house."

No, this is not a "pity party" for Bill.  This is just me saying that our local churches could, and should be, utilizing the power of social media to share God's Word, to communicate with other believers in various locations, and to reach out and invite folks to come join us for worship, fellowship, and prayer.

Do you remember the Biblical account of the Two Witnesses in Revelation 11?  When God allowed them to be killed, they lay on the street for 3 1/2 days - and people from all around the world could watch the dead bodies lying there.  How is that possible?

Revelation 11:7-12,  "When they (the two witnesses) finish their testimony, the beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit will make war against them, overcome them, and kill them.  And their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.  Then those from the peoples, tribes, tongues, and nations will see their dead bodies three-and-a-half days, and not allow their dead bodies to be put into graves.  And those who dwell on the earth will rejoice over them, make merry, and send gifts to one another, because these two prophets tormented those who dwell on the earth.  Now after the three-and-a-half days the breath of life from God entered them, and they stood on their feet, and great fear fell on those who saw them.  And they heard a loud voice from heaven saying to them, 'Come up here.' And they ascended to heaven in a cloud, and their enemies saw them."

How will the whole world be able to watch the Two Witnesses lying dead on the street?  I am sure that the Antichrist will still have CNN and all the other Liberal News Media alive and well - showing his accomplishments. 

If the Antichrist can use social media and liberal news channels during the Tribulation - we should also be using it more effectively today to share the Gospel, the Word of God.  So, let us not hold social media in disdain.  Instead we should be making sure the true and full Gospel is emanating from all our local churches.  Instead of raising funds for bigger and better church buildings, decorations, vans, and other equipment - let's put a greater priority on having the right computer, video, network connection, and other electronic equipment which will allow us to share the Gospel using the gift of social media.

Does this mean that there is no value in door knocking and other forms of face-to-face soul winning?  Absolutely not, NO, NO, NO!  We, as local church fellowships should be using EVERY possible means of sharing the Gospel.  But let us not lose sight of what good, high quality videos and other means of using social media can accomplish in our soul winning efforts.

So, is your church ready for their SAT Tests?

God bless, have a wonderful, blessed day,

Bill 

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A Tale Of Two Bibles ~ And A Gift Of Love!

THIS IS A TALE OF TWO BIBLES ~ AND A GIFT OF LOVE!   In 1987 I was led to the Filipino-American Church of Irvine (FACI) in Orange County, California.  In hindsight I see that it was the Holy Spirit leading a man lost in the world - into the Light of God.  Through the Pinoy love of God I experienced in the FACI fellowship family and especially in my first six months in their Bible studies, my eyes were opened and I became a Christ follower, a Christian. 

Once I became a believer, I began to read my Bible, alternating between the Old Testament and the New Testament - until I hit a brick wall.  At Bible study one Friday evening I told Pastor Sam Lacanienta, "I have been doing well until I hit the book of Romans.   I cannot make sense of it.  It is like butting my head against a wall."  He asked to see my Bible.  When I started attending the Bible studies, I brought the only Bible I had - a King James Bible given to me by Mormon visitors years before. 

Pastor Sam and the Fil-Am church were prepared for such possible problems.  They had a supply of new Study Bibles available.  That night he gave both Dory and me a new NASB Harper's Study Bible published by Zondervan.  For the past 32 years that has been my go-to Bible carrying me through many, many Bible studies, Sunday School classes, and worship services - and has been my main tool in the Christian writing ministry God gave me over 30 years ago.  Since my NASB Study Bible is now over 30 years old, it is getting a wee bit worn and old, but it still works for me.  When I go to church or Bible study, I always carry a notebook with me to use as a platform where I can lay my Bible.  Otherwise it may start to fall apart.

Years later Dory gifted her NASB Harper's Study Bible to a friend who was Roman Catholic, but had joined a Bible study group near her home.

A simple solution would be for me to buy a new Study Bible.  But unfortunately the Harper's NASB Study Bible has been out of print for about 25 years.  Next solution, buy a new Study Bible which is similar in quality, both print and study notes, to my current Bible.   But, sad to say, the only decent Christian bookstore in our area, the Berean Christian Bookstore in Riverside, was purchased by the Southern Baptist Convention - and closed.  It seems the SBC bought out many Christian bookstores - and in 2019 decided to close all of them.  Doesn't seem to be the Holy Spirit working, does it?

Someone suggested I go online to purchase a new Study Bible.  But that is not feasible for several reasons.  To buy a Bible online, I cannot be sure if the text, and even more important, the study notes, will enhance my studies.  I needed a Bible much like the one I have been using all my Christian life, but where to find one now?  There are pitfalls, even when buying a Bible in a Christian bookstore.

About 25 years ago I went to buy a Study Bible for a friend, Mary, who Dory and I had been inviting to church.  I found a beautiful Bible.  But when I opened it I found that the people who wrote the study notes were very undesirable - Kenneth Copeland, Benny Hinn, and others from the "Name It And Claim It" Prosperity Gospel gang.  I put that beautiful Bible aside and found one that was not as attractive on the outside, but had great study notes inside.  I bought that one for our friend, Mary. 

Now I faced a similar dilemma.  Where do I buy a new Study Bible, NASB or NKJV, for myself?  The only decent Christian bookstores in our area are in some of the larger churches, i.e., Harvest International, etc. - but they are only open during Sunday church hours - when I am at my church.  What to do? 

Then I remembered that circa 2000 I saw a new Christian sister, Rachel Quintans in our Fil-Am Church of Corona (now CICF), who had the same Harper's NASB Study Bible as mine.  It had been gifted to her by our mutual Friend and Christian sister, Jean Fabian, who had been in the FACI church and Bible studies when I was saved in 1987.   She and Rachel were co-workers at a hospital in Orange County and she had gifted the Bible to Rachel.

Seeing Rachel in Bible studies over the past year or so, I noticed that she is using her digital Bible instead of the old fashioned paper Bible.   I wondered if she would want to sell the paper Bible?

I sent an e-mail:

Hi Rachel,  When we were all at CICF (back in the good old days), you had a Bible just like mine - "Harper Study Bible, New American Standard Bible" - published by Zondervan.   You told me that Jean Fabian had given it to you.  If you still have that Bible and are not using it, I would love to buy it from you.  My copy is over 30 years old and has been my go-to Bible all those years - and it is starting to show its age (not me, but my Bible).  Unfortunately that one has been out of print for many years.

I have been looking for a new Study Bible (NASB or NKJV) - but since the Southern Baptist bought and closed the Berean Christian bookstore in our neighborhood - I am having a hard time finding one that fits my needs.  Please let me know if you still have your copy, are not using it, and would be willing to sell it to me.   My love to you and all the Quintans Clan.

Rachel responded:

Hi Bro Bill – I still have it!  I do not use it as often as I should.  I usually use my digital bible via my cell phone.  It is my first Bible, but there is no one I would rather have it than YOU!   You can have it, no need to purchase it.

On Monday, November 25, 2019, my dear Christian sister, Rachel Quintans, came to our home and presented me with my new, almost new, much newer that my 30 year old -  Harper's NASB Study Bible.   Yes, I am a very happy camper!  I cannot express how much this new Bible means to me.

Circa 1999-2000, Rachel, her husband, Jun, and their two boys, Nash and Michael, were saved in our fellowship at the Fil-Am Church of Corona (now CICF).  And over the years Dory and I have worshiped with, done Bible study and Sunday School with, and been so blessed to have the whole Quintans clan as our Christian brethren.  One of our biggest thrills was to see their eldest son, John Nash, become an associate pastor at one of our local Fil-Am churches in Corona, while he is completing his studies in seminary.

So that is my tale of Two Bibles.  One which has served me well for almost 32 years ~ and now a virtually new duplicate which I pray will be serving me for another 32 years.  No laughing!  I do not intend to give up easily - unless I see Jesus Christ coming in the PreTrib Rapture before my next 32 years have come and gone.

Thank you, Lord, for my many Christian brethren, especially Sister Rachel Quintans and all the Quintans Clan.

God bless, have a wonderful, blessed day,

Bill 

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Who Are The Two Witnesses Of Revelation 11?

Often I have written that all believers should have a clear understanding of their own personal Statement of Faith, i.e., that they clearly understand how we are saved and why "they" are saved.  That is just foundational for being a good witness of our faith, as Jesus Christ commands us in His Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 1:8, Mark 16:15).

I have known believers who have told me, "I don't care about all those details.  I am just concerned that I am a Christian believer and that I am saved.  I just want to hear the sermon and then go on about my week."  My question to them is, "If you do not understand what determines your salvation - how do you know that you are saved?"

I have a good Friend who has been a Christian brother for at least thirty years.  Yet a while back, in a Bible study, the pastor raised questions which made him question if he was truly a real believer.  My suggestion to him was to stop only listening to sermons, and concentrate on personally studying and knowing the Biblical doctrines which define our faith and the Gospel.  That way he would not have those doubts.

And as I have often written, the Biblical doctrines which define our faith can be viewed on two levels:   (1) Those Essential Biblical Doctrines which are the foundation of our faith and which without them we are not saved, and (2) those Non-Essential Biblical Doctrines, which while not affecting our salvation are key to our fuller overall understanding of Scripture - which can only add to our sense of Eternal Security in Christ and our effectiveness as witnesses for Christ.

Eschatology, a study of the End Times Prophecies, is one of those Non-Essential Biblical Doctrines or teachings.     Yet, even though our beliefs on eschatology do not affect our salvation, a solid Bible-based understanding of the End Times most certainly will affect our sense of eternal security.  Typically we who delve into a deeper study of the End Times find that the questions we receive often key on several major points of discussion:  (1) When will the Rapture happen, (2) when will the Second Coming of Christ happen, and (3) who are the Two Witnesses of Revelation 11?

Long ago I defined myself as a Dispensationalist, one who personally holds a "Dispensational View" of those issues.  To reiterate, I believe in a PreTribulation Rapture of the church and a PreMillennial Second Coming of Christ.  I believe that is the only Biblical scenario which fits with the Doctrine of Imminency as defined by Christ (Matthew 24:36-44, Luke 12:35-40). 

But who will be the Two Witnesses prophesied in Revelation 11? 

Previously I have thought it to be Moses and Elijah, representing the Law (Moses) and Prophecy (Elijah).  Also because they appeared with Christ at the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-9). 

However, reading from The Revelation Record, written by Dr. Henry M. Morris, founder of the Institute for Creation Research, and published by Tyndale House Publishers in 1983, an excellent verse by verse commentary on the book of Revelation - I have had to rethink and possibly revise my thinking on this issue.  In his commentary Dr. Morris presents solid evidence that the Two Witnesses will be Elijah and Enoch, the only two men to be taken into heaven without tasting death.

Rather than me repeating what he has written so well, I offer this excerpt from that commentary.  After the excerpt I will give you the link to be able to read the full book online.  I use the online version as a copy/paste source in my writings to avoid typo errors, but find that I like reading the hard copy in my personal library for my studies:

The Revelation Record, Pages 194-195 (Page 78 on web site)
Dr. Henry M. Morris, Institute for Creation Research http://thebookofrevelationartist.com/Page_78_GIHK.php

Revelation 11:3, "And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth."

The mighty angel appears suddenly to change the subject, speaking of “my two witnesses.”  The assertion that these two witnesses are peculiarly His witnesses is further proof that the angel is Christ.  Furthermore their witness was to be in the form of prophecy.  They were true prophets, speaking by divine revelation under the authority of Christ, and the duration of their prophetic testimony was set at 1260 days, corresponding to forty-two months of thirty days, or three-and-a-half years.  .  .  .

The identity of the two witnesses has been a matter of much speculation.  Many have suggested that they represent the Law and the Prophets, but both the narrative and the context show clearly that they are real men who speak and perform miracles and then die and rise again. 

Many commentators conclude that they are two great future prophets whom God calls in the last days but whose names are unimportant and therefore unrevealed.  This is a possibility, but seems unlikely in view of Christ’s special identification of them as “my” witnesses, as though they were somehow known to Him and serving Him long before.  The reference to Zechariah’s prophecy of the olive trees and candlesticks (Revelation 11:4) suggests the same.

That they are men, however, and not angels is obvious from the fact that they die.  The most likely conclusion is that they are two of God’s faithful witnesses from former ages, sent back to witness again in the final age.  .  .  .

Elijah was taken into heaven without dying (2 Kings 2:11).  God must have had a reason for such a remarkable action; Elijah was no more deserving of such a privilege than many other saints before and since.  Evidently, God had a ministry for Elijah which required that he still remain living in his natural body.  There he has remained ever since, awaiting the time at the end of the age when he would return to earth to complete his prophetic mission to the people of Israel just “before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord.”

But if Elijah is one of the witnesses, who is the other?  The majority of commentators believe it is Moses, primarily because Moses appeared with Elijah on the mount of transfiguration (Matthew 17:3), and also because both Moses and Elijah had called forth miracles from heaven in the form of plagues on God’s enemies and could effectively represent both the Law and the Prophets.

However, there do seem to be serious problems with this solution.  Moses was not taken into heaven as Elijah was, but died and was buried (Deuteronomy 34:5, 6).  The appearance of Moses with Elijah on the mountain was not an actual physical descent from heaven but was merely a “vision” (Matthew 17:9, "Tell the vision to no one until the Son of Man is risen from the dead").  Despite the mysterious reference to Michael’s dispute with Satan over Moses’ body (Jude 9), it is likely that Moses’ spirit, like all others who died before Calvary, was in Sheol, at least until the time of Christ’s resurrection.

The greatest problem, however, with the assumption that Moses is one of the witnesses is that this would mean Moses would die twice, which would contradict Hebrews 9:27: “It is appointed unto men once to die.”  Furthermore, both Moses and Elijah were prophets to Israel, whereas the two witnesses of Revelation 11 are prophets of judgment to the whole world, both Jew and Gentile.

Bill Gray Note:  Yet we know from that Lazarus, brother of Mary and Martha, died twice.   John 11:43-44, "Now when He had said these things, He cried with a loud voice, 'Lazarus, come forth!'  And he who had died came out bound hand and foot with grave clothes, and his face was wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, 'Loose him, and let him go.' "  So, since Lazarus obviously died twice, could not God have done the same with Moses?

All of these considerations point clearly to the great antediluvian patriarch Enoch as the second of the two witnesses.  Enoch is the only other man in all human history, besides Elijah, who was taken directly into heaven in his natural body without dying.  “By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death” (Hebrews 11:5).  Neither he nor Elijah were given immortal bodies when they were translated however, because it was necessary for Christ first to die for their sins and rise again.  “For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.  But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming” (1 Corinthians 15:22, 23).

Thus Enoch and Elijah have been waiting in heaven in their natural bodies through all the intervening ages since their respective translations.  Therefore, although we cannot be absolutely certain, it does seem most probable that these are Christ’s two witnesses, sent to earth again in the last days to complete their prophetic testimonies to an ungodly world just before Christ returns. 

Enoch’s testimony, given to the antediluvians (Pre-Noahic flood population), could well be the essence of his message to the world in the tribulation period: “Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, to execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him” (Jude 14, 15).

Enoch and Elijah are uniquely appropriate selections for this peculiar ministry in the last days.  For approximately the first 2,000 years of human history (Adam to Abraham), God was dealing with the world of mankind as a whole.  For approximately the second 2,000 years of history (Abraham to Christ), He was dealing primarily with the chosen nation Israel. 

It is significant that Enoch’s prophetic ministry was to the first group and that he preached and was translated during about the middle of the “Gentile” (or “nations”) epoch of history.  Elijah’s ministry was to Israel, and he preached and was translated at about the middle of the period from Abraham to Calvary.

Bill Gray Note:  Enoch prophesied to all people before Noah's Flood for 2000 years (Adam to Abraham).   Elijah prophesied to the Jewish nation for 2000 years (Abraham to Christ) after Noah's Flood.

The third major period of history is the Church Age, also about 2,000 years in duration, during which the members of Christ’s Church, through the prophetic written Word, preach to both Jews and Gentiles.  This age is terminated by the rapture of the Church. 

During the tribulation, with the Church no longer on earth, God will send back His two greatest prophets of the two former ages (Enoch and Elijah) to renew and to complete their respective testimonies to Gentiles and Jews, proclaiming to the whole ungodly world the mighty judgments of God.  After living in their natural flesh in heaven for an average of over three-and-a-half thousand years, they will preach again on earth for a final three-and-a-half years, and then finally be put to death for three-and-a-half days.

As we can see, there is no way to absolutely say whether the Two Witnesses are Moses and Elijah or Enoch and Elijah.  Does it really matter and will this affect our salvation?  No, but doesn't this intrigue you, make you want to dig deeper into Scripture to learn more?  For me, that is the purpose of Bible study, to encourage all of us to dig deeper into the Bible, including the Non-Essential Biblical Doctrines.

I realize that not all believers will wander through the books of prophecy, especially the book of Revelation, and may still contend, "I don't care about all those details.  I am just concerned that I am a Christian believer and that I am saved."

But, you would not begin reading a great novel, or watching an exciting movie - and just close the book or walk out of the theater in the middle without knowing how the story ends, would you?  That would leave you hanging, wondering, "How did it end?"
   
And since "This Is Your Life" - aren't you interested in knowing how it ends, what comes next, and if YOU will win or lose?  You should know that you have eternal salvation, but what does that mean?  That is why studying the Non-Essential Biblical Doctrines and teachings should be a part of your Christian knowledge.  Personally, I find comfort and security in KNOWING how the story ends.

As promised, this is the link to the home page and full access to the book "The Revelation Record."  I pray that you will find this closing book of our Bible exciting and that you will be so intrigued that you will continue to study Eschatology, prophecies of how OUR story ends - and the eternal life begins.

The Revelation Record,  By Dr. Henry M. Morris, A Scientific and Devotional Commentary on the Book of Revelation http://thebookofrevelationartist.com/Home_Page.php

God bless, have a wonderful, blessed day,

Bill 

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Starting A New Bible Study?

RECENTLY A CHRISTIAN BROTHER, Danny Fernandez, and I were talking and he said that he would like to see how I would lead a Bible study.  Leading a Bible study can be broken into two very important parts:  First, in the initial meeting of a new study group, we should talk about the foundation of our Christian faith.  We will want to make sure we are all on the same page regarding doctrines which affect our eternal salvation.  

Second, in the next meeting we should begin an interactive discussion style expository Bible study through a chosen book of the Bible.

Is your church or study group getting ready to start a new Bible study or Sunday School class?  If this is a new group study, I would like to suggest affirming a strong foundation in doctrinal teachings, really understanding what your church believes and teaches (their Statement of Faith), and knowing your own personal Statement of Faith. 

To help you accomplish that, I suggest watching the three short videos below:  The first video is "Leading a Small Group Discussion," a 4 minute video by Ross Anderson of PursueGod.org.  The second is a video I created from my PowerPoint discussion titled "Bible Study: Essential Christian Doctrines."  And the third video is from a second PowerPoint discussion and is titled "Bible Study: Non-Essential Christian Doctrines."  In my Friends Ministry eNewsletter I have attached the two PowerPoint discussions.  Also, for your convenience, I have attached the supporting Word documents which can be printed and used for class notes.

Note:  For Friends who are reading this blog on Facebook or on the Bill & Dory Gray Christian Ministries blog site, those documents cannot be attached. However for anyone who wants them, if you will Message me your e-mail address I will be happy to send them to you.

Every believer should make it a goal to be able to put your own personal Statement of Faith in writing and test that against Scripture.  Acts 17:11 applies whether you are hearing a message, being led in a Bible study, or doing your own personal study.  Test that message or study against Scripture.  It can only strengthen your faith, to be able to articulate clearly and effectively what you believe and why you hold those beliefs.

In that second meeting your group should choose which book of the Bible you will study and then venture into that book in an indepth study.  New studies often start with the book of John which is foundational to our faith, but that is up to the group.   Let me suggest a way of viewing Scripture:  Genesis - John - Revelation.  

Genesis tells us of the beginning and how we and our universe came into being. 

Revelation tells us where we are going, revealing what is going to happen one day which will usher us into eternity, into God's presence - or into a place void of God's love, aka, hell. 

The Gospel of John sits between the books of Genesis and Revelation, telling us God loves us so much that He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to pay our sin debt to Him and to offer all who will believe and receive Him as Lord and Savior, a free ticket on the Glory Train into eternity.

All the other books of the Bible build upon and support the foundation laid by those three books.

Whichever book your group chooses to study, I suggest you consider taking a verse-by-verse expository walk through that book, stopping along the way for discussions of the verses or group of verses.  That way no one gets left behind in their understanding of God's Word.  Keep in mind, it is more important to have everyone in the group well grounded in the Scripture passage or book you are studying - than to see how many verses you can "get through, or out of the way, in one night."   A good Bible study should never be a race for closure - but a mining for knowledge.

I have been in Bible studies where we covered a full chapter in one sitting - and I have been in Bible studies where some evenings we have discussed our way through only a few verses.  The number of verses is not important.  What is important is that you, as a group, have discussed, chewed on, and have a better understanding of what God's Word is teaching us.

In the mid-1980s, Dory and I were in a study of John led by a Bible study leader also named Bill.  The first night we only made it through three verses.  But I promise you, everyone in our group left with a good understanding of those three verses.  A successful Bible study should not be measured by how many verses you make it through - but did all in attendance leave with a good understanding of the verses you did study and discuss?

Please feel free to use these videos and study notes in any way that will benefit you, your church group, and your friends.  I only ask that you do not modify any of the material.  If you believe you see an error, let me know and I will definitely take a serious look at it and make any necessary corrections.

New Bible Study Playlist
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FiKSbPLiklU&list=PL_YT3Rttutri61xd6wmbOD7y0uibrt8KD

God bless, have a wonderful, blessed day,

Bill 

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Can You Relate To What This Man Is Saying?

CAN YOU RELATE TO WHAT THIS MAN IS SAYING?  ~ I can, for what he is saying in his videos and podcasts reverberates with me, I can relate to what he is saying.  Like him I am not a pastor, not a teacher, not a theologian.  I am a Christian who has been studying the Bible for 32 years and began to do apologetic writing about 30 years ago.

While this man speaks to you in his videos and podcasts about the war society has been waging, and is stepping up in recent years, against our Christian faith - I attempt to do the same thing in my apologetic writings.

In my writings (Friends Ministry eNewsletter, Facebook Notes, Bill & Dory Gray Christian Ministries blog, and Facebook posts on current issues) - I try to mix discussions about Biblical issues in our Christian faith, with issues about what the secular society is doing to stifle our Christian faith.  I will discuss political issues which directly affect our Christian faith, and occasionally I will throw in bits of humor and human interest.  I offer this mix so that I do not get relegated to one narrow track in the road of life and ignored.

Do we who attempt to defend our Christian faith get ignored?  Let me answer that from a personal point of view.  I began doing Christian writing about 30 years ago.  Besides the ministries I mention above, I spent 7 years writing on the TimesDaily Religion Forum of my hometown newspaper refuting atheists, legalists, secularists, those in pagan religions such as Wicca, New Age, Humanism, and various other vanilla-flavored non-believers.  At times on that religion forum I had good discussions with other Christians, and even some believers who leaned more toward a liberal theology.

For several years I wrote as a guest columnist on Nathan Tabor's The Conservative Voice, an online newspaper with an audience of about 250,000 readers.  Most of my posts were on the Faith & Family page, but I did venture over to the Politics page occasionally.

At one time my Friends Ministry eNewsletter had about 1000 readers from around the world.  But today due to the extreme secular censorship of many internet providers, that number is far less.  Yet because I still have many faithful Friends from around the world, I can relate to what Jesus tells us in Luke 4:

Luke 4:24 (nkjv), "Then He (Jesus) said, 'Assuredly, I say to you, no prophet is accepted in his own country.' "

Luke 4:24 (nasb), "And He (Jesus) said, 'Truly I say to you, no prophet is welcome in his hometown.' "

Change that from prophet to Christian writer or blogger, and I can relate well to it.  For I have more interaction with Friends from the other side of the world, across America, and in other parts of Southern California - than I do in my own community.  Maybe it is caused by familiarity.  Not sure, but I have noticed it.

This man in the video, Ian Bayne, offers discussions about politics and our Christian faith on YouTube and other social media.  I do the same in my writings - defending the faith.

I do relate very much with one comment he made.  For a while he did mostly radio talk shows and podcasts.  So when he began to do videos he tells us that he was concerned that he speak to the viewing audience - and not just to his guest on the show.  Not wanting to be distracted when doing a video with a guest, he had the producer put a blinder on his microphone so that he talks to his listening audience, rather than having a one-on-one chat with his guest.  As Ian Bayne tells us, both are supposed to be addressing the viewing audience, not having a chat with one another.

About a year ago I began watching the Answers In Genesis YouTube show, which typically has three people sitting at a table discussing issues relevant to Genesis and our faith.  But those three spend 90% of their time with one-on-one chats between themselves.  I found myself yelling (quietly) to myself, "Hey, look out here!  We are your audience!  You are supposed to be talking to us, not chatting with one another."

After a few attempts, I finally gave up watching their videos.  Not because what they were saying is not relevant to my Christian faith.  But because I had a strong feeling they did not know I was out here.  They were too busy chatting with one another.

So I can personally relate to what this gentleman, Ian Bayne, is saying - and I appreciate his efforts to use podcasts and YouTube videos to defend our faith.

You And I Are In A War Whether We Want To Be Or Not https://youtu.be/B1eqJwrKYcs

God bless, have a wonderful, blessed day,

Bill 

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