Will “Political Correctness” Destroy Us?

Though most people do not grasp this fact, the increasing influence of “political correctness” will eventually help destroy the United States, Great Britain and Canada! I have never seen the basic values and way of life of our ancestors in all of our English-speaking nations being undermined so severely. For “political correctness” is like a cancer. It spreads slowly and almost undetectably through the body until death is assured. Millions of people have lost loved ones or friends because of cancer. Yet countless millions more in our lands will be destroyed because of the “cancer” of political correctness.
How dare I write that?
Because political correctness undermines virtually every basic value upon which our Western nations were based in decades past. And because any true Christian who tries to challenge it will be viciously persecuted. Although they rarely if ever will admit it, the advocates of “political correctness” are displaying an underlying resentment and often even hatred against the idea of a true God—a God who can tell them what to do, and how they ought to be living their lives. As Jesus Christ said, “this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil” (John 3:19). Indeed, the “light” Jesus Christ proclaimed involved a consistent way of life based upon sincere obedience to the laws and principles contained in the Ten Commandments. And Jesus also said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God’” (Luke 4:4).
Yet, when God’s clear instructions in the Bible are repeated in public or espoused by some of our institutions, ultra-liberal “politically correct” individuals become visibly angry. They act as if people are going against what is sound and rational if they talk about God being the Creator, or say that the Bible ought to be the basis of all right conduct. How far have we fallen!
As many of you know, the early leaders of both America and Britain had tremendous respect for the teachings of the Bible. President George Washington stated, “It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible.” Noted statesman Daniel Webster observed, “If there is anything in my thoughts or style to commend, the credit is due to my parents for instilling in me an early love of the Scriptures. If we abide by the principles taught in the Bible, our country will go on prospering and to prosper; but if we and our posterity neglect its instructions and authority, no man can tell how sudden a catastrophe may overwhelm us and bury all our glory in profound obscurity.”
William Gladstone—respected as one of Britain’s greatest leaders—said, “I have known 95 of the world’s great men in my time, and of these 87 were followers of the Bible. The Bible is stamped with a Specialty of Origin, and an immeasurable distance separates it from all competitors.” And the famous British scientist, Sir Isaac Newton, stated, “There are more sure marks of authenticity in the Bible than in any profane history.”
But when Christian ministers today explain that fornication, adultery, drunkenness, homosexual practices and abortion are absolutely wrong, the secularists—including, sadly, many top journalists—take great offense. In fact, they often try to persecute those who hold such views—and certainly those true ministers who follow God’s command to teach those views! After Jesus Himself described the time of war, upheaval and terrible earthquakes, famines, pestilences and “fearful sights” marking the end of the age, He stated, “But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for My name’s sake” (Luke 21:12).
Why?
Because Jesus Christ said that “men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil” (John 3:19). These “secular” individuals—increasingly in charge of our entire society—feel a sense of terrible guilt when confronted with the truths of the Bible. To relieve this guilt, they turn against others who teach a way of life that has always brought peace and stability throughout any society to the degree that it has been sincerely practiced.
These events will especially affect the American and British-descended peoples, who are, in fact, the physical descendants of the so-called “Lost Ten Tribes of Israel.”
One example of the Bible’s end-time references to us today, as well as to the ancient House of Israel, is found in the book of Hosea. The prophet was inspired to write: “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being priest for Me; because you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children. The more they increased, the more they sinned against Me; I will change their glory into shame” (Hosea 4:6–7). Because our nations’ political, educational and religious leaders have persistently rejected the laws and teachings of the Bible, we are headed for tribulation beyond anything the world has ever seen! Yet this will be loving correction from the Creator, who hates to see us go down the wrong road and become enmeshed in vile practices that destroy the essence of human decency—as He views it.
Those who truly believe the inspired words of the Bible will indeed be increasingly persecuted and harassed in the next few years. Yet “politically correct” leaders will continually praise wicked men and women and wicked practices of all sorts. They will gladly forget the words of God, “Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but such as keep the law contend with them. Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand all” (Proverbs 28:4–5). Such people certainly do not like to hear what the author of Proverbs states soon after that: “One who turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination” (v. 9).
People who continually “forsake” the laws of God as revealed in the Bible will not have their prayers heard by the true God of creation! They will not be blessed in the end. Although they will increase in power and influence for a few years, God’s word shows that—in the end—they will not prevail.
In a dual prophecy clearly intended for our day as well as ancient Israel, the Eternal God told our forefathers, “But if you do not obey Me, and do not observe all these commandments, and if you despise My statutes, or if your soul abhors My judgments, so that you do not perform all My commandments, but break My covenant, I also will do this to you: I will even appoint terror over you, wasting disease and fever which shall consume the eyes and cause sorrow of heart. And you shall sow your seed in vain, for your enemies shall eat it. I will set My face against you, and you shall be defeated by your enemies. Those who hate you shall reign over you, and you shall flee when no one pursues you” (Leviticus 26:14–17).
Within the next several years, we will begin to see American and British Commonwealth forces being defeated and humiliated more than at any other time in history! Rebellion against God will be the cause. As these events unfold, may the Eternal God help you to understand.
As ultra-liberals and “politically correct” individuals increasingly take over our society and almost totally dominate the media—where so many people get their ideas—be sure that you and your family are aware of what is actually going on around you. Be aware that you are, in fact, near the end of this present age just before Christ’s return. Be aware that although it does grow “darkest just before the dawn,” Jesus Christ will soon come in great power to deliver His people and bring them into His everlasting Kingdom. After describing some of the terrible events just ahead, Jesus said, “Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near” (Luke 21:28).
So, there is great hope for the future! As God inspired the Psalmist to describe the Messiah’s coming reign over the entire earth: “In His days the righteous shall flourish, and abundance of peace, until the moon is no more” (Psalm 72:7).

Note: There are several movies I would recommend if you have not yet watched them. They are located at your local library in most cases. One is “The Passion Of Christ” with Mel Gibson and the “Left Behind Series.”

God Bless you

John – Chapter 19

Christ condemned and crucified. (1-18) Christ on the cross. (19-30) His side pierced. (31-37) The burial of Jesus. (38-42)

Verses 1-18 Little did Pilate think with what holy regard these sufferings of Christ would, in after-ages, be thought upon and spoken of by the best and greatest of men. Our Lord Jesus came forth, willing to be exposed to their scorn. It is good for every one with faith, to behold Christ Jesus in his sufferings. Behold him, and love him; be still looking unto Jesus. Did their hatred sharpen their endeavors against him? And shall not our love for him quicken our endeavors for him and his kingdom? Pilate seems to have thought that Jesus might be some person above the common order. Even natural conscience makes men afraid of being found fighting against God. As our Lord suffered for the sins both of Jews and Gentiles, it was a special part of the counsel of Divine Wisdom, that the Jews should first purpose his death and the Gentiles carry that purpose into effect. Had not Christ been thus rejected of men, we had been forever rejected of God. Now was the Son of man delivered into the hands of wicked and unreasonable men. He was led forth for us, that we might escape. He was nailed to the cross, as a Sacrifice bound to the altar. The Scripture was fulfilled; he did not die at the altar among the sacrifices, but among criminals sacrificed to public justice. And now let us pause, and with faith look upon Jesus. Was ever sorrow like unto his sorrow? See him bleeding, see him dying, see him and love him! Love him, and live to him!

Verses 19-30 Here are some remarkable circumstances of Jesus’ death, more fully related than before. Pilate would not gratify the chief priests by allowing the writing to be altered; which was doubtless owing to a secret power of God upon his heart, that this statement of our Lord’s character and authority might continue. Many things done by the Roman soldiers were fulfillments of the prophecies of the Old Testament. All things therein written shall be fulfilled. Christ tenderly provided for his mother at his death. Sometimes, when God removes one comfort from us, he raises up another for us, where we looked not for it. Christ’s example teaches all men to honor their parents in life and death and to provide for their wants, and to promote their comfort by every means in their power. Especially observe the dying word wherewith Jesus breathed out his soul. It is finished; that is, the counsels of the Father concerning his sufferings were now fulfilled. It is finished; all the types and prophecies of the Old Testament, which pointed at the sufferings of the Messiah, were accomplished. It is finished; the ceremonial law is abolished; the substance is now come, and all the shadows are done away. It is finished; an end is made of transgression by bringing in an everlasting righteousness. His sufferings were now finished both those of his soul, and those of his body. It is finished; the work of man’s redemption and salvation is now completed. His life was not taken from him by force, but freely given up.

Verses 31-37 A trial was made whether Jesus was dead. He died in less time than persons crucified commonly did. It showed that he had laid down his life of himself. The spear broke up the very fountains of life; no human body could survive such a wound. But its being so solemnly attested, shows there was something peculiar in it. The blood and water that flowed out, signified those two great benefits which all believers partake of through Christ, justification and sanctification; blood for atonement, water for purification. They both flow from the pierced side of our Redeemer. To Christ crucified we owe merit for our justification, and Spirit and grace for our sanctification. Let this silence the fears of weak Christians, and encourage their hopes; there came both water and blood out of Jesus’ pierced side, both to justify and sanctify them. The Scripture was fulfilled, in Pilate’s not allowing his legs to be broken (Ps 34:20). There was a type of this in the paschal lamb (Ex 12:46). May we ever look to Him, whom, by our sins, we have ignorantly and heedlessly pierced, nay, sometimes against convictions and mercies; and who shed from his wounded side both water and blood, that we might be justified and sanctified in his name.

Verses 38-42 Joseph of Arimathea was a disciple of Christ in secret. Disciples should openly own themselves; yet some, who in lesser trials have been fearful, in greater have been courageous. When God has work to do, he can find out such as are proper to do it. Nicodemus, a secret friend to Christ, did not his constant follower the embalming though not his constant follower. That grace, which at first is like a bruised reed, may afterward resemble a strong cedar. Hereby these two rich men showed the value they had for Christ’s person and doctrine, and that it was not lessened by the reproach of the cross. We must do our duty as the present day and opportunity are, and leave it to God to fulfil his promises in his own way and his own time. The grave of Jesus was appointed with the wicked, as was the case of those who suffered as criminals; but he was with the rich in his death, as prophesied, (Isaiah 53:9); these two circumstances it was very unlikely should ever be united in the same person. He was buried in a new sepulchre; therefore it could not be said that it was not he, but some other that rose. We also are here taught not to be particular as to the place of our burial. He was buried in the sepulchre next at hand. Here is the Sun of Righteousness set for a while, to rise again in greater glory, and then to set no more.

Returns, Rebellions and Rome

“One of the most significant developments since the Reformation,” it was called, in the words of London’s Daily Telegraph newspaper (October 24, 2009). In October 2009, Pope Benedict XVI dropped an ecclesiastical bombshell on the professing Christian world by approving Anglicanorum Coetibus, announcing a stunning new plan to allow disenchanted Anglicans, upset over homosexual bishops, women’s ordination and same-sex marriages, to return to the fold of the Roman Catholic Church while retaining much of their former Anglican discipline—including married priests!
This surprise announcement by the Vatican—which shocked the Church of England—has been hailed by the Roman Catholic policy makers as the work of the Holy Spirit guiding the various parts of the professing Christian community “towards Catholic unity” under the Pope. However, both history and Bible prophecies that are coming alive today, offer a very different perspective on this remarkable recent development!

Turning Points of History

The momentous announcement by the Vatican is an attempt to reverse the course of history! The Anglican Church—the Church of England—split from the Church of Rome in 1534 when King Henry VIII was refused a marriage annulment by the Vatican. Since that time, the Anglican Church has been at the heart of Protestant England—the tiny island nation that withstood several attempts by Catholic sovereigns on the Continent to bring the English back to the Roman Catholic fold by force! The defeat of the Spanish Armada, sent by the Catholic King Philip II of Spain in 1588, was viewed in England as “an act of God” to preserve Protestant England. These dramatic events in England and other parts of Europe effectively advanced the Protestant Reformation. The recent announcement to ease Anglicans’ return to the Roman Church will be a significant reversal of prior trends, and may achieve what the Spanish Armada failed to accomplish—the demise of the Anglican Church and the eclipse of Protestant England.
Another ancient rift is also in the process of being smoothed over. In 1054, the “Great Schism” split the Roman Church in two when the Pope in Rome and the Patriarch in Constantinople excommunicated each other over issues of theology and papal authority. Old antipathies were further aggravated by the rise of Italian Catholic merchants into dominant positions in the trade and financial sectors of Constantinople, where they displaced native Greek traders. This smoldering discontent erupted into violence when Greek Catholics in Constantinople attacked the Roman Catholic merchants. In 1204, crusaders on the Fourth Crusade launched by Pope Innocent III conquered and brutally sacked the magnificent city of Constantinople. Rome’s imposition of Latin patriarchs on the defeated Greeks spawned a legacy of hatred and mistrust between the Eastern and Western branches of “Christendom” that has lingered for more than 950 years.
However, in recent decades, Roman Catholic popes and Eastern Orthodox patriarchs have inched toward healing the Great Schism, meeting and praying together and contemplating what would have been previously unthinkable! The move toward reconciliation is also being driven by external forces: the rising threat from radical Islam, the decline of moral values in Western society and the efforts of Europe’s political elite to exclude any semblance of Christianity from public life. Leaders in Rome and Constantinople realize that, unless they unite, they will sooner rather than later be sidelined into irrelevance by the rising forces of secularism.
Seen in this light, Pope Benedict’s surprise invitation to Anglicans to return with dignity to the Roman Catholic fold is a vital step and may even be a prelude to reunification with the long-estranged Eastern Orthodox Christians—the other “lung” of the Church. We appear to be watching another significant turning point in history—one that was foretold long ago in the Bible.

End-Time Prophecies

Nearly 2,000 years ago, the Apostle John was given a prophetic vision of events that will occur at the end of this age, just before Jesus Christ returns to this earth. In Revelation 13, John described two beasts. One pictures a powerful figure leading a European political organization that will emerge as the final revival of a system of government linked to the ancient Roman Empire (see Daniel 2:40–43). The other beast foreshadows the appearance of an influential religious figure, leading a church that promotes the legitimacy of the first beast (see Daniel 7:8, 15–25). Later, John pictures this religious organization as a “scarlet woman” with global influence, “riding” (influencing) the political beast that will arise in Europe (see Revelation 17). That woman is named: “MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH” (Revelation 17:5).
Protestants have long linked this symbolic representation to the Roman Catholic Church (see Halley’s Bible Handbook, 24th ed.), with its many religious customs and traditions that hearken back to the religious mysteries of ancient Babylon (see The Two Babylons, Hislop). Interestingly, popes and Vatican diplomats have for decades encouraged and promoted the formation of a united Europe. Is it any surprise, then, that such an entity is emerging today from the ashes of the Roman Empire—just as the prophecies in Daniel and Revelation predicted?
The prophet Isaiah reveals additional details about the activities of this end-time religious organization. This “daughter of Babylon” will claim to be “a lady forever” (think here of Rome, “the eternal city”), and that “there is no one else besides me” (think of its claim to be the one true Church). It will assert, “I shall not sit as a widow, nor shall I know the loss of children” (Isaiah 47:1–8)—it will take great pains to reclaim its “daughter” churches that have for a time separated in protest (Revelation 17:5).
We are witnessing these prophecies coming alive today in the efforts of the Roman Church to bring other professing Christian churches back into the Catholic fold of the Mother Church! The Apostle Paul also records a prophecy that places this migration of once-protesting daughters back to the Roman Church as part of a series of dramatic events that will occur just before the return of Jesus Christ to this earth.
Scripture reveals that at the end of this age, many once-true Christians will abandon their faith and return to pagan practices (1 Timothy 4:1). Some will re-enter a paganized form of false Christianity; others will abandon all pretense of Christianity. Even as true Christians are abandoning the faith once delivered, shock waves will run through the wider professing Christian community, as once-separated “daughters” of Rome reunite with their “mother.” The first and second beasts, described above, will stir billions of human beings with a false religion that rebels against God’s laws and the truth of Jesus Christ.
Ancient prophecies that foretold the return of protesting daughter churches back to the Mother Church, and the rebellion of millions against the teachings of the God of the Bible, are coming alive today in dramatic events that will precede the return of Jesus Christ to this earth and the end of this age! To learn more about this vital topic, please request your free copies of our booklets, Satan’s Counterfeit Christianity and The Beast of Revelation: Myth, Metaphor or Soon-Coming Reality? As we come nearer to the final prophesied time of great apostasy, you need to know the truth about the future of our world!

John Chapter 18 – Judus Betrays Jesus

JOHN 18:1-11

Betrayal and Arrest

When he had said these things, Jesus went out with his disciples across the Kidron Valley. There was an orchard there, and he and his disciples went into it. (Now Judas, the one who betrayed him, knew the place too, because Jesus had met there many times with his disciples.) So Judas obtained a squad of soldiers and some officers of the chief priests and Pharisees. They came to the orchard with lanterns and torches and weapons.

Then Jesus, because he knew everything that was going to happen to him, came and asked them, “Who are you looking for?” They replied, “Jesus the Nazarene.” He told them, “I am he.” (Now Judas, the one who betrayed him, was standing there with them.) So when Jesus said to them, “I am he,” they retreated and fell to the ground. Then Jesus asked them again, “Who are you looking for?” And they said, “Jesus the Nazarene.” Jesus replied, “I told you that I am he. If you are looking for me, let these men go.” He said this to fulfill the word he had spoken, “I have not lost a single one of those whom you gave me.”

Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, pulled it out and struck the high priest’s slave, cutting off his right ear. (Now the slave’s name was Malchus.) But Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword back into its sheath! Am I not to drink the cup that the Father has given me?”

These verses begin John’s account of Christ’s sufferings and crucifixion. We now enter on the closing scene of our Lord’s ministry, and pass at once from His intercession to His sacrifice. We shall find that, like the other Gospel-writers, the beloved disciple enters fully into the story of the cross. But we shall also find, if we read carefully, that he mentions several interesting points in the story, which Matthew, Mark, and Luke, for some wise reasons, have passed over.

We should notice, first, in these verses, the exceeding hardness of heart to which a backsliding professor may attain. We are told that Judas, one of the twelve Apostles, became guide to those who captured Jesus. We are told that he used his knowledge of the place of our Lord’s retirement, in order to bring His deadly enemies upon Him; and we are told that when the band of men and officers approached his Master, in order to take Him prisoner, Judas “stood with them.” Yet this was a man who for three years had been a constant companion of Christ, had seen His miracles, had heard His sermons, had enjoyed the benefit of His private instruction, had professed himself a believer, had even worked and preached in Christ’s name! “Lord,” we may well say, “what is man?” From the highest degree of privilege down to the lowest depth of sin, there is but a succession of steps. Privileges misused seem to paralyze the conscience. The same fire that melts wax will harden clay.

Let us beware of resting our hopes of salvation on religious knowledge, however great; or religious advantages, however many. We may know all doctrinal truth and be able to teach others, and yet prove rotten at heart, and go down to the pit with Judas. We may bask in the full sunshine of spiritual privileges, and hear the best of Christian teaching, and yet bear no fruit to God’s glory, and be found withered branches of the vine, only fit to be burned. “Let him that thinks he stands, take heed lest he fall.” (1 Cor. 10:12.) Above all, let us beware of cherishing within our hearts any secret besetting sin, such as love of money or love of the world. One faulty link in a chain-cable may cause a shipwreck. One little leak may sink a ship. One allowed and unmortified sin may ruin a professing Christian. Let him that is tempted to be a careless man in his religious life, consider these things, and take care. Let him remember Judas Iscariot. His history is meant to be a lesson.

We should notice, secondly, in these verses, the entire voluntariness of Christ’s sufferings. We are told that the first time that our Lord said to the soldiers, “I am He, they went backward, and fell to the ground.” A secret invisible power, no doubt, accompanied the words. In no other way can we account for a band of hardy Roman soldiers falling prostrate before a single unarmed man. The same miraculous influence which tied the priests and Pharisees powerless at the triumphant entry into Jerusalem–which stopped all opposition when the temple was purged of buyers and sellers–that same mysterious influence was present now. A real miracle was wrought, though few had eyes to see it. At the moment when our Lord seemed weak, He showed that He was strong.

Let us carefully remember that our blessed Lord suffered and died of His own free will. He did not die because He could not help it; He did not suffer because He could not escape. All the soldiers of Pilate’s army could not have taken Him, if He had not been willing to be taken. They could not have hurt a hair of His head, if He had not given them permission. But here, as in His entire earthly ministry, Jesus was a willing sufferer. He had set His heart on accomplishing our redemption. He loved us, and gave Himself for us, cheerfully, willingly, gladly, in order to make atonement for our sins. It was “the joy set before Him” which made Him endure the cross, and despise the shame, and yield Himself up without reluctance into the bands of His enemies. Let this thought abide in our hearts, and refresh our souls. We have a Savior who was far more willing to save us than we are willing to be saved. If we are not saved, the fault is all our own. Christ is just as willing to receive and pardon, as He was willing to be taken prisoner, to bleed, and to die.

We should notice, thirdly, in these verses, our Lord’s tender care for His disciples’ safety. Even at this critical moment, when His own unspeakable sufferings were about to begin, He did not forget the little band of believers who stood around Him. He remembered their weakness. He knew how little fit they were to go into the fiery furnace of the High Priest’s Palace, and Pilate’s judgment-hall. He mercifully makes for them a way of escape. “If you seek Me, let these go their way.” It seems most probable that here also a miraculous influence accompanied his words. At any rate, not a hair of the disciples’ heads was touched. While the Shepherd was taken, the sheep were allowed to flee away unharmed.

We need not hesitate to see in this incident an instructive type of all our Savior’s dealings with His people even at this day. He will not allow them “to be tempted above that which they are able to bear.” He will hold the winds and storms in His hands, and not allow believers, however sifted and buffeted, to be utterly destroyed. He watches tenderly over every one of His children, and, like a wise physician, measures out the right quantity of their trials with unerring skill. “They shall never perish, neither shall any one pluck them out of His hand.” (John 10:28.) Forever let us lean our souls on this precious truth. In the darkest hour the eye of the Lord Jesus is upon us, and our final safety is sure.

We should notice, lastly, in these verses, our Lord’s perfect submission to his Father’s will. Once, in another place, we find Him saying, “If it be possible, let this cup pass from Me–nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” Again, in another place, we find Him saying, “If this cup may not pass away from Me except I drink it, Your will be done.” Here, however, we find even a higher pitch of cheerful acquiescence–“The cup that my Father has given Me, shall I not drink it?” (Matt. 26:39-42; John 18:11.)

Let us see in this blessed frame of mind, a pattern for all who profess and call themselves Christians. Far as we may come short of the Master’s standard, let this be the mark at which we continually aim. Determination to have our own way, and do only what we like, is one great source of unhappiness in the world. The habit of laying all our matters before God in prayer, and asking Him to choose our portion, is one chief secret of peace. He is the truly wise man who has learned to say at every stage of his journey, “Give me what you will, place me where You will, do with me as You will; but not my will, but Yours be done.” This is the man who has the mind of Christ. By self-will Adam and Eve fell, and brought sin and misery into the world. Entire submission of will to the will of God is the best preparation for that heaven where God will be all.

JOHN 18:12-27

Then the squad of soldiers with their commanding officer and the officers of the Jewish religious leaders arrested Jesus and tied him up. They brought him first to Annas, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. (Now it was Caiaphas who had advised the Jewish leaders that it was to their advantage that one man die for the people.)

Simon Peter and another disciple followed them as they brought Jesus to Annas. (Now the other disciple was acquainted with the high priest, and he went with Jesus into the high priest’s courtyard.) But Simon Peter was left standing outside by the door. So the other disciple who was acquainted with the high priest came out and spoke to the slave girl who watched the door, and brought Peter inside. The girl who was the doorkeeper said to Peter, “You’re not one of this man’s disciples too, are you?” He replied, “I am not.” (Now the slaves and the guards were standing around a charcoal fire they had made, warming themselves because it was cold. Peter also was standing with them, warming himself.)

While this was happening, the high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and about his teaching. Jesus replied, “I have spoken publicly to the world. I always taught in the synagogues and in the temple courts, where all the Jewish people assemble together. I have said nothing in secret. Why do you ask me? Ask those who heard what I said. They know what I said.” When Jesus had said this, one of the high priest’s officers who stood nearby struck him on the face and said, “Is that the way you answer the high priest?” Jesus replied, “If I have said something wrong, confirm what is wrong. But if I spoke correctly, why strike me?” Then Annas sent him, still tied up, to Caiaphas the high priest.

Meanwhile Simon Peter was standing in the courtyard warming himself. They said to him, “You aren’t one of his disciples too, are you?” Peter denied it “I am not!” One of the high priest’s slaves, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, said, “Did I not see you in the orchard with him?” Then Peter denied it again, and immediately a rooster crowed.

In this part of John’s history of Christ’s sufferings, three wonderful things stand out upon the surface of the narrative. To these three let us confine our attention.

We should mark, for one thing, the amazing hardness of unconverted men. We see this in the conduct of the men by whom our Lord was taken prisoner. Some of them most probably were Roman soldiers, and some of them were Jewish servants of the priests and Pharisees. But in one respect they were all alike. Both parties saw our Lord’s divine power exhibited, when they “went backward, and fell to the ground.” Both saw a miracle, according to Luke’s Gospel, when Jesus touched the ear of Malchus and healed him. Yet both remained unmoved, cold, indifferent and insensible, as if they had seen nothing out of the common way. They went on coolly with their odious business; “They took Jesus, bound Him, and led Him away.”

The degree of hardness and insensibility of conscience, to which men may attain, when they live twenty or thirty years without the slightest contact with religion, is something dreadful and appalling. God and the things of God seem to sink out of sight and disappear from the mind’s eye. The world and the things of the world seem to absorb the whole attention. In such cases we may well believe miracles would produce little or no effect, as in the case before us. The eye would gaze on them, like the eye of a beast looking at a romantic landscape, without any impression being made on the heart. He who thinks that seeing a miracle would convert him into a thorough Christian has got much to learn.

Let us not wonder if we see cases of hardness and unbelief in our own day and generation. Such cases will continually be found among those classes of mankind, who from their profession or position are completely cut off from means of grace. Twenty or thirty years of total irreligious, without the influence of Sunday, Bible, or Christian teaching, will make a man’s heart hard as the nether mill-stone. His conscience at last will seem dead, buried, and gone. He will appear past feeling. Painful as these cases are, we must not think them peculiar to our own times. They existed under Christ’s own eyes, and they will exist until Christ returns. The Church which allows any portion of a population to grow up in practical heathenism, must never be surprised to see a rank crop of practical infidelity.

We should mark, for another thing, the amazing condescension of our Lord Jesus Christ. We see the Son of God taken prisoner and led away bound like a malefactor–arraigned before wicked and unjust judges–insulted and treated with contempt. And yet this unresisting prisoner had only to will His deliverance, and He would at once have been free. He had only to command the confusion of His enemies, and they would at once have been confounded. Above all He was One who knew full well that Annas and Caiaphas, and all their companions, would one day stand before His judgment seat and receive an eternal sentence. He knew all these things, and yet condescended to be treated as a malefactor without resisting.

One thing at any rate is very clear. The love of Christ to sinners is “a love that passes knowledge.” To suffer for those whom we love, and who are in some sense worthy of our affections, is suffering that we can understand. To submit to ill-treatment quietly, when we have no power to resist, is submission that is both graceful and wise. But to suffer voluntarily, when we a have the power to prevent it, and to suffer for a world of unbelieving and ungodly sinners, unasked and unthanked–this is a line of conduct which passes man’s understanding. Never let us forget that this is the peculiar beauty of Christ’s sufferings, when we read the wondrous story of His cross and passion.

He was led away captive, and dragged before the High Priest’s bar, not because He could not help Himself, but because He had set His whole heart on saving sinners, by bearing their sins, by being treated as a sinner, and by being punished in their stead. He was a willing prisoner, that we might be set free. He was willingly arraigned and condemned, that we might be absolved and declared innocent. “He suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us unto God.” “Though He was rich, yet for our sakes He became poor, that we through His poverty might be rich.” “He was made sin for us who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.” (1 Peter 3:18; 2 Cor. 8:9; 5:21.) Surely if there is any doctrine of the Gospel which needs to be clearly known, it is the doctrine of Christ’s voluntary substitution. He suffered and died willingly and unresistingly, because He knew that He had come to be our substitute, and by substitution to purchase our salvation.

We should mark, lastly, the amazing degree of weakness that may be found in a real Christian. We see this exemplified in a most striking manner, in the conduct of the Apostle Peter. We see that famous disciple forsaking his Master, and acting like a coward–running away when he ought to have stood by His side–ashamed to own Him when he ought to have confessed Him–and finally denying three times that He knew Him. And this takes place immediately after receiving the Lord’s’ Supper–after hearing the most touching address and prayer that mortal ear ever heard. after the plainest possible warnings–under the pressure of no very serious temptation. “Lord,” we may well say, “what is man that You are mindful of him?” “Let him that thinks he stands, take heed lest he fall.” (1 Cor. 10:12.)

This fall of Peter is doubtless intended to be a lesson to the whole Church of Christ. It is recorded for our learning, that we be kept from like sorrowful overthrow. It is a beacon mercifully set up in Scripture, to prevent others making shipwreck. It shows us the danger of pride and self-confidence. If Peter had not been so sure that although all denied Christ, he never would, he would probably never have fallen. It shows us the danger of laziness. If Peter had watched and prayed, when our Lord advised him to do so, he would have found grace to help him in the time of need. It shows us, not least, the painful influence of the fear of man. Few are aware, perhaps, how much more they fear the face of man whom they can see, than the eye of God whom they cannot see. These things are written for our admonition. Let us remember Peter and be wise.

After all let us leave the passage with the comfortable reflection that we have a merciful and pitiful High Priest, who can be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, and will not break the bruised reed. Peter no doubt fell shamefully, and only rose again after heartfelt repentance and bitter tears. But he did rise again. He was not left to reap the consequence of his sin, and cast off for evermore. The same pitying hand that saved him from drowning, when his faith failed him on the waters, was once more stretched out to raise him when he fell in the High Priest’s hall. Can we doubt that he rose a wiser and better man? If Peter’s fall has made Christians see more clearly their own great weakness and Christ’s great compassion, then Peter’s fall has not been recorded in vain.

JOHN 18:28-40

Then they brought Jesus from Caiaphas to the Roman governor’s residence. (Now it was very early morning.) They did not go into the governor’s residence so they would not be ceremonially defiled, but could eat the Passover meal. So Pilate came outside to them and said, “What accusation do you bring against this man?” They replied, “If this man were not a criminal, we would not have handed him over to you.”

Pilate told them, “Take him yourselves and pass judgment on him according to your own law!” The Jewish religious leaders replied, “We cannot legally put anyone to death.” (This happened to fulfill the word Jesus had spoken when he indicated what kind of death he was going to die.)

So Pilate went back into the governor’s residence, summoned Jesus, and asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?” Jesus replied, “Are you saying this on your own initiative, or have others told you about me?” Pilate answered, “I am not a Jew, am I? Your own people and your chief priests handed you over to me. What have you done?”

Jesus replied, “My kingdom is not from this world. If my kingdom were from this world, my servants would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish authorities. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here.” Then Pilate said, “So you are a king!” Jesus replied, “You say that I am a king. For this reason I was born, and for this reason I came into the world–to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.” Pilate asked, “What is truth?”

When he had said this he went back outside to the Jewish religious leaders and announced, “I find no basis for an accusation against him. But it is your custom that I release one prisoner for you at the Passover. So do you want me to release for you the king of the Jews?” Then they shouted back, “Not this man, but Barabbas!” (Now Barabbas was a revolutionary.)

The verses we have now read contain four striking points, which are only found in John’s narrative of Christ’s passion. We need not doubt that there were good reasons why Matthew, Mark, and Luke were not inspired to record them. But they are points of such deep interest, that we should feel thankful that they have been brought forward by John.

The first point that we should notice is the false conscientiousness of our Lord’s wicked enemies. We are told that the Jews who brought Christ before Pilate would not go into “the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled; but that they might eat the passover.” That was scrupulosity indeed! These hardened men that were actually engaged in doing the wickedest act that mortal man ever did. They wanted to kill their own Messiah. And yet at this very time they talked of being “defiled,” and were very fastidious about the Passover!

The conscience of unconverted men is a very curious part of their moral nature. While in some cases it becomes hardened, seared, and dead, until it feels nothing; in others it becomes morbidly scrupulous about the lesser matters of religion. It is no uncommon thing to find people excessively meticulous about the observance of trifling forms and outward ceremonies, while they are the slaves of degrading sins and detestable immoralities. Robbers and murderers in some countries are extremely strict about confession, and absolution, and prayers to saints. Fasting and self-imposed austerities in Lent, are often followed by excess of worldliness when Lent is over. There is but a step from Lent to Carnival. The attendants at daily services in the morning are not infrequently the patrons of balls and theaters at night. All these are symptoms of spiritual disease, and a heart secretly dissatisfied. Men who know they are wrong in one direction, often struggle to make things right by excess of zeal in another direction. That very zeal is their condemnation.

Let us pray that the Holy Spirit may always enlighten our consciences, and that we may be kept from a one-sided and deformed Christianity. A religion that makes a man neglect the weightier matters of daily holiness and separation from the world, and concentrate his whole attention on forms, sacraments, ceremonies, and public services, is to say the least, very suspicious. Immense zeal and show of earnestness may accompany it, but it is not sound in the sight of God. The Pharisees paid tithe of mint, anise, and Cummin, and compassed sea and land to make proselytes, while they neglected “judgment, mercy, and faith.” (Matt. 23:23.) The very Jews who thirsted for Christ’s blood were the Jews who feared the defilement of a Roman judgment hall, and made much ado about keeping the passover! Let their conduct be a beacon to Christians, as long as the world stands. That religion is worth little which does not make us say, “I esteem all Your commandments concerning all things to be right, and I hate every false way.” (Ps. 119:128.) That Christianity is worthless which makes us make up for the neglect of heart religion and practical holiness, by an extravagant zeal for man-made ceremonies or outward forms.

The second point that we should notice in these verses, is the account that our Lord Jesus Christ gives of His kingdom. He says, “My kingdom is not of this world.” These famous words have been so often perverted and wrested out of their real sense, that their true meaning has been almost buried under a heap of false interpretations. Let us make sure that we know what they mean.

Our Lord’s main object in saying “My kingdom is not of this world,” was to inform Pilate’s mind concerning the true nature of His kingdom, and to correct any false impression he might have received from the Jews. He tells him that He did not come to set up a kingdom which would interfere with the Roman Government. He did not aim at establishing a temporal power, to be supported by armies and maintained by taxes. The only dominion He exercised was over men’s hearts, and the only weapons that His subjects employed were spiritual weapons. A kingdom which required neither money nor servants for its support, was one of which the Roman Emperors need not be afraid. In the highest sense it was a kingdom “not of this world.”

But our Lord did not intend to teach that the kings of this world have nothing to do with religion, and ought to ignore God altogether in the government of their subjects. No such idea, we may be sure, was in His mind. He knew perfectly well that it was written, “By Me kings reign” (Prov. 8:15), and that kings are as much required to use their influence for God, as the lowest of their subjects. He knew that the prosperity of kingdoms is wholly dependent on the blessing of God, and that kings are as much bound to encourage righteousness and godliness, as to punish unrighteousness and immorality. To suppose that He meant to teach Pilate that, in His judgment, an infidel might be as good a king as a Christian, and a man like Gallio as good a ruler as David or Solomon, is simply absurd.

Let us carefully hold fast the true meaning of our Lord’s words in these latter days. Let us never be ashamed to maintain that no Government can expect to prosper which refuses to recognize religion, which deals with its subjects as if they had no souls, and cares not whether they serve God, or Baal, or no God at all. Such a Government will find, sooner or later, that its line of policy is suicidal, and damaging to its best interests. No doubt the kings of this world cannot make men Christians by laws and statutes. But they can encourage and support Christianity, and they will do so if they are wise. The kingdom where there is the most industry, temperance, truthfulness, and honesty, will always be the most prosperous of kingdoms. The king who wants to see these things abound among his subjects, should do all that lies in his power to help Christianity and to discourage irreligious.

The third point that we should notice in these verses is the account that our Lord gives of His own mission. He says, “To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth.”

Of course we are not to suppose our Lord meant that this was the only end of His mission. No doubt He spoke with special reference to what He knew was passing through Pilate’s mind. He did not come to win a kingdom with the sword, and to gather adherents and followers by force. He came armed with no other weapon but “truth.” To testify to fallen man the truth about God, about sin, about the need of a Redeemer, about the nature of holiness–to declare and lift up before man’s eyes this long lost and buried “truth,”–was one great purpose of His ministry. He came to be God’s witness to a lost and corrupt world. That the world needed such a testimony, He does not shrink from telling the proud Roman Governor. And this is what Paul had in view, when he tells Timothy, that “before Pontius Pilate Christ witnessed a good confession.” (1 Tim. 6:13.)

The servants of Christ in every age must remember that our Lord’s conduct in this place is meant to be their example. Like Him we are to be witnesses to God’s truth, salt in the midst of corruption, light in the midst of darkness, men and women not afraid to stand alone, and to testify for God against the ways of sin and the world. To do so may entail on us much trouble, and even persecution. But the duty is clear and plain. If we love life, if we would keep a good conscience, and be owned by Christ at the last day, we must be “witnesses.” It is written, “Whoever shall be ashamed of Me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” (Mark 8:38.)

The last point that we should notice in these verses is the question that Pontius Pilate addressed to our Lord. We are told that when our Lord spoke of the truth, the Roman Governor replied, “What is truth?” We are not told with what motive this question was asked, nor does it appear on the face of the narrative that he who asked it waited for an answer. It seems far more likely that the saying was the sarcastic, sneering exclamation of one who did not believe that there was any such thing as “truth.” It sounds like the language of one who had heard, from his earliest youth, so many barren speculations about “truth” among Roman and Greek philosophers, that he doubted its very existence. “Truth indeed! What is truth?”

Melancholy as it may appear, there are multitudes in every Christian land whose state of mind is just like that of Pilate. Hundreds, it may be feared among the upper classes, are continually excusing their own irreligious by the specious plea that, like the Roman Governor, they cannot find out “what is truth.” They point to the endless controversies of Romanists and Protestants, of High Churchmen and Low Churchmen, of Churchmen and Dissenters, and pretend to say that they do not understand who is right and who is wrong. Sheltered under this favorite excuse, they pass through life without any decided religion, and in this wretched, comfortless state, too often die.

But is it really true that truth cannot be discovered? Nothing of the kind! God never left any honest, diligent inquirer without light and guidance. Pride is one reason why many cannot discover truth. They do not humbly go down on their knees and earnestly ask God to teach them. Laziness is another reason. They do not honestly take pains, and search the Scriptures. The followers of unhappy Pilate, as a rule, do not deal fairly and honestly with their consciences. Their favorite question–What is truth? is nothing better than a pretense and an excuse. The words of Solomon will be found true as long as the world stands.  “If you cry after knowledge, and lift up your voice for understanding; if you do you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hid treasures; then shall you understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God.” (Prov. 2:4, 5.)

May God Bless and Protect you.

John – Chapter 17

This entire chapter deals with Jesus’ prayer. From it, we learn the world is a tremendous battleground where the forces under Satan’s power and those under God’s authority are at war. Satan and his forces are motivated by bitter hatred for Christ and his forces. Jesus prayed for his disciples, including those of us who follow him today. Jesus prayed that God would keep his chosen believers safe from Satan’s power, setting them apart and making them pure and holy, uniting them through the truth.

Before Jesus came to earth, he was one with God. At this point, when his mission was on earth was almost finished, He was asking his Father to restore him to his original place of honor and authority. Jesus’ resurrection and ascension attest to the fact that He did return to His exalted position at the right hand of the Father.

What did Jesus mean when he said “glory has come to me through them? God’s glory is the revelation of His character and presence, and He is present to the world through them. Does your life reveal Jesus’ character and presence? Jesus was asking that his disciples be united in harmony and love as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are united – the strongest of all unions.

It is no doubt that the world hates a true Christian. This is because a true Christian, Christ followers, doesn’t cooperate with the world by joining in their sin. Christians are living accusations against the world’s immorality. The world follows Satan’s agenda, and Satan is avowed enemy of Jesus and his people. Now don’t misunderstand me, those who proclaim to be a Christian, or putting on a show, they are not a threat. They become the laughing stock of Satan and his demons.

A follower of Christ becomes sanctified (set apart for sacred use, cleansed, and made holy) through believing and obeying the Word of God (Heb 7:26-27). Daily application of God’s Word has a purifying effect on our hearts and minds. Scripture points out sin, motivates us to confess, and renews, our relationship with Christ and guides us back to the right path. Jesus didn’t ask God to take believers out of the world but instead to use them in the world. Because Jesus sends us into the world, we should not try to escape the world, nor should we avoid all relationships with non-Christians. We are called to be salt and light (Matt 5:13-16) and we are to do the work that God wants us to do.

Jesus prayed for all of us who would follow Him, including you and others you know. He prayed for unity, protection from the evil one, and holiness. Jesus’ great desire was for his disciples to become one. He also prayed for those that followed him then, and those in the times to come.

Seven Lessons From Seven Churches

Ideas circulating among Christians today are significant in ways most do not realize. New ideas and new controversies cause some groups to move together, and others to move apart. But why is this happening, and what does it all mean? Does Scripture give us any clue?
Yes, it does! In the book of Revelation, the Apostle John wrote about events that would lead to the end of this age. The link between John’s day and the time of Christ’s return is the prophetic time period pictured by seven Church eras outlined in Revelation 2–3.
The letters to the seven churches describe actual conditions in each church at the end of the first century ad. However, the letters are also prophecy about the future. The seven churches were geographically arranged in sequence on a mail route in western Asia Minor (modern Turkey). Scholars realize that this sequence portrays seven eras of God’s Church, from the days of the Apostles to the end of the age. The church conditions described in the letters prophetically describe conditions that would prevail in each successive era. John addressed the book of Revelation “to the seven churches” (1:4), indicating that the letters to each church were to be read in all the churches. Thus, a third purpose of the letters is to convey universal lessons that describe and deal with universal human tendencies. We need to understand what these letters reveal about the eras of the Church—especially our modern era—and how their lessons apply to us today.

Ephesus: Lost Its First Love

Ephesus was the leading city of Asia Minor—but it was in a state of decline. The Ephesian church is symbolic of the Apostolic era of the first and second centuries ad. This church is commended for its works—the preaching, enduring and serving by the early disciples (Revelation 2:1–3). Even they had to discern between false teachers and true Christian ministers. However, like the fading glory of Ephesus, the Church at the end of the first century was told that “you have left your first love” (Revelation 2:4). God warned that, unless they repented, He would cease to use them for His purpose (Revelation 2:5).
John equates “love” with walking in the truth and keeping the commandments (2 John 6). Concerning the effect of false teachers, he warns, “Look to yourselves, that we do not lose those things we worked for,” including our reward (2 John 7–8). In 3 John, he urges the Church to serve the brethren and to “become fellow workers for the truth” (vv. 4–8). Though Jesus emphasized humility (Matthew 5:5) and love for neighbor (John 15:12), the Church at the end of the first century contained individuals who loved preeminence over others—an attitude the Bible calls evil (3 John 9–11).
The church at Ephesus had lost its love—for God, for the Truth, for doing the Work and for the brethren. In place of these key fundamentals, people were listening to deceptive doctrines (see Revelation 2:6). For some, holding on to a position was more important than holding on to the Truth. Even today, some are more concerned with holding a position—perhaps serving as an elder or deacon, passing out songbooks or leading a choir—than with doing the Work of God. The lesson of the Ephesian era is clear: Get back on track—do the Work. Preach the Gospel with zeal, love the Truth and love each other.
The New Testament Church, which began in the 30s, was beginning to fragment in the 90s, when John wrote his epistles and the book of Revelation. The Apostle Paul indicates that this diversity of opinion had been present for some time (1 Corinthians 1:10–13), and was causing people to fall away (2 Timothy 1:15). In just over 60 years, the Church founded by Jesus Christ was already rife with division and doctrinal strife. This should be a sobering lesson for us today!

Smyrna: Faithful in Trial

The church at Smyrna offers another powerful and timeless lesson. Smyrna was a prosperous, bustling, beautifully planned port city, but Christians there faced considerable persecution. The Smyrna era appears to cover the third and fourth centuries ad, a period of intense Roman persecution of the Church. While the Smyrna era is commended for its works and being rich in faith (Revelation 2:9), it is urged to be “faithful until death” in order to receive a reward (Revelation 2:10). The church at Smyrna illustrates the vital importance of endurance—of holding on to your beliefs during difficult times. Jesus said that “he who endures to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 24:13). The Apostle Paul wrote that only those who finish the race will be given a prize (1 Corinthians 9:24–27). Elders are admonished that they must be found “holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught” (Titus 1:9). If your foundation is solid (Matthew 7:24–29), and you take time to “prove” what the Truth is (1 Thessalonians 5:21, KJV), you will be prepared to endure when the going becomes rough.
Historical sources reveal that Christians of the Smyrna era believed in the Millennium—the thousand-year reign of Christ and the saints on earth. They would have nothing to do with the Roman Saturnalia and Brumalia (sources of modern Christmas customs). They tithed and did not believe in an immortal soul. They kept the Sabbath and the Holy Days, and followed the dietary laws of Scripture (see Edward Gibbon’s The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, chapter 15). It is no wonder they were persecuted; they did not follow prevailing social and religious customs. Smyrna is one of only two churches to receive no correction. The lesson of the Smyrna era is simple, but vital and timeless: Remain faithful in trials—endure to the end and do not give up! It is a lesson we cannot afford to forget!

Pergamos: The Compromising Church

Pergamos was the capital city of Asia Minor, home to imposing temples dedicated to Zeus, Apollo, Athena, Asclepius (the healing cult) and Caesar. Its citizens were sophisticated and literate. The church at Pergamos is admonished for permitting false teachers to put “stumbling blocks” in the way of believers (Revelation 2:14). While people may not initially believe false teachings, tolerating the spread of deceptive ideas will eventually lead many to stumble spiritually and compromise the doctrines of true Apostolic Christianity. The Bible reveals that not only can false teachers cause people to stumble; so also can trials, tribulations, persecutions (Matthew 13:21) and poor examples (1 Corinthians 8:9). Some will even stumble over the Word of God and the teachings of Jesus Christ (Malachi 2:8; 1 Corinthians 1:23).
The Pergamos era appears to extend from about 500–1000ad. It was during this time—the Dark Ages when the Roman Church dominated Europe—that Easter, Christmas, Halloween and the philosophical ideas of the Trinity and the immortal soul were absorbed from paganism into the dominant church. Intellectual sophistication, human reason and the desire to be “progressive” often leads to abandoning fundamental biblical truth The lesson of Pergamos is pointed: Do not tolerate false teachings or those who promote them—compromise causes people to stumble; Christians must stand for the Truth. This advice is particularly appropriate for the Church today!

Thyatira: The Corrupt Church

Thyatira was an inland city located on a major trade route. It was a commercial center with many trade guilds, and was the home of a military garrison. Its patron deity was a warrior goddess. To participate in the local economy would have required membership in trade guilds that sponsored idolatrous annual festivals—thus putting pressure on Christians to compromise to fit in. The Thyatira era appears to stretch from about the 11th century to the 16th century, including the Reformation and Counter-Reformation periods when many left the established Roman Church. During this time, in central and southern Europe, we find groups of Christians who believed in the Sabbath, some of the Holy Days, tithing, adult baptism and the dietary laws, and rejected doctrines of the Trinity, immortal soul, purgatory, and the popularized concepts of heaven and hell. However, over time and under the pressure of Counter-Reformation forces, many drifted back into prevailing practices by sitting in Sunday services, observing pagan holidays and serving in armies to avoid persecution. Many suffered and died as a result, as we see from the history of the Waldenses.
The lesson of Thyatira is blunt: Do not pretend to go along with false teachings for appearance’s sake—do not compromise the Truth, do not go back into ways you have been called out of or you will suffer tribulation. Scripture contains very graphic warnings about this (see Deuteronomy 12:29–31; Jeremiah 10:2; 2 Corinthians 6:14–18; 2 Peter 2:18–22). We are specifically told that at the end of the age, many professing Christians will be “deluded” into accepting false but fashionable religious beliefs, because they did not know the Truth, or were willing to compromise the Truth they once knew (2 Thessalonians 2:1–13). Today, as many who once attended the Church of God are returning to their former beliefs, Paul’s message rings clear, to “stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught” (2 Thessalonians 2:15). Spiritual compromise leads to spiritual corruption. It happened before, it is happening today—and we need to be alert!

Sardis: The Dead Church

Only a few comments are made about Sardis, a city once famous for arts, crafts and wealth. Sardis appears to correspond to the Church era from about the 16th century to the early 20th century. The main description of the Sardis era is that it was a dead church (Revelation 3:1). Although it had a recognizable name and pieces of the Truth, it never did much with that precious information. During this era, we find a number of small congregations—in England, America and other parts of the world—keeping the Sabbath and other doctrines of original Christianity. However, most were (or remain) tiny and insignificant groups, of which few people have ever heard! The Sardis church was also urged to be watchful—but, as we will see, they did not know what to watch for! They lacked a vital key for understanding Bible prophecy.
The lesson of Sardis is sobering: Do not let the Truth die—hold on to the Truth you have been given; bear fruit with this precious Truth, or be blotted out of the Book of Life! Sadly, Scripture indicates that despite these strong warnings, many believers at the end of the age will “turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables” (2 Timothy 4:4). Isaiah wrote of a time before Christ returns when Truth will be “fallen in the street” (Isaiah 59:14). The cost will be high if we let the Truth die, failing to learn from the lessons of the Bible and history!

Philadelphia: Small but Faithful

In contrast to the other churches on the mail route, Philadelphia was not a wealthy, sophisticated or influential city. Located on an easily defended hill beside a major highway, it functioned as an outpost for spreading Greek and Roman culture (and later Christianity) to the surrounding region. The city was destroyed several times by earthquakes, but each time was rebuilt. It still exists today. Its name means “brotherly love.” The Philadelphia era appears to have begun in the 1930s—about the time radio became popular and just before the age of television. In the last 75 years, the Church of God has used mass media to reach millions of people—proclaiming the Gospel of the coming Kingdom of God, and warning the world to watch for the signs of the end of this age and the return of Jesus Christ. This was the mission Jesus gave to His Church (Matthew 4:23; 10:6–7). This message was to be prominent at the end of the age (Matthew 24:14). Understanding the identity of modern Israelite nations—a key to understanding Bible prophecy—was restored to the Church of God during the modern Philadelphia era.
God promised to provide the Philadelphia era with an open door—a door no man could shut—for preaching the Gospel. God commends this small church for its persistence in fulfilling its mission, and for holding on, without compromise, to His precious Truth (Revelation 3:7–8). For faithfully doing a Work and holding onto the Truth, not just attending a church of their choice, Philadelphian Christians are promised protection from the coming Tribulation (Revelation 3:10). The lesson of Philadelphia is simple: Remain faithful to Truth—do the work of preaching the Gospel, love the brethren and let no one take your crown. We cannot afford to “drop the ball” at this vital moment of history! Our salvation and our reward are at stake if we do!

Laodicea: Lukewarm and Laid-Back

Laodicea is a study in contrasts. From history, we learn that Laodicea was a proud and prosperous city, yet it played only a minor role in the spread of Greek culture. Its imposing fortifications gave the appearance of strength and promoted a feeling of security, yet its valley location and its exposed water supply made the city quite vulnerable. Laodicea was a banking center with a strong sense of independence. This independent attitude is reflected in its name, which in Greek means “the people decide” or “the people judge” (see Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance). The Laodicean era describes the condition of the Church of God just before the return of Jesus Christ. It is not a pretty picture. Perhaps this is why some try to deny that these seven churches represent seven historical eras—understanding this truth may make some Laodiceans uncomfortable!
The charge against the Laodiceans is their lukewarm attitude (Revelation 3:16). Their wealth and prosperity fosters an attitude of worldliness. They are lukewarm about the Truth, obedience to the commandments and their mission to preach the Gospel. They are very independent, and have “need of nothing” (Revelation 3:17). Laodicea had a medical school noted for its eye-salve, yet the Bible describes its people as blind to their own spiritual condition. Intellectual “sophistication” prevented them from seeing their own lack of spiritual discernment. Laodiceans produced fine black wool clothing, yet the Bible calls them naked, in need of white garments (Revelation 3:17–18). In a sense, naked Laodiceans lack vital pieces of spiritual armor—faith, love, perseverance, commitment to the Truth and godly fear of disobeying God’s commandments. They may be failing to exercise the Holy Spirit (see Ephesians 6:10–19) to stand firm in times of trial and preach the Gospel with boldness.
The picture of Laodicea is of a sophisticated and self-sufficient church that trusts in its own wealth, numbers and wisdom. It appears strong, stable and unified, but it is internally divided. Its independent-minded people unknowingly reject the leadership of Jesus Christ while they do their own thing! The “democratic” (people-deciding) aspects of the Laodicean era can extend to decisions about doctrine, organization, governance, mission and methods. This lukewarm attitude is prophesied to become dominant in the Church of God at the end of the age. The lesson of Laodicea is urgent: Wake up before it is too late, and ask God to open your eyes to see your own spiritual condition—repent of complacency, compromise, materialism and stubborn independence; respond to the leadership of Jesus Christ and do not lose your reward!
The letters to the seven churches—and the seven Church eras they represent—contain important lessons! If we heed these lessons, we will gain a reward from Jesus Christ. John advised all seven churches: “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches” (Revelation 3:22). Do we understand how the lessons apply to each of us today? I pray to God each of us have a clear understanding and the point is clear and concise.

It doesn’t matter how small or how grand the church may be. Jesus said, “wherever there are two or more gathered in my name, there I will be also.” So, whether you are in a small country church or one that is so grand, if the Word of God is not being preached or the Holy Spirit is not moving, then you have nothing!! If the love of God is not present, you have nothing!! If the congregation doesn’t love one another, then you have nothing. If you are not sharing God’s free gift of Salvation, you have nothing!!

John – Chapter 16

Those who absorb and put into practice what is being said in the book of John will be truly amazed at their growth! They will mature spiritually, and walk in the heavenlies.

“These things I have spoken to you so that you may be kept from stumbling.” Those who desire honor will stumble when they are hated by the world. Christ’s words bring truth, and do away with wrong desires. There is a difference between being hated by the world, and the tribulation that is in the world, such as sickness, evil, and problems that are common to all. Jesus was speaking of the persecution we receive when we listen to the Spirit, testify to sonship, let God be our Lord, and enjoy spiritual realities. Those who are born of the flesh persecute those who are born of the Spirit. This is happening today just as it happened in Isaac’s time.

Jesus said, “For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when He comes in the glory of the Father with the holy angels.” It is evident that we are not abiding in Christ when we are ashamed of Him. We do not experience any problems as long as we do only go to church and talk about God in the traditional way. There are many churches whose windows are not being broken because religion is accepted by the world. Those who side with the world against spiritual Christians are considered to be good Christians. The testimony of those who are not ashamed of Jesus results in persecution because it bothers people.

“They will make you outcasts from the synagogue, but an hour is coming for everyone who kills you to think that he is offering service to God.” Let’s look at this in the light of what happened to Jesus. He was not persecuted nor put out of the synagogue during the first 30 years of His life. These things only happened to Him after His Jordan experience. There He left the government of Law, was washed of its thinking, received sonship as the Son of God, was led by the Spirit to be tempted, and began to operate in the power of the Spirit.

This is the way it happens in our life too. The natural truth about Christ does not bother anyone because it only produces acceptable external changes; it does not bring spiritual truth and change their testimony. The world embraces those who don’t have spiritual truth and therefore can’t confess it. When we confess spiritual truth, it first bothers those who are closest to us, and that is where persecution begins. It bothers them because their testimony has not yet reached that level. The natural is always against the spiritual.

There are various levels of realization. Different churches have different levels. There are the Fundamentalists, Baptists, and Catholic levels. There is the ecclesiastical church, the Pentecostal movement, the Full Gospel, and the kingdom movement, which claims sonship. Then there are those who abide in the vine and realize their union or oneness with God. It is a sad commentary that churches are persecuting churches. The important thing is to live and abide in Christ in the heavenlies.

“These things they will do because they have not known the Father or Me.” When Jesus was crucified He took the whole punishment. The disciples only had guilt by association. For example, Peter was accused of having been with Jesus. Those who took Jesus into custody did not know Jesus, nor did they know the Father. If we are persecuted because of a true testimony, we know that their ignorance is the cause. We may not be put on a physical cross because our spiritual battle has become more sophisticated.

Arguments occur when people claim to know God better than others do. They are arguing and fighting for their own doctrines and concepts of which God is. They do not know Christ or the Father; they prove this by persecuting those who are spiritual and abiding in Christ. They only know all kinds of things about the various versions and perversions, and have intellectual ideas about God, but they do not know Christ nor the Father.

“But these things I have spoken to you, so that when their hour comes, you may remember that I told you of them. These things I did not say to you at the beginning, because I was with you. But now I am going to Him who sent me; and none of you asks Me, `Where are you going?’ But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart.”. The disciples were disturbed because they did not want anything bad happening to their spokesman who performed signs and miracles, which attracted the attention of people. But they did not ask the most important question, “Where are You going?” They had no idea where He was going nor the purpose of His departure. They did not understand that He needed to go away physically so that He could be with them in the Spirit!

“But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you.” The disciples were sorry that Jesus was going away, but Jesus said it was to their advantage! The physical concept of Jesus has to be done away with in our minds and thinking; we must not think of Him as still being in a physical form. As long as we restrict Jesus by depending on Him in a physical sense, the Comforter cannot really come to us. Our natural image of Jesus has to depart before He can be lifted up from the earth; there He will draw all men to Himself. Having Him lifted up is the opposite of having Him come back to earth. Christ comes to those who are open to receive the reality of who is now – not who He was.

If Christ would appear as a person on earth today, the media would really highlight His miracles, but His Spirit would be rejected – just as it always has been. People who haven’t left their physical concepts of Jesus have not been baptized into Christ’s death. They have not embraced the Spirit as their teacher, nor as the One who has anointed them with truth. They do not believe that His going away has been to their advantage, so they want Him to come back in a physical body. He comes in the people He has chosen (which are His body). The conflict with the world system, with worldly people, and with religious people remains. His going away has been to our advantage, for now He can be in each one of us, and we can all relate to Him spiritually!

“And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin, and righteousness and judgment.” The Spirit within us is the reproof to, or judgment on the world. If the Spirit rules in us, we will have a true assessment or evaluation of the world. Those, with whom we come in contact, will recognize the Christ within us, and feel judged.

“Concerning sin, because they do not believe in Me.” Not all people have the same understanding of what it means to believe in Jesus Christ. Only believing in a historical or a physical Jesus who is absent from us today, is not enough. A believer is someone who is conscious of the presence of Jesus and does as the Spirit directs. He believes the Spirit is speaking truth; therefore he won’t have to be reproved of his sins. Our belief brings reproof of sin to the world because it does not believe.

“And concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father and you no longer see Me.” By having the righteousness of Christ, we reprove the world of its righteousness. The world is still looking for the man called Jesus because it cannot see Him. It can only see Him as His righteousness is in evidence in His saints.

“And concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged.” The truth judges the ruler of this world; he is judged as being in deception. Since natural man is under his rule, he is also judged as being in deception. Israel judged according to the dictates of the ruler of this world, so it judged Christ to be a blasphemer. Since Israel did not believe, they were judged by Christ to be sinners. This shows us the conflict between Christ’s judgment and Israel’s judgment. This whole world system is judged by God to be in darkness and lying in the evil one; it is anti-God and anti-Christ. We are bringing the same judgment against the world. Jesus said that the Spirit would reprove the world of sin, righteousness and judgment.

“I have many more things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.”  Their minds were filled with natural ideas, so the things Jesus said were parables to them . The natural man cannot understand spiritual realities, so he remains unchanged.

Peter is a good example of this. From the Father he received the revelation that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of the living God! At that time Peter had not yet experienced the coming of the Spirit, so he was unable to receive that spiritually. Soon after, during the trial of Jesus, Peter denied knowing Jesus Christ. Though God had revealed to Peter who Jesus was, Peter denied knowing Him! Why? It was because that revelation had come to an unconverted soul. Revelation has to be received by the new man; otherwise he will not walk in it!

“But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come.” The Spirit of truth brings spiritual truth! Since the natural man only understands natural truth, he needs to become a new creation, a spiritual one, so that he can receive spiritual truth!

John writes that “the anointing which you received from Him abides in you, and you have no need for anyone to teach you…” (1 John 2:27) Here is a principle. Christ has given us the Holy Spirit to guide us into all truth. The Father is the source of all truth, and the Spirit of truth proceeds from God who is truth!

Jesus mediates between an invisible God and a visible man. The Holy Spirit does not speak of Himself and neither did Jesus! Jesus said, “The words that I say to you I do not speak on My own initiative, but the Father abiding in Me does His works.” So we receive unadulterated truth from the Father through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit!

A willing mind is a prerequisite to understanding and receiving true doctrine. “If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching, whether it is of God or whether I speak from Myself.” (John 7:17) We can’t discern truth without a willing mind to receive it! The truth of God comes to us through Christ and the Holy Spirit. God’s Word created everything; His power put into effect what He had spoken. It often seems to us as though we are surrounded by various powers, which are always against us. Yet, there is only ONE unlimited power and He is NOT against us! Jesus knew this, and His Spirit in us causes us to grow in this understanding – but it often takes some shaking!

“Whatever He hears, He will speak.” The source of His ministry is God! If we follow this principle, we will receive truth from God through Christ and the Holy Spirit. Our testimony will follow the same pattern – we will not speak of self, but only speak what we hear from God. Our mission is to testify of God who is the source of all things – not how good or bad we are. Relating our own experiences with God can be an encouragement to others. But we have to be careful that they are not used as a method. Regardless of how emotionally historical experiences are related, they cannot change people. It is only the word of God that will change people – not our experiences.

Jesus is our example. After Jesus had risen from the dead, He appeared to two disciples on the road to Emmaus. He could have had a great testimony of all that He had experienced. He could have said, “Look at Me. I died and went to the grave and ascended to the Father, and this is what I saw and experienced.” But He didn’t do that! He just opened up the scriptures to them! He told them they were foolish because they were so slow to believe what the scriptures said about Him. He took them back to the testimony of the Word!

Furthermore, it says He will show us things to come. These are spiritual things. In Hebrews 11:39 we read, “And all these, having gained approval through their faith, did not receive what was promised.” Abraham, Moses, Joshua, Caleb and many more were included in this statement. They had a lot of faith but did not receive the promise. The promise was the Holy Spirit – “in order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we would receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.” (Gal.3: 14) In the Old Testament the promise was to be fulfilled in the future. This promise was now fulfilled in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2)

The Holy Spirit reveals the mysteries of God to us. Everything from Him is from God. The Spirit of truth only brings us the faith that is in Jesus Christ. It is the Holy Spirit who puts things together so that we can really understand what the Old Testament men of faith were saying, and why they were saying it.

The things to come are our inheritance in Jesus Christ! Jesus did not receive any desires the world offered Him, so He will not give us anything of this world. His kingdom is not of this world. We are joint heirs with Christ, and our inheritance is spiritual! We receive the same inheritance Christ received, because we are joint heirs with Him! However, in this world Jesus received persecution, and our inheritance is also accompanied by persecution.

“He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you.” Christ glorified the Father, and the Holy Spirit glorifies Christ. So we too are to glorify Him! If we glorify ourselves by saying we are great teachers, ministers, prophets, etc., it shows that we want people to use us as stepping-stones to God. This destroys the precepts of God that we have in Christ. Christ did not adulterate what God said, and neither does the Holy Spirit! His message always comes in an unadulterated form.

Paul said, “I preach Christ and Him crucified.” He did not preach Paul. Our testimony should exalt Christ – not ourselves! It should not draw people to us, but to Christ! The Holy Spirit does not detract from Christ’s holiness; He is fully committed to what God has given through Christ.

“All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose it to you.” Jesus understood His oneness with the Father! Oneness did not give Him the right to govern the Father; but everything the Father had was available to Him, because He was living in subjection to the Father! He was simply walking in the grace of God, abiding in the Father and in the Father’s word! He believed that God was able to accomplish everything God wanted to accomplish in Him and through Him, therefore He did not have to beg for anything.

“All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being.” (John 1:3) So when we receive the things of Christ, we receive the things that are from the Father!

“A little while, and you will no longer see (behold) Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me. Some of His disciples then said to one another, `What is this thing He is telling us, “A little while, and you will not see (behold) Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me”; and, “because I go to the Father”? So they were saying, `What is this that He says, “A little while”? We do not know what He is talking about.  ”This does not refer to a visible appearance in the flesh; it gives us a spiritual comprehension of Christ! Time and again Jesus said that He had come into the world and was now going back to the Father. His round trip is the fulfillment of His purpose! We also came out of God, and are going to God. This alien world is not our resting-place; it is not our habitation; we are just pilgrims! We have to learn that the essence of our life is spiritual! All the images and forms we have conceived must be broken down!

“Jesus knew that they wished to question Him, and He said to them, `Are you deliberating together about this, that I said, “A little while, and you will not see Me, and again a little while, and you will see Me”? Truly, truly, I say to you, that you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; you will grieve, but your grief will be turned into joy’.”  The world rejoiced at the departure of Christ. Similarly, non-Christians rejoice when the Christian leaves the room. Then they can again swear, tell their jokes, etc. Christ’s testimony, of course, was greater than ours. His testimony indicted the Jews, so they were happy when He was out of sight. He manifested God as a corporate spiritual man, namely, the Son of Man.

“Whenever a woman is in labor she has pain, because her hour has come; but when she gives birth to the child, she no longer remembers the anguish because of the joy that a child has been born into the world.” This illustrates that Christ comes into the world by being BORN in us. Mary was a pattern for us. In Gal. 4:22-26, Hagar and Sarah are, allegorically speaking, two covenants. These covenants are female. Christ is birthed in us by the word of His covenant. The Word is the seed and it has to fall into good ground. Many parables illustrate this. After the seed is sown in the earth, it has to die before it can bear fruit and reproduce itself. So after Christ is born in us, the word of truth reproduces itself in us.

Jesus Christ is always the truth. When He says, “I am”, it means NOW! He said, “Before Abraham was, I AM.” He is always the same – yesterday, today and forever, so He is always the I AM. In whatever dimension of truth He comes to us, He is the “I AM” that He has always been. We are the ones who are coming into a new relationship and comprehension of it. The Spirit of truth coming to us is a birthing, for a son is born. This newborn has to be fed and nurtured so he can grow into Christ, the Head – the One who knows all things.

“Therefore you too have grief now; but I will see you again, and your heart will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.” Jesus compares the disciples to a woman who has a child in her, yet nothing is delivered until the time comes. After the delivery there is joy because a man is born.  There is joy because Christ has reproduced Himself in us! Christ planted a seed in each of the disciples. When He came again in the Spirit they were awakened spiritually, and suddenly became aware of that which was theirs in Christ. They now began to understand what Christ had called them for. This was unknown to them until they received the Holy Spirit!

The Holy Spirit brings us into a new dimension. The former joy of seeing Jesus performing miracles vanished after Jesus was taken from them. In this new dimension no one could take their joy from them!

“In that day you will not question Me about anything. Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything in My name, He will give it to you.” This is a very important verse. Day speaks of light. The sun, moon and stars are a type of natural light. In Genesis 1 we see that creation progressed with each day, or each measure of light. Days, times and seasons are measures of light. Thus the day of the Lord is a whole new measure of light for us. “In that day” refers to the light of His coming. In that day we won’t ask Him anything.

Many today have visions according to what is in their subconscious mind. For example, people of Catholic background have visions in which Mary is their intercessor, because she is their intercessor in their subconscious mind. To them Jesus is too high, and God is unavailable. They consider a woman to be the best intercessor, because she will love her sons and daughters even when they are wayward and sinful. People of other backgrounds have visions of Jesus coming and doing things as a physical individual according to their understanding and training. The gospel of truth reveals that these are delusions; they cannot live by them for they do not provide nourishment. However it reveals what people have in their minds, and their idea of how God works.

When the Holy Spirit comes we cry, “Abba! Father!” That does not eliminate the importance of Christ; it eliminates us! Christ becomes our life, and His Spirit of sonship comes and causes us to genuinely cry, “Abba! Father!” There is a difference between going into our closet to pray and repeating a prayer in unison in church. Our closet is our innermost being into which we retreat and pray in secret, and God rewards us openly. Prayer is listening and talking. In order to learn we have to listen. That principle applies to the natural and the spiritual realm.

Anything we ask the Father in Christ’s name will be given to us. How do we get the name of Christ? A woman gets her husband’s name through marriage. We take on Christ’s name through our union or marriage with Him; we are lesser than He. A name represents the identity of a person, and the name of Jesus Christ represents His divine nature. We approach the Father as sons who have His nature. We are neither beggars nor slaves. Our feelings of guilt are not eradicated through sufferings, but through Christ. The Spirit brings us the consciousness of Christ!

“Until now you have asked for nothing in My name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full.” People did not understand what it meant to pray in His name, and neither do we until the Spirit comes and touches us. Then we can pray in the name or nature of the Son!

“These things I have spoken to you in figurative language; an hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figurative language, but will tell you plainly of the Father.” All the things Jesus had been saying about the Spirit of truth or the Holy Spirit in John 14-16 were spoken in proverbs or parables! Jesus spoke in parables because they could not understand spiritual realities. Only after the coming of the Spirit could they understand Christ’s words. Christ’s coming in the Spirit is the fulfillment of His coming again!

“In that day you will ask in My name, and I do not say to you that I will request of the Father on your behalf.” This seems to be at odds with Romans 8:34 and Heb. 7:25, where it says that He ever lives to make intercession for us. In intercession one party is generally very stern, and another party requests leniency. However, there is another kind of intercession. We know that the Father Himself loves us, and that He was in Christ Jesus reconciling the world to Himself. Jesus Christ came to take us out of our humanity so that we can be brought into sonship. Because of this relationship we can call on the Father in the name of the Son! The Father wants us to know our relationship with Him!

“For the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me and have believed that I came forth from the Father.” In loving Christ, and in our union with Him, we experience sonship! We love spiritual truth, and in loving truth we are rewarded! Those who don’t love the truth will receive greater delusion and think their delusion is truth. If we don’t love the truth we’ll accept a delusion, and our delusion becomes our truth. The more entrenched we are in our delusion, the more we will stand on it and defend it. Natural man’s delusion is his truth. Delusion came into the world through the Adam man, and he ministers darkness, evil and sin.

“I came forth from the Father and have come into the world; I am leaving the world again and going to the Father.”  Jesus left the Father’s dwelling place and came into a world that was under the rule of Satan. Now Jesus was about to go back to the Father, having accomplished everything the Father had sent Him to do. He had to leave the world in order to go back to the Father. We are not of this world either!

In Christ we have a new rule, a love for truth, and a desire for a deeper level of truth. All things become new! This is earth shaking! A shaking is needed to remove the things, which are not eternal. We’ve shaken off denominationalism and all kinds of weird teachings. The relinquishing of that, which can be shaken, leaves us with a greater security and a greater grasp of reality! But this can only happen when, along with the shaking, the birth of a new system of spiritual truth and life in Christ occurs.

“His disciples said, `Lo, now You are speaking plainly and are not using a figure of speech. Now we know that You know all things, and have no need for anyone to question You; by this we believe that You came from God.’ Jesus answered them, `Do you now believe?'”  Jesus knew that the disciples did not believe. Not long after that He was deserted by all the disciples, and He had to tread the winepress of God alone; the Shepherd was struck and the sheep were scattered. This was because they had not yet received the Holy Spirit. Now the gospel is proclaimed with the sound of a trumpet – the declaration of Christ and the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of truth is gathering the lost sheep to Himself.

“Behold, an hour is coming, and has already come, for you to be scattered, each to his own home, and to leave Me alone; and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me.”  The hour for them to be scattered had come. They would go back to their old way of thinking, their old life, their old consciousness of God. Jesus would be left alone, yet not alone, for the Father was with Him!

“These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” IN Christ we have peace; it does not come in separation from Him! Jesus overcame the world (natural thinking) through abiding in the Father’s word – not by public demonstrations and marching. As we abide in Christ we will bear much fruit, and our fruit will remain! It will continue into the dispensations of time, and into eternity.