Dispensations
—(Ephesians 5:15-17)
Questions
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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The Bible defines the world into three divisions of ages: Pre-flood age, Present age, and Millennial age (1000 years period) .
When there is a change of age, the life expectancy of humans and the animal also changes.
1. Pre-flood Age
This period, known as the Antediluvian age, spans from the beginning of the world until the great flood, commonly referred to as Noah's flood. It is estimated to have lasted for approximately 2000 years. During this time, humans lived well beyond 900 years (Genesis 5).
Adam - 930 years (Genesis 5:5)
Noah - 950 years (Genesis 9:29)
Methuselah - 969 years (Genesis 5:27)
The longevity observed during this time can be attributed to a healthy lifestyle, as they did not use medicine and had access to clean drinking water. Their diet was also convenient, contributing to their overall well-being. The society of that age experienced very few social issues, making it appear much better compared to the present day.
2. Present Age
After the flood of Noah's day, until the second coming of Christ is expected to be 4000 years. This period is considered the worst. Life expectancy during this time is very short, and the lives of those living close the flood were greatly shortened compared to Adam's age.
1. Abraham: 175 years (Genesis 25:7)
2. Isaac: 180 years (Genesis 35:28)
3. Jacob: 147 year (Genesis 4:28)
4. Moses: 120 years (Deuteronomy 34:7)
5. Joshua: 110 years. (Joshua 24:29)
The above individuals live only one-sixth of Adam's age span. But compared with today’s life expectancy, they still enjoyed relatively long lives. As Moses wrote in Psalm 90:10— "The span of our years is seventy, or eighty if we are strong; even then their best days are few." (Psalm 90:10). The life expectancy of some counties in the world is well below 60 years. Compared to Noah's lifespan, these represent just one twelve.
Not only do they have a shortened lifespan, but they also face various social problems such as food poverty, poor health, moral failure, illiteracy, language barriers, political issues, ethnicity conflicts, and religious disputes. Due to the outbreak of wars in recent times, this period is considered an evil age.
How can one make the most of this time? When traveling for business with only two days instead of a month, one must prioritize important matters and set aside the unimportant. Likewise, because human life is so short, it’s crucial to focus on what truly matters.
However, many people are unaware of the significance of these 4000 years and believe that living for 60 years is too long. They end up wasting their time. Paul advises discerning the will of the Lord (Jesus).
This current age can be divided into two parts:
(1) The first part spans from 2000 years after the flood until Christ's incarnation.
(2) The second part extends from Christ's incarnation until his second coming, lasting roughly 4,000 years in total. As of 202X, we are at the end of these days. Recognizing this is crucial for making necessary adjustments.
3. Millennial age
The thousand‑year period begins when Christ returns for the second time as king and ends with the conclusion of that 1,000‑year reign. Regarding this millennium, it is written:
See, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind. But be glad and rejoice forever in what I will create, for I will create Jerusalem to be a delight and its people a joy. I will rejoice over Jerusalem and take delight in my people; the sound of weeping and of crying will be heard in it no more. “Never again will there be in it an infant who lives but a few days, or an old man who does not live out his years; the one who dies at a hundred will be thought a mere child; the one who fails to reach a hundred will be considered accursed. They will build houses and dwell in them; they will plant vineyards and eat their fruit. No longer will they build houses and others live in them, or plant and others eat. For as the days of a tree, so will be the days of my people; my chosen ones will long enjoy the work of their hands. They will not labor in vain, nor will they bear children doomed to misfortune; for they will be a people blessed by the Lord, they and their descendants with them. Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear. The wolf and the lamb will feed together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox, and dust will be the serpent’s food. They will neither harm nor destroy on all my holy mountain,” says the Lord. (Isaiah 65:17-25)
The above verses indicate that the period is not eternal, but a thousand years.
During this millennium, there will still be building and farming. There will also be death and judgment. The lifespan of man will return to a thousand years. A person who dies at the age of one hundred will be called a child. An old man's lifespan will be ten times that of a young man.
Food will be abundant, so there will no longer be any suffering from human troubles. It will be a time of joy, peace, and dwelling in happiness. People will be healthy and peaceful. There will be no more children born. The beast will no longer exist, and in the animal world there will be no more kikking of one another. Because the Lord Himself will rule, this world will become like heaven, and it is called the new heavens and the new earth. The fulfillment of what the Lord taught, "Thy kingdom come," will take place. This is the best time among three periods. That time is not far away.
Questions
1. this world How many periods is it divided into?__________
2. Specify periods _________________
3. From which time to which time will today's period end? _______________
4. Why are these present days evil?_______________
5. Which period is the best? ________ Why _____________
6. Adam lived _____ years, Noah lived _____ years, Methuselah lived ______ years.
7. Abraham _____ Isaac _______ Jacob ________ Moses________ Joshua________ lived years.
8. The lifespan of today is ________ stated by ________ in ________.
9. How should we redeem the period? ________.
10. The new heavens and the new earth mentioned in Isaiah 65 refer to which period? ________ Why can it be said like that? ________
11. Describe what will happen during the thousand-year period. ________
The Eight Dispensations (Eras)
It has been known that this world is divided into three ages. These three ages can be further divided into eight Dispensations. When the times change, God's way of governing and dealing with people also changes. The eight Dispensations in this world are as follows:
1. The Dispensation of Innocence (Genesis 1:1 to 3:24)
This period began with God's creation of Adam and Eve, lasting until the time they sinned. It is unknown exactly how long this period lasted. This was an period in which everything went according to God's purpose of creation. Humans had no sin, so there were absolutely no problems or troubles in human life. People could have fellowship with God because they were pure, and they had no fear, shame, or anxiety. They did not need to worry about dying, nor did they need clothing, as they lived comfortably surrounded by the glory of God. Animals posed no danger, and people could live in harmony with them. There was no work to be done, and food was always available. It was an extremely good period. The closest time period to this period is believed to be the Millennial reign. This period ended when Adam and Eve disobeyed God's command by eating from the forbidden tree of knowledge.
2. The Dispensation of Conscience (Genesis 3:8-8:22)
This period began from the time when humans could distinguish between good and evil, starting with their fall into sin, and lasted until the time of Noah's flood. During this period, people lived according to their conscience. This was also the beginning of murder, worshiping God, agriculture, animal husbandry, and arts. Because of contact with fallen angels, there were also giants among these people (Genesis 6). Since all human hearts are continually corrupt, God decided to destroy them by sending a flood. Only Noah and his family of eight listened to God's word and built an ark to survive. All the people on today's earth are descendants of those eight individuals.
3. The Dispensation of Human Government (Genesis 8-11)
This period refers to the time from Noah and his family until the construction of the Tower of Babel. Although Noah and his family worshipped the eternal God, their descendants quickly turned away from God and began to worship idols. This was not surprising. Consider this: people saw miraculous signs performed by God in Egypt, crossed the Red Sea with divine permission and drank water from a rock, and lived on the land of Canaan, yet they quickly turn away from God and worship idols. Even the spiritual leaders today were known to go astray and lose faith in God. As such, because Noah’s descendants worshipped idols and built the Tower of Babel, God caused their languages to be confused, scattered them throughout the earth, and thus this period of human government ended in failure.
4. The Dispensation of Grace or Patriarchal Dispensation (Genesis 12 to Genesis 18)
This period began with God's selection of Abraham from among those who worshipped idols. God commanded Abraham to go from the land of Ur to Canaan. Although God had promised him that land, he wandered as a stranger and died without possessing it. God's promise was not fulfilled even during the time of Abraham's son Isaac or his grandson Jacob. Jacob was renamed Israel, and God sent his family of twelve sons into Egypt for food. Though they arrived there with royal lineage, eventually they ended up in bondage in Egypt. This period lasted 430 years.
5. The Dispensation of Law (Exodus 19 to Acts 1)
This period began when God delivered the Israelites from their bondage in Egypt through Moses, gave them the law on Mount Sinai, and the Holy Spirit descended upon them on the Day of Pentecost, marking the establishment of the Church. This period lasted approximately 1500 years. Although God intended to raise up the Israelites as priests for all nations and to proclaim His name among other peoples, He did not succeed in this purpose. The Israelites were cared for by God's provision and protection, yet they constantly rebelled against Him and worshipped the gods of the surrounding nations. Because of this, God often sold them into slavery among other nations. However, it should be noted that eventually, He brought Israel under Assyrian bondage and Judah under Babylonian captivity. The Israelites did not return to God and were lost among the nations. The Jews, however, repented and were called back by God to Canaan, yet they could no longer live under their own kingship and instead endured the rule of other peoples. Those who returned from exile repented and desired God, though they did not fully understand His will and struggled in their efforts. They copied many scriptures. Those who copied them were called scribes. After thoroughly studying these scriptures and interpreting their meanings, a class of people emerged who tried to live according to the best of their ability; they were called Pharisees. During this time when they greatly turned to God's teachings, Jesus Christ came in human form to offer salvation to them. However, they did not accept Him and crucified Him on the cross. Because they killed the Son of God, God allowed them to be destroyed by the Romans in AD 70, and those who survived fled to every corner of the world, marking the end of this dispensation.
6. The Dispensation of Church (Acts 2 to Revelation. 3)
Although the Israelites were zealous for God, because they did not know His will and killed His Son, God no longer chose one nation but instead established the Church by giving the Holy Spirit to those who believe from among all nations. The Church was begun on the Day of Pentecost in order to proclaim the glory and grace of God (1 Peter 2:9) and to bear witness to salvation (Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 1:8). Although the church began with Israelites, later it became composed mainly of Gentiles. The church also, like Israel, does not listen to the voice of God but desires only blessings, and their worship is only on their lips, not in their hearts. Therefore, most of the church will face judgment during the Great Tribulation. Only the true church will be raptured when Jesus returns, being taken up into heaven (1 Corinthians 15:51-53, 1 Thessalonians 4:14-18). In this present church age, we are the last generation and it is extremely important that we be part of the rapture when Christ comes soon. In the Church Dispensation, some believers will be taken in a partial rapture, while most will endure the Great Tribulation and arrive at their final judgment.
7. The Dispensation of Antichrist (Revelation 6 to 19)
This period begins from the time when the true church is taken away and lasts until the second coming of Christ. This period is called the Great Tribulation, during which the enemy of God, the Antichrist, who is a counterfeit of Christ, will rule over the entire world. Although this period is very short, it will be extremely difficult because it is the time when God pours out His wrath upon these people of this world who do not believe in Him (Revelation 20:4). In this period, there are those who return to faith in God, but they will only be saved through persecution (Revelation 20:4). Satan, who has always been trying to imitate God and wants to rule over this world, will do so with all his power. When Christ returns the second time as King, He will judge and bring an end to those who follow Satan. Then, Satan will be cast into the abyss for a thousand years, and Antichrist along with the false prophet will be thrown into the lake of fire forever (Revelation 19:20). This period is described in detail in Revelation chapters 6 through 19.
8. The Dispensation the Millennium (Revelation 20)
This period begins with the second coming of Christ as King and will last for a thousand years. In this age, Christ will rule over this world with a rod of iron, and the true church will reign with Him as queen. Humanity itself will be extended to a thousand years, and all people will be healthy. Only those who do not listen to God's word will be cursed and die (Isaiah 65:20). There will be no more war; weapons of war will be used as farming tools. Food will be abundant, and people will eat freely. Animals will no longer have predators but live together in peace. There will be no refugees or wars, making it an excellent age (Isaiah 2:4, 9, 11, 65). However, when the thousand years are completed, Satan will be released from his prison to deceive people and attack Christ. They will be burned with fire from heaven and die (Revelation 20:7-9). After that, the great white throne judgment will take place (Revelation 20:10-15), and this period will end, leading into eternity.
Through understanding these dispensations, people can recognize their own imperfection. People often think they are bad because of sin, lack of food, poor environment, bad governance, or lack of education. However, no matter how good the situation is, humans cannot be good. This is because humans are inherently imperfect and thus need God's salvation. Humans were born from Adam and are therefore sinful like Adam. No matter how much they are taught or suffer, they cannot become good. However, if a person is in Christ, he becomes a new creature; the old things pass away, and all things become new (2 Corinthians 5:17), as Paul wrote. If you are not in Christ, you remain an old human being and can never be good. Even though you may appear good to people, you are bad in God's eyes. Therefore, come to Jesus to become a new person. Jesus said, "He who comes to Me I will by no means cast out" (John 6:37). Again, He said, "For the Son of Man came not to destroy men but to save them." (Luke 19:10). Therefore, come with an undivided heart to Jesus Christ now.
Questions
1. Into how many dispensations can this world be divided? ___________
2. Describe all those dispensations ___________
3. Describe the characteristics of the dispensation of innocence. ___________
4. From when to when is the dispensation of conscience? ___________ to ___________
5. Why was there a flood? ___________
6. What do they worship in the era of human rule? ___________
7. How did the Promise or the era of the Patriarchs conclude? ___________
8. From when and until when is the era of the commandment? ___________
9. What class arose in the age of commandment? ___________
10. Why did they kill Jesus Christ? ___________
11. What is the mission of the church? ___________
12. How will the church age end? ___________
13. How long will the Antichrist period last?___________
14. Why is God angry with the earth? ___________
15. Describe the characteristics of the millennial age. ___________
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Spiritual Day and Night
"And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.” (Romans 13:11-14)
In the passage provided, Paul states that "our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed." This means that the moment of deliverance from this world, or the time of the rapture, is closer in comparison to the moment when one initially received salvation. Therefore, in another sense, the day of rapture is closer than the day when we understand the meaning of salvation.
Nighttime
It says, "When night ends and day begins." This does not refer to the physical day and night, but rather to the spiritual day and night. To understand this, one needs to know about light and darkness.
The Bible says, "God is light" (1 John 1:5). Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life." (John 8:12). Therefore, wherever God is present, it is light or day. Before Adam and Eve sinned, this world was light. God ruled over it. However, from the time Adam and Eve listened to the devil's words, this world was covered with darkness. When Jesus came in the flesh, there was light. Thus, when Jesus lived in Galilee, the Bible writes about how He was the light: "Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned." (Matthew 4:15-16).
The Work of Light
Light reveals all things. Paul writes, "But everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light." (Ephesians 5:13). One reason why Jesus was crucified is to reveal people's sins. When He was present, people could not commit sin. All true sin is committed in darkness. Because Jesus was crucified, the world was once again covered with darkness.
Believers are Light
Those who believe in Christ are called light. Jesus said, "You are the light of the world." (Matthew 5:14). Paul also says, "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light" (Ephesians 5:8).Why can believers be light? It can be because there is a Holy Spirit within them. Believers are those who shine in the darkness on behalf of God. The way it stands, this world is still not day, but night.
Night Divided Into Four Parts
This world has become dark night, as we know. So, is it midnight? Or is it dawn? Or nearly morning? The Lord said concerning the time when He would come: "It's like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with their assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch. 'Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: 'Watch!'' (Matthew 24:34-36).
The man Jesus refers to is Himself. The servants are believers. Christ divided the night into four parts in His parable. Let us look into evening, midnight, cockcrow, and morning.
Evening
Evening refers to the period from when the sun sets until around 9 o'clock. During this time, no one is asleep yet. The elders are talking and children are playing, so it's still noisy. In church history, night time refers to the beginning of the Church, from AD 33 to around AD 313. During that time, believers lived for their faith. Living for Christ was more important than work. Believers endured suffering, persecution, and even death for their faith, remaining fully awake in the spiritual realm and steadfastly carrying out their duties. At that time, the Lord Jesus did not come.
Midnight
At midnight, everyone is asleep, and there is no noise in town. People are quietly sleeping. This period represents the years from AD 313 to 151 in church history. In AD 313, the Roman Emperor Constantine and his soldiers converted to Christianity without knowing about salvation and the truth, not only granting freedom to Christians but also honoring them. At that time, Christians no longer spoke about salvation and the truth, and they fell into a deep sleep in their spiritual lives. During this period, very few people would reach salvation. Also during that time, the Lord Jesus did not come.
Time When the Rooster Crows
The rooster crows at around 2-4 a.m. Only the elderly can hear the rooster's crowing because they are awake while younger people tend to be asleep and thus cannot hear the roosters crowing. Roosters crowing indicates the time of day. During daytime, one can tell the time by looking at the sun. However, during nighttime, not only is there no sun but also people are sleeping and it's dark. Therefore, God causes roosters to crow so that people can know the time. Only older roosters crow at that hour; younger roosters begin to crow just before dawn. The term "rooster crowing time" refers to a period in church history from approximately A.D. 1517 to 1900. During this time, reformers such as Martin Luther, John Calvin, and Huldrych Zwingli, who were older roosters, began to proclaim the truth. They started to emphasize that salvation comes by faith rather than by works. They preached the message: "The righteous shall live by faith" (Habakkuk 2:4; Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11; Hebrews 10:38). Afterwards, many missionaries emerged and spread throughout the world to preach the gospel of salvation. Prominent missionaries include John Wesley, George Whitefield, William Carey, Adoniram Judson, George Muller, David Livingstone, and Hudson Taylor. However, during that time, the Lord Jesus still did not come.
Morning
Morning refers to the period from about four in the morning until dawn. In winter, the morning star appears early in the morning. Only those who rise early in the morning can see that morning star. Those who are asleep do not see the morning star. The morning star is only visible for a short while and disappears when the sun rises. Those who are deeply asleep will only wake up when the sun rises.
The Morning Star
In spiritual terms, the time of morning refers from around A.D. 1900 until the second coming of Christ. Now is the time near to the appearance of the morning star. It is important to distinguish between the appearing of the morning star and the rising of the sun. The morning star is Christ Himself. Christ Himself said, "I am the root of David, the bright and morning star." (Revelation 22:16). Why did Christ refer to Himself as the morning star? Because the morning star is the most prominent star in the early morning sky. Just like the morning star appears in the early morning, Christ will come to carry away the saints. At that time, only those who have risen early—that is, those who have been saved—will be raptured into heaven. Those who are still asleep—that is, those who have not been saved—will remain behind. Are you one of those who are still asleep?
Jesus is the Sun
Jesus is also the Sun. When Jesus comes for the second time, everyone in the world will see Him.
He Himself warned us this way: “So if anyone tells you, ‘There he is, out in the wilderness,’ do not go out; or, ‘Here he is, in the inner rooms,’ do not believe it. For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. Wherever there is a carcass, there the vultures will gather. “Immediately after the distress of those days “‘the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light;
the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.’ “Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven. And then all the peoples of the earth will mourn when they see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory. And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other. (Matthew 24:26-31)
Near the time when the Lord comes for the second time, the sun will grow dark. Because the Lord will come in glory, it will be like the sun rising. Just as when the sun rises and lights up every place, so too when the Lord comes for the second time, He will light up everywhere.
In the Old Testament we also find this description of the Lord coming out like the sun: “Surely the day is coming; it will burn like a furnace. All the arrogant and every evildoer will be stubble, and the day that is coming will set them on fire,” says the Lord Almighty. “Not a root or a branch will be left to them. But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves. Then you will trample on the wicked; they will be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day when I act,” says the Lord Almighty." (Malachi 4:1-3)
The day which is described as burning like a fire in the furnace refers to the time of Great Tribulation. At this time, those who are arrogant and have committed sins will be burned up like stubble and not leave even a root or branch behind. This means that their history and names will also be completely erased. The Israelites who fear God will remain because of His protection during the time of Great Tribulation. When the second coming of Christ comes, they shall leap like calves released from the stall. Calves in the stall jump around because they are not tied with ropes. This illustrates freedom and joy.
Sleeping
How do people sleep? They sleep by seeking these worldly things and following their desires. Many people sleep by pursuing money for work. Because of the exhaustion from working, they don't have time or interest in spiritual matters, which is a kind of sleeping. Students also sleep entirely without waking up in the spiritual sense by focusing only on schoolwork. Some people sleep so deeply that they cannot be awakened at all, following political and racial preoccupations, or by pursuing pleasures and entertainment. Many others sleep by using drugs, drinking alcohol, indulging in sports, or chasing after relationships between men and women.
Harder even to wake up are those who have not been saved, do not know the truth, but follow religious practices, sing praises of God, and serve as spiritual leaders. In addition, even those who have been saved but still cling to worldly things also sleep. When they sleep, they dream; in their dreams, they experience feelings, but when they wake up, there is nothing left. Similarly, those who indulge in seeking pleasures and tastes will completely vanish like dreams when the Lord comes again. Those who are sleeping in this way do not pay attention to the coming of the Lord, nor do they know or understand it; they only speak foolishly. They will not be raptured by the Lord. So, are you still asleep?
Questions
1. What does the grace that saves us mean? ___________
2. What time does our first believe refer to? ______________________
3. Does "the night is far spent" refer to the physical world or the spiritual world? ______________________
4. Who is light? ______________________
5. The work of light is ______________________
6. Why can believers be light? ______________________
7. How many parts does Christ divide night? ___________
8. In church history, what time is midnight? ___________
9. What does it mean for believers not to sleep? ___________
10. In church history, what time is the cockcrow? ___________
11. What does the church sleeping mean? ___________
12. Which chickens can crow at cockcrow? ___________
13. In church history, what time is cockcrow? ___________
14. Name the spiritual roosters: ______________________
15. What are the main passages of the spiritual roosters? ___________
16. Morning is from until when? ________
17. Who is the Morning Star and Why? ______________________
18. Who is the Sun? ______________________
19. What does a day burning like fire in the oven mean? ___________
20. When Christ comes the second time, will everyone see Him? ___________ Why? _____________
21. Who sleeps in the spiritual world? _____________________
22. Do those who chase after God's truth also sleep? Why? ___________
23. Will those who are sleeping be raptured? _____________________
24. Are you asleep? ______________________
Why the Need for Rapture
Some people and faith teachers claim that there will be no more rapture. They argue as such because they believe they won't be a part of the rapture. In the scriptures, only Enoch and Elijah have experienced the rapture. No other rapture event involving many individuals has occurred in history yet. Some assert that certain individuals cannot participate in the rapture unless they are born again, and only those who maintain purity in their eating, drinking, and conduct will be included. Let's investigate for whom this rapture is intended and who will be a part of it.
God's Family Members Evacuated
The Great Tribulation refers to the time when God pours out His wrath upon this world. In Scripture, it says, "Surely the day is coming; it will burn like a furnace. All the arrogant and every evildoer will be stubble, and the day that is coming will set them on fire,” says the Lord Almighty. (Malachi 4:1). That fiery day refers to the time of Great Tribulation. Again, it says, "Then the kings of the earth, the princes, the generals, the rich, the mighty, and everyone else, both slave and free, hid in caves and among the rocks of the mountains. They called to the mountains and the rocks, “Fall on us and hide us[a] from the face of him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can withstand it?”" (Revelation 6:15-17).
God does not want His people to suffer the wrath that will be poured out on Earth. Before Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed by fire, God rescued Lot's righteous family through two angels. Similarly, before the Great Tribulation occurs, God will take His people from this world to heaven, sparing them from harm. Paul wrote, "God did not appoint us to suffer wrath, but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Thessalonians 5:9).
Only those who are children of God, His saints, will be part of the rapture. This is not because they possess good habits or practice cleanliness in eating and drinking, but rather because they strive for the truth of God. When people move house, change towns, or go to another country, they usually take their own family members with them. However, when moving, they do not typically bring other people's children along with them, even if those children are very lovable. Within their family, they do not just relocate the clean and useful children; they also move the ones who cannot keep themselves clean, cannot work, or have physical defects within the family.
When parents rent a good and clean house, they do not leave behind their children, especially those with a habit of defacing walls by writing on them. In fact, they would not move without every child coming along with them. Why do parents bring all their children, including one with physical disabilities, for relocation? Because they are integral members of the family unit. Therefore, to participate in the rapture, one simply needs to be a member of God's household. Leading a clean life is essential, as it aligns with God's will. As mentioned, individuals who lead unclean lives may still be in the rapture; however, they will not be praised by God, and they may experience shame when encountering Him.
Only Through Birth
Nobody becomes children of their parents because they are good, beautiful, or lovable. To be a member of the family, one must be born from the parents. Regardless of whether one is ugly, physically handicapped, or disobedient, if one is born from the mother, he or she becomes a family member. Everyone who is born from the flesh of both parents becomes a part of the family.
Through Spiritual Birth
In the same way, in order to become children of God, one must be spiritually reborn by the Spirit. So how does one become a child of God? Becoming a child of God is not something achieved through human effort or action. Just as a mother carries a baby for nine months and then gives birth when the time comes, so too, being born again into God's family happens in this way. The Bible says, "Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God." (John 1:12-13). According to this passage, becoming a child of God occurs through believing and receiving Jesus Christ. Most Christians believe that they have received Jesus Christ. Then, does everyone become a child of God? No, not everyone. So what does this mean?
God Gives Birth to Them
Being born again is not by changing one's habits or by striving to do good things.
To be spiritually reborn, one must first be in Christ. Just as a physical birth requires a mother's womb, a spiritual birth requires being in Christ. Every human being is born from the mother's womb as a child of Adam, a sinner, and a child of Satan. Those who are not children of God cannot enter into His dwelling place or the kingdom of heaven.
In order to enter heaven or God's house, one must first be a child of God. To make humans His children, God placed children of Adam within Jesus Christ. The Scripture says, "You are in Christ Jesus" (1 Corinthians 1:30). One must believe and accept this concept of being taken into Jesus Christ.
Why does God take people into Jesus Christ? Because if someone remains a child of Adam, he's a child of Satan or a sinner, with no connection to God and unable to listen to Him. Therefore, to end the life of a child of Adam, a child of Satan, or a sinner, God placed them in Jesus Christ and had them crucified at the cross (Romans 6:6, Galatians 2:20). After this death in Jesus, they were buried in the tomb (Romans 6:4), which is called baptism. When Jesus Christ rose from the dead, they also arose with a new life (Romans 6:4, 2 Corinthians 5:17), becoming new creatures (Romans 6:4, 2 Corinthians 5:17) and children of God.
This transformation is not accomplished through human works or will but rather by what God does through Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:18, John 1:13). Therefore, one must believe in being born-again through Jesus Christ by faith.
Comparison of Physical and Spiritual Birth
When a child undergoes physical birth, the mother endures pain while the newborn remains unaware. Similarly, when one experiences spiritual birth, only Christ suffers and the individual feels nothing. Just as a mother's blood is shed during physical birth, so too does Christ's bloodshed occur during spiritual birth. The physical body emerges first, followed by the child's consciousness; similarly, spiritual birth occurs first, later to be understood by the person experiencing it.
A mother is essential for the creation of a physical body; likewise, Christ is crucial for spiritual birth. Only those physically born can enter this world, and only those spiritually born have the opportunity to access heaven. When one is physically born, they emerge as an infant - unclean, unable to work, and in need of growth. In the same way, when one experiences spiritual birth, they become a spiritual infant - unclean, unable to work, and in need of growth.
During physical birth, a child inherits everything that belongs to their parents. Though the child may not yet be aware of or utilize these possessions, they become part of the child's inheritance. In God's family, when one is born through Christ, they inherit everything that belongs to God. Regardless of age, cleanliness, or any other factor, the kingdom of God serves as the inheritance for those who have undergone spiritual birth (Romans 8:17).
The Corinthians
The Corinthians did not live a pure lifestyle. They lived in the flesh and were considered children in the spirit (1 Corinthians 3:1-3). However, Paul stated that they would participate in the rapture. He wrote, "Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed" (1 Corinthians 15:51-52).
As a result, in the rapture, every individual who belongs to God's household, regardless of their age or state, will be included. If someone is not part of this event, it indicates that they may not truly belong to the household of God.
In Need of a Clean Life
The assurance of inclusion in the rapture should prevent one from engaging in any behavior they desire. Children reflect their parents' image; well-behaved children bring pride, while poorly behaved ones cause embarrassment. Similarly, if we are spiritually acting like children, we mar the face of our heavenly Father.
Just as physical children put everything they see on the floor into their mouths, spiritual children, who have only been born in spirit but not fully matured, engage in corrupt acts without shame or hesitation. Paul lists these acts that defile the spirit: "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God." (Galatians 5:19-21). If one still engages in or desires to engage in these acts, it is clear they are acting as a natural man rather than a spiritual child or someone who has yet to be born in the spirit.
A Greater Number of Childish People Will Be in the Rapture
It is unfortunate that many of the children of God will remain in the child stage during the rapture. Over time, these spiritual children should grow and mature in their faith. If they were to mature in the Spirit, they could assist their fellow believers and carry out the works commanded by God while leading a pure life.
May we all strive to be part of the rapture as grown-up, mature individuals in our spiritual lives, rather than remaining in the child stage.
Questions
1. The Great Tribulation is the time of God's __________
2. Will God's wrath be experienced by His family members? __________
3. Who did God save from the city of Sodom? __________
4. How should the Go's household member behave? __________
5. Do you need to be worthy, good and lovable in order to become a family member? _______________
6. Can one strive to become a child of God? __________
7. Before becoming children of God whose children are they? __________
8. Into whom does God place people? __________
9. What is the purpose of being placed inside Christ? __________
10. At what time do one become a son of God? __________
11. Being a child of God is an action done by __________ through __________
12. Compare and write about physical birth and spiritual birth __________
13. What age are the members of the church of Corinth? __________
14. Will members of the church of Corinth be part of the rapture? __________
15. Will the spiritual children be present in the rapture? __________ Why? __________
16. Whose face do the children represent? __________
17. The little ones are able to put everything they see into their __________
18. Spiritual __________ can also commit all kinds of sins.
19. Those who are __________ help parents.
20. Those who are __________ can do the works commanded by God.
Rapture of the Bride
The rapture is to take the bride up to heaven in order to attend the wedding feast of the Lamb. In the Old Testament times, Good was the Husband of the Israelites (Reader may revisit the Good News Magazine from July 2023) In the New Testament era, the bride of the Son is the Church. Some people may misunderstand the Scripture when they do not read it thoroughly and think that God had no wife or this is blaspheming God. The Father himself said that he has a wife. Similarly, the Scripture also writes that the Son has a virgin bride prepared for him. Therefore, let us go over the fact that the Son has a Bride and the wedding is soon coming.
Paul betrothed the Church to Him
Paul wrote to the Corinthians thus: "For I am jealous for you with godly jealousy. For I have betrothed you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. " (2 Corinthians 11:2).
In Paul's letter, "you" refers to the members of the Corinthian church. He describes them as "chaste virgins," and he says they are betrothed to one husband, who is Christ. Paul writes about being betrothed to Christ in order to be united with Him.
What Paul wrote to the Corinthian church applies to every true church—the church which has already been saved. The church is not a building. It refers to the group of people who have been born again by the Spirit. If you have been born again by the Spirit, you are part of the church and have been betrothed to Christ in order to become His bride.
Paul says, "the pure virgin." Purity is a habit; a virgin is one who has not been united with a man and has not been seduced. Therefore, what kind of thing is a pure virgin? In the Old Testament period, idols are called by God as the husband or wife of Israelites because they were worshipped. Thus, for the church, what is the "husband" or "wife"? These are worldly things that are loved more than Christ: money, spouse, children, nationality, politics, race, religion. A virgin must be separated from other men except her betrothed and must be faithful only to her betrothed. Likewise, the church must also be devoted only to the betrothed Christ and remain faithful to Him. It should avoid anything that is not pleasing to Christ or that may cause misunderstanding. Are you a pure virgin? Are you attached to worldly things more than Christ?
Paul says to the Corinthian Church, "You are betrothed to Christ." Therefore, when and how did he betrothed the church to Him? It is when they accepted Christ as their Savior and Lord. Thus, Paul is their "Matchmaker." Believing Christians also receive the betrothal to Christ when they accept the preaching of the preachers who proclaim that they should accept Christ.
Why does Paul say that he is watching over you with godly jealousy? A matchmaker, when arranging a marriage for a friend, watches over the friend and the one who has been chosen to be his partner, fearing that they might break off the engagement. He is not jealous of himself but is concerned about his friend. Similarly, Paul writes in this way to the Corinthian church because he fears that they may become so soft-hearted and lose their undivided love for Christ (2 Corinthians 11:3).
Paul wants the Corinthian church to have an undivided love for Christ without being softened by worldly things. Just as a serpent can deceive Eve, the church too is vulnerable to deception; hence, this warning was given in advance. This is how the deception comes in. Spiritual leaders or evangelists who catch lost souls by witnessing to non-believers often do not care for or look after the souls they have caught but instead leave them behind. These people are like mothers who give birth but neither feed nor care for their children. Everyone despises such motherss and condemns them, and even authorities take action against them.However, when spiritual parents fail to care for their children, false teachers—representatives of the serpent—deceive people through incorrect teachings, leading them into ruin. Are you someone who follows and practices such deceptive teachings from the serpent?
Christ Loves the Church
Paul writes that Christ loves His bride, the church, in this way: "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her. He did this to make her holy and pure, cleansing her with the washing of words. He did this so that He might present her to Himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any such thing, but holy and blameless." (Ephesians 5:25-27)
Christ loved the church so much that He gave Himself up for her, cleansing her with the water of His words—the scriptures—so that He might present her to Himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any such thing, but holy and blameless. So then, are today's churches living as Christ intended them to be—holy, pure, and blameless? Are they being cleansed by the washing of the word? The things that defile the church belong to the devil and this world. Is not today's church clinging to the things of this world like people of the world? Are you defiling yourself by clinging to the world?
The wedding feast of the Lamb
The Scripture writes thus about the coming of the Lord to carry away His bride, the Church: "And I heard, as it were, the voice of a great multitude, as the sound of many waters and as the sound of mighty thunderings, saying, “Alleluia! For the[a] Lord God Omnipotent reigns! Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready.” And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints." (Revelation 19:6-8)
Have You Put on the Wedding Garment?
The wedding feast of the Lamb, Christ, will take place after the rapture in the kingdom of heaven. The Scripture says that His bride has already put on the wedding garment. According to the Scripture, is the Church already dressed? Isn't it true that the church of the bridegroom is usually stained with attachment to this world and remains undressed?
That bride has received the opportunity to wear the pure and spotless wedding garment. That wedding garment, however, is the righteousness of those who are holy. The garment worn by the bride is the purity and righteousness of the saints. Paul writes: "But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption" (Colossians 2:11-13) Christ is the wedding garment of the bride.
We now know that this wedding garment is Christ Himself. How should we use this wedding garment which is Christ? Paul says: "And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts." (Romans 13:11-14) So here, we are to wear the Lord Jesus Christ.
Let Us Know That We are All Naked
The Lord Jesus Christ commanded that we wear the garment. If you do not put on the garment—Jesus Christ—what will happen? The Lord Jesus Christ wrote to the church at Laodicea in this way: "Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked...". (Revelation 3:17). The church at Laodicea is naked before the eyes of the Lord. It's shameful. However, they themselves do not know it. Today’s believers are wearing human-made garments but are completely naked before God.
What is the sign of being naked? Paul said to cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us walk in a manner worthy of our calling, avoiding revelry, drunkenness, immorality, lustful desires, quarrels, and envy. Walk in a way that is upright and blameless during the day. (Romans 13:12-13). Therefore, engaging in revelry, drunkenness, immorality, lustful desires, quarrels, and envy are signs of being naked. Are you involved in these things? If so, know that you are completely spiritually naked before God.
Put on Christ
The Lord Jesus gave this advice to the church of Laodicea: " I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see." (Revelation 3:18).
Jesus did not tell them to buy the white clothes from the market. He told them to buy it from Him because that garment is only found with Him. And that white garment is He Himself. What this means is that those who wear the Lord Jesus will no longer engage in idolatry, drunkenness, immorality, sensuality, quarrels, or prideful behavior.
Have you already put on and worn the Lord? If not, do it quickly. Since we will be meeting Him soon, now is the time to awaken from sleep. Knowing this, we must take hold of the time, cast off the darkness of our habits, and be equipped with the full armor of light. Let us not plan for the desires of your body.
Soldiers Return to Their Base
Soldiers of the world do not remain in one place whether they fight at the front or not. They tend to return to their rear bases. Jesus' soldiers also need to return to the heavenly headquarters from this world. The time when they will return is the day of rapture.
Good Soldiers in Christ
Paul wrote that all who believe in Jesus are soldiers of Christ. Paul wrote to his spiritual son Timothy, "You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others. 3 Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer." (2 Timothy 2:1-4) Paul warned Timothy not to get involved in worldly affairs and the cares of the world if he's to please Jesus, since he was a soldier of Jesus, and Jesus was the one who enlisted him as a soldier. All believers are soldiers of Jesus. However, believers do not know that they are soldiers. They just want to receive the salary and benefits the military has to offer. From now on, knowing that we are soldiers, let us act and fight like a soldier.
Command to Fight
Paul said to Timothy, "I am giving you this command in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by recalling them you may fight the battle well," (1 Tim. 1:18) and "Fight the good fight of the faith." (1 Tim. 6:12) He commanded Timothy to fight. The reason is because he was in the business of helping people to be saved in enemy territory, Satan would fight him hard. Therefore, every believer also needs to fight against the enemy, Satan.
Paul Also Fought
Paul did not only command Timothy to fight, but he himself fought as well. "I have fought the good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." (2 Tim. 4:7). To the Corinthians it was written, "If the dead are not raised, what profit is it if I fought with beasts at Ephesus in a worldly sense? Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die." (1 Cor. 15:32). Paul says that he fought with beasts at Ephesus. The beasts he spoke of were not wild beasts, but the Jews who attacked him because they did not like the truth of salvation that he preached. Ephesus was in Asia. Here is what he wrote about what happened to them there: “We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. 9 Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. 10 He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us...” (2 Cor. 1:8-10) So when Paul told Timothy to fight, he himself had fought.
Jesus Also Fought
When Jesus came to this world in the flesh, he fought with his enemies every day. John wrote, “He came to his own place, and his own people did not receive him” (John 1:11). Again, “The Jews therefore said to him, “Are we not right in saying that you are a Samaritan and have a demon?”” (John 8:48).
If you read further, "Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him. Jesus answered, "I have shown you many good works in my Father's name. For which of those works do you stone me?" The Jews answered, "For a good work I do not stone you, but for blasphemy because you, being a man, make yourself God." (John 10:31-33)
"Then they brought to him a blind man possessed by a demon, and he healed him, and he opened his eyes and spoke. 23 And all the people were amazed and said, "Could this be the Son of David?" 24 When the Pharisees heard this, they said, "This man casts out demons only by Beelzebub, the prince of demons." (Matt. 12:22-24) Jesus said to the Jews, “You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you will do. The devil has been a murderer from the beginning. He does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks according to his own nature. He is a liar and the father of lies.” (John 8:44)
Jesus said, “You brood of vipers, how can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart, your mouth speaks.” (Matthew 12:34) Why did Jesus and the Jews always fight like that? It was because they were enemies. In the end, they killed Jesus. Jesus did not come to live a comfortable life in the enemy’s territory, but to fight.
Believers
Believers in Jesus are soldiers of Christ. Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12). Therefore, believers must fight a daily battle in enemy territory.
Therefore, “Jesus said, ‘If anyone desires to come after me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 25For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.’” (Matthew 16:24-25)
In warfare, life can be lost. Therefore, it is said that those who do not value their life should lose it. "Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 28:19)
And "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." (Acts 1:8)
Why is power needed? It is needed to fight the enemy. Therefore, believers are not to enjoy the blessings and be comfortable, nor to do their own will, but to fight the war the Lord sent them to fight.
Know the Enemy
When you fight, you need to know the enemy well. If you don’t know your enemy, you will lose. Paul warned the faithful Jesus soldiers about their enemy when he wrote, “We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12) The enemy is not flesh and blood, and therefore cannot be defeated with physical weapons. Believers often use the following weapons: certificates from Bible schools, being good speaker, money, manpower, discipline, hard work, human wisdom, worldly knowledge, buildings and cars, electronic devices, and technology. With these things, you cannot completely defeat the evil spirits of Satan. The scribes, Pharisees, Sadducees, and the priests also used them in the past but failed.
Weapons to Use
The greatest and most effective weapon of Jesus’ soldiers is God Himself. When fighting Satan, we must not rely on human strength, but on the Lord. The Bible says that the Lord is our strength, our defense, and our strength. “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him; therefore, my heart rejoices; I will sing and praise him.” (Psalm 28:7)
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)
“The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights.” (Habakkuk 3:19) “The Lord God is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation.” (Exodus 15:2)
“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. 11 “All who rage against you will surely be ashamed and disgraced; those who oppose you will be as nothing and perish. 12 Though you search for your enemies, you will not find them. Those who wage war against you will be as nothing at all. 13 For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.’” (Isaiah 41:10-13)
These verses are not just for information and for preaching, but also to be used when fighting the enemies, Satan and his people. People talk about trusting in God, whether in preaching or in church, but when they are attacked by the enemy, they stop trusting in the Lord and rely only on man.
"It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans. 9 It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes.10 All the nations surrounded me, but in the name of the Lord I cut them down. 11 They surrounded me on every side, but in the name of the Lord I cut them down.12 They swarmed around me like bees, but they were consumed as quickly as burning thorns; in the name of the Lord I cut them down." (Psalm 118:8-12)
Paul says, “Be strong in the Lord, my brothers, and in the power of his might.” (Ephesians 6:10)
The Armor of God
The weapons that we use in battle are provided by the one who commissioned us. Paul says, “Who goes to war at his own expense?” (1 Corinthians 9:7)
Therefore, God Himself provides the armor, saying, “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." (Ephesians 6:11-16)
The armor God provides includes:
The Belt of Truth
Truth means God's Word, his plan. Paul said to Timothy, "But do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a teacher who has nothing to be ashamed of, rightly dividing the word of truth. " (2 Tim. 2:15)
If you do not understand the truth, which is God's will, then even if you use your own understanding to serve God, you will get the opposite result of what you want. Paul, while he was still Saul, was a man of great zeal and trying to do his best to serve God, was asked by Christ, "Why do you persecute me?" (Acts 9:4)?
Christ said of his persecution, "It is hard for you to kick against the goads" (Acts 26:14).
Therefore, in order to overcome Satan, you must know the truth. John said, " It gave me great joy when some believers came and testified about your faithfulness to the truth, telling how you continue to walk in it. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." (3 John 3-4)
Breastplate of Righteousness
Soldiers often wear breastplates because chest area is the largest target on the body. In spiritual world, righteousness is very important. The righteousness that God gives is Jesus Christ Himself (1 Corinthians 1:30). Christ is our righteousness before God. But people cannot see it. To be righteous before people is to do and act accordingly. If your conduct is not right, Satan’s people will point out at your shortcomings and you will lose. Your conduct must not be a righteousness that is achieved through the power of the flesh, but a righteousness that is obtained through the control of the Holy Spirit. The enemy cannot harm a person who has that righteousness.
Footwear for Preaching the Gospel
Preaching the gospel is the footwear of Jesus’ soldiers. Most believers today are being oppressed by the enemy because they do not preach the gospel. However, because they do not know this, they often make excuses when they are asked to preach the gospel. They would say, "Preaching the gospel is the work of preachers," “I am not good at preaching,” or “I am not strong,” or “I do not understand the Bible.” The gospel, Jesus said, is about saving sinners, and it is simple. If the Holy Spirit uses their preaching, people will change. Preaching the gospel is very important because it is fighting with and delivering people from Satan. Paul said, "Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction." (2 Timothy 4:2) Let us be ready starting now so that we may be ready to share the Gospel at all times.
Shield of Faith
Faith is like a shield. The shield of faith can stop the fiery darts of the devil. When the devil uses people to slander, accuse, threaten, and destroy, if we have faith, we will not be discouraged and be able to continue living a Christian life. This faith is not having faith in salvation, but having faith that we will win the battle through God. Faith is not having faith in ourselves, but faith in God. The reason why do so many believers fail in life and also fail to carry out the Lord's work is because they do not have faith in God, but are attached to the world, and live according to the desire of their flesh. Those who always are in fellowship with God and have done His will dare to have faith in God. They will also succeed in what they do.
Helmet of Salvation
This salvation is not something that we have just believed in, but it means God’s salvation in our daily struggle with Satan the Devil.
There are three kinds of salvation:
1. We have been saved from the judgment of sin by the death of Jesus Christ. 2. We are still saved from the temptation of sin in our daily life. 3. We will be saved from the world of sin on the day of the rapture.
We have been saved in spirit on the cross. We are still saved in our daily life by our faith. On the day of the rapture, our body and mind will be completely saved, and there will be no more sickness or despair. While we are living in this world, God says, we need to surrender to God to be saved from the temptation and physical and mental problems.
The Bible, the Sword of the Spirit
The weapons of war mentioned above are weapons of defense and protection. The Scriptures, the sword of the Spirit, is an offensive weapon. If you hold the sword, the enemy will not come close to you. The reason is the sword can kill the enemy. Similarly, the Word is a weapon that Satan fears. The Bible says, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12) Jesus also defeated Satan with his word (Matthew 4:1-11). Those who correctly discern and understand the Word and walk in life will not only be unaffected by Satan, but will also be able to overcome him.
Questions
1. What did Paul command Timothy to do? ______
2. Did Paul himself fight in battle? ______
3. How did Jesus fight? ______________
4. Believers are the soldiers of Jesus __________
5. Who is our enemy? _____________
6. The greatest weapon of Jesus' soldiers is ________
7. Write Habakkuk 3:19. _____________
8. What does the girdle mean? __________
9. How many kinds of righteousness are there? ______ One can be righteous before God through ______
10. How should one be righteous before men? __________
11. What does footwear mean? ________
12. What does the shield mean? __________
13. List the three kinds of salvation. __________
14. The weapon that can attack the devil in spiritual warfare is _______
15. Rapture is when Jesus' soldiers are ________ again.
Diplomats Evacuation
When countries wage war against each other, embassies are usually evacuated in advance. The Great Tribulation is the time when wars between heaven and earth, wars among earthly people, and heavenly wars take place.
The earth was created by God and entrusted to Adam for dominion. Scripture says: "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground." (Genesis 1:28). However, Adam and Eve forfeited this right of dominion by listening to the serpent's temptation to eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Therefore, this world is under the dominion of Satan. The scripture says:
The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. If you worship me, it will all be yours.” (Luke 4:5-7).
When the devil spoke those words, Jesus did not deny that Satan was the ruler of this world, thus acknowledging that this world is under Satan's dominion.
Furthermore, Jesus said, "Now is the time for judgment on this world; now the prince of this world will be driven out." (John 12:31)
And also, "For the prince of this world is coming. He has no hold over me," (John 14:30).
Therefore, it is evident that this world is under Satan's dominion.
Paul also wrote, “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.” (2 Corinthians 4:4)
Thus, this world is an enemy territory for God because it belongs to Satan. It is written like this about these people of the world, “We know that we are in the hand of the devil.” (1 John 5:19).
About the worldly people who are under the control of Satan, Paul wrote: “As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient.” (Ephesians 2:1-2).
Again, it is seen that people of this world are servants of Satan, “Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil— 15 and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.” (Hebrews 2:14-15).
About the Israelites being children of Satan, Jesus said: “ You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” (John 8:44).
Therefore, humans are enemies of God. However, because God loves humanity, He gave us the opportunity to be reconciled with Him by sending His Son Jesus Christ to die for our sins.
Paul wrote, "For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!." (Romans 5:10)
Also, he said, "All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.." (2 Corinthians 5:18-19).
Thus, God desires to forgive humanity's sins and reconcile with them.
Furthermore, Paul wrote, "We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God." (2 Corinthians 5:20)
In order to Make Peace Between People
Paul writes to the Ephesian church, "But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, 16 and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit." (Ephesians 2:13-18)
Believers are the diplomats of Christ. The role of a messenger is to promote peace among nations. Therefore, the diplomats of Christ also carry the responsibility of proclaiming the message of reconciliation between God and humanity. Just as a government provides its ambassadors with all their needs, so too does Jesus supply His diplomats with every need they have.
However, believers do not know their responsibility. They are responsible to proclaim the message of peace with God to people, rather than being at enmity with Him. The work of a diplomat is difficult because it involves speaking about reconciliation between those who are at enmity, which requires courage and sacrifice. Why don't people want to hear about God? Because they are enemies of God. However, despite the difficulty, a messenger must carry out the task assigned by the God who sent him. Yet, diplomats often form friendships with the people of this world who are under the power of Satan rather than doing their duties. They cannot perform the work of a messenger by loving and possessing this world instead of fighting against Satan.
No matter who they are, God will ultimately take away His diplomats. The reason is that the Great Tribulation is the time when many wars must be fought. As described in Zechariah 38-39 (Zech. 6:5-6), the war of Gog and Magog, the heavenly war (Rev. 12), and the battle of Armageddon (Rev. 16, 19) will take place. Because such wars are coming, Christ will bring His diplomats to heaven before fighting the battle. Those who have been saved will become Christ's diplomats. Since Christ will only remove His diplomat members, anyone who wants to be in the rapture must become one of Christ's diplomats.
Questions
1. What do two nations do before fighting a war? ______________
2. Who rules over this world? ______________
3. Who are the servants of the world? ______________
4. Humans are enemies of______________
5. How does God deal with His enemies --- the people --- through Christ? ______________
6. What does God want to do with humanity? ______________
7. Who is commanded to speak about reconciliation? ______________
8. What are believers to Christ? ______________
9. Who will be part of the rapture? ______________
10. Are you a messenger of Christ? ______________
Workers Returning Home
The Rapture is when workers who work all day return home in the evening. Believers are those who labor in the Lord's vineyard in this world. Regarding this matter, the Lord gave this example:
The Good Servant and the Bad Servant
Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time? 46 It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns. 47 Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. 48 But suppose that servant is wicked and says to himself, ‘My master is staying away a long time,’ 49 and he then begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards. 50 The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of. 51 He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 24:45-51)
When the Lord Jesus gave this example, the church had not yet begun. Therefore, that example might have been referring to the Israelites. However, it also refers to those who would later be part of the church and believe. The main point He wanted to convey is that we should work faithfully and with wisdom in the work entrusted to us. Such a servant is called a good servant. We too want to be good servants. But because they forgot in their hearts that the Lord will come, they beat their servants and ate and drank with those who killed them. Isn't it true that most Christians today also do not pay attention to such wicked servants, do not look forward to the time when the Lord Jesus comes, neglect their duties, and live in indulgence along with worldly people? Should you be such a person? Let us strive to become good servants.
People Who Go to Another Country
Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them. To one he gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag, each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. The man who had received five bags of gold went at once and put his money to work and gained five bags more. So also, the one with two bags of gold gained two more. 18 But the man who had received one bag went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money.
“After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. 20 The man who had received five bags of gold brought the other five. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five bags of gold. See, I have gained five more.’
“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’
“The man with two bags of gold also came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with two bags of gold; see, I have gained two more.’
“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’
“Then the man who had received one bag of gold came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed. So I was afraid and went out and hid your gold in the ground. See, here is what belongs to you.’
“His master replied, ‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed? Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest.
“‘So take the bag of gold from him and give it to the one who has ten bags. For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ (Matthew 25:14-30)
In the above example, a man who went to another country is Jesus himself. That other country is heaven. We are those who believe in Jesus Christ. They receive their talents according to their abilities. Those who received five and ten talents multiplied the Lord's money, so the Lord praised them saying, "Well done, good and faithful servant," and gave them authority to share in His glory. Because they were faithful in a little, He will give them much responsibility. We too, during this short life on earth, desire that the Lord wants us to multiply greatly. What ascends from this world to heaven is only spirits; all other things will perish, so there's no need to be attached to them.
Therefore, God should explain the true gospel of salvation through which others may be saved. If you are given the opportunity to receive money, you should invest it in the work of saving lost souls. The world is not yet a place for indulgence. Let us act according to the power that God has given us.
The one who has ten silver coins, accuses his master and hides the ten silver coins in the ground. Today, are you hiding what God has given you? To hide something in the ground means to use money for things that will perish, and to waste time and energy. The Lord calls this young man a wicked and lazy youth. Most of today's believers are included in this group. Friend, do not become a wicked and lazy youth. It brings no benefit. Let us do what our Lord commands. When we speak about casting out this wicked and lazy youth with tears and clenched teeth, sending him into the dark places of the world, it becomes confusing when considering salvation. This young man is not a believer because he has an accusing spirit against his master.
10 governors 5 governors (Luke 19:11-27)
While they were listening to this, he went on to tell them a parable, because he was near Jerusalem and the people thought that the kingdom of God was going to appear at once. He said: “A man of noble birth went to a distant country to have himself appointed king and then to return. So he called ten of his servants and gave them ten minas. ‘Put this money to work,’ he said, ‘until I come back.’
“But his subjects hated him and sent a delegation after him to say, ‘We don’t want this man to be our king.’
“He was made king, however, and returned home. Then he sent for the servants to whom he had given the money, in order to find out what they had gained with it.
“The first one came and said, ‘Sir, your mina has earned ten more.’
“‘Well done, my good servant!’ his master replied. ‘Because you have been trustworthy in a very small matter, take charge of ten cities.’
“The second came and said, ‘Sir, your mina has earned five more.’
“His master answered, ‘You take charge of five cities.’
“Then another servant came and said, ‘Sir, here is your mina; I have kept it laid away in a piece of cloth. I was afraid of you, because you are a hard man. You take out what you did not put in and reap what you did not sow.’
“His master replied, ‘I will judge you by your own words, you wicked servant! You knew, did you, that I am a hard man, taking out what I did not put in, and reaping what I did not sow? Why then didn’t you put my money on deposit, so that when I came back, I could have collected it with interest?’
“Then he said to those standing by, ‘Take his mina away from him and give it to the one who has ten minas.’
“‘Sir,’ they said, ‘he already has ten!’
“He replied, ‘I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but as for the one who has nothing, even what they have will be taken away. But those enemies of mine who did not want me to be king over them—bring them here and kill them in front of me.’” (Luke 19:11-27)
The above example is similar to the parable in Matthew 25:14-30. In this parable, it is not a man but an ambassador who goes back to his own country to receive the king's authority. This ambassador is Jesus Christ himself. His country is heaven. Although he was born as a human being and became a king during his earthly life, because his people did not accept him, he went back to his own country and will return as the King again. Some of the citizens do not like this ambassador and send their messenger after him saying, "We will not accept your authority." These are the Israelites. Even though they rejected him, the Christ will become a king. Therefore, it is very important not to oppose Jesus Christ.
The ambassador called ten young men and gave each of them a denarius, saying that they should go and work in the vineyard. When the first young man came and said, "Sir, I have worked in your vineyard and received my wages," the master said to him, "Friend, I give you what is right; go and work in the vineyard." Then when the second young man came and said, "Sir, I have worked in your vineyard and received my wages," the master said to him, "Friend, I give you what is right; go and work in the vineyard." When the third young man came and said, "Sir, I have worked in your vineyard and received my wages," the master said to him, "Friend, I give you what is right; go and work in the vineyard."
When the Lord Jesus Christ returns as King after a thousand years, He will grant authority over ten cities to this young man. Similarly, the second young man who had earned five denarii will be given authority over five cities. Therefore, the works of today's believers are not in vain because they will become city rulers during the thousand-year reign. Thus, you must strive and work for the Lord.
Are you like those two young men?
Another young man did not work but said to the master, "You are a hard man; you take what I have not earned and reap where I have not sown." This is how he accused the master. Those who are lazy often accuse others. Most of today's believers do not want to do what the Lord commands, yet they often criticize those who obey Him.
God gives more to those who work hard, and takes away everything from the lazy ones, as Jesus said. In this modern age, because of their opposition to God, the lazy people are pitied while the possessions of those who work hard are taken away and given to the lazy ones.Not every poor person needs help unless they require assistance due to physical disabilities, but you should not help those who are physically capable yet choose to be lazy. These lazy individuals are exactly the ones destroying today's world. These people criticize others in various ways. However, the oppression of the rich must be eliminated. As those who will govern towns and villages alongside Christ for a thousand years, let us heed God's work as He commands us before the rapture occurs.
