How Heavenly is Heaven? - Revelation 21:1-5, 22-27; 22:1-5 - July 27, 2008

Sunday School Lesson – How Heavenly is Heaven? – July 27, 2008

This is our final lesson in our series of study. It is an exciting study to think about heaven.

Our scripture is Revelation 21:1-5, 22-27; 22:1-5.

Let’s take a journey through the scripture to position our minds to consider heaven. First, since there is heaven, where GOD and CHRIST dwell there is also a place where GOD and CHRIST are absent that is called Hell.

Luke 16:19-31: (JESUS is telling this story.)

The Rich Man and Lazarus
19 “There was a rich man who would dress in purple and fine linen, feasting lavishly every day. 20 But a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, was left at his gate. 21 He longed to be filled with what fell from the rich man’s table, but instead the dogs would come and lick his sores. 22 One day the poor man died and was carried away by the angels to Abraham’s side.[6] Lit to the fold of Abraham’s robe, or to Abraham’s bosom; see Jn 13:23 The rich man also died and was buried. 23 And being in torment in • Hades, he looked up and saw Abraham a long way off, with Lazarus at his side. 24 ‘Father Abraham!’ he called out, ‘Have mercy on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this flame!’ 25 “ ‘Son,’[7] Lit Child Abraham said, ‘remember that during your life you received your good things, just as Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here, while you are in agony. 26 Besides all this, a great chasm has been fixed between us and you, so that those who want to pass over from here to you cannot; neither can those from there cross over to us.’ 27 “ ‘Father,’ he said, ‘then I beg you to send him to my father’s house— 28 because I have five brothers—to warn them, so they won’t also come to this place of torment.’ 29 “But Abraham said, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; they should listen to them.’ 30 “ ‘No, father Abraham,’ he said. ‘But if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’ 31 “But he told him, ‘If they don’t listen to Moses and the prophets, they will not be persuaded if someone rises from the dead.’ ”

There is a chasm that separates Heaven from Hell. Based upon this scripture, those in Hell can see those in Heaven but a barrier or sea prevents any travel between the two (2) areas.
JESUS speaks of Heaven and its many dwelling places in John 14:1-4:

The Way to the Father
1 “Your heart must not be troubled. Believe[1] Or You believe in God; believe also in Me. 2 In My Father’s house are many dwelling places;[2] The Vg used the Lat term mansio, a traveler’s resting place. The Gk word is related to the verb meno, meaning remain or stay, which occurs 40 times in John. if not, I would have told you. I am going away to prepare a place for you. 3 If I go away and prepare a place for you, I will come back and receive you to Myself, so that where I am you may be also. 4 You know the way where I am going.”[3] Other mss read this verse: And you know where I am going, and you know the way 5 “Lord,” Thomas said, “we don’t know where You’re going. How can we know the way?” 6 Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

JESUS is the way to heaven. HE gave HIS life by shedding HIS Blood to pay the debt for sin. JESUS paid the price for sin but each human must decide whether or not he or she will accept CHRIST as his or her SAVIOR. Through the miracle of rebirth in our spirit, we are born into GOD’S family and our citizenship is immediately in heaven. Our names are made permanent in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

JESUS told the thief on the cross about Paradise in Luke 23:43 because of his faith in HIM:

43 And He said to him, “• I assure you: Today you will be with Me in paradise.”

Many Bible scholars think that Paradise was a holding place for believers until JESUS paid the price for sin. Once the barrier of sin was removed, through HIS death, resurrection and ascension, then Paradise was transposed to Heaven.

The Apostle Paul speaks of being carried up to the third Heaven when he was stoned and believed to have been killed. The first heaven is where the birds and clouds are. The second heaven is where the sun, moon, stars and planets are. The third heaven is where GOD is. Paul records this event in 1 Corinthians 12:2-4:

2 I know a man in Christ who was caught up into the third heaven 14 years ago. Whether he was in the body or out of the body, I don’t know; God knows. 3 I know that this man—whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows— 4 was caught up into paradise. He heard inexpressible words, which a man is not allowed to speak.

Paul’s account is compatible with a preacher friend of mine’s death experience. He told me years ago about his experience of going to heaven after he was pronounced dead. He had been in an automobile accident and was in the hospital in serious condition. He was pronounced dead. His body was taken to the basement of the hospital for the undertaker to pick up. A nurse happened to come by the gurney and saw his eyelid move and resuscitated him.

He was in seminary when this happened. During a class in which he would have been had he not been in the hospital, one of his classmates said in essence, ”Folks, we have to pray for Brother Ron”. Now Brother Ron was in the hospital ninety (90) miles away. They knew he was in serious condition but did not know he had been pronounced dead. When the time line was later put together, approximately the moment the classmate said we must pray for Brother Ron is the time he was pronounced dead. A chapel program followed the seminary class and rather than having the planned program, the entire assembly prayed for Brother Ron. The time he was pronounced dead until his resuscitation matched the time when prayer began for him and ended. He told me during this period of time he was escorted in heaven by a creature but he said he could not tell what he saw because there were no words to describe it.

As believers, the moment we exit our bodies (earth suits) we are in the presence of the LORD. Why do I refer to our body as an earth suit? Because once we become born-again, our body is the only thing that keeps us from going to heaven. GOD wants us to remain on earth serving HIM until we have completed HIS plan for our lives.

The Apostle Paul stated in 2 Corinthians 5:6-8 to be absent from the body is to be present with the LORD:

6 Therefore, though we are always confident and know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord— 7 for we • walk by faith, not by sight— 8 yet we are confident and satisfied to be out of the body and at home with the Lord.

As mentioned in last week’s lesson, the LORD allowed me to witness a lady meeting the LORD. I had never met the lady but her daughter and I worked together and a number of us had been praying for her. Her name was Mrs. Green. She had cancer and was a born-again believer. I was returning from a two (2) day trip and had no knowledge that she was taken to the hospital that morning. While driving on the Interstate that afternoon, I saw very clearly and distinctly, a lady walking with a man on a path. The manner the scene was positioned I saw all of Mrs. Green but only from the shoulders down of the man. I heard a very distinctive, clear, loud, unmistakable voice that was 360 degrees of sound in my head say Mrs. Green just passed away but she is walking with the LORD. That was the instant I knew who the lady was and that the man in the scene was the LORD. I never saw HIS face. A flood of joy swept over me and I began singing. The voice spoke again and said Mrs. Green is fine, she is walking with the LORD, pray for the family. I prayed and looked at my watch.

The time was 3:45 PM. Later, I learned when I read Mrs. Green’s obituary that she was pronounced dead at 4:10 PM. But she was walking with the LORD at 3:45 PM. That is why I believe, as a believer, we exit our body before we experience the death of our body. What about those killed instantly? The LORD can make a nanosecond be long enough to exit our body before the death of our body occurs. But that is neither here nor there. The point is, the moment believers die, we are in the presence of the LORD. Paul captures this point in 2 Corinthians 5:6-8.

Let’s read Revelation 21:1-5:

The New Creation
1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth,[1] 2 Pt 3:13; Isaiah 65:17 for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea existed no longer.[2] Rv 13:1 2 I also saw the Holy City, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God,[3] Gl 4:26; Heb 11:10; Rv 3:12 prepared like a bride adorned for her husband.[4] Rv 19:7 3 Then I heard a loud voice from the throne:[5] Other mss read from heaven Look! God’s dwelling[6] Or tent, or tabernacle is with men, and He will live with them. They will be His people,[7] Lv 26:11–12; Jr 31:33; Ezk 37:27; Zch 8:8 and God Himself will be with them and be their God.[8] Other mss omit and be their God 4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes.[9] Isaiah 25:8 Death will exist no longer;[10] Isaiah 25:8; 1 Co 15:54 grief, crying, and pain will exist no longer,[11] Isaiah 35:10; 65:19 because the previous things[12] Or the first things have passed away.[13] Isaiah 42:9 5 Then the One seated on the throne said, “Look! I am making everything new.” He also said, “Write, because these words[14] Other mss add of God are faithful and true.”[15] Rv 22:6

John continued to describe what GOD was revealing to him. He saw a New Heaven and a New Earth. The old heaven and the old earth had passed away and there was no longer a sea or barrier separating them.

GOD’S desire from the beginning was to fellowship with mankind. HE walked in the garden in the cool of the evening. Sin separated us from HIM. In the New Heaven and the New Earth, the relationship HE wanted with mankind from the beginning, is completely restored. Notice the excitement when the New Heaven and New Earth are announced with the emphasis that GOD and JESUS are dwelling in them. There is no longer any separation between GOD, JESUS and the inhabitants of the New Heaven and New Earth. It seems that the words are expressing, “Finally, what WE and all of heaven have been anticipating has happened!!! Now we can have unbroken fellowship for eternity.”

There is a need for a New Heaven and a New Earth to accommodate this New Kingdom of GOD. There are apparently nations or ethnic groups within this kingdom. Who make up these nations? (Keep in mind this is all speculation.) When CHRIST was resurrected, HE received HIS New Glorified Body. HE was still JESUS, a Jew. HE was in complete control of HIS new glorified body. Many believe we will retain our earthly identity but in a glorified body which is perfect. Many believe we will retain our ethnicity. The important thing is that we will be with our LORD in heaven.

GOD reveals to John that there is no longer a sea. What is this sea of separation?

The sea no longer exists – GOD had placed a barrier or sea between the world and the spirit world. Since Satan and all of evil have been defeated there is no need to separate the New Heaven and the New Earth. The inhabitants move freely to the throne of GOD and JESUS and enjoy all that heaven offers.

When you think about all the generations that have existed from the beginning of time to the end of time being in the same area, there will be a need for a New Earth. The New Heaven and Earth are One because GOD and CHRIST dwell there. There is a free flow of activity between the inhabitants of the New Earth and the New Heaven, as it should be.

There is a New Jerusalem which is the dwelling place for GOD, the FATHER and CHRIST, the SON for eternity.

Let’s read Revelation 21:22-27:

22 I did not see a sanctuary in it, because the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb are its sanctuary. 23 The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, because God’s glory illuminates it, and its lamp is the Lamb.[34] Isaiah 60:19–20 24 The nations[35] Other mss add of those who are saved will walk in its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it.[36] Other mss read will bring to Him the nations’ glory and honor [37] Isaiah 60:3,5 25 Each day its gates will never close because it will never be night there. 26 They will bring the glory and honor of the nations into it.[38] Other mss add in order that they might go in [39] Isaiah 60:11 27 Nothing profane will ever enter it: no one who does what is vile or false, but only those written in the Lamb’s book of life.[40] Rv 13:8

There is no sanctuary in the New City or sun or moon because GOD’S glory is sufficient. Think
about that. If there was a sun and moon they would be physical objects and have a lifetime. However, the glory of GOD and the SON are eternal and will never be extinguished or grow dim.

There will be a form of order in heaven because there are nations and kings. The “kings” are believed to be the born-again believers. The scripture speaks of “day”. Since GOD is the light there will be no night, only day. Only those written in the Lamb’s Book of Life will enter the city. I believe those written in the Lamb’s Book of Life are all who placed their faith in GOD, from the beginning of time to the second coming of CHRIST. The Old Testament believers were looking forward to the cross of JESUS and we are looking back on the cross of JESUS for salvation.

Let’s read Revelation 22:1-5:

The Source of Life
1 Then he showed me the river[1] Other mss read pure river of living water, sparkling like crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb[2] Ezk 47:1–2; Jl 3:18 2 down the middle of the broad street [of the city]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. . On both sides of the river was the tree of life[3] Or was a tree of life, or was a tree that gives life bearing 12 kinds of fruit, producing its fruit every month.[4] Gn 2:9; 3:22 The leaves of the tree are for healing the nations, 3 and there will no longer be any curse.[5] Zch 14:11; see also Gn 3:14–19 The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city,[6] Lit in it and His servants will serve Him. 4 They will see His face,[7] Ex 33:20; Mt 5:8; Ps 17:15 and His name will be on their foreheads.[8] Rv 7:3; 9:4; 13:16; 14:1,9; 17:5; 20:4 5 Night will no longer exist,[9] Rv 21:25; Zch 14:7 and people will not need lamplight or sunlight, because the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign forever and ever.

GOD is the source of salvation, eternal life and healing. If Heaven is a place of no tears, no sickness, no death or no sorrow why is there a need for the Tree of Life bearing fruit, monthly, and its leaves are for healing the nations. Notice the Tree of Life bears twelve (12) kinds of fruit monthly. There were twelve (12) tribes in Israel. It seems that these twelve tribes will be part of the heavenly structure. Each tribe could represent a nation. The inhabitants can seek GOD’S face. Moses wanted to see GOD’S face but GOD told him no man can see MY face and live. Now we can behold HIS face!!!

Since all believers have eternal life, why is the Tree of Life in Heaven on both sides of the river? What is the river flowing from the throne of GOD and CHRIST?

The Tree of Life was in the Garden of Eden and GOD had to prevent Adam and Eve from eating its fruit after they sinned. The fruit from the Tree of Life represents eternal life and its leaves healing from the ravages of sin.

The river of living water - Water has represented the blessings of GOD and the indwelling of the HOLY SPIRIT.

The river flowing from the throne of GOD and JESUS shows they have always been and always will be the source of blessings, healing and eternal life. John reported the things he was seeing and hearing. These events mark the end of the old and the beginning of the New. But let’s look ahead in Revelation. There is a shift in emphasis from a focus on the end of time to, since you know the conclusion, share the gospel until JESUS comes again.

GOD’S blessings, healing and eternal life continue to flow to all mankind until Satan and all evil are defeated. Therefore, go and tell the Good News to all mankind, beginning at home and expanding it to the entire world, as GOD directs us.

The Tree of Life is currently available to all who come to CHRIST. The tree of Life is available on both sides of the river therefore it is available to all who seek salvation. The river of blessings is also currently available to all who come to CHRIST. However, there will be a time when this availability will end. By the same token, they are always available to those whose names are written in the Lambs Book of Life. The Tree of Life is alive because it produces fruit monthly.

Now for a depressing thought – you remember in the story JESUS told about the rich man dying and going to Hades and being able to see Abraham. Those outside of Heaven will see the Tree of Life and the river flowing. It will be a constant reminder to them that they rejected the salvation GOD offered to them through JESUS. GOD’S grace has abundantly flowed from HIS throne since the beginning of creation. There has been and will always be enough grace, blessings, healing and eternal life for all who choose CHRIST as their SAVIOR as evidenced by the Tree of Life and the river flowing from the throne of GOD.

To me there is no greater torment than to know that GOD so loved us that HE sent HIS only Son so we can find forgiveness, receive the gift of eternal life, be cleansed from our sin and fellowship with HIM but we rejected HIM.

Revelation 22:12-17:

12 “Look! I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me[18] Isaiah 40:10; 62:11 to repay each person according to what he has done.[19] Jr 17:10; Isaiah 59:18 13 I am • the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. 14 “Blessed[20] Rv 1:3; 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7 are those who wash their robes,[21] Other mss read who keep His commandments so that they may have the right to the tree of life and may enter the city by the gates. 15 Outside are the dogs, the sorcerers, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices lying.[22] Rv 21:8 16 “I, Jesus, have sent My angel to attest these things to you[23] you (pl in Gk) for the churches. I am the Root[24] Rv 5:5 and the Offspring of David,[25] Isaiah 11:1,10; Rm 1:3 the Bright Morning Star.”[26] Nm 24:17; Rv 2:28 17 Both the Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” Anyone who hears should say, “Come!” And the one who is thirsty should come. Whoever desires should take the living water as a gift.[27] Rv 21:6

The Apostle John is reporting what he is hearing and seeing. He uses terms that are familiar to him. To me 1 Corinthians 2:9 says it all: 9 But as it is written: What no eye has seen and no ear has heard, and what has never come into a man’s heart, is what God has prepared for those who love Him.[4] Isaiah 52:15; 64:4

One day all believers will know all the facts about heaven, we know enough now to know that we need to share the gospel of CHRIST with those who need salvation. Heaven is real. GOD and CHRIST will be there. There will be order, service and activity in heaven. It is GOD’S desire for no human to go to Hell but each human has a choice to make. Have you made this choice? If not, now is the time!!! Choose HIM and receive the gift of eternal life that flows abundantly even now from HIS throne.

What's Up with Christ Coming Down? - Revelation 19 - July 20, 2008

Sunday School Lesson – What’s Up with Christ Coming Down? – July 20, 2008

This is lesson three (3) in our series of study.

Our scripture is Revelation 19:6-9, 11-16, 19-21.

This week’s study is more pleasant than last week’s study. Most believers eagerly await the second coming of our LORD. We want HIM to come while we are alive because we do not want to experience death. I know my mother was hopeful that the LORD would come during her lifetime so she would not have to go through the death process.

But whether the LORD comes while we are alive or doesn’t, all believers will meet HIM one day. I have never experienced a near death experience but I have witnessed a person walking with JESUS before her earthly body had been pronounced dead by the doctor. In fact the lady (the lady was not my mother) was walking with the LORD about twenty-five (25) minutes before she was pronounced dead by the doctor.

JESUS gives us a clue in John 5:24:

24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.
I believe all born-again believers will exit their earth suit (body) moments before he or she ever experiences the death of their earth suit (body). What about children or unborn babies or mentally challenged when they die, if they have never prayed to receive CHRIST? In my opinion they have not reached the age of accountability and are with our LORD immediately.

I don’t know why I got into this but someone needs it.

Our lesson shifts from evil ruling to JESUS conquering evil, defeating those serving the antichrist, ruling and the marriage supper of the Lamb.

Let’s read Revelation 19:6-9:

Marriage of the Lamb Announced

6 Then I heard something like the voice of a vast multitude, like the sound of cascading waters,[11] Rv 1:15; 14:2; Ezk 1:24; 43:2 and like the rumbling of loud thunder, saying: Hallelujah[12] See note at Rv 19:1 —because our Lord God, the Almighty, has begun to reign! 7 Let us be glad, rejoice, and give Him glory,[13] Mt 5:12 because the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has prepared herself. 8 She was permitted to wear fine linen, bright and pure.[14] Rv 15:6; 19:14 For the fine linen represents the righteous acts of the saints.[15] Eph 2:10 9 Then he[16] Probably an angel; see Rv 17:1; 22:8–9 said to me, “Write: Blessed[17] Rv 1:3; 14:13; 16:15; 20:6; 22:7,14 are those invited to the marriage feast of the Lamb!”[18] Isaiah 25:6–8; Mt 26:29; Lk 13:29 He also said to me, “These words of God are true.”

John describes the sounds he hears. It is a mighty “Hallelujah” to announce the termination of evil and the rule of CHRIST. The citizens of heaven know what is about to happen because it is the long awaited event of the “Marriage Supper of the Lamb.” CHRIST’S wife, the church, is prepared for the event. She is given permission to wear fine linen, bright and pure.

The linen represents the righteous acts of the saints. At the moment we received CHRIST as our SAVIOR our sin was placed upon CHRIST and HIS righteousness was placed on us. The words “She was permitted to wear the fine linen ----“were used to show that the saints had not earned this righteousness but they were permitted to wear it. All our righteousness is the result of what CHRIST did for each believer.

I want to share something with you. I have been meditating on this whole process. As a male, it bothers me to think of me being a bride. Nothing against you ladies and I dearly love my bride of almost fifty (5) years but me a bride, I could not understand.
Anyway this is what I have been wrestling with - The church is the bride of CHRIST. This is not the brick and mortar church but the living church of true believers male and female. CHRIST is the groom and HE is marrying the church of which I am part since it is the living body. Through all of my questioning, the HOLY SPIRIT has been telling me to keep in mind that this is symbolic. I questioned why does this have to take place when every believer is already born-again and a member of GOD’S family. So, why this process? To the best of my ability, this is the answer I have received.

Ephesians 5:25-27 tells us that CHRIST died for the church, the body made up of living stones - You and me, male or female, who have been born-again, we form the true church, the bride.

Ephesians 5:25-27:
25 Husbands, love your wives,[10] Col 3:19; 1 Pt 3:7 just as also Christ loved the church and gave Himself for her, 26 to make her holy, cleansing[11] Or having cleansed her in the washing of water by the word. 27 He did this to present the church to Himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but holy and blameless.

This living body of true believers is saved and redeemed from sin and death by the precious blood shed by CHRIST. All believers are in the process of being saved and will not be fully saved or redeemed until all evil is conquered. Conquering Satan, all of evil and all who reject CHRIST is what we have been studying in our first two (2) lessons.

Ephesians 6:10-17:

Christian Warfare

10 Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by His vast strength. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the tactics[10] Or schemes, or tricks of the Devil. 12 For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens.[11] Eph 1:3,20; 2:6; 3:10 13 This is why you must take up the full armor[12] 1 Th 5:8 of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. 14 Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, 15 and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace.[13] Ready to go tell others about the gospel 16 In every situation take the shield of faith, and with it you will be able to extinguish the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s word.

This scripture in Ephesians is for now and throughout the ages to come until evil is finally defeated. All true believers are protected by the shed blood of JESUS. The true believers will remain faithful to our LORD in life or in death. Just as Abraham’s faith was tested when GOD asked him to sacrifice his only son, Isaac, as a burnt offering, deliverance did not come until the last moment. Abraham remained faithful to GOD’S command to the split second before sacrificing his son. Believers may be tested.

There is a body of true believers on earth who have witnessed the horrific evil events we studied earlier. They have remained faithful. We have some saints already in heaven. These saints are waiting for the complete destruction of evil. CHRIST will reveal Himself to the universe and every entity will know CHRIST is the Truth and the VICTOR. HE will conquer all evil. All lies will be dispelled and all believers will know it is time that the body of true believers to be made ONE with CHRIST. Marriage unites two (2) as ONE. However, before the marriage can take place, Satan and all evil must be conquered. No groom would allow his bride to be threatened by evil. There is unfinished business.

Let’s take it another step. Remember we are in the process of being saved. When the living church (all true believers) becomes one with CHRIST, they are united with HIM as ONE in marriage. Therefore, since CHRIST will not be judged, neither will believers because they are ONE with HIM in marriage. We could consider the moment we accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR as the beginning of our betrothal to CHRIST. The Jewish marriage was a two (2) stage process - A long betrothal and then the marriage.

John 5:24: This is JESUS talking while HE is still upon earth.

24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.

So being the bride of CHRIST is a wonderful experience to look forward to even though you are a male. It is symbolic but essential.

Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage feast of the Lamb. Who are these? All true believers are invited. They have remained faithful, they have on the right garment for the occasion and their lamps are burning bright because they did not give out of oil of the HOLY SPIRIT as recorded in Matthew 25:1-13:

The Parable of the 10 Virgins

1 “Then the kingdom of heaven will be like 10 virgins[1] Or bridesmaids who took their lamps and went out to meet the groom. 2 Five of them were foolish and five were sensible. 3 When the foolish took their lamps, they didn’t take oil with them. 4 But the sensible ones took oil in their flasks with their lamps. 5 Since the groom was delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. 6 “In the middle of the night there was a shout: ‘Here’s the groom! Come out to meet him.’ 7 “Then all those virgins got up and trimmed their lamps. 8 But the foolish ones said to the sensible ones, ‘Give us some of your oil, because our lamps are going out.’ 9 “The sensible ones answered, ‘No, there won’t be enough for us and for you. Go instead to those who sell, and buy oil for yourselves.’ 10 “When they had gone to buy some, the groom arrived. Then those who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet, and the door was shut. 11 “Later the rest of the virgins also came and said, ‘Master, master, open up for us!’ 12 “But he replied, ‘• I assure you: I do not know you!’ 13 “Therefore be alert, because you don’t know either the day or the hour.[2] Other mss add in which the Son of Man is coming.

NOW FOR THE GREAT REVEAL!!!!!!!

Let’s read Revelation 19:11-16:

The Rider on a White Horse

11 Then I saw heaven opened,[22] Rv 4:1; 11:19; 15:5 and there was a white horse! Its rider is called Faithful and True,[23] Rv 3:14 and in righteousness He judges and makes war.[24] Rv 16:7; 19:2; Ps 9:8; 96:13 12 His eyes were like a fiery flame, and on His head were many crowns. He had a name written that no one knows except Himself.[25] Rv 2:17; 3:12 13 He wore a robe stained with blood,[26] Or a robe dipped in [27] Isaiah 63:1–6 and His name is called the Word of God.[28] Jn 1:1–5; Heb 4:12 14 The armies that were in heaven followed Him on white horses, wearing pure white linen. 15 From His mouth came a sharp[29] Other mss add double-edged sword, so that with it He might strike the nations.[30] Isaiah 11:4; Rv 1:16; 2:12; 2 Th 2:8 He will shepherd[31] Or rule them with an iron scepter.[32] Ps 2:9; Rv 12:5 He will also trample the winepress of the fierce anger of God,[33] Rv 16:19; 14:19 the Almighty. 16 And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS[34] Dt 10:17; Dn 2:47; 1 Tm 6:15; Rv 17:14

CHRIST came the first time as the sacrificial Lamb. This time HE is coming as the victor as evidenced by HIM riding a white horse. This is exactly what the Jews wanted to see when HE came the first time. Now it is happenings. HE comes now as judge.
HIS eyes were like a fiery flame. Fire is always a symbol of cleansing. Only those who are not redeemed by the blood of the Lamb and covered in HIS righteousness cannot stand the fiery cleansing of the eyes of CHRIST. CHRIST is all powerful and all knowing. HIS eyes are searching for any righteous heart but in the process as HIS eyes fall upon the unrighteous heart that person will be consumed.

The heavenly army is also mounted on white horses and wearing pure white linen. These are symbols of victory over sin and death and clothed in the righteousness of CHRIST.

Verse 14 tells us the armies in heaven appear with HIM. Do the true believers make up this heavenly army?

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18:

They are not to grieve hopelessly for the dead

13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

We believe that at the second coming of CHRIST that those of us who have departed this earth will return to earth with CHRIST and will receive our glorified bodies like CHRIST’S body. The true believers who are alive at this moment will also receive their glorified bodies. We will all be taken into heaven. Will we all be in this heavenly army? I do not know but it is exciting to consider.

CHRIST is wearing many crowns. These are crowns of victory. The beast had crowns but CHRIST has crowns that reveal that HE has conquered these evil beings. A conquering king would often wear the crown of the king he had conquered. CHRIST has conquered them all and is wearing their crowns.

CHRIST has a name written that only HE knows. Many have speculated what this name could be. Many think it is a name the Jews would not utter. In verse 11 it gives us the names of “Faithful and True”, in verse 13 “Word of GOD” and in verse 16 “King of Kings and Lord of Lords.” This special name is not from human knowledge or understanding but seems to be of heavenly origin. It is likely a name that fully expresses the fullness and completeness of CHRIST.

CHRIST is wearing a blood stained robe. Many scholars have debated whose blood is on the robe. I think it is the shed blood of CHRIST. It is HIS shed blood that conquers all sin and all evil. It is HIS blood that washed us white as snow. When we face evil, we, as humans, claim the blood of CHRIST for our protection. HIS blood is all powerful and all cleansing.

John describes a sword coming from the mouth of CHRIST. That is the Word of GOD. At this moment there is no question that the Word of GOD is all powerful and true as described in:

Hebrews 4:12:

12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

The Word is all powerful and HE will rule with an iron scepter. An iron scepter was used to defend and to kill. The Word will completely rid earth of evil. This includes those who worship the beasts. They had their opportunity to repent but had chosen to believe a lie rather than embrace the truth. Their blood will be shed as symbolized with the wine press. The wine press crushes the grapes. So those who reject CHRIST will be crushed as well as all evil.

There is no question WHO is doing this; it is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Let’s read Revelation 19:19-21:

19 Then I saw the beast, the kings of the earth, and their armies[36] Rv 16:13–14 gathered together to wage war against the rider on the horse and against His army. 20 But the beast was taken prisoner, and along with him the false prophet, who had performed signs on his authority,[37] Lit signs before him by which he deceived those who accepted the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image.[38] Rv 13:13–17 Both of them were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur.[39] Mt 5:22; Mk 9:43; Rv 20:10,14; 21:8 21 The rest were killed with the sword that came from the mouth of the rider on the horse, and all the birds were filled with their flesh.

CHRIST has already defeated Satan on the cross through HIS shed blood and HIS resurrection. HIS blood cleanses all believers from sin and conquered death. What CHRIST did for believers was to remove the barriers preventing the miracle of rebirth from taking place within the hearts, lives and spirit of believers. Once we, as humans, accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR the HOLY SPIRIT indwells us and confirms the fact we are GOD’S children. Rebirth begins the sanctification process of being saved. All believers have direct access to GOD, THE FATHER.

All believers will exchange their earthly bodies through death or the rapture for their new glorified bodies. This will be done at the second coming of CHRIST, whether we are alive or have departed this life through death. If through death then we will wait in heaven to return with CHRIST. Satan and all of his followers will still be roaming the universe. In order for heaven to be heaven, Satan and his followers must be once and forever defeated. This scripture is the beginning of the process of the final defeat of Satan and all his followers.

VICTORY! The King of Kings and Lord of Lords has conquered all gathered to resist HIM.

See the arrogance the evil one has setup in face of certain defeat. He will bring all who follow him to this event to be destroyed. Satan is out to defeat and destroy humans, yet, many follow him and listen to his lies. The beast out of the sea and the beast out of the earth (false prophet) were cast alive into the “lake of fire.” Then those remaining were killed.

It seems that CHRIST is giving those remaining a last chance to accept HIM after they see that HE has defeated the beasts. It is obvious they had been deceived and believed a lie. Now truth stands before them. It seems that there is a pause. Is this an opportunity for salvation? GOD’S desire is that no one will end up in Hell. But we all have a choice and that choice is now.

Then the final blow was struck with the destruction of those remaining.

GOD gives us every opportunity to accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR. If you have not accepted HIM as your SAVIOR, do so right now by asking HIM to forgive you of your sins and ask Him to come into your life. HE will save you in the twinkling of the eye or sooner. If you have a Bible, get it and begin reading the Book of John. If you do not have a Bible, then, get one and read the Book of John. Pray and ask CHRIST to reveal truth to you and to lead you to a church where you can grow and mature spiritually. Pray for a faithful Christian who can join with you to study GOD’S Word.

What About the Antichrist? - Revelation 13:1-18 - July 13, 2008

Sunday School Lesson – What About the Antichrist? – July 13, 2008

This is lesson two (2) in our series of study.

Our scripture is Revelation 13:1-18.

As mentioned in last week’s lesson, “Was the Apostle John describing past, present or future events or some combination of time periods?” I consider this lesson a futurist event. But I believe the spirit of the antichrist is already in the world as stated by the Apostles John and Paul because anything that opposes CHRIST is against CHRIST.
The term “antichrist” is not used in the Book of Revelation. The Apostle John used the term “antichrist” in 1 John 2:18, 22:

18 Children, it is the last hour. And as you have heard, “Antichrist is coming,” even now many antichrists have come. We know from this that it is the last hour.
22 Who is the liar, if not the one who denies that Jesus is the • Messiah? He is the antichrist, the one who denies the Father and the Son.

And 1 John 4:3:
2 This is how you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit who confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh[1] Or confesses Jesus to be the Christ come in the flesh is from God. 3 But every spirit who does not confess Jesus[2] Other mss read confess that Jesus has come in the flesh is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist; you have heard that he is coming, and he is already in the world now.

And in 2 John verse 7:
22 Who is the liar, if not the one who denies that Jesus is the • Messiah? He is the antichrist, the one who denies the Father and the Son.

The Apostle Paul used the term “The Man of Lawlessness” referring to the “antichrist” in 2 Thessalonians 2:1-13:

The Man of Lawlessness
1 Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered to Him: we ask you, brothers, 2 not to be easily upset in mind or troubled, either by a spirit or by a message or by a letter as if from us, alleging that the Day of the Lord[1] Other mss read Christ has come. 3 Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way. For [that day]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. will not come unless the apostasy[2] Or rebellion comes first and the man of lawlessness[3] Other mss read man of sin is revealed, the son of destruction. 4 He opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he sits[4] Other mss add as God in God’s sanctuary,[5] Or temple publicizing that he himself is God. 5 Don’t you remember that when I was still with you I told you about this? 6 And you know what currently restrains [him]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , so that he will be revealed in his time. 7 For the • mystery of lawlessness is already at work; but the one now restraining will do so until he is out of the way, 8 and then the lawless one will be revealed. The Lord Jesus will destroy him with the breath of His mouth[6] Rv 19:15 and will bring him to nothing with the brightness of His coming. 9 The coming [of the lawless one]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. is based on Satan’s working, with all kinds of false miracles, signs, and wonders, 10 and with every unrighteous deception among those who are perishing. [They perish]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. because they did not accept the love of the truth in order to be saved. 11 For this reason God sends them a strong delusion so that they will believe what is false, 12 so that all will be condemned—those who did not believe the truth but enjoyed unrighteousness.

Paul wrote 2 Thessalonians to clear up confusion regarding the second coming of CHRIST. Some false teachers were saying that CHRIST had already come and the existing believers had been left behind. Paul also addresses the second coming in 1 Thessalonians Chapters 4 and 5.

The scripture 2 Thessalonians 2:1-13 may raise some questions in some minds. How can a loving GOD permit people to be deluded? GOD gives all humans the right to choose. The Bible and Christians will be upon earth during these events. The truth will be available but many will believe the physical things they see rather than what their hearts are telling them. GOD calls all to salvation but each person has to make the decision whether or not to accept HIM as his or her SAVIOR. This is why it is so vital that we who know the truth spread the truth to all people while the light of CHRIST is in the world. But even now we see Christian religions compromising to become more like the world. Keep in mind that being a Christian is CHRIST in you and not the religious body you attend. However, the religious body you attend reflects what others associate with you as your beliefs. Do not be an agent of compromise. Seek the truth from the Bible not the religious institution.

Even today we see well educated people following false teachers and false prophets. Many humans want something tangible to worship but those who know the truth know that the HOLY SPIRIT within is our reality of truth and is our seal of the guarantee that what we believe is the absolute truth, reality and will come to pass. Each human must take a step of faith in order to know this truth and experience this spiritual reality. WOW!!! That knowledge gives me an overwhelming sense of joy and praise as I write this. My prayer is that everyone who reads this knows this truth. If not, ask CHRIST to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life. HE will and HE will confirm the miracle of rebirth in your spirit through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT in your heart.

As we study this lesson, we, as believers, do not have to fear the second coming of CHRIST. I know most young people want to live long enough to accomplish certain milestones in their lives, such as completing their education, marrying, having children, etc. This is quite normal. Most of us want to do those things but no earthly accomplishment can compare to the second coming of CHRIST for believers. Until that moment comes, live for HIM and pursue life in abundance. Ask HIM to show you how to build an intimate, loving relationship with HIM because when bad times come, it is this relationship that will be your strength.

Keep in mind the dragon mentioned in this scripture is Satan and there are two (2) beasts – the first beast is out of the sea and the second beast is out of the earth. This is Satan’s attempt to establish a trinity.

Let’s read Revelation 13:1-6:
The Beast from the Sea
1 And I saw a beast coming up out of the sea.[1] Dn 7:3 He[2] The beasts in Rv 13:1,11 are customarily referred to as “he” or “him” rather than “it.” The Gk word for a beast (therion) is grammatically neuter. had 10 horns and seven heads. On his horns were 10 diadems,[3] Rv 12:3 and on his heads were blasphemous names.[4] Other mss read heads was a blasphemous name [5] Rv 17:3 2 The beast I saw was like a leopard, his feet were like a bear’s, and his mouth was like a lion’s mouth.[6] Dn 7:4–6 The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority. 3 One of his heads appeared to be fatally wounded,[7] Lit be slain to death but his fatal wound was healed. The whole earth was amazed and followed the beast.[8] Lit amazed after the beast [9] Rv 17:8 4 They worshiped the dragon[10] Rv 12:3 because he gave authority to the beast. And they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast?[11] Ex 15:11; Isaiah 46:5 Who is able to wage war against him?” 5 A mouth was given to him to speak boasts and blasphemies.[12] Dn 7:8,11,20 He was also given authority to act[13] Other mss read wage war [14] Or to rule for 42 months.[15] Rv 11:2 6 He began to speak[16] Lit He opened his mouth in blasphemies against God: to blaspheme His name and His dwelling—those who dwell in heaven.

DO NOT GET CONFUSED AS YOU READ THIS. THIS IS MY ATTEMPT TO SHOW YOU HOW Satan CAN USE THESE EVENTS TO DECEIVE THE PEOPLE OF EARTH.

True believers will know the truth and they will see that all that has been predicted in the Bible is coming to pass. This fact will confirm and strengthen the faith of the believers living during these times. They will know that GOD will be their strength. This is why our relationship with our LORD is so vital. We need to prepare our children and our grandchildren so they will be firm in their faith and know the Bible.
Satan is a liar, deceiver and counterfeiter.

In last week’s lesson we saw the description of CHRIST – seven (7) eyes and seven (7) horns. The number seven (7) is the number for completion and shows that CHRIST is all powerful and all knowing and is complete in every way.

Notice the description of this beast coming out of the sea – ten (10) horns and seven (7) heads, with ten (10) crowns, one crown of each horn but with a blasphemous name on each head.

Horns mean power and on each of these horns is a crown. These horns with crowns give the illusion that this beast has a stamp of approval from a powerful source. In fact this beast could be portrayed as defeating GOD because it has a blasphemous name on each head. If this beast had not defeated GOD how could GOD allow such a beast to appear on earth.

Carry the deception another step – there will not be a second coming of CHRIST because GOD has been defeated, therefore, your only hope is to worship this beast. See how it can be used to deceive the unbeliever and even the believer who is not firm in his or her faith.

Now for another deception – believers know the trinity of GOD – GOD, THE FATHER, GOD THE SON and GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT. Satan produces a trinity for the people of earth – Satan (the dragon- v. 13:2), the beast out of the sea (v. 13:1) and the beast out of earth (v. 13:11).

Let’s continue the deception – Verse 3 – One of the heads seemed to have suffered a fatal wound but it had been healed. It would be simple to explain that during the battle with GOD that the head did receive this fatal wound but as proof of the victory this beast had over GOD is evidenced by the fact that the fatal wound was healed. If GOD had not been defeated, would HE have allowed this to happen? AGAIN THIS IS HOW DECEPTION WORKS, IT DISTORTS TRUTH. Know the truth and it will set you free from false notions. This is why we, who know the truth, must share the truth with others.

GOD allows the beast to do his thing for forty-two months. GOD is always in control. During these forty-two (42) months mankind will see what true lawlessness is. It will be a period like humans have never witnessed or heard of in all history. Allowing matters to get worse gives a contrast between when GOD was in control and when GOD withdrew HIS control. All is designed to get the lost to see the difference. But again human nature is to worship power regardless of its source.

Notice the authority of the beast out of the sea comes from the dragon, Satan. The beast is a false messiah and against CHRIST. As mentioned earlier, the Book of Revelation does not use the term “antichrist”, however, anything that is against CHRIST is the antichrist. Both the Apostles John and Paul stated that the spirit of antichrist or the lawless one is already in the world.

When people relinquish their rights and moral beliefs to an evil source they allow evil to prevail. Compromise is the beginning of relinquishing our rights and moral beliefs.
The beast is a counterfeit of Satan to deceive the people of earth to believe that it is the promised Messiah. The beast will perform miracles and shout blasphemies. This again gives the idea that GOD is powerless and must have been defeated. No human has ever heard, read or witnessed such a display of blasphemies toward GOD, therefore, this beast must now be in charge of earth and the universe.

Let’s read Revelation 13: 7b-8, 11-18:

7b-8 (The “he” here is the beast out of the sea.)
He was also given authority over every tribe, people, language, and nation.[17] Rv 5:9; 7:9; 11:9; 14:6 8 All those who live on the earth will worship him, everyone whose name was not written from the foundation of the world in the book[18] Or scroll of life[19] Rv 3:5; 17:8; Ex 32:32–33 of the Lamb who was slaughtered.[20] Or written in the book of life of the Lamb who was slaughtered from the foundation of the world [21] 1 Pt 1:19–20

11-18:
The Beast from the Earth – The second beast – considered by some scholars to be a counterfeit holy spirit.

11 Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; he had two horns like a lamb,[27] Or ram [28] Dn 8:3 but he sounded like a dragon. 12 He exercises all the authority of the first beast on his behalf and compels the earth and those who live on it to worship the first beast, whose fatal wound was healed. 13 He also performs great signs, even causing fire to come down from heaven to earth before people. 14 He deceives those who live on the earth[29] Rv 12:9 because of the signs that he is permitted to perform on behalf of the beast,[30] 2 Th 2:9–12 telling those who live on the earth to make an image[31] Or statue, or likeness of the beast who had the sword wound yet lived. 15 He was permitted to give a spirit[32] Or give breath, or give life to the image of the beast, so that the image of the beast could both speak and cause whoever would not worship the image of the beast to be killed.

16 And he requires everyone—small and great, rich and poor, free and slave—to be given a mark[33] Or stamp, or brand on his[34] Lit their right hand or on his[35] Lit their forehead,[36] Rv 14:1 17 so that no one can buy or sell unless he has the mark: the beast’s name or the number of his name. 18 Here is wisdom:[37] Or This calls for wisdom [38] Rv 17:9 The one who has understanding must calculate[39] Or count, or figure out the number of the beast, because it is the number of a man.[40] Or is a man’s number, or is the number of a person His number is 666.[41] One Gk ms plus other ancient evidence read 616

We must keep in mind that GOD is still in control. GOD allows Satan to give power to the beast. Often to prove a positive, one does so through the negative. GOD is allowing these events to make it clear to the people of earth that the contrast between good and evil. Believers will know the truth and see these events taking place. They will have to endure these events but will have the power of GOD with them. People will become Christians during these times. But keep in mind those who are deceived DO NOT HAVE THEIR NAMES WRITTEN IN THE LAMBS BOOK OF LIFE. GOD is not condemning the lost but giving them every opportunity to accept HIM. However, GOD knows they will not accept HIM.

Some of my favorite verses of scripture are Ephesians 1:3-6:
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavens,[2] Eph 1:20; 2:6; 3:10; 6:12 in Christ; 4 for He chose[3] Rm 11:5–7; 1 Co 1:26–31; 1 Th 1:4; 2 Th 2:13; 1 Pt 1:1–2 us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight.[4] Vv. 3–14 are 1 sentence in Gk. In love[5] Or In His sight in love 5 He predestined[6] Ac 4:28; Rm 8:29–30; 1 Co 2:7; Eph 1:11 us to be adopted through Jesus Christ for Himself, according to His favor and will, 6 to the praise of His glorious grace that He favored us with in the Beloved.

The foreknowledge of GOD allows HIM to see those who will freely accept HIM. This foreknowledge does not force us to choose HIM but it does allow HIM to watch over HIS future children because Satan would love nothing better than to wipe us all out.
When I think of all the generations that have gone before my existence and all the possibilities that could have terminated my existence, I am overwhelmed with joy and gratitude for the privilege of life. Just ponder that thought.

Where were we before we were born? We were in the mind and heart of GOD. That is the safest place possible.

GOD will be with HIS children through all these events, therefore, do not get discouraged but rejoice in the fact that your name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

Keep in mind, we are reading about the dragon – Satan and two (2) beasts that receive their power from Satan.

Beast one (1) comes from the sea. This beast will be popular among unbelievers. People will worship the dragon because they will see that the power of the beast comes from the dragon. The beast will make war against the saints of GOD and to conquer them, however, GOD will protect HIS children from worshiping the beast from the sea.

The second beast (verses 11-16) comes out of the earth that had two (2) horns like a lamb but speaks like a dragon. This is a false prophet who is a counterfeit of the HOLY SPIRIT.

[Just a thought on my part that occurred to me as I was writing this – Could this be something formed out of the ground/dirt that was given life by Satan? Is this an attempt to counterfeit the creation of man by GOD in the beginning of time? Or to show that creating life from dirt is no big deal. Or Satan’s attempt to be GOD by creating a living thing from dirt? I do not know. This is something for you and me to pray about and seek GOD’S wisdom.]

The beast “out of the earth” will require everyone to worship an image of the beast “out of the sea” which he has had rigged to speak and cause all who refuse to worship that image to be killed.

The beast out of the earth will require all to have a mark which we call “the mark of the beast” on their right hand or forehead. This mark is the name of the beast or the number of his name which is 666 in order to buy and sell.

There is much discussion about who this is. It is a secret and will only be revealed by GOD at the right moment. The Bible tells us those who have insight to calculate the number.

First Century Christians thought Emperor Nero was the antichrist because the Greek letters of Nero’s name represented numbers that total 666. They also thought that Rome was the beast because of all the evil that the government allowed which included the persecution of Christians. Even in our day we try to apply the number to Stalin, Hitler or bin Laden.

Let’s read Revelation 13:7a, 9-10:
7a: (The “he” is the beast out of the sea.”
7 And he was permitted to wage war against the saints and to conquer them.

9-10:
9 If anyone has an ear, he should listen:[22] Rv 2:7 10 If anyone is destined for captivity, into captivity he goes. If anyone is to be killed[23] Other mss read anyone kills with a sword, with a sword he will be killed.[24] Jr 15:2 Here is the endurance and the faith of the saints.[25] Or This calls for the endurance and faith of the saints. [26] Rv 14:12

The beast from the sea was allowed to wage war against the saints and to conquer them. The Bible does not sugar coat anything. Many scholars believe it is GOD that allowed the beast to war against the saints. I agree. GOD reveals a moment when Christians will be taken captive and some will be killed. In fact it may be a relief for believers to escape earth by being martyred. By being martyred believers earn a special reward.

These are dark and uncertain times for Christians. Some believers’ faith will be tested much like the trust JESUS had to place in the FATHER when HE hung on the cross and gave up his human life to pay the penalty for the sins of mankind. HE had to trust that the FATHER would raise HIM from the dead. The resurrection is that proof. When believers face giving their lives for their faith, will the flesh rule or will the Spirit rule? I think it is difficult for many of us to know for sure how we would respond until we are faced with that situation.

The key is to know that GOD will be with HIS children through all circumstances and situations. Evil may kill the physical body but never the born-again spirit. To endure these times, it is vital that all believers build and maintain an intimate and loving relationship with our LORD. HIS assurance will sustain all believers though tough times. GOD is sovereign and will always be in control.