Lesson One Of Part Nine, Revised. "The Bride Of CHRIST." "The Different Temples Of GOD Including The Millennial Temple For The Bride Of CHRIST, Plus "The Personal Temples Of The BODY OF CHRIST," And Much More.
==============================================================================
The Eternal HEAD Of The "Present BODY OF CHRIST" . . .
1. If the readers desire to have a part in the LORD's work as soul workers, it would be great for them to begin their own Christian tract ministry by downloading our messages and send or give copies to others. What could be more important for you as an ambassador for CHRIST than to support the BODY OF CHRIST in this way? The messages are already written, so why not pass them on to others? It should be noted that practically all our Scriptures are taken from the "King James Version" unless we paraphrase the text. We would also suggest that the Bible student begin his own web page which is free on the internet, and download many of our messages and add them to his own web page. It is possible that thousands of souls could be saved to CHRIST through your own personal Ministry. Think of the blessings that would be bestowed upon you for helping someone to get to know the LORD, and all of these souls will be added to the BODY OF CHRIST! See {
2- Corinthians 5:17-21 } which is the commission for you! And, we would hope that you will not make any changes in our messages because they have been thoroughly researched as to content!2. As to the writer's belief and doctrine, we are strictly Biblical! We adhere to no denominational beliefs unless what they teach is taken from the true Word of GOD and taught in the correct context. We believe that we are to be busy proclaiming the truths for the present age of Grace, in view of the soon coming of our LORD.
3. We believe in . . .
No - 1. The verbal inspiration of the Word of GOD, {
2- Timothy 3:16 }.No - 2. The Deity of JESUS CHRIST, and the Trinity of the GOD-HEAD, {
Titus 2:13; - & - 2-Corinthians 13:14 }.No - 3. The total depravity of man, and everlasting punishment of those who reject CHRIST, {
Romans Ch. 3; - John 3:36; - & - Revelation 20:15 }.No - 4. Redemption by the blood of CHRIST, and by Grace, not of works, are we saved, {
Titus 3:5; - & - Ephesians 2:8-9 }.No - 5. Everlasting life and the security of the Child of GOD, {
John 10:29 }.No - 6. The personality and everlasting punishment of Satan, {
Job Ch. 1; - & - Revelation Ch. 20 }.No - 7. The imminent 'Rapture [ Resurrection' ] of the BODY OF CHRIST, followed by the great 7 year Tribulation Period and the literal Millennial reign of CHRIST on this earth, {
1- Thessalonians 4:16-18; - 1- Corinthians 15:50-55; - & - Revelation 20:1-6 }.====================================================================================
4. A good idea would be to read your Bible along with each verse we have quoted. It is also very important for the student to look up all the added Bible texts that we have referred to in the various Messages. This will give the reader much added information! Another thing we should mention is that when we copy a verse from the Bible we will change much of the spelling from the archaic King James language to the modern way of spelling. Such as . . .
5. "Searcheth to 'searches,' . . . thy to 'your,' . . . standeth to 'stands,' . . . knoweth to 'knows,' . . . maketh to 'make,' . . . nay to 'no,' . . . bringeth to 'bring or bring,' . . . hath to 'has or have,' . . . saith to 'says,' . . . unto to 'to,' . . . doeth t o 'does,' . . . wherefore to 'therefore,' . . . thee to 'the,' . . . justifieth to 'justify,' . . . helpeth to 'help,' . . . liveth to 'lives,' . . . ever to 'always,' . . . lest to 'otherwise or perhaps,' . . . hitherto to 'even yet - or thus far,' . . . Behold 'take notice,' . . . heart to 'mind or intellect,' . . . whereunto to 'the fact is or it was to this end that,' . . . elect to 'chosen,' . . . quickens to 'make alive,' . . . Lo to 'take notice,' . . . sorer- to 'surer,' . . . saving- to 'except,' . . . Woe to 'grievous or distress to you,' . . . and etc. None of this will take away from the true meaning of the original text. Therefore, please bear with us as we teach the message. Also at times in the following message we will refer to the BODY OF CHRIST as "The One BODY." There will be several things to observe such as the following states:
6. [ 1 ]: The reader will notice that we have put words in parenthesis in the various Bible verses. This is done to help the student have a better understanding of the old King James language, which is often a little bewildering to some folks who are not use to that kind of speech. Therefore, please bear with us as we teach the message. [ 2 ]: The reader will also notice that we have repeated several verses here and there in our message and of course we do this to bring out a better understanding of the message. [ 3 ]: Also, a few of the questions we ask at the end of a lesson may be repeat questions to bring to mind various things that have been taught in an earlier lesson. [ 4 ]: The reader will also observe that we have placed dividing brackets such as those below - just above and below the various "Bible Texts," and also Quotes from other ministers and Theologians in our message.
=========================
..............................................................................................................................................................................
7. Commentary . . . The BODY OF CHRIST collectively is a great subject revealed in the Epistle to the Ephesians. It is the one BODY: consisting of CHRIST the glorious Head in Heaven, and His people the members of that BODY which is called by most folks "the Church of this age on the earth;" on which account, this BODY is called in {
Ephesians 2:15 }, "The ONE NEW MAN" not two individuals [ a Bridegroom and a Bride ], but one. That is why it is said "we are all in CHRIST JESUS," and are made in Himself of twain: two, "Hebrew and Gentile before being saved," but the "ONE NEW MAN" after being reborn into the family of GOD. But, this BODY is also compared to a building, a Holy Temple . . . { Ephesians 2:20-21 }.8. This Temple is said to be built upon the 'foundation of [ i.e., laid by' ] the Apostles and Prophets. These cannot refer to the twelve Apostles of the Kingdom Gospel, or to the prophets of the Old Testament, for this knowledge was not given by CHRIST till after His ascension into Heaven. See {
Ephesians 4:11-12 }, which speaks dogmatically of their gift and its special object .9. Also, there were "Apostles" other than "the 12 called in the book of Matthew." Barnabas was an Apostle {
Acts 14:14 }. So were Timothy and Silvanus { I- Thessalonians 1:1 - & - 2- Thessalonians 1:1 }, compared with { 1- Thessalonians 2:6 }. Andronicus and Junias were Apostles { Romans 16:7 }. So were Epaphroditus { Philippians 2:25, R.V; marg. }, and many others who are unnamed.10. See {
2 Corinthians 8:23, R.V; marg }. There were "Prophets" also quite distinct from those of the Old Testament, Barnabas { Acts 4:36 }, Silas and Judas { Acts 15:32 }, Manaen and Lucius { Acts 13:1; - 1-Timothy 6:11; - & - 2 -Timothy 3:17 }, "A man of GOD," which means a Prophet; compare { Deuteronomy 33:1; - 2 - Kings 4:7; - & - Acts 19:6 }. These and others are those who laid the foundation for the BODY OF CHRIST, JESUS CHRIST Himself being the Chief Cornerstone of the BODY.11. The Temple of David and Solomon was all of Divine origin. David was moved "By the HOLY SPRIT." David stated "The LORD made me understand in writing by His hand upon me, {
1- Chronicles 28:19 }." In the same manner the physical body of the adopted Child of GOD as a Divine Holy Temple is in perfection in its design today. { 2- Timothy 4:13 } points to these Scriptures as the Divine credentials of his mission: whereas the twelve Apostles of CHRIST had a special power, bestowed upon them by the HOLY SPIRIT to perform "Signs and wonders, and 'divers [ many' ] miracles { Hebrews 2:3-4 }." In Solomon's Temple of old everything was in a Divine order, the materials, dimensions, divisions, arrangements, the form and the furniture.12. The stones of this first constructed Temple were great and costly, {
1- Kings 5:17; - & - 7:10-11 }. For many centuries it remained a mystery as to where these stones came from; but today the dark caverns beneath the City of Jerusalem may be seen by tourist. It is clear that these stones never came out of the caverns by their own power. And it is equally true that the living stones, which are today built into the Christian Believers of the BODY OF CHRIST; are "the living Temple of the HOLY SPIRIT of GOD."13. There was in the past, nothing left to chance, or to any man's imagination; the same applies to the Spiritual Temple now. Solomon's Temple was built on the spot where Divine judgment had been stayed by the Divinely appointed offering: first by Abraham {
Genesis 22:2, 14, } and afterwards by David, { 1- Chronicles 22:1; - & - 2- Chronicles 3:1 }. The physical body of a Christian of today is also a Temple built on CHRIST Who made the atonement: Who died and Who has risen again, { Colossians 1:14,18 }.14. In Solomon's Temple, the stones were first covered over with cedar-wood, and then the cedar-wood [ and even the whole house ] was covered over with Gold {
1- Kings 6:15-22 }, and then we read in { V. 18 }, " there was no stone seen." Of course not, how could there be? And so it is with the BODY OF CHRIST of today. Nothing of these stones is seen in the presence of GOD. All are perfect and unblamable before GOD, covered completely with all the merits and perfection's and Holiness of CHRIST, "complete in Him."15. Oh that we could dwell on what GOD has made us to be in CHRIST; He seeing us only in Him; and we who are less taken up with the effort to produce something of our own for GOD to see. Then, remember that every-thing was done to these stones and trees. Nothing was done by them. They were torn out of their dark caverns; they were hewn and fashioned there.
16. They were drawn out; and built in; and overlaid with cedar, and covered over with pure gold. Even so it is with the saved Saints, they have been taken out of the pit to have their place in the Holy Temple, taken out of darkness, and brought into GOD's glorious light. Yes! the stones were dug out, and the trees were cut down {
2- Chronicles 2:8, 9, 16 }. There was only one way from the forest of Lebanon to the Temple site in Jerusalem.17. The ax was used to cut these magnificent trees down until they lay lifeless and helpless; severed entirely from the old root of nature. Then they were brought down into the dark waters of the Mediterranean Sea, and thence taken onward to Joppa. There was no overland route for a single tree, first the ax, then the fall, and through the waters of death, and so are those lost to CHRIST. They too, must pass through a similar experience.
18. However lofty may be their looks or proud their hearts may be, they must repent and pass through the waters of death, in CHRIST JESUS. Then in His risen life they can be built into this fleshly body, a Holy Temple. It is against this that the flesh rebels in many a Saint, as he reads these words he may say it is only "one side of the truth. " But, we believe that even though this may be so, it is this side which most urgently needs to be known in this present day. The other side, man's side, is everywhere put forward, and taught on every hand.
19. Surely it is time that GOD should have His side put forward for once. We all should look on it as a real privilege to be among the few in this world to give the LORD all the praise and glory for what He has accomplished for us. The fact is, many Christians will struggle to preserve some little standing by allowing their flesh to have its way; and how difficult it becomes for them to accept the fact that they have died, were buried and raised again, in CHRIST, see {
Romans 6:4-11 }.20. There are many dreaming that Christianity will gradually brighten up the darkness of this world. For us, we only wish to point you to the risen CHRIST, all must be constructed on Him, and all who are built upon Him will be eternally secure. In this lies the one great contrast between these two Divine Temples, Solomon's Temple and the human body, which is today for the Christian "the Temple of the HOLY SPIRIT."
21. One would have thought that those great massive stones of Solomon's and Herod's Temples would have stood forever. Those who visit Israel today are not able to see a presence of any Temple at this time! Many other buildings are standing at this time that are very old, but the Chaldeans prevailed against Israel's Temple. "The people of the 'Prince [ Antichrist' ] that shall come" completed its desolation.
22. This cannot be said of the "Holy Temple," of which CHRIST is the Chief Cornerstone. GOD is the builder, and His SPIRIT indwells every individual in the BODY OF CHRIST. Its foundation is not Peter, but in CHRIST; not at Rome, but in the Heavenlies; and when it is complete and the 'last stone [ Child of GOD' ] is laid in its place, it will be caught up into Paradise. It will not be like New Jerusalem that John saw, that will come down from Heaven {
Revelation 21:9-10 }.23. CHRIST's present Temple will ascend into the Heavenlies, indeed a glorious "NEW MAN in all his masculinity," the adopted Son of GOD the FATHER, not having spot nor wrinkle, stain or blemish. There will be no trace of sin, grief or sorrow in him. He will remain that way throughout all eternity. We as Saints of GOD are "presented faultless before the presence of CHRIST's glory with exceeding joy." May we join with the Apostle when he states . . .
=========================
24. {
V. 24 } Scripture: "Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy,25. {
V. 25 }: To the only wise GOD our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power both now and forever. "Amen, { Jude Vs. 24-25 }."=========================
26. The above two verses paraphrased in commentary form . . .
{
24 } Scripture: "Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you 'faultless [ unblemished and blameless' ] before the presence of His glory 'with [ unspeakable, ecstatic delight, triumphant over Satan,' and with ] exceeding joy,{
25 }: To the [ one and ] only 'wise GOD our Saviour [ through JESUS CHRIST our LORD ], 'be glory [ splendor ] and 'majesty, [ might and' ] dominion and 'power [ and authority,' ] both now and 'forever [ unto all the ages of eternity' ]. "Amen: [ So be it" ], { Jude Vs. 24-25 }."========
27. Commentary . . . Christians today are aware that CHRIST taught in the Temple. This Temple that stood in Jerusalem during CHRIST's time was called the Second Temple, a structure often called "the Herodian Temple." King Nebuchadnezzar destroyed Solomon's Temple more than five hundred years before the birth of CHRIST. This Second Temple was destroyed by Titus and his Roman legions in A.D. 70. Between 685 and 691 A .D., the "Dome of the Rock" was built by the 'Caliph 'Abd Almalik Ibn Marwan.'
28. It was not intended to be a Mosque, but merely a Pilgrims' Shrine. Muslims claim it sets over the rock from which Mohammed supposedly ascended to Heaven. On the other hand, the Hebrews revere the Temple site from an event which has everything to do with the very existence of the Hebrew people.
29. Isaac was saved on this site. Isaac, was the son of Abraham and the father of Jacob and Esau. Jacob's name was later changed to Israel, who was the progenitor of the 12 Tribes of Israel. Esau became the father of the Edomite Kingdom. The Hebrews recognized that both the Temple of Solomon, and the later Herodian Temple stood on this same rock. They knew all Hebrew spiritual life revolved around the daily sacrifices offered by the Levitical Priesthood; those great annual Sabbaths, like Passover, the Feast of Weeks, Atonement [ Yom Kippur ], and the 'Feast of Tabernacles [ Succoth' ] featured special offerings in the Temple.
30. Christians today revere the Temple site. When CHRIST was teaching in the Temple He delivered to the people many facts concerning the parables, and He referred to the Temple as "My FATHER's house." All this took place right in the proximity of the Temple.
31. Why must a Tribulation Temple be built? The Hebrew Temple must be built in that future time for the following reasons:
The Tribulation Temple . . .
32. Commentary . . . [ 1 ]: In {
Daniel 9:27 } the prophet states expressly that the Antichrist will break his peace treaty with Israel, and stop the sacrifice and 'oblation [ offering' ]. At that time the sacrifice according to Hebrew Law, will only be offered in the Temple. Daniel continues to state that the 'Covenant-breaker [ the Antichrist' ] will then commit the "Abomination of desolation." Daniel states . . .=========================
33. {
V. 11 } Scripture: "And from the time that the 'daily sacrifice [ the continual burnt offering' ] shall be taken away, and the abomination that makes desolate [ is ] set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days.34. {
V. 12 }: 'Blessed [ happy, fortunate, spiritually prosperous and to be envied' ] is he 'that waits [ expectantly and earnestly, who endures without wavering beyond the period of Tribulation' ] and comes to the thousand and five and thirty days, { Daniel 12:11-12}."=========================
35. Commentary . . . This abomination that makes desolate, at the mid-point of the Tribulation week of years, will take place when the Antichrist will abolish the Jewish sacrifices. From that time to the end of that period will be 1,290 days. Normally 3 1/2 years [ which is believed to refer to Jewish time of 30 day months would make it 360 days per year ] this would include only 1,260 days. The extra 30 days mentioned here could be to allow for the judgments which will take place after the Second Coming of CHRIST.
36. Remember when MESSIAH returns, He will Judge the nations of this world. See {
Ezekiel 20:33-44; - Joel 3:2-3; - & - Matthew 25:32 }. In { V. 12 } above: Since the one who lives 75 days after the Second Coming [ 1,335 days from the mid-point of the Tribulation is called blessed, this must mark the beginning of the actual functioning of CHRIST's Millennial Kingdom. ] Daniel is told . . .=========================
37. Scripture: "But [ you Daniel who was over ninety years of age ], go you your way till the end be: for you shall rest, and 'stand [ fast' ] in your 'lot [ allotted place' ] at the end of the days, {
Daniel 12:13 }."=========================
38. Commentary . . . Daniel would die, but is promised to stand on his feet again at the time he is resurrected at CHRIST's Return to the earth. See {
Daniel 12:2-3 }.=====================================================================
39. Commentary . . . JESUS CHRIST confirmed this prophecy in {
Matthew 24:15-16 }, when He said . . .=========================
40. {
V. 15 } Scripture: "When you therefore shall 'see [ the appalling sacrilege ] the abomination of desolation', spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the Holy place: [ let the people take notice ponder, consider, and heed this warning ] whoever reads [ this ], let him understand.41. {
V. 16 }: Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains."42. [ The prophet Daniel has considerable to say about this ]: See {
Daniel 9:27; - 11:31; - & - 12:11 }.=========================
43. Commentary . . . The MESSIAH of Israel, when He comes in judgment to reign on earth, will appear in Jerusalem at the Temple.
=========================
44. {
V. 1 } Scripture: "Behold, [ Take notice ] I will send My messenger, and he shall prepare the way before Me: and 'the LORD [ the MESSIAH' ], Whom you seek, shall suddenly come to His Temple, even the messenger [ or Angel ] of the covenant, Whom you delight in: behold, He shall come, says the LORD of Hosts. See { Matthew 11:10; - & - Luke 1:13-17, - & - 76 }."45. {
V. 2 }: But who may 'abide [ endure' ] the day of His coming? [ in other words "how many will still be left alive when He returns?" ] 'and who shall stand [ still be standing' ] when He appears? For He is like a refiner's fire, and 'like fullers [ a laundry man's ] soap.' See { Revelation 6:12-17 }.46. {
V. 3 }: And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and He shall 'purify the [ priests' the ] sons of Levi, and 'purge [ refine' ] them as gold and silver, that they may offer to the LORD an offering in righteousness, { Malachi 3:1-3 }." See also { Zechariah 13:8-9; - & - Ezekiel 5:12-13 }.=========================
47. Commentary . . . The Apostle Paul prophesied that the Antichrist will sit in the Temple of GOD, showing the world that he is GOD, and this can only come during the Tribulation Period.
=========================
48. {
V. 3 } Scripture: "Let no man 'deceive [ or beguile' ] you by any means: for that 'day [ of Tribulation' ] shall not come, except there come "a falling away first" and that man 'of sin [ and lawlessness, the Antichrist' ] be revealed, 'the son of perdition [ of doom' ];49. {
V. 4 }: Who opposes 'and exalts himself [ so proudly and insolently against and ] above all that is called GOD,' or that is worshipped; so that he as GOD [ actually ] sits in the Temple of GOD, showing [ proclaiming to ] himself [ and to others ] that he is GOD, { 2- Thessalonians 2:3-4 }." See { Daniel 11:36-37; - & - Ezekiel 28:2 }: Ezekiel in this text refers to the future world leader - the Antichrist."=========================
50. Commentary . . . What does Paul mean when he speaks of "the falling away" first in {
V. 3 } above, and insinuates that it must come before the Tribulation Period? We have a double meaning implied here in typology, but the definite article 'the' denotes that this will be a definite event, distinct from the appearance of the man of sin. The Greek word 'apostasia': refers to apostasy, but the Greek word for 'falling away' taken by itself, does not necessarily mean that it refers to religious apostasy or defection alone even though that is taking place at the present time. Neither does the word mean 'to fall from grace,' as the Greeks have another word for that.51. The best translation of the words 'falling away' is "to depart." The Apostle refers here to a definite event which he calls 'the departure,' and will occur just before the start of the Tribulation Period. This is to be the departure of the "ONE NEW MAN in the masculine gender" which refers to the Rapture of the "BODY OF CHRIST himself in the masculine gender." Naturally, Scripture also alludes to mankind falling away from the teachings of Christianity, and this will be definite apostasy through the world's nations such as that which is taking place during this very hour, and will climax during the Tribulation Period . . .
===================================================
52. No. 5. Commentary . . . The Bible declares without qualification that there will be a Temple in Jerusalem at the midway point of the Tribulation period. At that time, it is evident that Priests and Levites will be offering up sacrifices in the Jerusalem Temple but the sacrifices will be an abomination to GOD. . . .
=========================
53. {
V. 1 } Scripture: "And there was given me a reed like unto 'a [ measuring ] rod [ shaped like a staff' ]: and the angel stood, saying, rise, and measure the Temple of GOD, and 'the alter [ of incense' ], 'and [ number' ] them that worship therein.54. {
V. 2 }: But the court which is without the Temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given to the 'Gentiles [ the heathen' ]: and the holy city shall 'they tread under foot [ by the Antichrist and his followers' ] forty and two months, { Revelation 11:1-2 }." See { Zechariah 12:3; - & - Isaiah 63:18 }.=========================
55. Commentary . . . {
V. 1-2 }, above provide an apocalyptic view of the Tribulation Temple just before the Antichrist commits the "Abomination of Desolation" and takes over the Temple for his own evil purpose. GOD looked upon the wickedness before the Flood; . . . He came down to observe the intentions of the Babel builders, etc. Thus, before GOD permits the extreme judgment during the last half of the Tribulation Period to come 'upon Israel [ during the time of Jacob's trouble' ], He makes sure that the time is right to met out justice to a sinful world. See { Jeremiah 30:7. }56. The rebuilt Temple in Jerusalem will be measured, the religious service and even those participating in the sacrifices and oblations will be observed. All that GOD sees going on in the Tribulation Temple will be an "abomination . . . [ abomination: i.e., a detestable action; a shameful vice. Perhaps the Antichrist and the false prophet will offer up such an offering to GOD from the Temple that will be completely unacceptable as was the offering Cain offered up to GOD, see {
Genesis 4:4-5." } . . . [ The measuring of the structure itself indicates it will NOT BE built according to GOD's standards. Since the LORD is not behind the building of this Temple, He allows Satan to have power over it for the remainder of the tribulation period. Antichrist will take it over for 'his false 'church { Tabernacle': Daniel 11:45' }. This will begin the final affliction of the Hebrews by the Antichrist in the last three and a half years of the Tribulation, and because of the increased persecution many Hebrews will accept CHRIST as their True MESSIAH.The Roman Catholic Church Wants Jerusalem! . . .
57. Commentary . . . The Roman Catholic Church has continually opposed the re-establishing of Israel as a nation. All the various Popes have remained antagonistic to the past leaders of Israel, because the Vatican has been trying for centuries to gain control of Jerusalem such as transpired during "the crusades in historic medievalism. [ i.e., during the dark ages usually dated from 700- through - 1500 A.D." ] Jerusalem is identified in the Bible as "the City of Peace" on this earth, the City of the MESSIAH, the Holy City, and the City of GOD. Catholicism cannot convincingly present itself as GOD's Church, neither can Catholicism rightfully claim that Rome is a city of peace or ever has been, nor can the Pope be instituted as he would like to be as the Viceroy of GOD here on earth even though he has been falsely presented as such.
58. But, the Pope will continue trying to do so in a dictatorial manner until, his Church gains control of Jerusalem. Common sense should tell anybody that a Viceroy of the LORD should necessarily be living in GOD's City Jerusalem! Therefore, the Antichrist who appoints himself as GOD will do just that. He will use the Temple as his own house at least for a limited time, to convince the world's people that he is GOD. How ungodly this upstart will be! We would make it very plain that never do we make the mistake of stating that the Pope will become the future Antichrist, but we do believe that either a Pope or some one with that type of standing will become the future "False prophet" spoken of in {
Revelation 13:11-18. }59. Concerning Israel, one thing must be realized, according to human logic, Israel cannot at this time exist as a nation without support from the United States. Up to this very time there has been pressure from many nations and especially the Arab nations to turn the United States against Israel. It has been the Roman Catholic Church that has been the most aggressive branch of Christendom [ according to their own standards ], in persecuting the Hebrews for crucifying the MESSIAH.
60. Therefore, it is doubtless with much fear that Hebrew religious leaders anticipate much hardship in the days to come. The apprehension of the future, with enemies on all sides of the Jewish nation, which includes Rome plus most all other nations of the world turning against them. The persecution is sure to be a great motivating factor in hastening the Israelis decision to construct a Temple that will serve their purpose.
61. It will strengthen Israel's claim to Jerusalem, and the Hebrews are aware that if the Pope were ever to become the religious Potentate of the City, he probably would never permit a Temple to exist. But, the Bible states very emphatically that there will be a Tribulation Temple! The Hebrew Temple of old had a partition that separated the Gentiles in the outer court from the Hebrews in the inner court. When CHRIST died, according to the Bible, this separation was to no longer exist.
62. All this meant that now Gentiles and Hebrews could be formed into a future Body of Saints if they would become Christians in a new Dispensation that would shortly come to pass through the SPIRIT led Apostle Paul. On the other hand, a called out "Remnant of Hebrews," as we have already stated in this message, were to become a protected nation of priest who will inherit Israel and its land during the Millennial reign of MESSIAH. And, the saved people out of the Gentile nations will inherit the nations of the world as their inheritance under the Millennial Kingdom order.
======================================================
Lesson Two, Part Nine. "The Various Temples Of God" . . .
=============================================
The Millennial Temple . . .
1. Commentary . . . The last eight chapters of Ezekiel concerns the restored theocracy and the adoration of MESSIAH as King. See also: {
Isaiah 12:1-6; - 25:1-2; - 26:19; - 56:7; - 61:1O-11; - 666:23; - Jeremiah 33:11,18 21-22; - Ezekiel 20:40-41; - 40:1; - 46:24; - Zechariah 6:12- 15; - 8:20-23; - & - 14:16-21 }.=========================
2. Scripture: "And it shall come to pass, shall all flesh come to worship before Me, says the LORD, {
Isaiah 66:23 }."=========================
3. The above {
V. 23 } Paraphrased in commentary form . . . "And it shall come 'to pass [ from a new moon to another new moon, and from one sabbath to another sabbath' ], shall all flesh come to worship before Me, says the LORD, { Isaiah 66:23 }."========
4. Commentary . . . Most of the prophecy in the last eight chapters of Ezekiel are devoted to the fourth Temple that CHRIST will build at His Second return, to its structure, priesthood, rituals and to its ministry. In the Prophet's vision, it will be a literal Temple and by the dimensions it is very clear that nothing like this Temple has ever been erected. It is also stated that the SHEKINAH GLORY of the LORD will at that time, return to the Temple and will make His dwelling place there. This will be the same "SHEKINAH GLORY [ i.e., Jewish Theol, the Divine presence, or a radiance forming the visible manifestation of the Divine presence," ] which Ezekiel visualized departing from the Temple in Jerusalem in the Old Testament, {
Ezekiel 10:19-20 }. No High Priest is mentioned in this fourth Temple but the Hebrews, when returning from Babylonian captivity, did have a High Priest.5. The stream of water flowing from this Millennial Temple cannot be applied to any Temple of any past age. This is a marvelous picture of the future restoration by MESSIAH and when His Glory will be manifested in the midst of His people. This Temple will be constructed on a very high mountain. This sounds like the LORD will cause this mountain to be raised up much higher by a large earthquake during the Tribulation Period. Nevertheless, this mountain of MESSIAH's house, will be established and exalted above the hills, and the nations of the world shall visit there, see {
Isaiah 2:2-4; - Micah 4:1-8; - & - Ezekiel 37:26-27 }.6. The high mountain will be the enlarged Mount Moriah! Ezekiel gives the full dimensions of the size of the Millennial Temple. When the LORD moves into His Temple, the announcement will not only be that it is GOD's dwelling place and the seat of worship, but also that it is to be the center of all future Divine Government: "This is the place of My throne, {
Ezekiel 43:7 }."7. From under the threshold of the Temple, a stream of water is going to come forth and flow eastward into the Dead Sea. The water of the Sea will be healed and on both banks of the stream, from the Temple to the sea, will be trees of fruit that will never fail to have fruit on them, neither will bugs or other pest in-fest them. The leaves of the trees will be for medicine from that time on. At that time, there will be literal sacrifices! See {
Ezekiel 20:40-41; - 43:18; - 46:24; - Zechariah 14:16; - Isaiah 56:6-8; - 66:20-24; - & - Jeremiah 33:15-18 }. Therefore, the folks who teach that there will be no sacrifices or meat eaten during MESSIAH's Millennial reign are obviously NOT paying attention to the above texts!8. All of this teaches of that which concerns the restoration of a priesthood and of the reinstitution of a bloody sacrificial system during that age. One great stumbling block that hinders the belief and acceptance of literal sacrifices in the Millennium is removed by observing that, while there are many similarities between the Aaronic and the Millennial systems, it should also be remembered that there are many differences between them that makes it impossible that they should be equated.
9. During MESSIAH's reign, we find that worship centers in and at the "altar" {
Ezekiel 43:13-17 } on which blood is sprinkled { Ch. 43:18 } and on which are offered burnt offerings, sin offerings, and trespass offerings { Ch. 40:39 }. There now will be an institution of a Levitical order, in that the Sons of Zadok are set aside for a Priestly ministry { Ch. 43:19 }. The meal offering is also incorporated in the ritual { Ch. 42:13 }. There will be prescribed rituals of cleansing for the Altar { Ch. 43:20 } = for the Levites who minister { Ch. 44:25-27 }, and for the Sanctuary { Ch. 45:18 }. There will be the observance of a New Moon and of Sabbath Days { Ch. 46:1 }. Morning sacrifices will be offered daily { Ch. 46:13 }. Perpetual inheritances will be recognized { Ch. 46:16-18 }.10. The Passover Feast will be observed again {
Ch. 45:21-25 } and the Feast of Tabernacles will become an annual event { Ch. 45:25 }. The year of Jubilee will be observed { Ch. 46:17 }. There is a similarity in the regulations given to govern the manner of life, the dress, and the sustenance of the Priestly order { Ch. 44:15-31 }. This Temple, in which the ministry is executed, becomes once again the place from which is manifested the Glory of JEHOVAH { Ch. 43:4-5 }.11. It can therefore be seen that the form of worship during MESSIAH's Millennial reign will bear a strong similarity to the old Aaronic order. Israel will be converted to become the Bride of CHRIST before she enters the promised land as the Bride, but she will NEVER become any part of the present BODY OF CHRIST. For whether we Christians have been Hebrews or Gentiles in the past, we today are of the "ONE NEW MAN," {
Ephesians 2:15; - & - 2- Corinthians 3:18 }.12. We are perfect in CHRIST and will dwell in Heaven! The distinctions between Israel and the BODY OF CHRIST are easily seen when we consider that CHRIST is the HEAD over all His BODY of Saints as it is being formed on this earth by the HOLY SPIRIT. When Ezekiel's prophecy shall be accomplished, it will be the reign of JEHOVAH JESUS on earth as the great MESSIAH and KING. The distinction of Israel from the other nations will again be resumed, through the blessing under Israel's New Covenant, not as of the old for a curse under the Mosaic Law.
13. The Heavenly BODY OF CHRIST rest upon "the one Sacrifice," and draws it near into the holiest of all, at the place where CHRIST is at the right hand of GOD the FATHER. But, the earthly "Bride Israel" will have her own Sanctuary as well as the land that will be suited for her here on this earth, and she will obey all the ordinances of her worship.
14. It is taught from the { Book of Hebrews } that Israel sought access to JEHOVAH in the Mosaic Dispensation through the order or arrangement of the Aaronic Priesthood. We today are brought to the FATHER through CHRIST as He ministered in a new order or arrangement, of the Melchisedec Priesthood. This writer believes that Melchisedec was the LORD JESUS CHRIST in human form whether this is true or not is really inconsequential.
15. The reader should study everything Scripture has to say concerning Melchisedec then make up his or her own mind. It is particularly emphasized in {
Hebrews 7:15 } that CHRIST came to minister in a new order of the Priesthood. The requirements or rituals of the two orders need not vary appreciably for them to be two different orders. Since both of these orders point to CHRIST, it would be expected that similarities should exist.16 There are many differences between the Aaronic Priesthood of the Old Testament and the future Millennial system. The significance is not in the similarities but in the clear differences between the two systems. The Millennial system is expressed by omissions from the Aaronic order that makes the two systems so different. First of all, there are changes in the Millennial order of the dimensions of the Temple so that it can not apply to either Solomon's, Zerubbabel's, or Herod's Temple. . . .
17 Changes in the measurements of the outer court, the gates, the walls, the grounds, and the locality of the Temple itself, raised upon a high mountain. No doubt the Temple area will be raised up much higher by earthquakes and enlarged tremendously! The Holy places have hardly anything like the furniture that stood in the Tabernacle of Moses or the Temple of Solomon.
18 The Millennial Reign is distinguished by the deletion of much that had the highest place in the old Aaronic system. During the Millennium there will be NO ark of the covenant, NO pot of manna, NO Aaron's rod to bud, NO tables of the Law, NO Cherubim, NO mercy seat, NO golden candlestick, NO shewbread, NO veil, NO unapproachable holy of Holies where the high priest alone might enter, nor is there any high priest to offer atonement to take away sin, nor to make intercession for the people. None of this. The Levites, as a Priestly order, have passed away, other then the line of ZADOK, as a sacred order. The Priesthood will be confined to the "Sons of Zadok" and only for a special purpose. 'There will be no evening sacrifice.'
19 The measurements of the Altar of burnt offerings are different from those of the Mosaic Altar, and the offerings themselves are barely named. The preparation for the singers is different from what it was during Old Testament times. The social, moral and civil prescriptions enforced by Moses with such emphasis, are all wanting. The changes in the Temple and its environs are so explained that it was necessary for Ezekiel to give detailed descriptions of it. One of the major changes to be observed is in the relation of the Levites to this order.
20. In a number of passages the existence of a Levitical order is affirmed {
Ezekiel 40:46; - 43:19; - & - 44:15-31 }. Yet it is to be noted that the Priests who serve are not taken from the Levitical line, for the line as a whole were set aside because of their apostasy, and are now to be taken from the "Sons of Zadok." The Levites will be restricted in their ministry to that of guarding and maintaining the Millennial Temple. They are excluded from the Priestly ministry with the exception of the "Sons of Zadok." Concerning the line of Zadok . . .21. Zadok fills a prominent place in the history of the Israelites, being a High Priest in David's and Solomon's reign. He remained faithful to David during Absalom's rebellion, and with Nathan the Prophet espoused the cause of Solomon when Adonijah sought to secure the throne himself in order to keep Solomon from having it. David being filled with the SPIRIT of GOD, instructed Zadok to anoint Bath-sheba's son as King {
1- Kings 1:26,32-45 }.22. Zadok therefore, stands as representative of the Priesthood in association with the King of MESSIAH's choice, and with the Kingdom as established by Him in David's Seed, "which is a type of CHRIST." Therefore, It is to be observed that GOD has set aside the whole Levitical line except Zadok because of their past apostasy, and has singled out the line of Zadok from within the Levitical line, and appointed to his seed the important Priestly ministry of the Millennial age.
23. If it should be argued that tribal lines have vanished and no genealogy exists by which the line of Zadok should be established, let it be observed that the GOD Who, in infinite wisdom, can call twelve thousand from each of the tribes of Israel whenever He wishes . . . {
Revelation Ch. 7 } and can certainly preserve and identify the line of Zadok very easily. While there is emphasis of the Passover in Ezekiel and of the Feast of Tabernacles { Ezekiel 45:25 }, there is an omission of any reference to the Feast of Pentecost. The Millennial Age will not see the re-establishment of Judaism. All this gives us the proof that prophecy is going to be fulfilled, and Israel will become the new nation out of, and distant from the old nation of the Hebrews in times past.=========================
24. Scripture: "Therefore say I to you, 'the Kingdom of GOD [ earthly Millennial Reign' ] 'shall be taken from you [ from the old Hebrew nation' ], and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof [ i.e., This is speaking of the new restored Hebrew nation during the future Millennial reign of MESSIAH ], {
Matthew 21:43 }."========
25. Scripture: "Fear not, little flock; for it is your FATHER's good pleasure to give you the [ Millennial ] Kingdom, {
Luke 12:32 },"========
26. Scripture: "The 'fig tree [ Israel as the Bride of CHRIST' ] puts forth her green figs and the vines with the tender grapes . . . {
Song of Solomon 2:13 }." [ The new nation out of the old cursed fig tree ]. See also { Matthew 21:43; - 24:32-35; - Numbers 14:12; - Deuteronomy 4:344; - & - Psalm 33:12 }; rebirth of Israel { Isaiah 66:7-9,22-23; - Luke 12:32; - & - Ezekiel 37:21-28 }.=========================
27. Commentary . . . The words "Kingdom of GOD" [ of CHRIST - as MESSIAH ] mentioned in the above {
V. 43 } can many times refer to Christian Believers, but much of the time it is synonymous with the "Kingdom of Heaven, [ future Millennium = of MESSIAH's reign" ] and that is the true meaning of the above Scriptures. There is a double meaning to the words "Kingdom of Heaven," and "Kingdom of GOD." Much of the time these words refer to the Millennial earthly Kingdom that MESSIAH will rule over when He takes His earthly throne as MESSIAH. On the other hand, several times when these words are read, the reference is to GOD's whole "Universal Kingdom."28. The Universal Kingdom takes in all matter and all space including this earth! For instance, the sermon on the mount in {
Matthew Ch. 5 }, and the Kingdom of Heaven in { V. 3 } can only be construed to represent the future Millennial Kingdom on this earth. Therefore, this chapter was never meant to refer to the BODY OF CHRIST as a promise for this age of Grace! Remember the BODY OF CHRIST is to inherit the Heavenlies = not the earth. { See Matthew 4:17, 23; - 5:19-20; - 6:10, - 7:21; - 8:11-12; - 9:35; - 10:7; - 11:11-12; - 13:11, 13-15 - & - etc }. All these verses and many more refer to the earthly Millennial Kingdom.29. The divorced betrothed nation of Israel, when cast out into the nations of the world in A.D. 70, ceased to exist as a nation of old. According to this, how can any Bible student fail to see that the saved of Israel who are called the Remnant or little flock {
Zechariah 13:9 } will become this new nation at the beginning of the Millennial reign of CHRIST? We therefore, insist that this is the true interpretation of the above text in { Matthew 21:43 }.30. "The entrance of the 'SHEKINAH GLORY' into Ezekiel's Temple to dwell there through out the Millennium," 'the living waters that flow enlarging from beneath the altar;' 'the trees of healing,' 'the new distribution of the land to the 12 Tribes,' 'the Prince's portion and, the Cities new name,' "JEHOVAH- SHAMMAH," all this goes to prove that this new Israel, fully restored, will be a national converted Hebrew Nation, that will worship MESSIAH forever.
31. We notice that "a Prince" is mentioned who has a unique and highly favored position. It will be his privilege to occupy the eastern gate of Jerusalem at which the Glory of JEHOVAH entered. To him the offerings of the people are given, and by him administered in providing for the ritual of sacrifice including the daily burnt offering {
Ezekiel 45:17 }. The people are spoken of as simply worshipping at the times of offering by the Prince, but the act of offering is his, the Priests and Levites acting in their respecting capacities. This Prince then takes his place in a representative position on behalf of the people in the matter of specific offerings, while in all of these, the people may be considered as having their own part.32. Since in the first instance, they present their offering to the Prince {
Ch. 45:13-17 }, and join in the worship when he makes the offering. There is no doubt that the former King David is to be this Prince { see Ezekiel 37:25 }, who will occupy the representative position for GOD toward the people. Also this man is privileged to commune with JEHOVAH at the east gate { Ch. 46:16 }. This Prince naturally must be a Hebrew of the nation of Israel, and undoubtedly not the MESSIAH Himself because of the fact that his sons are spoken of in the text { Ezekiel 46:16 } and also notice that he offers a sin offering for himself { Ch. 45:22 }. All this is strictly outward rites of Judaism having no intrinsic efficacy, but symbolizing the spiritual truths of MESSIAH's Kingdom, as for instance the perfect holiness which is to characterize it. . . . I.e., see { 1- Corinthians 5:7-8 }, as to our spiritual "Passover today" wherein, at the LORD's supper, we feed on CHRIST by faith, accompanied with "the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth." . . . Literal ordinances, in the future though not slavishly bound to the latter of the law, will set forth the eternal verities of MESSIAH's Kingdom.33. It is very clear that this Prince occupies a representative position, and definitely not the same as the position that the high priest would hold, of whom Ezekiel does not speak, nor that of any of the other former Kings in Israel's past history. Since David is this Prince, we know that he had a different position as King when he was ruler over Israel during the Law Period than what this Prince will have in the future. He will not be accorded the privileges nor the power of either a King or a Priest.
34. It is shone that he will occupy an intermediary place between the Hebrew Nation and the Priest-hood, since he is found among the former in their seasons of worship {
Ch. 46:10 }. He will not be among the priest, nor privileged to enter the inner court. Yet it can be seen that the Prince draws nearer then the people themselves, since he may worship in the inner east gate that opens upon the inner court, while the people worship in the outer court.35. Some today may believe that sacrifices during the Law period accorded folks to be forgiven of their sins, "it must be noted that it is a gross error to teach from our Bible that the sacrifices performed under the Mosaic Law in the past could ever or did ever take away any form of sin." This type of teaching is in complete contradiction to the clear doctrine of {
Hebrews 10:4 }. It would also be complete ignorance of GOD's Word to teach that a ritual could accomplish in the future what it was impossible, and never even intended to do in the past. David is obviously to be the Vice Regent of MESSIAH during the LORD's Millennial reign.36. Presently it is falsely claimed that the Pope of Rome has the office of the viceroy of GOD. We believe that those who accept this belief will learn differently in the future. MESSIAH's Throne will be on the earth and He will also have a Throne in New Jerusalem. By this, we see that MESSIAH has two Thrones to sit on and we will explain this a little later on. The LORD will certainly be present when the feast of Tabernacles takes place, this will be when the representatives of all the nations visit the Temple to worship the MESSIAH {
Ezekiel 44:16 }.37. Also, Prince David will sit upon his Throne as Vice Regent. See {
Matthew 19:28; - 25:21; - & - Luke 19:17 }. It must also be understood that since this great Prince is David, that the offerings he makes whether burnt offerings or otherwise will be strictly as a memorial looking back to the cross. The sacrifices will be a memorial in character of the death of CHRIST, and a sacrifice in view of accomplished Salvation. The LORD's supper today is being taught as if it is an ordinance which is not true! Actually it is a memorial that is to be kept until the Rapture when CHRIST returns for the "One New Man," { Ephesians 2:15; - & - 1- Corinthians 15:51-54 }. See { 1- Corinthians 11:25-26 } where the text states . . .=========================
38. Scripture: ". . . For 'AS OFTEN' as you eat this bread, and drink this cup, you do show [ proclaim ] the LORD's death till He come."
=========================
39. Commentary . . . This shows that this is a memorial not a commandment as it would be if it was an ordinance! Never again will the LORD's supper be kept after the Return of CHRIST! The resumed sacrifices in the Temple will be for a Memorial of the Cross and the redemption of Israel during the Millennial Reign of CHRIST. It should be noted that an ordinance is given as a commandment to be specifically kept, whereas a memorial is something that can or perhaps should be kept but is not an absolute commandment to do so. A good modern picture of this is to consider many of our National Holidays, which are observed as memorials of important days of our past history, but only as memorials and not as commandments!
40. As we are aware, former King David has spent three thousand years in Paradise with GOD and will return with CHRIST at His Second Coming. Therefore, at CHRIST's return to earth, the resurrection of all the Old Testament Saint's fleshly bodies will take place and they will receive their new spiritual bodies in the same way that we of the BODY OF CHRIST will 'have received ours [ future tense' ] at the "Rapture [ Rapere: Resurrection" ]. The following 3 verses concern the Tribulation Period, and a little later, the resurrection of the Old Testament Saints at the time of the Second Advent of MESSIAH . . .
=========================
41. {
V. 1 } Scripture: "And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which stands for the children of Your people: and there shall be a time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time Your people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.42. {
V. 2 }: And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and ever-lasting contempt.43. {
V. 3 }: And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever, { Daniel 12: 1-3 }."=========================
44. The above three verses paraphrased in commentary form . . .
{
1 } Scripture: "And 'at that time during the 7 year Tribulation Period' shall 'Michael the arch-Angel of the universe' 'stand up for GOD's Hebrew people,' the great prince which stands for the children of Your people: and there shall be a time of trouble such as never was 'since there was a nation any where on this earth' even to that same time: and at that time Your people the saved Hebrew remnant shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written 'in the Heavenly book of life.' See { John 5:24-29 }. . . .{
2 }: And many of them that "sleep in the dust [ i.e., grave, cemetery, Hebrew: Queber or Khaber, Geburah: Sepulcher" ] of the earth shall awake, some [ i.e., all those that are saved ] to everlasting life, and some to shame and ever-lasting contempt, and these contemptible ones will be cast into an eternal 'Lake of Fire.' . . .{
3 }: And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness [ i.e., are soul winners will shine forth ] as the stars [ i.e., a double meaning, literal stars and or angels ] for ever and ever, { Daniel 12: 1-3 }."========
45. Commentary . . . Many times angels are mentioned as stars, see the words that mention wicked angels in {
Revelation 12:4. } Therefore, during MESSIAH's earthly reign, David will be in perfection in his glorified body throughout the millennium as will all those who have received their glorified bodies when David received his. As to David's children, it is obvious that those of them which were saved will also be on the earth in their glorified bodies! This proves that even though there will be offerings offered up during the millennial reign, that it necessarily must be as Memorials. The millennial Temple or Sanctuary, will occupy a space of 500 reeds on a side, or approximately one mile square { Ezekiel 42:15-20 }. "None of the old Temple areas were this large."=========================
46. Scripture: "And it shall be in 'that [ Millennial ] day,' that living waters shall go out from Jerusalem; half of 'them [ the water' ] toward 'the former [ Eastern, Dead ] sea,' and half of them toward the 'hinder [ western Mediterranean' ] sea: in summer and in winter shall it be, {
Zechariah 14:8 }."=========================
47. Commentary . . . The life giving spring from which the water will be located, will be from under the Sanctuary. The prophet Ezekiel tells us how he saw in a vision the New Temple and how the LORD took him to 'the eastern door of the house [ Sanctuary.' ] There he saw the waters come from under the threshold of the door, and flow past the altar of burnt offerings on the south side eastward until the stream was deep enough to swim in. Ezekiel states . . .
=========================
48. {
V. 8 } Scripture: "Then said He unto me, these waters issue out toward the east country, and go down into the desert , and go into the sea; which being brought forth into the sea, the waters shall be healed.49. {
V. 9 }: And it shall come to pass . . . that everything that lives, which moves, whithersoever the river shall come, shall live: and there shall be a very great multitude of fish, because these waters shall come there: for they shall be healed; and everything shall live wherever the river come.50. {
V. 10 }: And it shall come to pass, that fisherman shall stand upon it from Engedi even unto Eneglaim; they shall be a place to spread forth nets; their fish shall be according to their kinds, as the fish of the great sea exceeding many.51. {
V. 11 }: But the miry places thereof and the marishes thereof shall not be healed; they shall be given to salt.52. {
V. 12 }: And by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat', whose leaf shall not fade neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed: it shall bring forth new fruit according to his months, because their waters they issued out of the sanctuary: and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine, { Ezekiel 47:8-12 }."=========================
53. The above { Vs. 8-12 } paraphrased in commentary form . . .
{ 8 } Scripture: "Then said He unto me, these waters issue out toward the east country, and go down into 'the desert [ across the west bank east of Jerusalem' ], and go into 'the [ Dead or Salt ] sea'; which being brought forth into the sea, 'the waters [ of the Dead Sea' ] shall be healed [ and be made fresh again ] . . .
{
9 }: And it shall come to pass . . . that everything that lives, 'which moves [ swims' ], from the direction the river shall come: [ all living creatures that are in the streams which enter the Dead Sea at that time shall not die because of all the salt and minerals in the Sea but ], shall live: and there shall be a very great multitude of fish, because 'these [ fresh ] waters' shall come there: for 'they [ the old waters' ] shall be healed; and everything shall live [ from ] wherever [ under the sanctuary ] the rivers come. . . .{
10 }: And it shall come to pass, that fisherman shall stand upon it [ obviously in boats in the Dead Sea ] 'from Engedi [ on the west shore' ] even 'unto Eneglaim [ on the east shore' and ]; there shall be a place to spread forth nets; their fish shall be according to their kinds [ i.e., of different species ], as the fish of the great [ Mediterranean ] sea exceeding many. [ According to this, many fish will be eaten at that time ]. . . .{
11 }: But the "miry [ swampy, muddy, dirty and filthy" ] places that are there and the marishes in the area shall not be healed; they shall be given to salt. [ Possibly for the nation of Israel to mine for their own use ]. . . .{
12 }: And by the river upon the bank that are, on this side and on that side, shall grow 'all [ kinds of fruit ] trees for meat', and the leaves of the trees shall 'not fade [ i.e., not dry up, change color and fall from the tree' ] neither shall the fruit on the trees ever 'be completely consumed : the trees shall continually bring forth new fruit according to the months of fruit bearing, because the water that issues out of the sanctuary: will keep the trees well nourished, and the fruit therefore shall be for 'meat [ food' ], and the leaves on the fruit trees will be used for medicine, { Ezekiel 47:8-12 }."========
54. Commentary . . . [ All parenthesis and changes in commentary emphasized in these verses are from this writer ]. Compare {
Revelation 22:1-2 } concerning the New Jerusalem. As you see I have repeated myself, but only for a better understanding of the Scriptures. The size of the New City, the location of the New Sanctuary and the elevation of the Dead Sea which is now 13 hundred feet below the level of the Mediterranean Sea, calls for great physical changes in the land surface of Israel. At the Second Coming, CHRIST as MESSIAH will land upon the Mount of Olives from whence He ascended into Heaven { Acts 1:9-12 }. { Zechariah 14:4,10-11 }: tells us of His return and what is to take place. . . .=========================.
55. Scripture: "All the land shall be turned as a plain from Geba to Rimmom south of Jerusalem: and 'it [ Jerusalem' ] shall be lifted up, and inhabited. . ., see {
Zechariah 14:10 }." [ These great changes will be brought about by earthquakes or volcanic action.]=========================
56. { V. 3 }: "For, Behold, the LORD comes from out of 'His place [ from the throne at the right hand of the FATHER' ] and will come down, and tread upon the high places of the earth. See { Zechariah 14:3-4; - Malachi 4:2-3; - Matthew 24:27-30; - Revelation 1:7; - & - 9:11-16 }.
57. { V. 4 }: And the mountains shall be molten under Him, and the valleys shall be cleft, as wax before the fire, and as the waters that are poured down a steep place, { Micah 1:3-4 }."
=========================
58. Commentary . . . These great physical changes will level the land surface of Israel, and make room for the New City of Jerusalem [ we are not talking about the Heavenly Jerusalem but the old Jerusalem renewed ]. Observe in { V. 3 } above, that there is plenty proof of CHRIST's return to "tread upon the high places of the earth." This text along with { Acts 1:9-11; - & - Zechariah 14:4; etc } makes liars out of those who refuse to believe that CHRIST will ever return to this earth to set up His Millennial Reign at His Second Coming! Notice also that at that time . . .
59. MESSIAH will raise up the Dead Sea, so that its waters can flow into both the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. Ezekiel tells us that the name of Jerusalem in that day shall be "JEHOVAH SHAMMAH" which means "The LORD is there" { Ezekiel 48: 35 }." { Revelation 16:18-20 } makes clear that an earthquake will go forth all over the entire world and flatten the mountain ranges of the earth.
60. Many parts of all countries have much wasteland that is very uninhabitable. When this land has been flattened and made usable, the land masses of this earth will undoubtedly be somewhat larger than at the present time, which likely would cause the sea to become somewhat smaller than it is at the present time. See { Isaiah 24:20; - Matthew 24:19; - & - Joel 2:10 }. See also { Revelation 6:12-14 }.
61. Getting back to the Temple, the full description of the Millennial Temple and its courts is given in { Ezekiel Chs. 40 through 48 }. No such building has ever been built up to this time. And there is no Temple in Heavenly Jerusalem, it will be a future Temple on this earth that is mentioned here, that it does not belong to the new earth is also clear. For the land in which it is located is bounded by the Sea. The waters that flow from it flow "into the other seas." The Scriptures teach that in the new recreated earth there will be no more sea, { Revelation 21:1 }. This is further confirmed by the prophets mention of the "Desert, River Jordan, the Mediterranean Sea and other localities" that will not be found on the new earth after the old earth is renovated by fire.
62. There shall be daily "morning sacrifices," but no evening sacrifices { Ezekiel 46:13-15 }. The offerings will be "Burnt, Meal, and Peace, { Ezekiel 45:17 }," and the Trespass offerings, { Ezekiel 42:13 }. Two feasts are to be observed, "the Passover," but the Passover Lamb will not be offered as JESUS fulfilled that type { Ezekiel 45:21-24 }, and the "Feast of Tabernacles, { Zechariah 14:16 - 19 }." This Feast is to be observed by all nations under penalty of "Drought or Plague." "The Feast of Pentecost" will be done away with on account of its fulfillment. This day was recorded in { Acts 2:1-4 }, and was at that time only a partial fulfillment of the prophecy of { Joel 2:28-32 }.
63. No such wonders in the heavens and the earth as "blood and fire and pillars of smoke the Sun turned to darkness and the Moon into blood," this occurred at "Pentecost," "which by the way," "was strictly a Hebrew holy day, not a day to be kept as a holy day by the BODY OF CHRIST." But, the continuation of all these judgments will happen during the Tribulation Period. The conversion of the Hebrew nation will be sealed with a great out-pouring of the HOLY SPIRIT. Whether all of this shall be universal, or only upon Israel is not clear. The original prophecy in Joel was given to Israel, and its partial fulfillment at Pentecost was limited to them. The knowledge of the LORD however, will be world wide . . .
=========================
64. { V. 22 } Scripture: "Yes, many people and strong nations shall come 'to seek [ inquire of' and require in order to fill their own urgent need from ] the LORD of Hosts in Jerusalem, and to 'pray before the LORD [ for His favor' ].
65. { V. 23 }: Thus says the LORD of Hosts; "in those days [ after the second coming and during the millennial reign of MESSIAH" ] it shall come to pass, that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even take hold of the 'skirt [ robe' ] of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard that GOD is with you, { Zechariah 8:22-23 }."
=========================
66. Scripture: "For from the rising of the sun even to the going down of the same My name shall be great among the Gentiles; and in every place incense shall be offered unto My name, 'and [ indeed' ] a pure offering for My name shall be great among "the heathen," says the LORD of Hosts, { Malachi 1:11 }."
=========================
67. Commentary . . . [ Notice the word "MY" is mentioned three times, the number "Three" is the number for the Trinity ]. Notice also the word Gentiles and then heathen in the verse. As we have before stated . . . Saints today should never be called Gentiles because "we are Saints of GOD." Neither would GOD call His saved children heathen. The children of many Saints of that day will not be saved! Therefore they will consist of and actually be heathenish Gentiles! See { Isaiah 65:20 }. . . .
68. This verse means that there will be one universal Christian denomination in that day, { Malachi 1:11 }. The truth is, there is only one Christian denomination today, and it is called: "The BODY OF CHRIST." Therefore, when you are asked "what denomination do you belong to," answer them and say that you "belong to the BODY OF CHRIST denomination," and you will be telling the real truth! The SHEKINAH GLORY that departed from the Temple at the time of the Babylonian captivity { Ezekiel 10:18-20; - & - 11:22-23 }, will again take up Its residence in the new Millennial Temple that CHRIST Himself will build at His return, { Ezekiel 43:1-5 }.
69. We have seen that there was always to be a Temple for the people of this earth from the beginning of the 12 Tribes of Israel and onward on to the end of the millennial reign of CHRIST on this earth. And we see this has happened from the time the first Tabernacle was constructed. This also stands for the BODY OF CHRIST! Always when the nation of Israel resided in their own land, they were to have a literal Temple, first, the Tabernacle in the wilderness, then, Solomon's Temple on to Herod's Temple.
70. When Herod's Temple was destroyed in A.D. 70, Israel's Temple period was set aside for a long season of two thousand years. From the beginning of the Christian Dispensation onward, each person in the BODY OF CHRIST became a Temple, that is, each individual Christian's physical body is a Temple of GOD with GOD the HOLY SPIRIT dwelling in each of us. Therefore, there are, millions of Temples during this Christian Age. After the Rapture, when the present Temples are taken up into GOD's Heavenly realm, there will be the Tribulation Temple. At the Second Coming of CHRIST, the Tribulation Temple that will have become the Temple of the Antichrist, will be destroyed and then the Millennial Temple will be constructed to last throughout the duration of MESSIAH's Millennial Reign, after that ????.
===============================================================================
Lesson Three, Part Nine. "Various Temples Of GOD". . .
===================================
The Throne Of MESSIAH During His Kingdom Reign . . .
1. Commentary . . . There seems to be one more problem that we must contend with before ending our message. It has been said that since MESSIAH is going to sit on His throne on this earth during His the Millennial reign, the BODY OF CHRIST therefore, will reign on the earth with Him and will rule over the nations of this world at that time. The fact is, we find no Scripture anywhere in GOD's Word to substantiate such reasoning.
2. We accept the understanding that the BODY OF CHRIST will reign with the LORD in the hereafter, but this as we see it, is to be a universal reign over the whole universe, not just over this earth, and we will reign from our position in the Heavenlies. On the other hand, Israel as a nation of priests will reign with their MESSIAH on this earth with the twelve Apostles sitting on twelve thrones judging the 12 tribes of Israel. See { Matthew 19:28; - Luke 22:28-30; - Isaiah 61:6; - Exodus 440:15; - 19:6; - 1-Peter 2:5; - Revelation 5:10; - & - 20:6 }.
3. The average Christian today places CHRIST in the position of living in a place similar to that of Angels or even world leaders. Christian leaders must think much DEEPER than this in order to teach anything that concerns the LORD in His future reign as a King! It has been taught that because CHRIST is to have a Throne in New Jerusalem, this means that the BODY OF CHRIST is going to reside there, because the Scriptures teach that wherever CHRIST is to be, we are going to be with Him also. It is true that we will be with Him but we find no reason to suggest that we will forever live in New Jerusalem. Concerning CHRIST reigning literally over His Kingdom on this earth, GOD's Word points out . . .
=========================
4. { V. 32 } Scripture: "He [ as MESSIAH ] shall be great, and shall be called the SON of the HIGHEST: and the [ TRINITARIAN ] LORD GOD shall give Him the throne of His father David:
5. { V. 33 }: And He shall reign over the house of 'Jacob [ Israel' ] for ever; and of His Kingdom 'there shall be no end', { Luke 1:32-33 }." [ incidentally . . . to every Child of GOD, the word 'LORD' means . . . or rather refers to the 'One Who has control of my soul!' ]
=========================
6. { V. 31 } Scripture: "When the SON of MAN shall come in His glory, and the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory.
7. { V. 32 }: And before Him shall be gathered all nations: and He shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep: from the goats:
8. { V. 33 }: And He shall sit the sheep, on His right hand, but the goats on the left .
9. { V. 34 }: Then shall the King say to them on His right hand come, you blessed of My FATHER, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: { Matthew 25:31-34 }."
=========================
10. The above { Vs. 31-34 } paraphrased in commentary form . . .
{ 31 } Scripture: "When the SON of MAN shall come in His glory { His majesty and splendor ], and the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory. [ Come from where? Where is His throne going to be? ] . . .
{ 32 }: And before Him shall be gathered all nations: and He shall 'separate them [ the people' ] one from another, as a shepherd 'divides [ i.e., separates' ] "his sheep: [ the Believing Children of GOD who came through the Tribulation Period," ] from "the goats [ who are the lost unbelievers as a whole and who had received the mark of the beast during that period" ]: See { Ezekiel 34:17 }.
{ 33 }: And He shall sit the 'sheep [ the above mentioned Saints' ] See { Psalm 100:3-5 }, 'on [ at' ] His right hand, but 'the goats [ the Lost' ] on the left . [ This particular judgment will take place on the earth. ]
{ 34 }: Then shall the King say to 'them on [ at ] His right hand [ who are His saved sheep', ] come, you blessed of My FATHER [ that is, you whom are favored of GOD and are appointed to eternal salvation ], 'inherit [ i.e., receive as your own' ] 'the [ Millennial ] Kingdom' prepared for you from the foundation of the world: { Matthew 25:31-34 }."
========
11. Commentary . . . It must be understood that there will be very few people left alive to inherit the Kingdom. In one text in the 'Book of Revelation' one fourth of the people on earth will be destroyed. We must also be aware of the fact that it will not only be the saved Hebrews that will be called GOD's sheep but also the saved folks of the world's nations who will have become saved Believers during the Tribulation Period. All these saved sheep will enter CHRIST's Millennial Reign with MESSIAH the King. . . .
=========================
12. Scripture: "And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was 'death, and Hell [ in Hades' ] followed with him. And power was given to them over the "FOURTH" part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger and with death, and with the beast of the earth, { Revelation 6:8 }."
=========================
13. Commentary . . . Before the Tribulation Period when the "Rapture [ Resurrection, from the Latin word: "Rapere, Rapto or Raptus": ] takes place, several hundred million people will be taken from this earth. This will include all children under the age of accountability, it will even include all unborn babies, all retarded folks whose minds have remained as a small child, plus all the Saved Believers in CHRIST. And after the Rapture during the following seven year Tribulation Period, not only one fourth part of people mentioned above will be killed but also in another text it states . . .
=========================
14. Scripture: " . . . The third part of 'man [ i.e., people' shall be ] killed, by the fire, and by the smoke, and by the brimstone . . ." See { Revelation 9:18 }." See also { V. 15, 17; - Psalm 97:3; - Isaiah 66:15-17; - Zephaniah 1:18; - Joel 2:3; - & - Revelation 16:9, 16, 18. }
=========================
15. Commentary . . . During the Tribulation Period, there will also be hundreds of millions killed, not to mention those who have already been mentioned in the above verses. Many will be destroyed by being beheaded for refusing to take the Mark of the beast { Revelation 20:4; - & - 6:9-11 }. Those who died from famine, { Revelation 6:5-8 }, by earthquakes, { Revelation 6:12; - & - 16:18 }. Also, untold thousands world-wide, by 100 pound hail stones, and those who are to be killed when the islands and mountains on the earth disappear, { Revelation 16:20-21 }. Also two thirds of the Jews will be destroyed, { Zechariah 13:8-9 }.
16. Thus, as we have stated in other messages, we believe that approximately 90 percent of humanity will accept the Mark of the Beast! . . . With no rain on the earth for one year, and with famine worldwide on the earth would be a horrendous catastrophe! But, when the two witnesses withholds rain during the whole 3 and 1/2 years of their witnessing on earth, what do you think will take place? See { Revelation 11:6 }. The power of these two prophets is reminiscent of those of Elijah and Moses, see { Exodus 7:20; - 8:1 -12:29; - 1-Kings 17:1; - 18:41-45; - & - 2- Kings 1:10-12 }.
17. How can anyone imagine three and a half years at that time with no rain on the earth and undoubtedly a horrendous depression taking place at the same time? Since no one will be able to buy or sell without the mark or number of the beast, food will be sold through a money system consisting of a cashless society, Scripture says that folks will throw their gold and silver into the street because of it becoming so worthless:
=========================
18. Scripture: "They shall cast their silver in the streets, and their gold shall be removed: their silver and their gold shall not be able to deliver them in the day of the wrath of the LORD: they shall not satisfy their souls, neither fill their 'bowels [ stomachs' ]: because it is the stumbling block of their iniquity, { Ezekiel 7:19 }." [ Gold and silver will be more plentiful than food ], See { Isaiah 13:12 }.
=========================
19. Scripture: "Your gold and your silver is cankered; and 'the rust [ worthlessness' ] of them shall be a witness against you, and they shall eat your flesh as it were fire. You have heaped treasure together for the last days, { James 5:3 }."
=========================
20. { V. 3 } Scripture: "And I will give power to My two 'witnesses [ Prophets' ], and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.
21. { V. 6 } These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will, { Revelation 11:3,6 }."
=========================
22. The above { V. 6 } Paraphrased in commentary form . . . "These [ two witnesses who are prophets, and will have the same type of spirit that John the Baptist and Elijah had indwelling them when they were present on the earth. They will: ] have power to shut heaven, that it rain "not in the days of their prophecy: [ three and a half years" ] and have power over 'waters to turn them to blood [ and pollute the fresh water' ], and to smite the earth with 'all [ manner of ] plagues, as often as they will."
========
23. Commentary . . . See also { Luke 1:17 } which speaks of John the Baptist who had a spirit just like that of Elijah. These two witnesses spoken of in Revelation will be saved after the Rapture, and will be given the same type spirit of prophecy that John had received. This does not necessarily mean that they will be anybody that has ever lived in the past but, will be given the same type of power that Elijah, Elisha, Moses and John the Baptist had received in the distant past.
24. War, including atomic war, Famine, drought, a great depression, plagues, earth quakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, and disease will cause the death of hundreds of millions! Many countless deaths of one type or another during that seven year period will take place! It seems to this writer that a foreshadow of these plaques are already intensifying over the earth, and it will become tremendously more so in the very near future! When the LORD returns to end the Battle of Armageddon, He will then judge the nations of this earth.
25. When Messiah returns and separates "His Sheep [ tribulation Saved Saints" ] from the "Goats [ those untold hordes of people who are lost and who have taken the mark of the Beast" ], these goats will all be sent at that time into hell. They, along with the other CHRIST rejecters, are to suffer there until the great white throne judgment of the damned takes place, see the judgment of the nations at His return { Matthew 25:31-46-; - & - Revelation 20:11-15 }. It is a great misconception to teach that unbelievers will enter into the millennial Kingdom reign with CHRIST! Only GOD's saved Saints will have the opportunity to enter into the time of CHRIST's Millennial Reign. And only a small minority of the earth's people that is living when the Tribulation Period first begins, will still be living at its end to enter into the Millennial reign of MESSIAH!
26. The question is, "what has all this to do with the Temples of GOD and the BODY OF CHRIST reigning on the earth with JESUS during His reign? What we have tried to make clear to the student of Scripture, is that even if there is a hundred million 'sheep [ Saved Saints' ] left upon the earth after MESSIAH judges the earth's people, still, they will all be the Believing Children of CHRIST's Kingdom! It has been stated by very knowledgeable men that fifty percent of all children have died at birth or shortly after since the beginning of man. Think of all those children who perished before and during the Flood of Noah. The children of all the heathen nations that have been destroyed in the past, and all those children who have been systematically and legally murdered during this and the past century alone, by abortion and in other ways by cruel, evil men and women.
27. It is now stated that approximately 50 million babies in the United States alone, in just the last fifty years or so, have been murdered. How many more will be killed in the future? We have been told that over 4000 babies are aborted each day just in the United States alone. The point we are trying to make here is that since men have been on the earth 6,000 years, there have been untold millions of children and retarded people enter into Heaven even though they had never even heard of the saving Grace of the LORD JESUS CHRIST. Just because heathen nations have been destroyed by GOD does not mean that He sent little children of those nations to Hell! They were not rejected because "they had not yet reached the age of accountability." On the other hand, we see by all this that all the children during this age of Grace who have died since the BODY OF CHRIST first began to be formed, were added to the BODY OF CHRIST.
28. Just in the BODY OF CHRIST alone, counting all those members that have already died, there are hundreds of millions of Saints. It has been preached over and over by many Ministers, that we Christians after CHRIST's Second Coming, will return to the earth with JESUS and will reign over the earth's population with JESUS during His Millennial reign. This my friend is pure nonsense! For the Billions of Saints in the BODY OF CHRIST to come down upon this earth to rule over all the old Testament and Tribulation Period Saints, who are already Saints of GOD themselves IS UTTERLY RIDICULOUS! But, this is what countless Ministers are teaching today in their Assemblies!
=========================
29. Scripture: "And JESUS said to 'them [ the 12 Apostles' ], 'verily [ surely and truly' ] I say to you, that 'YOU' which have followed Me, in the regeneration when the SON of MAN shall sit in the throne of His glory, 'YOU' shall also sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel, { Matthew 19:28 }."
=========================
30. Commentary . . . We have already proven by the Scripture in this message that Israel will become a Kingdom of Priest at that time and that the Prince, David, will become the Viceroy of GOD. Also according to { Revelation 20:4,6 }; those who have been saved during the Tribulation and those Old Testament Saints that CHRIST brings back with Him from the Heavenly Paradise at His Second Coming, are to rule and reign with Him on the earth during the millennium! { See Revelation 5:10 } which is also speaking of tribulation Saints. See also { Exodus 19:5-6; - Isaiah 61:4-6; - & - 2-Peter 2:5 }. Where, then, will the BODY OF CHRIST reside in the hereafter? Will we be on the new earth? Will we dwell in New Jerusalem? Where?:
=================================================================================
Lesson 4. Part Nine. "Various Temples Of GOD" . . .
==========================================
Joint Heirs Of CHRIST's Inheritance . . .
=========================
1. { V. 14 } Scripture: "For as many as are led by the SPIRIT of GOD, they are the 'Sons of GOD [ in the Masculine gender' ].
2. { V. 15 }: For you have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but you have received 'the [ HOLY ] SPIRIT' of adoption, whereby we cry Abba, FATHER.
3. { V. 16 }: The Spirit Itself bears witness with our spirit, that we are the Children of GOD:
========
4. The above { V. 16 } paraphrased in commentary form . . . "The [ 'Holy ] Spirit [ of GOD HIMSELF' ] bears witness with 'our [ human ] spirit', that 'we [ who are members of the BODY OF CHRIST ] are 'the [ adopted' ] Children of GOD" . . .
========
5. { V. 17 }: And if children, then heirs; heirs of GOD, and joint heirs with CHRIST; if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may be glorified together.
6. { V. 18 }: For I reckon that the sufferings of the present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
7. { V. 19 }: For the earnest expectation of 'the creature [ the whole creation' ] waits for the manifestation of the 'Sons of G0D [ Masculine' ].
8. { V. 23 }: And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the SPIRIT, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body, { Romans 8:14-23 }."
=========================
9. The above { V. 23 } paraphrased in commentary form . . . "And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of 'the [ HOLY ] SPIRIT, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, 'to wit [ the keen perception of' ], the redemption of our body, { Romans Ch. 8 }" [ At the Rapture, the culmination of our position as adopted SONS in the resurrection state ].
========
10. Commentary . . . Here the reader will notice that we have gotten away from our Temple study for a while but we believe that what we are stating is very important in this study so please bear with us. Remember we have stated that Christians today should think DEEPER then we normally think in our everyday life. Definitely, we must think in a DEEPER way when we study our Bibles! Notice that the Scriptures states in { V. 14 } above that we are SONS of GOD! In { V. 15 }, We have been adopted by the FATHER into the Personal family of the TRINITARIAN GOD, this is also mentioned in { V. 23 }.
11. { V. 16 }: could not be more precise when it states that we are the Children of the FATHER. But, { V. 17 } is the clincher and is very deep for us to comprehend. For it states very emphatically that "WE" are to be "Joint Heirs" with the "Head of the Christian BODY of JESUS CHRIST!" Furthermore, being joint heirs with JESUS CHRIST, we are to be glorified together with CHRIST!
12. This is spectacular! It is definitely beyond our comprehension! According to the above Scripture, it reads as if we in our adoption state are to be practically equal with CHRIST in His reign over the whole universal creation. After all, we are to be "The ONE NEW MAN" and with "CHRIST" being the HEAD of that MAN! We must be very careful here, because CHRIST the Son, GOD the FATHER and the HOLY SPIRIT are all included as one TRINITARIAN GODHEAD! Even though we undoubtedly will have tremendous power in the Heavenlies, only GOD is the Creator of His own creation! When Scripture states that CHRIST is to be the HEAD of the BODY, it means just that! We can be assured of this one thing, CHRIST will always be over the BODY in authority as a part of the TRINITARIAN GODHEAD! But, we are to be blessed tremendously in the hereafter!
=========================
13. { V. 3 } Scripture: "Blessed be the GOD and FATHER of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, Who has blessed us with all spiritual blessings in Heavenly places in CHRIST:
14. { V. 4 }: According as He has chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love.
15. { V. 5 }: Having predestinated us into the "adoption of Children" by JESUS CHRIST Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, { Ephesians 1:3-5 }."
=========================
16. Commentary . . . Christians in the spiritual sense are perfectly blameless and are holy in their Sainthood, we have a new CHRIST-like nature and are set apart as CHILDREN OF THE FATHER. We are each a Prince or a Princess in the realm of Heaven, our FATHER is the King of the universe.
=========================
17. Scripture: "And has raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in CHRIST JESUS, { Ephesians 2:6 }.
=========================
18. Commentary . . . All this proves that we who are in the BODY OF CHRIST "ARE NOT" to be the Bride of CHRIST as most Theologians teach. { Revelation 19 } teaches that the Bride has made herself ready to receive the Bridegroom. But, the Saints of GOD in the present BODY OF CHRIST need not ready themselves for anything as far as perfection is concerned. Again, spiritually speaking, { V. 6 } above along with { Romans 6:6-11 }, makes clear that we as Saints of GOD are in CHRIST which means that we are seated along with Him at the right hand of the FATHER in Heaven at this very time, these verses make this very clear. Think about it, we in our new nature are "already PERFECTED IN CHRIST". In { Ephesians 1:3, 20; - & - 2:6 }, Heavenly places are mentioned 3 times, again we repeat that the number 3 is the Bible Number for "Trinity and Resurrection." Certainly, we are going to live with CHRIST, the Bible makes this very clear!
=========================
19. Scripture: "Now if we be dead with CHRIST, { Romans 6:4 } we believe that we shall also live with Him, { Romans 6:8 }."
=========================
20. Commentary . . . We will not live on the earth because our home is in the Heavenlies! Neither are we to ever look for a perfect life anywhere upon the earth. Spiritually speaking, we at the time of our salvation, "were baptized [ submerged into CHRIST, not with water as most teach, but this was a dry Baptism performed ]: by the HOLY SPIRIT into CHRIST's death { Romans 6:5 }," this was our death baptism, and since we died to CHRIST we are also to live with Him, { Romans 6:7-8 }. Should the reader read our message concerning the 12 Baptisms, he will find the death Baptism substantially explained. The Baptism for the dead is a baptism that every Saint partakes of at the time of his born again experience of salvation!
=========================
21. { V. 1 } Scripture: "If you then be risen with CHRIST, see those things which are above, where CHRIST sits 'on [ at' ] the right hand of GOD.
22. { V. 2 }: Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
23. { V. 3 }: For you are dead, and your life is hid with CHRIST in GOD.
24. { V. 4 }: When CHRIST, Who is our life, shall appear, then shall you also appear with Him in glory, { Colossians 3:1-4 }."
=========================
25. Commentary . . . At the time of the Rapture "WE" will appear with CHRIST in glory, that is, with Him up into the Paradise of GOD in the third Heaven.
========
26. The four verses above paraphrased in commentary form . . .
[ 1 ]: "If then you have been raised with CHRIST [ to a new life, thus sharing His resurrection from the dead ]: 'aim at and seek the [ rich, eternal treasures ] that are above,' where CHRIST is seated at the right hand of GOD the FATHER. See { Psalm 110:1 }.
[ 2 ]: And set your minds and keep them set on what is above . . . the higher things . . . not on the things that are on the earth.
[ 3 ]: For [ as far as this world is concerned ] you have died, and 'your [ new, real ] life is hid with CHRIST from the unsaved of this world' . . . in the TRINITARIAN GOD.
[ 4 ]: When CHRIST Who is our life and the literal HEAD of the BODY OF CHRIST appears from Heaven to Rapture us from off this earth, then you with, and in, your resurrected body will appear with Him in the atmosphere of this earth in the splendor of His glory, { Colossians 3:1-4 }." See { 1- Thessalonians 4:16-18; - & - 1- Corinthians 15:47-55 }."
========
27. Commentary . . . We Christians have already become perfected as the Adopted Sons of GOD in our new nature at the time of our new birth in CHRIST JESUS." This has already taken place in our past history. Therefore, we now long for our being Raptured to Paradise by our Saviour in the very near future! We can hardly wait to be taken up to the place where our future home is. We have seen in the above Scriptures that we are to live in the Heavenlies.
28. We know that JESUS is going to reign on earth forever, but there is more to this understanding then is brought out by most Theologians, there are millions of Christians on this earth today. There are Children of GOD in every Country upon this earth and on many of the islands in the sea. The fact is, CHRIST dwells in each Saint in the Paradise of Heaven! Also He dwells in each Saint that is yet present upon this earth! Plus, "all of GOD's Children are at this very second dwelling in CHRIST! Wherever He is, we are!"
29. Wherever we are, He is! When Theologians, Pastors, Evangelist, and Bible Teachers teach the Scriptures, they all admit that GOD is "Omnipresent" In other words "all things are always in His presence." To put this a different way, there is no place in GOD's universe where GOD is not present! One cannot look upon GOD as we look upon men or even Angels, they are all created beings, but GOD is "Omnipresent!" Only GOD has this characteristic!
30. This writer has stated before that "IF" there were a hundred billion stars with inhabited planets in each of the stars solar system, and "IF" there were a billion Children of GOD on each of these planets, and "IF" there was a throne on each of these planets, it would, "IF" CHRIST desired to do so, be possible for Him to literally reign on each of these thrones SIMULTANEOUSLY! How could He do this? Simply because HE IS AN "OMNIPRESENT GOD." "IF" we look at CHRIST in any other way, we are blinding ourselves to His Deity and Power! So friend, Christian Brother in CHRIST's BODY, "lets think DEEPER, Okay?"
31. We have taught in this message that there are two different programs instituted by the LORD for His people, one for Israel and the saved nations of the future, and one for the BODY OF CHRIST. Each has its own place in the realm of the Almighty! We have brought out the fact that, according to all the everlasting covenants that JEHOVAH GOD instituted for Israel, He promised them an eternal inheritance during His Millennial reign, and upon the New Earth to come.
32. As for New Jerusalem, the Scriptures are clear that it will be stationed somewhere in space away from this earth during the "Millennial Reign of CHRIST." We have mentioned the fact, that after the Millennial reign has been fulfilled, the LORD will resurrect the Saints from off the earth so that the earth may be purged and cleansed by, and with fire! Or, perhaps the earth will be completely burned up, the future will determine what is to take place. One thing is for sure, we will find out when it happens!
33. At the end of the Millennial Reign of MESSIAH and, before the Great White Throne Judgment of the Lost, where are the Saints to go while the earth in being cleansed with fire? They will have to be Raptured beforehand isn't that so? We believe they will be called up into the City, New Jerusalem, which is called the Bride of CHRIST! Why do we believe this? Because everything that is associated with that great Glorious City, points to it as being a part of Israel's future inheritance!
34. When we read about the River in the great City, we find that it is very similar to the river that is spoken of that flows from the Millennial Temple. Before the New Earth is recreated on this Planet, we must remember that the present earthly City of Jerusalem, the earthly Temple with its throne, the Sea and everything else will be burned up! This will take place at the end of the Millennial reign of MESSIAH. { See 2- Peter 3:10 }.
35. The word "Heavens" in this text refers to the first Heaven that takes in the earth and its atmosphere, plus the second Heaven that takes in all the various galaxies and star systems. The reason GOD destroys these two Heavens is because . . . when Satan and one third of the angelic host who followed him in their rebellion against GOD were cast out of the third Heaven, the abode of GOD, they were cast out into the other two Heavens. They have been abiding in the first and second Heavens since that time. Since then, they have polluted both Heavens with their sinful endeavors. Thus, the LORD will destroy both of these Heavens by purging them with fire and recreate them over again possibly even better than they were in the beginning!
36. We have taught that the "New Earth" will be recreated for Israel and the other Kingdom Saints inheritance. Since there will be NO SEA and NO earthly Jerusalem, we believe that when the Scripture determines that New Jerusalem comes down, that it will come all the way down to the New Earth, to sit upon the same spot where Old Jerusalem presently stands.
=========================
37. { V. 1 } Scripture: "And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
38. { V. 2 }: And I John saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down from GOD out of Heaven, prepared as a Bride adorned for a husband.
39. { V. 3 }: And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, behold, the Tabernacle of GOD is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and GOD Himself shall be with them and be their GOD."
40. { V. 5 }: "And He that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And He said to me, write: for these words are true and faithful."
41. { V. 10 }: "And He carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me that great city, the Holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from GOD."
42. { V. 24 }: "And the nations of them which were saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth's do bring their glory and honor into it."
43. { V. 26 } "And they shall bring the glory, and honor of the nations into it, { Revelation Ch. 21 }."
=========================
44. The seven verses above paraphrased in commentary form . . .
{ 1 } Scripture: "And I saw a 'new heaven [ atmosphere' ] and a new earth: for the first heaven [ atmosphere ] and the first [ present ] earth were 'passed away [ vanished compared to what it is presently' ]; and there was 'no more sea [ upon the new recreated earth, i.e., upon this very planet' ]. See { Isaiah 66:22; - & - 2- Peter 3:13 }. . .
{ 2 }: And I John saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down from GOD 'out of [ the third ] Heaven, [ into the atmosphere of this first Heaven which contains this earth' ], 'prepared [ arrayed like,' and ] as a Bride [ beautified and ] adorned for a husband.
{ 3 }: And I heard 'a great [ and mighty ] voice out of heaven [ from the throne of GOD', and I perceived the distinct words ] saying, 'behold [ see' ], the Tabernacle of GOD [ with His throne and He ] is with men, and 'He will dwell [ be encamped in the midst ] with them', and they shall be His people,' and [ JESUS the CHRIST the ] MESSIAH Himself shall be with them and be their GOD." See { Ezekiel 37:27 }.
{ 5 }: "And He that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And He said to me, 'write [ and record this' ]: for these words 'are true and faithful . . . [ accurate, incorruptible, trustworthy . . . and truly genuine' ]." See { Isaiah 43:19 }.
{ 10 }: "And He carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me that great [ holy hallowed, consecrated ] city, the 'Holy [ New Heavenly ] Jerusalem,' descending out of [ the third ] heaven from GOD,
{ 24 }: "And the nations [ and the people ] of them which 'were saved [ out of the Tribulation Period' ] shall walk in the 'light [ and knowledge' ] of it: and the 'kings [ leaders' ] of the earth's [ Nations ] do bring their glory and honor into it."
{ 26 } "And 'they [ the people, their ambassadors, and the kings of the nations' ] shall bring 'the glory [ the splendor, majesty ], and honor of the nations into it,' { Revelation 21:1-3; 5, 10, 24, 26, }."
========
45. Commentary . . . Notice { V. 24 } that the kings and people of the nations even though they are saved people, do not live in this great City but, they can visit it! Then who are those whom will live in it? Though we cannot be certain, we believe that the priestly nation of Israel will indwell it as part of their inheritance. Since the City is fifteen hundred miles high, is it any wonder that the light of the glory of the LORD in a city as large as this, will transcend completely around and light up the whole earth? The earth will be as beautiful as any other part of the Heavenlies! When we think of a city 1,500 miles high, 1,500 miles wide and 1,500 miles long, we will have to admit that it will be spectacular. Since New Jerusalem will come down and sit upon the new earth, it will take in as much land surface as all of present day Israel, plus, several of the other nations that surround Israel at this time, and also a great portion of the Mediterranean Sea. If the center of the city is located where Jerusalem is now, it will take in 750 miles in each direction from present day Jerusalem.
46. This would mean that it would cover all of Lebanon, most or all of Syria, all of Jordan, over into Iraq, a good part of what is called Egypt at the present time, Turkey and a portion of Saudi Arabia. Another question is, since the earth, its atmosphere and the second Heaven are to be purged by fire after the Millennial Reign of CHRIST has ended, where will the city of New Jerusalem be at that time? Answer . . .
47. New Jerusalem is to hover over the earth during the Millennial reign. After the reign is completed, those who have lived upon the earth during the Millennium will necessarily have to be resurrected from off the earth likely into New Jerusalem. This would mean that GOD evidently will take this Heavenly City up into the 3rd Heaven, where it will stay until the first and second Heavens have been purged and recreated. Then, of course, the City will be brought down upon the New earth. By the way, since GOD created this present earth in one day, perhaps He will recreate the new earth and heavens in one moment of time and settle New Jerusalem immediately down upon the new earth. What about the BODY OF CHRIST?
=========================
48. { V. 2 } Scripture: "I know a man [ Paul referring to himself ] in CHRIST above fourteen years ago, ( Whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: GOD knows; ) such an one caught up to the THIRD HEAVEN.
49. { V. 4 } How that he was caught up into PARADISE, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter, { 2- Corinthians 12:1, - & - 4 }." Paul also said . . .
=========================
50. { V. 1 } Scripture: "For we know that if our earthly house of this Tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of GOD, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.
========
51. The above { V. 1 } paraphrased in commentary form . . . Scripture: "For we know that if 'our earthly house [ our physical body' ] of this "Tabernacle" [ of flesh which is the Temple of the HOLY SPIRIT after we become saved Saints ] were dissolved, we have 'a building of GOD, 'an house [ a brand new spiritual body for each Saint' ] not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.
========
52. { V. 2 } For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be "clothed upon with our house which is from heaven," { 2- Corinthians 5:1-2 }."
=========================
53. Commentary . . . Our eternal Heavenly Spiritual Body "will be our new house" which we receive at the time of the Rapture. See { John 14:2-4 }. We should remember that CHRIST was talking to the Hebrew followers in John 14 just referred to. We should also remember that while the BODY OF CHRIST's inheritance will be in the Heavenlies, Israel as an earthly nation will inherit her land upon this earth. So when JESUS promised these men new mansions in the Heavens that they would inherit in the future, we believe that He was talking about the 'new spiritual bodies [ houses' ] His earthly Saints would receive at His Second Coming.
54. As to the Heavens, the fact remains that if we could presently know how wonderful it is in Heavenly places, we could hardly stand it here on the earth! Yes, New Jerusalem and the new earth will be a part of Heaven, but only a small part since there can be no end of heavenly places! Therefore, it is inconceivable that the BODY OF CHRIST would stay in one place when the whole universe belongs to CHRIST and since our inheritance according to Scripture will be equal with His.
55. This reminds this writer of something a man said some years ago. He stated that if his pet dog could not go to heaven, that he had no desire to go there either. How imbecilic, and mentally deficient is a person to say such a thing? Since we are "Adopted Children of GOD the FATHER" and equal with CHRIST as a Son, and to be overseers with Him of the universe, then we could possibly have the power to recreate an animal that we wished to possess! Why not? And, if we could not create an animal, likely the LORD would create one for us, who knows what the future will bring on the scene???
56. We know that many of the things in the eternal realm of GOD are hidden from us at this time, but we can be sure if we wish to visit the earth or New Jerusalem or any other place at that time, of course we will be able to do so! There are countless things that we could add to this message but for lack of space we must wait for the time we can write another message to enlarge upon other wonders of GOD's Word. The best advice we can give to the student, is to . . .
Think Deeply Of That Which Concerns The Scriptures,
And Never Stop Studying! JESUS said . . .
=========================
57. Scripture: "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man comes unto the FATHER, but by Me, { John 14:6 }."
=========================
58. Commentary . . . Will you come out of the storm into the LORD's shelter? Would you like to do that? JESUS is asking you to, and you can be saved. What will you do with JESUS, which is called the CHRIST? And . . .
What About Your Own Salvation? We Ask This Of You . . .
59. Are you ready for Heaven? It is possible that your 'heart [ mind' ] has been running from the LORD and rebels against Him. The Word of GOD calls this "sin." The Bible states that every one of us one way or another are sinners:
=========================
60. Scripture: "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD, { Romans 3: 23 }."
=========================
61. Therefore, despite your sin, GOD loves you and wants to save you from sin, and to offer you a new life of hope.
========
62. Scripture: "The thief comes not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly, { John 10:10 }." [ To give you a gift of salvation the LORD made a way through a Saviour JESUS CHRIST. ]
========
63. Scripture: "But GOD commands His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us, { Romans 5: 8 }."
=========================
64. Commentary . . . You receive this salvation not by trying to be good enough to get to Heaven, but by just believing in JESUS CHRIST and trusting His Word. Are you and your loved ones ready if death overtakes you? GOD is ready. CHRIST has prepared a home for you in Heaven. He wants you there. I believe that you want to go there. The Word of the LORD states . . .
=========================
65. Scripture: "He, that being often reproved [ and ] hardens his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy, { Proverbs 29:1 }." [ If you will not listen and believe before the Resurrection of the BODY OF CHRIST, look what the LORD says about you ]:
=========================
66. { V. 10 } Scripture: "And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
67. { V. 11 }: And for this cause GOD will send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie.
68. { V. 12 }: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness, { 2- Thessalonians 2:10-12 }."
=========================
69. The above { Vs. 10-12 } paraphrased in commentary form . . .
{ 10 } Scripture: "And with all deceivableness of [ unlimited seduction to evil and with all wicked deception to . . . ] unrighteousness in them 'that perish [ and are going to perdition, perishing' ]; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. [ They refused to believe the truth of GOD's Word ].
{ 11 }: And for this cause GOD 'will send them [ a working error of ] strong delusion [ a misleading influence, of some type of idol worship' ], that 'they should believe a lie [ of what is false' ].
{ 12 }: That they all might [ be judged and ] be 'damned [ condemned' ] who believed not [ and refused to adhere, trust, and rely on ] the truth, but [ instead ] had pleasure in unrighteousness,
========
70. Commentary . . . In order to be positive of your own salvation, we once again ask you to "Please" read and pray the following prayer and if you really believe and accept in 'your heart [ mind' ] what you have read and have spoken these words in this prayer with a contrite mind to GOD the FATHER, you will have become a Child of GOD!
The Sinners Prayer . . .
71. Heavenly FATHER, I know that I'm a lost sinner and that I cannot save myself by good works. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is GOD the SON Who came down from Heaven and took on a human body of flesh and was born of the Virgin Mary. I believe that JESUS shed His blood on the Cross of Calvary and died paying the price for my sins with His death so that I can receive salvation because and through His sacrifice. I believe that after CHRIST's sacrifice and death, He arose from the tomb after three literal days and three literal nights. And, that JESUS ascended into the third Heaven to sit at the right hand of GOD the FATHER. I believe that JESUS will return for all Saints who belong to the BODY OF CHRIST in the Rapture, according to His own promise! I know that I have been up to this time a lost sinner and deserved to go to hell. So I beseech you Heavenly FATHER, send your HOLY SPIRIT at this very moment into my heart and save me for JESUS CHRIST sake as has been promised me by Your Holy Word. I am receiving JESUS CHRIST at this very moment as my personal Saviour, my LORD and as my only blessed hope for salvation. Thank You LORD for now I am saved by Your wonderful grace. "Amen! [ I pray: let it be so" ]!
=========================
72. Scripture { V. 16 }: "For GOD so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten SON, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
73. { V. 17 }: For GOD sent not His SON into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved, John 3:16-17 }."
========
74. Scripture, { V. 8 }: "For by Grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of GOD . . .
75. { V. 9 }: Not of works, lest any man should boast, { Ephesians 2:8-9 }."
========
76. , { V. 9 } Scripture: "But as it is written, Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which GOD has prepared for them that love Him,
77. { V. 10 }: But GOD has revealed them to us by His [ HOLY ] SPIRIT, for the SPIRIT searches all things, yes the deep things of GOD, { 1- Corinthians 2:9-10 }." [ The Apostle Paul stated that after we become Christians we will be . . .
=========================
78. { V. 37 } Scripture: " . . . more than conquerors through Him that loved us. [ He said . . .
79. { V. 38 }: For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
80. { V. 39 }: Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of GOD, which is in CHRIST JESUS our LORD, { Romans 8:37-39 }." [ Never again will we be judged! . . . See { Romans 5:1; - John 3:18; - & - 5:24 }."
=========================
81. Commentary . . . The signs indicating the seven years of tribulation has already become evident before the Tribulation on a smaller scale, while increasing in intensity as the tribulation approaches. The signs serve the purpose of a clarion call to the BODY OF CHRIST to prepare for the coming of CHRIST as the HEAD of the BODY in the air, and also to the unrepentant world not to continue shunning the Grace of GOD { Heb. 2:3 }. When the signs that indicate the Tribulation Period is close at hand, people are to look forward in humble prayer to the soon resurrection of the Saints. Plus . . .
82. The Israelis are to ready themselves for the Second Coming of their Bridegroom MESSIAH { Luke 21:28 }. Both classes of people, the BODY OF CHRIST first and later Israel and the nations are to lift up their heads because their redemption is drawing near. We have given a list of final signs that indicate the nearness of the Rapture first, and seven years later the Second Coming, at the end of the seven year-long tribulation. Are you waiting and watching for this time to culminate?
83. Do not postpone your decision for JESUS CHRIST. Remember, it may be indeed too late tomorrow. Make use of it today, because if you really want the harmony and peace of the LORD in your heart, then you must prepare now. There must be a change of authority in your mind and that change will determine eternity. To put it briefly, you either will spend eternity in everlasting, never-ending punishment or in never-ending eternal glory with your LORD.
=================================================================
84. In regards to our readers, we would deeply express our thanks to those who will recopy this message and pass it on to others that they too may be blessed or perhaps find Salvation from it. If you have a computer, then why not download the message, make copies of it and pass it on to others?
End Of The 9 - Bride And BODY OF CHRIST Messages.