THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.

THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.   1           

GENTILES OR HEATHEN VISITED OF GOD. 
The Lord visited a people outside of the acceptable religious order of the day. His reason was to receive a "people for His name". A church that would honor and gladly bear His name. Acts 15:14 

They were to be, a people who had not been followers or worshippers of Him. However, now, because of the visitation of the Lord, they are confessed to be children of God. Those who had been blessed with the mercy of the Lord. 1 Pet. 2:10 

The blessings of the Lord cannot be confined within the four walls of a church nor within the boundaries of a religious organization. It is not dependent on the presence of a man, but, rather the presence of the Spirit of God. True revival. is like a prairie fire, it breaks out every where.    

A CHOSEN GENERATION. 
Not of any one ethnic group. Certainly not of any particular religious persuasion. This is a move of God that will embrace all races and religions. Causing them to "come out", to be separated unto the Lord. Incorporated into one body, the body of Christ. 1 Pet. 2:9 

They are identified as being a seed, a term used in the scriptures relating to the called of the Lord. They will serve Him with their whole being. They are accounted as being a generation for the Lord. The posterity of very God Himself. A people that He has brought into being to complete His own plan of salvation and redemption. Ps. 22:30 

They are those who belong to the Lord and are considered by Him to be His nation, His people. More than that, they whom He has chosen to be His inheritance, His possession or His estate. Ps. 33:12 

It is very obvious, from the writings of Paul, that the Lord deliberately called those "from the other side of the tracks" to be the chosen of the Lord. The things that men deem as important in this life the Lord does not take into consideration when determining His chosen. 1 Cor. 1:27-28 

CHOSEN IN CHRIST JESUS. 
God would not be God if He did not know the end from the beginning. The intellect, the mind of God staggers the imagination. There is no way that humanity can even begin to comprehend His mind and thoughts. From the moment that the Lord determined to bring to pass His creation and salvation He purposed to call to Himself His chosen. Please consider carefully the ultimate of that calling and choice. Eph. 1:4 

First of all, all that we are or ever will be is because we are "in" Christ. Outside of Christ Jesus we are nothing. Secondly, the place or condition of that choosing is that the chosen might be holy, pure and clean. Blameless, without spot, faultless, before Him. In His sight, not in the sight of men. 

This can only be accomplished because He has loved us with an everlasting and Godly love. We in return, love Him with our whole man, body, soul and spirit. The chosen are not a people whom the Lord has chosen to the rejection of others, but in His infinite wisdom He knew who would desire to follow Him. They then became His chosen.




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.  2

THE FOREKNOWLEDGE OF THE LORD. The foreknowledge of the Lord is an amazing quality that ascribes to the many attributes that make Him to be God. The scripture gives evidence to His foreknowledge when He gave names to individuals prior to their birth, such as Isaac {prior to conception}, Gen. 17:19. 

Ishmael, Gen. 16:11. John, Lk. 1:13. JESUS, Mt. 1:21. He knew Moses by name, Ex.33:12 So He knows every one of His sheep, most assuredly by name. Jn. 10:14

THE NEGATIVE OF BEING KNOWN, KNOWN BUT NOT ACKNOWLEDGED.
Those who are known of Him are those who do His will. The Lord has a measurement with which He measures every member of the body of Christ. 

It is called < OBEDIENCE TO HIS WILL >. This is a divine requirement for entrance into the kingdom of heaven, according to the words of Jesus. Mt. 7:21 

Doing the will of the Father is of greatest priority. We may call Him Lord, Lord but that is insufficient and falls far short of achieving its purpose. Even exercising spiritual activities and gifts and other works or amazing things will not gain heaven. Mt. 7:22 

Because they are workers of iniquity they will be rejected, regardless of their manifestation of certain spiritual abilities. Heaven cannot be purchased by the exercise of spiritual gifts. The demonstration of gifts is not an indication of the spirituality of the person who is performing them. 

For an example, Judas was sent forth by Jesus when He sent them by pairs to minister. He was accounted as one of them and had shared in the ministry of those sent out. Acts 1:17 

He had been close to Jesus, one of the twelve, but by transgression, he fell and was consigned to his place and the place of all the disobedient, hell. Acts 1:25  

THE ELECT. 
Because of the foreknowledge of God, knowing that they would be receptive to the great Salvation offered through the Lord Jesus. They became the ELECT, the chosen, the favored. There is spiritual growth that gives evidence to those that are the elect of God. 

They are holy, separated from the world and living for the Lord. The list showing the phenomenon of the life of Christ in them is listed for us in Col. 3:12-14. 

From among these we chose to emphasize two, the willingness to forgive wrongs that have been committed against us, and the unfeigned love of Christ that must be a part of that perfect church that the Lord will have in the end of the age. Forgiveness and love are the supreme demonstration that the Christ of God truly dwells within us. 

They are companions, one needs and is motivated by the other. Love, forgives. Forgiveness is because of love, not human love but that marvelous love of God that is shed abroad in our hearts by the person of the Holy Spirit. The person possessing these attributes is certainly one of the elect and chosen for they are showing that divine nature that now dwells in them. They are new creatures in Christ Jesus.




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.  3

THE ELECT TERMED STRANGERS. 
Strangers not because of the particular country in which they were living, but now they are citizens of a different world. We are to be in this world but not of this world. 

There is to be a difference between the Elect and the unsaved. The Lord have mercy on us if there is not an evidence of that heavenly kingdom in our lives. 

The elect are a people in whom the Lord has wrought a work of salvation by the blood of Jesus Christ. The Spirit of the Lord has done a work of sanctification, purity and holiness in them. 

They are a people who hear the voice of the WORD and are willing to follow its teachings, fully. They are separated from the world, they are dedicated, they are consecrated, they are sold out to the Lord. 

They live like Him, they talk like Him, they live like Him because they are His and He is theirs. 1 Pet. 1:1-2

THE ELECT ARE HIS FRIENDS. 
Serving Him but not as servants. A service that is a service of love and commitment. Motivated by a grateful and thankful heart. The intent and goals of the Lord no longer a mystery but now made known by the revelation of the Spirit and the Word. That which the Son had been taught of the Father, He has conveyed to His friends, His Elect or Chosen, whom He has called unto Himself, that they might be fruitful. 

Another evidence of their calling, a tree is known by its fruit. The Elect will bear fruit of righteousness. The Elect are privileged to receive of the Father whatsoever they ask, "IN MY NAME". It is important to recognize the authority and the power of the name of the LORD JESUS CHRIST, in all that we do. 

There is no greater name than His. The Elect obey His command to LOVE one another. Love is not gullible and taken in by every effort of man to deceive, but will always manifest a spirit of love, in all situations. The Elect, while loving will not always be loved and accepted. They will be rejected and even hated. 

This is one of the signs of the end of the age and is certainly being demonstrated in many areas of the world. 

The worldly individual, the worldly church, those who compromise will be accepted by the world. 

The uncompromising who convict them of their unrighteousness, not by words of condemnation but by their Godly lives, are disliked, hated and persecuted. 

Beware when all men speak well of you. If they hated Jesus may we expect it to be different for us? 

The Elect do not belong to this world. By token of their life in Christ they are distinct and easily identifiable by their works. 

The Elect are chosen to be detached from the lifestyle of the world. Jesus is always their example. Jn. 15:16-19 

A love for the world or the things of the world will result in an exclusion of the love of God from our hearts. No one can afford to loose that marvelous and wonderful love, for it is our salvation. 

John was known as the Apostle of love, therefore his words were not spoken harshly, but as a matter of certainty. It is well that we pay strict heed to them and acknowledge the fact that they are written for our benefit and edification. 1 Jn. 2:15 

He then identified the things that pertain to his world in v.16 Do the will of the Lord and live forever. Surely the Elect will. v.17
 



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THE CHURCH UNDER ATTACK. 

An invasion of individuals calling them selves Christ, or the anointed one. Note, the name Christ is in the plural. Not one but many who will claim to be the Christ of God. This we already are experiencing and can be assured that it will increase the closer we come to the end of the age. Mt. 24:24 

Unfortunately, not all will be prepared spiritually and with a knowledge of the Word to be able to recognize these persons as they make themselves known as Christ. Jesus warned that many would be deceived and follow after them. Mt. 24:5 

A good practice to exercise is to always follow the Lord Jesus, and not man. Worship Jesus and not the preacher, however charismatic he may be. 

The warning also involved false prophets. By way of measurement; If the prophet is of God, the WHOLE prophecy must come to pass and not just a portion. 

Many times general and broad statements are made that the hearer may apply to his own situation and be duped into thinking that the prophecy was for him. Even if the prophecy come to pass and the prophet would misdirect the people to another God, other than the Lord, he is to be ignored. It is a test, testing your love for the Lord. Deut. 13:1-4 

These have the ability to accomplish "great signs and wonders" amazing and miraculous signs performed by them. How frightening for those who dote on the spectacular and unusual events. 

So convincing and strong are these signs and wonders that if were possible, the very elect would be deceived by such fascinating works. Pray for the gift of discernment to be manifest in the church. It is an imperative for the church of today.

A SHOCKING PAROUSIA OR COMING. 
From a heart of care and love for every member of the body of Christ I make this a personal appeal that the Second Coming of Christ be restudied by all. 

The antichrist has a rapture, a parousia, a coming. Paul said that the antichrist would come with "all power, dunamis -- dynamite". 

The same Greek word used for the power of the Holy Spirit, the power of God. The antichrist will come with a great display of counterfeit miracles, signs and wonders. If we are not completely equipped with the real thing how can we discern the imitation? 

One of the miracles that he will use is the apparent rapture or coming that is so commonly believed by so many today. Just a casual thing, where the governments and wealth of the world is transferred to the kingdom of God. 2 Thes. 2:8 

Not only does the antichrist have a rapture, or a parousia, but like Christ, he will have a moment of revelation ( Greek - apokalupto). The Lord Jesus will be revealed (apokalupto). Lk. 17:30 

The day of the Coming of Christ will not take place until after the antichrist has been revealed and run his course. The antichrist must come FIRST. 2 Thes. 2:3   

He will be destroyed by the "brightness", epiphaneia, of the Coming, "parousia", rapture of Christ. 2 Thes. 2:8 

It is a certainty, that the haphazard attitude of the church today, toward any real preparation for the coming events will result in multitudes being deceived and misled into fulfilling the desires of the antichrist.  




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LOVE THE TRUTH OR PAY THE PRICE. 
Embrace the Word or face "STRONG DELUSION". A deception ordained of God because of the extreme unrighteousness of the people and their utter rejection of the truth. 

Because they have no love for the truth, they will believe a lie and reap the consequences. The pleasure of sin is the heart and cause of their condemnation. Buy the truth and sell it not. 2 Thes. 2:10-12 

The greatest deception of the ages confronts the church in the end of the age. There is a true church and there is a false church.

REGARDING THE RAPTURE AND OUR CATCHING UP. 
The word "coming" is once again the parousia or the rapture. It is well that we heed the words of Paul recorded here. There is no question as to the subject matter of his writing. 2 Thes. 2:1 

It is also very apparent that he is not expecting the rapture to take place in his life time. His instructions concerning that day are excellent even for we who live in this day. We are not to be quickly alarmed by a prophecy, report or letter that the day of the Lord is at hand. There are events that must precede that wonderful occurrence. 2 Thes. 2:2

THAT DAY SHALL NOT TAKE PLACE. 
Do not be deceived as to the coming of that day. The current religious thinking of many pertaining, to the Second Coming of Christ, it is a perfect "setup" for the deception that will be perpetrated on the world, in the spectacular appearance and revelation of the false Christ. 

THE ANTICHRIST MUST COME FIRST. 
The antichrist will create havoc and a rebellion or apostasy in the last day church. This is a certainty. He will split and divide the carnal believers from the true church. 

The number of whom is indicated as being one-third of the church. His tail dragged down a third of the stars {saints} and threw them to the earth.  Rev. 12:4 

Not very gentle is he? Do not fall into his hands, you will not like it. This is the time of his revelation. Even though he is called the man of sin or lawlessness, he will find a following among the rebels of the church. He is also titled the son of perdition or destruction. 

We who live in the end of the age are sufficiently warned concerning the dangers of the day in which we live. For instance, consider those things that indicate the "perilous times" spoken of by Paul in his letter to Timothy. The attitude of the hearts of men are exactly as he said they would be. 2 Tim. 3:1-3 

How frightening are his words to Timothy as recorded in 2 Tim. 4:3-4 

Once again the condition described here is exactly what we find in the church world today. Then in his first letter to Timothy he gives an account, by the Spirit, of the last days and the conditions that shall prevail. 

Here, there is mentioned that departure or leaving of the faith or doctrines of Christ. The consequences can only be confusion and utter chaos in the hearts of unconsecreated and unlearned Christians. It is time to solidify and build up our most holy faith in the Lord. 1 Tim. 4:1-3  




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THE MAN DOOMED FOR DESTRUCTION. 
Likewise all who follow him will have sealed their eternal destiny. His nature and character are such as have been seen in the church from time to time. It is a manifestation of the works of the flesh. The spirit of opposition, for no reason other than that the person has that kind of a spirit, they are seen as taking a stand of opposition. 

Associated with that kind of a person is to be found the spirit of pride, self exhalation. These two elements when displayed are an evidence of the same spirit that will be found in the antichrist. His occupation of the temple of God attests to the fact that the antichrist originates from the House of the Lord. 2 Thes. 2:4 

The temple referred to is not a temple built of wood and stone but the body which is the temple of God. 1 Cor. 3:16 

THE NEW TESTAMENT TYPE IN THE LIFE OF THE LORD JESUS. 
Jesus knew and identified the one who would betray Him. Jesus had chosen Judas along with the other eleven, understanding full well that he was the one who would betray Him. John 6:70 

Judas Iscariot from, Judah, meaning celebrated. Iscariot, of Kerioth, meaning a building or buildings. Strange, that when a ministry becomes well known and celebrated that a building project soon follows. An edifice, as a memorial to that particular ministry is erected. 

Buildings are needed but what is their purpose? Mercenary minded Judas, disliked the use of the ointment for the anointing of Jesus. His attitude showed his love of money. Though he suggested, after the fact, that the perfume should have been sold and the money given to the poor. Even though his interest was not toward the poor. It would have been another opportunity for him to dip his hand into the coffer, for he was a thief, and was the accountant, carrying the bag. John. 12: 4-6 

The love of money, indeed is the root of all evil. Jesus identified him as the one who would betray Him and commanded him to do quickly what he was about to do. John 13:27 

There is a moment of revelation, but not all understand what is happening.  Jn. 13:29 

Money again entered the scene when Judas approached the chief priests with an offer to betray Jesus. They settled for thirty pieces of silver. Mt. 26:15 

The same price that was paid for a servant who was killed by an ox. Ex. 21:32 

The silver became "blood money" and was rejected by Judas. He tried to return it to the high priests, who also rejected it. He then cast it into the sanctuary. From whence he went out and hanged himself. Mt. 27:3-5. 

Judas fell from the tree on which he hung himself bursting open when he fell. Not a happy ending. Acts 1:18 

The money was used to purchase a field for burial called "the field of blood" that was to be used for the burial of foreigners who died in Jerusalem. Mt. 27:7-8 

The lust for money can only produce death. The accumulation of money will be rooted in the heart of the antichrist. The searching after, the drive for funds will be of a foremost priority for him. Remember the words of Jesus; "make not my Fathers house an house of merchandise". Jn. 2:15-16 

Merchandising is common now, to raise funds. Should it be? Judas was an insider. The antichrist will be an insider.





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THE CHURCH OF THE NEW MAN. 
The "new man" is the result of the cross of Christ. Religious divisions will have been removed. Though not all will acknowledge it, it is still a fact, if they are in Christ. Eph. 2:15 

The new man is going through a process whereby he is being changed, made new. Spiritual knowledge is being imparted to him. He is being altered and made into the image of his creator, first naturally and now spiritually. Col. 3:10 
  
There is no racism to be found in the church or body of new creatures. In His church there no longer exists Jew or Gentile, circumcision nor uncircumcision or any other breach that originates from the natural man. 

Christ is the center, the heart, soul and Spirit for He is ALL. All that is desired, all that is needed. Life is not lived until Christ has been made to be ALL in our lives. Because of His presence in all, the whole fellowship, there is perfect harmony and unity in the body.  We will recognize only those who have put on the "new man". Col. 3:11 

What once existed as a barrier and cause of separation should no longer be found for it has been done away with in Christ. We most certainly should not try to resurrect it.  We are now united and cemented together as one in Christ Jesus.  Gal. 3:28 

All must come one way and that is through the precious blood of the Lord Jesus. We are brought into fellowship with Christ and with one another, regardless of how far we were from Him and from one another. Eph. 2:13 

THE FOUNDATION, THE BUILDING OF THE CALLED OUT ONES. 
The materials used in the building of the church are chosen by the Lord and are the best. The foundation is unique, because it is built upon a rock, the Lord Jesus Christ. The Lord proclaimed to and through Isaiah that He would lay a stone in Zion for the foundation of His Temple, the true Temple of God. He will recognize none other in this end of the age. 

We do an injustice to the Word of the Lord and to the Lord Himself by declaring that there will be a rebuilt Temple in Jerusalem. The Church, the body of Christ is the eternal Temple of the Living God. 

The stone that had been thoroughly tried and tested. A stone of great value. A foundation that is thoroughly established. Those placing their trust on that stone will never be disappointed nor sorry. Isa. 28:16 

There is not a possibility of another foundation for the true foundation has already been laid. 1 Cor. 3:11 

Jesus is the chief cornerstone, the extremity, the last, the final. None other to be brought into existence. The prophets and Apostles, the old and new testaments likewise serve as the foundation. It is built on the Word. Eph. 2:20 

The Lord is building a SPIRITUAL house. He is a living stone, therefore He is building with the same materials, living stones. A house that will see a ministry of a holy priesthood. Spiritual not natural. Spiritual sacrifices not animal. A ministry that is according to His will and purpose. The Spiritual is that which is real. God is a Spirit and is eternal, He is reality itself. The only Temple that God can accept is the Temple, the body of Christ, HIS CHURCH. Eph. 2:21




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SAVED AND CALLED. 
The calling itself is a holy calling. Anything that emanates from the Lord has the marks and workings of holiness. A god whose very essence and being is holy can only perform a work of holiness in His called out ones. The person from whom the call is made is holy. The call itself is holy. Those called are called unto holiness. 2 Tim. 1:9 

It is not the intent of the Lord that He should have a "mixed multitude" which would be called His church. From the beginning His call is to live a life of holiness. Perhaps it is not popular, but it is a divine requirement for those who would be a part of His Bride. 1 Thess. 4:7 

The call is heavenly, it originates from heaven and it is too a standing in Christ that emulates the life of God or holiness. Those who are participating are termed "holy brothers". Heb. 3:1

CALLED THROUGH THE GOSPEL. 
Any Spiritual work that benefits the "called" has as its goal the holiness and righteousness of His people. With the pinnacle being that glorious church without spot or wrinkle. All that the Lord has ever desired to accomplish He has completed. He has never failed nor could He. The < called out ones > have been chosen for sanctification by the Spirit. 2 Thes. 2:13 

If the conscience in man condemns him in his wrong doing, and it does. How much greater is the conviction of the Spirit. An awareness of wrong doing is immensely intensified by the presence of the Spirit. It is the work of the Holy Spirit to convict of sin and to lead those convicted out of their sin. Jn. 16:8  

CALLED TO RECEIVE THE GLORY OF THE MOST HIGH. 
Unfortunately, few in the church have caught the vision, that is prevalent in the Word, of a last day church that is filled with the glory of the Lord. In the words of the beautiful prayer of the Lord Jesus, he specified that He had given the glory of the Father, which the Father had given him, to His disciples. It is the gift of the heavenly Father and a part of our inheritance in Christ Jesus. 

The immediate result was to be one of agreement. They were to be blended together in perfect and absolute unity. They would never loose their identity as individuals but were to be consolidated in perfect harmony. The example which the Lord Jesus use was that absolute compatibility and unique accord that is found in the Godhead. Perfection and unity are elements of God Himself. 

These He would impart to His church that she might be unified. Jn. 17:22 

The Father was in Christ. 2 Cor. 5:19 

The words and the works that were displayed by Jesus were because of the indwelling presence of the Father. It must be remembered that God is a Spirit. Jn. 4:24 

Therefore, the Father, who is Spirit, by His spirit dwelt in the spirit and the physical body of the Lord Jesus. The only "PHYSICAL" body that God has is the body of the Lord Jesus. The Spiritual and the physical worlds were united in the person of Jesus, with the explicit purpose of salvation and the building and development of a church with the same combination of body and spirit. Christ is you.        





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THE CALLING OF THE PREDESTINED. 
Those whom He foreknew or could foresee who would accept Him as Lord and Savior are the predestined. But, predestined to what? To be conformed to the image of His Son. To bear and embrace, for themselves, the likeness of the Son of God. 

We are called, not just to the beginnings of our salvation but to the grand and glorious consummation. The called ones are called not only to justification, but to the high and holy calling of being glorified with Him. Rom. 8:29-30

IN HIS IMAGE OR LIKENESS. 
We have the assurance of the Word that as we have been born in the flesh, in the image of that which is earthly or human, so we shall bear the likeness of that which is heavenly. Even now, we are in a spiritual process of change by, and compliance to His Word, that will culminate in a bride made completely in His likeness. 1 Cor. 15:49 

The secret to the procedure is in "looking unto Jesus", beholding Him with a great desire to be exactly what He is. We must approach Him with an unveiled face, nothing hindering a clear and precise vision of Christ. Ever beholding the beauty and glory of the Lord that is revealed only in Him. The Word becomes our mirror. 

Searching its depths produces a constant change in those who are His. They are transported from one measure of glory to another. With a God who is limitless there is no ending, no conclusion to the glory that is His. Eternity, will be one wave of glory after another sweeping over the inhabitants of heaven. The whole of the operation in transforming his people is an accomplishment of the Holy Spirit. 

If you have ever felt the thrill of the presence of the Spirit in your life, then multiply that by a measure that is immeasurable, and you have the blessing of the Lord that will be manifest in His last day church, in a magnitude that surpasses and staggers the imagination.  2 Cor. 3:18

THE CHALLENGE OF THE CALL. 
To live a life that is an example, that is worthy of the vocation, the calling unto which we have been called. This calling is a high and holy profession. We are to show forth Christ in every facet of our lives. Eph. 4:1 

Christian relationship is the formidable task that lies before us. Just as not all who regularly attend church are called out ones. So it will be that all who profess Christ as savior will not be in the Bride of Christ or the perfect Church in the end of the age. 

There is just too much measuring up to be accomplished for some to accept the fact of a Perfect Church. The standard is too high. One outstanding element that will identify members of that body will be their desire for unity. Not compromise but a desire to be of one Spirit and one body of believers. They are seen as a people who work at the "unity of the Spirit". 

All who are in the Spirit will come to a status where they are truly one in Christ. He is the author and the source of "one Spirit" therefore the true body of Christ will have no divisions in it. What a task we face and what tremendous changes must be accomplished that the Word of God might be fulfilled. Eph. 4:3     





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THE ETERNAL CITIZENSHIP. 
The possession of all who have believed on the Lord Jesus Christ. A citizenship, to which none other can be compared, for it is eternal and everlasting. Gal. 2:19 

Every national of this heavenly and eternal country gain their position in the exact same manner. They are all children of the Lord by their faith in the Lord Jesus. Gal. 3:26 

They have been baptized "into" Christ. They have been brought into Christ. They have become one with Him, by baptism, both by water and by Spirit. They have "put on" or clothed themselves with the Lord Jesus. They are clothed by and filled with the presence of the resurrected Christ of God. Gal. 3:27 

This is the robe and the Spirit of His righteousness that is to be revealed in His church. 

THE SEED OF ABRAHAM. 
An entitlement warranted, not by natural birth but by the new birth, spiritual birth. A government that recognizes neither Jew nor Gentile, bond nor free, male nor female, but a new creature. 

The natural is not to exist or be flaunted for it is valueless in the kingdom of God. The key to belonging to the kingdom of the Lord is in accepting and belonging to Christ, for then are you the seed of Abraham and heirs by reason of faith. Gal. 3:29 

Abraham had neither the Law nor circumcision when the Lord called him. He went out and journeyed by faith. The promises of God are not of or by works, but by faith. Not all Israel are of Israel. In their journeys and times of captivity, they became a mixed multitude. Though forbidden, they mixed with other nations and became anything but true descendants of Abraham. Furthermore, Paul said that in Isaac the seed would be called. Isaac is a type of Christ. Rom. 9:6-7 

In a stronger and more illuminating statement he said; that the children of the flesh are not the children of God, but the children of the promise, or of faith are the seed of promise. Rom. 9:8     
    
THE TWO SEEDS. 
The flesh and the promise. Abraham and his two sons. One born of a slave woman who was also a foreigner. The other by a freewoman, one who was not under bondage. 

These represent two covenants, the one from Mount Sinai, which represents the law and the children of Hagar. Note the unexpected switch, Hagar, bondage, is symbolic of Jerusalem that now exists and is in slavery with her children. 

The emphasis of the scripture is not on that which is of this world and of the flesh. Too often our eyes are turned from the spiritual to the natural. Gal. 4:22-25. 

There is a New Jerusalem that should be the focus of our attention. For she represents the Bride of Christ and is the spiritual, eternal city of the most high. She is the Jerusalem from above and is the mother of all those who are of the faith of the Lord Jesus Christ. 

The promises are for the people of God after faith and not after natural birth. This includes all who believe that Jesus is the Messiah. Gal. 4:26  





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NO MAN SHALL SEE THE LORD. 
So vital is the living of a holy life that no man may see the Lord except the holiness of Christ has been demonstrated in them. It is the door to life eternal. It is our assurance that there is an eternal home prepared for those who love Jesus. That holiness is not of ourselves but it is Christ in us living His life of holiness. Heb. 12:14 

The new birth, the new, life in Christ is not a simple revamping of that which was lived and then a continuation of the old pattern of life. The call of the Spirit is to come out, to live apart from that old life in the flesh. 

A refusal to be associated with the old life will develop a relationship where the Lord becomes a Father figure to us, and we know that we have been accepted of Him. As sons and daughters the nature and virtue of the Father will become our new life in Christ Jesus. 2 Cor. 6:17-18 

Rest assured, we are not cut off from the Lord, providing we come to Him, HIS way. Those who are in possession of a pure heart will most certainly see the Lord. Mt. 5:8 

Receiving instructions from the Word and coming to the knowledge of His will it is time for action on our parts. Therefore we are exhorted to "cleanse ourselves" an action that must be implemented on our part. He will cleanse but we must come to a place where we repent and request for His cleansing. 

The instructions are not to be cleansed from a part of the impurities but from "ALL filthiness of the flesh and spirit". Both perfection and holiness are the direct result of a strong desire birthed in the church to bear His likeness. 2 Cor. 7:1

CORRECTION FOR SONS. 
Chastisement, a good sign. It indicates that one is accounted to be a son of God. Without chastisement, there can be no true sonship. Correction is a sign of His love for us. Correction is vital and necessary, for we learn not only by example but by discipline as well. Heb. 2:8 

Christians are prone to accuse the devil for every negative experience and opposition that they encounter. STOP, a seed sown will reap a harvest. Disobedience has its consequences. Punishment is inevitable. Our earthly parents corrected us for our own benefit and well-being. So, our heavenly Father will correct us for our own blessing and edification. 

The results are greatly beneficial for it will bring forth the character of Christ in our lives. Note, it is that we might share in His holiness. No one will participate in His holiness without having been corrected. Unfortunately for some of us, many, many times. 

Discipline is not a pleasant thing, it is not meant to be. But, the fruit of it is a harvest, not a seed, not a root but a great and good harvest of righteousness and holiness before the Lord. This will assure "conformity to the will of the Lord, in purpose, thought and action." (AMP). Heb. 12:10-11 

The Lord is determined that He will have a church that bears His likeness in every aspect. The perfect representative of the work of His redemption. The evidence of His power and glory. His ability to create a thing of beauty from an ugly wretched carnal life. Glory to the Lord.    





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE    12

TWO BECOME ONE. 
As difficult as it is to see in the natural it is made plainly visible in the spiritual realm. The church in the end of the age is destined to be the ideal church. The fulfillment of the plan of the ages. A people unified by the blood of Christ and by the Spirit of God. 

He has destroyed the middle wall of religiosity that created and maintained a separation. In this fashion, bringing peace to the body. The blending together of the body of Christ will become a reality in the end of the age. The cross of Christ was the end, the abolishment or the fulfillment of the Law. 

Through His death on Calvary He brought a conclusion to the Law, rendering it to be useless. Salvation is not of the Law but by grace and grace alone. A new man in Christ is the will of the Lord for all men. He must be acknowledged as Lord and Savior, there is no other way. Eph. 2:13-15

JESUS IS THE ONLY WAY OF APPROACH UNTO THE FATHER. 
It is by the Spirit of the Lord that we are able to approach boldly unto His throne. If we do not have His Spirit dwelling within us, how may we come into His presence? Eph. 2:18 No one can come to the Father but through Jesus Christ for He is "the way", "the truth" and the life. Jn. 14:6 

Jesus said that any man that tries to gain entrance to the sheepfold or the kingdom of God, ANY OTHER WAY, that man is a thief and a robber. Jn. 10:1 

Since He is the door and as such is the gate and entrance into the kingdom of God acutely evident that there is but one way, and that is the way that the Lord has ordained. Jn. 10:9

THE RIGHTEOUS ARE BOLD AS A LION.  
They are not bold in the sense of being brash or brazen but approach the throne of God with great confidence. Prov. 28:1 

The High Priest of the New Covenant is the Lord Jesus. Because He was made in the likeness of a man He is able to sympathize with us in all of our troubles. He was tempted and tried in every manner common to man. The heart of heaven, the heart of compassion is the Lord Jesus. 

There never has been nor will there ever be a more compassionate, sympathetic, feeling person, than Jesus. He understands, when others do not. There is no source of comfort that is greater than that which He will bestow on those who call on His name. Heb. 4:15 

Because we know Him, because we are His, we dare come "boldly", with confidence and assurance to the throne of the Lord, seeking and finding mercy and grace. A response and support to face and solve the problems of life that we face. Heb. 4:16 

Because of His blood shed for us, we enter through that NEW and LIVING way that He has opened for us, through His death on the cross. When He died the veil of the Temple was torn in two, revealing the most holy place. His broken, tortured, torn and bruised body has opened up the ability for those who love Him to see into His glorious and wonderful presence and to comfortably come before Him. 

Coming without fear and trepidation knowing assuredly that He will receive us.  Heb. 10:19-20





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE    13

A DIVINE REQUIREMENT FOR MEMBERSHIP IN THIS CHURCH. 
There is no life without a birth having taken place. The statements of the Word are so plain and understandable. The command is simple and straight forward. "Ye must be born again". John 3:6 

There can be no knowledge of the kingdom until one is born again. John 3:3 

There can be not participation or receiving of the benefits of the kingdom until one has been born of the water and of the Spirit. John 3:5 

The New Birth is the result of the powerful, incorruptible seed of the Word of God impregnating the spirit of a person and producing that new creature. 1 Pet. 1:23 

That new born begins its spiritual life as a babe but is expected to advance and be endowed with great spiritual growth. Jesus is always the beautiful example set before the church. Of His righteousness we are well aware. The same righteousness is to be distinctly evidenced in those who are born again. 1 John 2:29 

The divine requirements are extremely high according to the ways of men, and sometimes even the church. That which is born of God is going to allow the workings of the Spirit and the Word to cleanse them from all unrighteousness. 

Too long we have excused our sin as being frailties and weaknesses. It is time to take a stand with the Word and to allow it to become effective in our lives. That person who allows the Word to rule their lives will not commit sin. The Word will keep us from as iniquity. 1 John 3:9

BORN OF THE "WATER" AND THE SPIRIT. 
Water baptism is an integral component of Spiritual life. It has a vital part in natural birth. Likewise in the New Birth. Jesus linked water baptism with faith as a necessity for salvation. Mark 16:16 

Peter, in his day of Pentecost message gave a command for the initial step of repentance to be enacted by those present. Then, they were to be baptized, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. This was for the "remission of sins". Remission, meaning, forgiveness, freedom or deliverance. 

There is a definite spiritual victory and advancement in fulfilling the commands of the Word. If for no other reason, just obedience to the Word would in itself produce a great benefit and blessing. Acts 2:38 

Ananias commanded Saul to be baptized to "wash away" his sins. Acts 22:16 

Water Baptism will not save, but it is a part of the process of producing that new sinless creature that will comprise the body of Christ in the end of the age. In the waters of baptism we are buried with Christ. Here the Christian is identified with the death burial and resurrection of Christ. 

This is the Christians victory, for here we die with Christ. The old man is crucified with Him. The New Man becomes the dominant force in our lives. A dead man cannot be induced to participate in a sinful life. Water baptism is not a symbolic act but should be to us another glorious spiritual experience on our way toward the perfection that is found in Christ Jesus. Rom. 6:1-7 

The dead man is FREE from sin.




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE   14

THE ANOINTING OF THE HOLY GHOST A DIVINE REQUISITE. 
The anointing of the Holy Spirit is for very practical purposes. He is to be another Comforter, a Counselor one who will abide forever. He has the same attributes as the one who went away. John 14:16 

The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth. What would the doctrine of the church be if we listened to Him? He came to make Jesus very real to each and every one of us. It is He, who dwells with us and desires to fill us with the fullness of Himself. 

Because of the unity of the Trunity of God, Jesus is revealed to the person filled with the Holy Spirit. Jesus promised that He would come to His own, and He does in the person of the Holy Spirit. John 14:17-18

THERE IS NO LIMIT TO THE ANOINTING THAT IS BESTOWED. 
The Holy Spirit and the speaking forth of the Word of the Lord are deeply associated together. The Holy Spirit was to give boldness in proclaiming the Gospel of the Lord Jesus. There was no limit or measure of the anointing that was in the life of Jesus. John 3:34 

There is likewise no limitation place on the power and glory of the Spirit that is poured forth in the church of today. Some seem to be limited in their experience but that is because they do not allow the Spirit to fill them with a greater measure. Too often the goal is tongues and not the purifying of the fire and the investing of that "power" from on high. The very fullness of the Godhead, dwelt in the spirit and the body of the Lord Jesus. Col. 2:9 

The God, who is Spirit must be worshipped in Spirit and in truth. John 4:24 

Being Spirit He is not restricted as the human body has definite limitations placed on it. God is omnipresent, therefore it is no small wonder that the fullness of God dwelt in Christ. The marvel is that we have been "made complete in Him". 

The finished product will be that glorious church without spot or wrinkle. It is not scheduled to take place in the sweet bye and bye but NOW in the end of the age. The word "complete" has a variety of connotations all indicating a divine presence in, a full level, to cram, to furnish, to satisfy, to accomplish among others. We are the body, His bride, joined to the head, Christ Jesus. The same anointing that flows through the head will manifest itself in and throughout the body, which is one with the head. Col. 2:10 

The bride is that essential part of Christ that will bring to completion the work of salvation. She will complement Him and be filled with He who fills all and is in all. What a glorious perspective awaits the church of the last days. Eph. 1:23

The love of Christ is so great for His bride that she is to be filled with the same fullness and completeness of very God Himself. Eph. 3:19 

It was the good pleasure of the Father that the completeness of everything that God is would be revealed in the Lord Jesus. Therefore that same privilege will be granted to the bride of Christ. Godlike in every aspect of our nature and being. The Lord will do great and wonderful things in the bride of Christ in this end of the age. There is so much more to come. Col. 1:9 

Be satisfied only with the fullness of what the Lord has for us.      




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE   15

THE SPIRIT, AN EVIDENCE OF CHRIST WITHIN.

THE ASSURANCE OF SALVATION BY HIS SPIRIT WHICH DWELLS IN US.
Obedience to the commands that Christ gives to us will result in the blessed assurance that we are in Christ. A twofold command given: to believe in His NAME. To love one another. This will please Him and result in receiving from Him that which we request of Him. Obedience to His Word and a love for Him, as well as one another is a response of His Spirit directing and motivating our lives. 1 John 3:22-24 

THE MYSTERY OF CHRIST. 
The Gospel being ministered to the Gentile as well as to the Jew. It was the Spirit that brought the revelation and knowledge of the eternal purposes of God to light. If there is a need for a revelation it comes by the way of the Spirit. It originates with the Lord Himself and will be in agreement with the WORD of the Lord. The Spirit and the Word are never in conflict. It is well that we note that this revelation came to leadership. Eph. 3:3-6

CHRISTIAN VICTORY IS ATTAINED BY WALKING IN THE SPIRIT. 
The constant, precious anointing of the Spirit is a consistent guide to out lives. Because of the presence of His holiness, the flesh is subdued and even subjugated, until there is no activity of the flesh permitted. The secret of the Christian life is to maintain the constant companionship of the Spirit. Gal. 5:16 

Allowing the Spirit to lead us is the assurance of success in our Spiritual life. We are then identified as sons of the most high. Rom. 8:14 

CONFIRMATION OF THE LEADERSHIP OF THE SPIRIT. 
He is the Spirit of Truth. Therefore, there will not be an untruth or a lie spoken by Him. Every utterance of the Spirit must be founded on truth. His purpose in coming into the world is to guide the people of the Lord into ALL truth. 

How can we know that it is the Spirit who is speaking? He will not speak of Himself. He will not glorify Himself nor boast of His capabilities. He will speak of and show the things that are to come. The Holy Spirit will always elevate the Lord Jesus Christ. His work is to glorify and magnify Jesus, making Jesus to be the one that is altogether lovely to us. 

As in the ministry of Jesus, He spoke those things that He heard from His Father. So also the Holy Spirit will speak forth those things that He hears and will relay them on to us. John 16:13-14 

We are privileged to know the Spirit of the Lord and certainly it is with deep gratitude, we open our hearts, for His presence to be made known in our lives. John 14:17 

The Holy Spirit, the divine Comforter comes to us from the Father. He is our ability to testify in truth that Jesus died and was raised again from the dead and has become our Lord and savior. The Spirit proves the reality of the finished work of Calvary. John 15:26 





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE   16

A GIFTED MINISTRY AS A GIFT TO THE CHURCH. 
Each member of the "fivefold" ministry bears a deep and heavy responsibility before the Lord. They are to minister to the Church in the power of the Holy Spirit. The ultimate spiritual standing of the church in the last days is dependent on their direction and spiritual leadership. 

They must be men of great integrity, spirituality and comprehension in the Word of the Lord. Their offices and ministries are awesome, for they must speak truth in love. It is not a frivolous thing to be called of the Lord to direct and guide the Church into her last day status and ministry. Eph. 4:11

CAN GOD? Can God furnish a table in the wilderness? Ps. 78:19 

Words of doubt and unbelief spoken by Israel of old. Our God is the God of the impossible and will bestow that same Spirit of faith on those who are His. Mt. 17:20 

The only impossibility to be found in the Lord is the ability to lie. He will not nor can He lie, He is truth personified. Heb. 6:18 

When man reaches his limits and cannot perform, the Lord demonstrates His capabilities and does what man cannot do. Lk. 18:27 

With this in mind. Is it at all possible for the Lord to bring forth out of the conglomeration called "the church" a perfect church. Not only can He, but He has and He will. 

NOAH, was a righteous and just man in His age. He was perfect, without blemish, undefiled and blameless. 

Mind you, this is the assessment of a Holy and Just God. This is not the judgment of the people of his generation. Furthermore, his way of life was after a pattern of the God whom he loved and served, for he walked with God. Gen. 6:9

ABRAM. Met with the Lord and was called by Him, to walk before Him and be perfect, holy or blameless. 

Abram was ninety-nine years of age. Good numbers, nine gifts and nine fruit of the Spirit. He humbled himself before the Lord as the Lord talked with him. What an experience. God made covenant with Him. Giving him promises that cover both the natural progeny and the spiritual. Gen.17:1-4

JOB. The very meaning of his name prophecies of impending problems in his life. 

Job, hated, persecuted. It is not difficult to see why he faced the difficulties of life that came upon him. He was perfect, blameless. He was upright, a man living a just life. A witness of righteousness in a sinful and corrupt time. He had great reverence for God and served Him. He was a man who hated the evil he saw around him and separated himself from all ungodliness and unrighteousness. He really loved the Lord. Job 1:1 

Job was an outstanding man of God. He was unique and one of a kind in the whole earth. Under the attack and blast of Satan he maintained his faith in God. Did not lose his integrity but stood steadfast in the Lord. The persecution of Satan against him was without cause. His only fault being that he loved, honored and served the Lord. Job 2:3 

Job is a lesson for us all. The Lord has proven that man can be perfect before Him and will yet have a perfect church.   
   



THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE  17

OUR TRUE EXAMPLE. 
The man, CHRIST JESUS. The holy, righteous son of man, son of God. The God man. The eternal high priest, effectual and merciful toward all who will call on His name. Was He sinless because He was the Son of God? Then we too should be granted the ability to follow in His exact footsteps. His temptation to partake of sin was the same as that which every man faces. His temptations were identical to ours. He was tempted in EVERY point. Yet without sin. Heb. 4:15 

It is not necessary that we sin every day in word thought or deed. It is time that we quit excusing our sinfulness and acknowledge that He has imparted to us the ability to live His life in this present world. He has thoroughly equipped the church with all the spiritual elements that are necessary to live a life in this world that glorifies Him. We are the sons of God, born of His Spirit. Made to be new creatures. No longer living the life of the old man. We have the guidance of the Word to know and fulfill His will. We have the Holy Spirit who will most certainly assist us to live the life of Christ.

FOR THE PERFECTING OF THE CHURCH. 
Not only can the Lord do it, but He most definitely will. To respond to the high calling of God in Christ Jesus is the choice of each and every individual. The Lord has established goals of purity and righteousness for His church. 

They are unquestionable beyond the capability of the natural, the carnal man. Jesus established that goal by challenging those who follow Him to be as perfect as our heavenly Father. He would not set a goal that was unobtainable. every aim and purpose must present a challenge that will become our aim and purpose. Mt. 5:48 

As we strive to achieve the task that is presented to us we must fix our eyes on Jesus. He is our purpose in life. He said; that the student would not be above his master, but that the student would be as perfect as his master. Lk.6:40  

UNITY IS A MARK OF PERFECTION. 
The unity of the body of Christ, the church, the Bride will be as absolute as that which exists between Christ and His Father. 

A true, full vibrant love for the Lord is the first key to that blending together of God and man that will be accomplished in the body of Christ. 

The second, is a deep and abiding appreciation for His Word, and a determination to live according to its teachings. 

These two being active and working in our lives will result in the expertise to achieve the established goal. The great secret is very simple, it is to make the proper commitment to Christ. To surrender our lives totally to Him. This will enable the < WE > and < OUR > of the Godhead to come, and to take up their dwelling place, IN US. 

God wants to move in with you, and bring with Him all that He is and all that He possesses. John 14:23 Let us approach His throne with open eyes, open hearts and open ears that we may receive all that was purchase for us at the Cross. 

There are great and mighty events scheduled for the church that as yet have not been accomplished. The bulk of His blessings are still before us. How and when we possess them is basically up to us and our desire, hunger and thirst for Him. 





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE   18

IT IS A SANCTIFIED CHURCH.
Sanctification, the work of producing holiness in the church is of the Father. It is His design to prepare a cleansed and sanctified bride for His Son. Jude 1:1 

Our redemption, in Christ Jesus is absolute. It is an accomplished fact. We have been set free from all iniquity and every work of unrighteousness. The church must be that < peculiar people >, a people chosen to be His prized possession. Desiring always to do that which is right and good in His sight. Titus 2:14 

The individual who has been set free by the redemption in Jesus is totally, and completely set free from all sin. John 8:36 

The blood of Christ is the full price that was paid for the redemption of all mankind. The perfect, unblemished Lamb of God bringing deliverance from sin and death. Sanctifying, purging our conscience from acts of sin that lead to death, to works of righteousness, serving the Lord in a living manner. Heb. 9:14

A GLORIOUS CHURCH. 
The basic glory of the church, from which the Bride of Christ will be chosen, is its purity. It is to be spotless, no stains. Wrinkle free, no manifestation of the old man to be found, totally living in the power and spirit of the new man, in Christ. Blameless and holy. Eph. 5:27 

Perhaps, more attractive, is the shining forth of the visible glory of the Lord that will be in her and upon Her. That beauty is formed from the reality of His holiness, revealed in her. 

If the giving and receiving of the Law brought about a glory which was real, visible and abiding in Moses, Of how much great glory will be the work of the Spirit, particularly in the last days. 2 Cor. 3:8 

In the church is seen the reflection of His glory. She is in the process of proceeding from glory to the ever increasing and ultimate glory.  2 Cor. 3:18 

The secret of the whole procedure is the change, the metamorphoses, that takes place in the believer. Transformed into His likeness and image. His bride will be a perfect match for Him. She will be like Him in all things. Her behavior will be like Him. She will think as he thinks, having the same attitude and spiritual comprehension, for she will have the mind of Christ. Phil. 2:5 

The creator, the Lord Jesus is the example and champion to the church. His bride will constantly maintain in her vision the glory that is in Christ. She will persistently seek a better and fuller understanding of who and what He is. Her desire is to be made like Him. Col. 3:10 

The mystery has been exposed. In the sight of the Lord there is no difference between Jew and Gentile. All are one in Christ. Now, it is Christ in you the hope of the glory of the Lord. Col. 1:27 

The kingdom of God and its accompanying glory is not located afar off, but Jesus said; < that the kingdom of God is within you. What blessedness, so precious are His saints in His sight that He will establish His kingdom within the heart and spirit of those who will follow Him. 

The presence of the kingdom assures one of all the privileges and benefits of that kingdom. Full rights of citizenship are granted each and every individual. There are no second class citizens in His kingdom. Lk. 17:21  





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE            19

THE CHRISTIANS 
<I AM>. One with Christ in all things, not only in the tremendous benefits that He daily bestows on us, but one with Him in His sufferings as well. I AM with Christ. I AM crucified with Him. Gal. 2:20 

As with every natural seed, life springs from the process of the seed being buried, the act of dying, then germinating and ultimately spinging forth to life and the bearing of a crop. So it is in the spiritual. We are the seed. The promise of the Lord is that if we have been <planted together> in the waters of baptism that we shall also be one with Him in His life. 

Experiencing the glories of His resurrection for we have become one with Him. There is a high and holy place in the Lord Jesus where the child of the Lord may enter into the fullness of His life style. It requires a price that not too many are willing to pay. Nevertheless it is available to all who want to go beyond the ordinary. Rom. 6:5

I COUNT ALL THINGS BUT LOSS. 
This will be the goal of the last day church. A consecration and dedication that will exceed anything that we see today. Paul was willing to < COUNT ALL THINGS > as being totally destroyed that he might obtain the < EXCELLENCY OF THE KNOWLEDGE > of Christ. His vision involved a goal beyond the limitations of this life. He saw that completeness of life, which is available to all, in Christ. 

The losses he had suffered were inconsequential in comparison to that which he had gained in the Lord Jesus Christ. Phil. 3:8 

His aim was the righteousness that is found in the Lord Jesus. Not that which he had practiced under the Law, but the righteousness, of God, that is found in the faith of the Lord Jesus. 

A righteousness that is imputed by the knowledge of Christ. Before we can know the <power of His resurrection>, which is the ideal Christian life, we must fellowship, become one with Him in His sufferings. Being, conformed, made in the likeness of His death. 

Not a pleasant outlook for the natural, fleshly man. The carnal man would much more prefer to reject than to embrace such a divine call. The gain is so much greater than anything lost makes the loss immaterial. Phil. 3:10

I PRESS. 
May this become the determination of the whole of the church. There is a prize such as is offered no where else. Its value is immeasurable. It is not of this earth, therefore is eternal and everlasting. Those who would obtain this prize must be relentless in their pursuit. 

There is no limit that may be placed on the energy expended to acquire it. It is the highest award presented to the church of the Lord Jesus. Phil. 3:14 

There is no position, in the eternity to come, that that which is given to the bride of Christ. A redeemed people, cleansed and washed in the blood of Christ. 

Brought to full and absolute maturity, in this world, by the ministry of the Word. 

Privileged to sit with Him in His throne. The workmanship of the Lord on display eternally. They are the show piece of the Lord. May indeed the revelation of the Lord accompany His Word. Phil. 3:15






THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE           20

THE TRUE VINE OR THE VINE OF TRUTH. 
I AM, the true vine. Another statement of His being, eternal and everlasting. The self-existent one. Having received Him and being joined to Him we can be assured that we will live and walk in truth, as we abide in Him. A living, vital entity that is noted as being one vine. Growing together with its message spreading throughout the earth. John 1:15 

The vine of truth, rooted and planted in the Lord Jesus, who is both grace and truth. The grace of God produces a revelation of that which is truth. Truth is vital to salvation, growth and ultimate maturity in Christ. John 1:17 

The branches, the leaves, the fruit, the whole plant is supplied by the sustenance that proceeds from the roots, and is the product of the photosynthesis of the leaves. It is a cycle of life to which every part is vital to the other. Its harvest is the true wine that represents the precious blood of Christ. This is real life giving drink. 

The child of God is not only completely dependent on the vine, but also, on the finished crop of the vine, as it becomes the drink of communion. The real true drink. The drink of life. 

It assures the body of a continuos source of life, the consistent abiding presence of He who is LIFE personified. John 6:55-56 

TRUE BREAD FROM HEAVEN. 
True, verifying its substance to be that which is given by the Father, the bread of God Himself. The source, descended from heaven, the throne presence of the living God. Not the same as that which was supplied to Moses and given to the people of that day. In Jesus is made known the real, the factual bread of heaven. He is the bread of God. 

This is the source of all life, anything and everything that lives has life because of the Son of God. He is the bread of life. As much as revelation has come to the church pertaining to the communion, the bread and the wine, the church has not yet reached the completeness of its purpose for the church. John 6:32-33 

I AM, the bread of life. Once again asserting His eternal, ever living being and existence. He <IS> THE VINE, He <IS> THE BREAD of life, there is none other nor could there ever be. 

AS WITH THE NATURAL, SO WITH THE SPIRITUAL. 
EVERY branch will have the same experience. The nonproductive will be cut off and will be completely isolated from the growing vine of life. The productive will not escape the knife of the husbandman for they will be pruned, and that which is superfluous cut from them, that a greater crop might be gained. John 5:2 

Pruning is a continuos process, the vine is pruned year after year. What we may call a great trial, Paul; calls a < light affliction > 2 Cor. 4:17 

Not all that is negative in our lives originates with the devil. We accuse him for every adversity we face. We must begin to recognize the hand and the knife of the husbandman as He prunes His vine. The sooner the unnecessary portion of the branch is removed the sooner the affliction and correction will cease. It is far better we use our knowledge of the Word and rid ourselves of that which is detrimental to good spiritual growth.





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE          21

THE POWER OF THE WORD. He who is the WORD, spoke the WORD and it brought forth a wonderful work of cleansing. John 15:3 

A willing heart and an obedient spirit in the believer has a sanctifying effect. The ability to hear the Word and to react positively to it, will cleanse. 1 Pet. 1:22 

Most importantly, the church, the bride of Christ will reach her desired status in Christ by the constant washing of the Word. It sanctifies and purifies when we read it and when we hear it spoken. Every Christian should be a student of the Word. It is our life. Eph. 5:26

ONE TREMENDOUS RIGHT. To abide in Christ and more importantly to have Christ abiding in us. 

This is perfect fellowship, for it is of His instigation. It is His desire toward His church. The Greek word <meno> is used here. In the gospel of John it is used and translated, Abide, twenty-two times. Dwell, fourteen times. Remain, five times. Continue, three times. Tarry, three times. Endure, abide still, be present, all one time. 

It is obvious that the Lord is seeking a continuous relationship with His people. It is through constant association with Him that we are to be made into His likeness and image. John 15:4   

THE CHURCH IS A GROWING ORGANISM. 
The purpose of such a statement is not numerically. It is true that the church world wide is increasing greatly in numbers but it is spiritual growth that is of greatest importance. Quantity is great but quality is more important. So many remain as < babes > in Christ. 1 Pet. 2:2 

There must be a constant birthing of new creatures into the church. The church becomes responsible for their spiritual growth and must feed them the Word. Giving them the Word, the Truth as a parent feeling their responsibility before the Lord. 

Promoting spiritual growth and development is delegated to the church. Maturity is the goal of the Lord for His church in these last days. May we grow up into Christ, the head of the church. Eph. 4:15 

CHRIST IS THE BUILDER OF HIS OWN HOUSE. 
His house is the house of the Lord God. We, the church are proclaimed to be the house of God.Showing once again the great desire of the heart of the Lord to have that intimate fellowship with His people. 

Our relationship with Him must be one that is unwavering and permanent. Regardless of how great or spectacular our birth into His kingdom was, it is what we become in His plan and purpose that counts. 

It is necessary to maintain our courage in Christ until we have become a part of the finished product. It is our place and spiritual position in Christ that counts, in the end. Heb. 3:6 

All who race may run but it is the end of the race that determines the winner. 1 Cor. 9:24 

We are in a contest and have many obstacles to overcome. The secret of winning is in having Christ as our help and companion. It is a matter of <greater is He> who is within us. Those who grow spiritually are all winners.  





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE              22

WORKING TOGETHER WITH THE LORD. 
What a great privilege and yet at the same time such an enormous responsibility. Elevated to a position where we are workers together with Christ, building the kingdom of God. Not a temporal, earthly structure but an eternal everlasting Temple of the Lord. 

Laborers in the process of developing a living, vital vine that will eternally bear fruit. That which the Lord will accomplish in the end of the age is to usher in the eternal order. The garden and the structure are made here, for eternity. 1 Cor. 3:9 

This is harvest time. Now, as never before we must pray for the Lord to raise up and thrust forth laborers into the harvest fields of this world. In so doing we will fulfill the request of the Lord Jesus. Mt. 9:37-38

THE BUILDING IS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING ERECTED. 
There is a move of the Spirit that is destroying many man made walls. Some have stood for decades, but they are crumbling. 

From the carnage there will arise two great religious movements. One the true body of Christ, the other a pseudo group which is to be an imitation of the true. More about that at a future time. 

The real building will be distinguished by its unity, its oneness, its ability to amalgamate and join together in perfect harmony. This church, this bride is the thrill and joy of the heart of the Lord Jesus. She is created and brought to completion for Him, that she might be His bride. His holy and everlasting Temple. This is to be His Eternal City. The New Jerusalem. the place that has been chosen of the Lord for His dwelling place, eternally. Eph. 2:21-22

AGAIN, CAN GOD? 
Is it possible that out of the multiplicity of doctrines taught by the church that the Lord can achieve a <unity of the faith>, as declared in Eph. 4:13? 

If the Lord said it I believe it. Not only is it possible but the Lord will accomplish His project to absolute perfection. We will not have to compromise but will all be taught the truths of the Word by the Holy Spirit. 

Many of the doctrines of the church today are the doctrines of men, not those expressed by the Spirit. To arrive at the place where <all speak the same thing and there are absolutely no divisions> can only be achieved by the Spirit of the Lord. The perfect joining together of the body of Christ in harmony of mind and spirit will be fulfilled. 1 Cor. 1:10 

All things are possible with the Lord. If we would hear the voice of the Lord today we would hear Him repeating the words of Paul; Be of one mind, like minded, one in thought and doctrine. Having the same love, the love of the Lord. 

A love for truth, for the moving of the Spirit, a love for the brotherhood, the whole family of God. Unified, being made one in spirit and in purpose. All actions being motivated by a humility in Christ, considering others better than ourselves. Phil. 2:1-3 

What a crushing blow to the pride that is too often made manifest in the believer and in particular in the ministry. To be a real member of the body of Christ will require drastic changes and a full adherence to the teaching of the Word. Lord haste the day. 





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE     23

THE PEOPLE OF A UNITED HEART. 
Repeatedly in the scriptures, in both Testaments the Lord makes known the fact that He desires a people who are completely dedicated to Him, that He might be their God. The Lord declared that He would give them, ONE heart, < Hebrew. ONE. echad, united, one, together >. A binding together that is perfect. The same unison that is found in the Godhead. One HEART, < Hebrew. HEART. leb, the feelings, will or intellect. 

Rest assured the Lord will accomplish His goals. He will find a people, out of the people, in these last days that will meet His holy and heart felt longings and desires. More than any other craving or aspiration, the Lord Jesus waits for that moment when He may claim His united and true Bride. There is an encumbrance that must first be removed and that is the < stony heart >. 

The hard, the obstinate, the cold, the unbelieving, the indifferent heart. That which is too often evidenced in the life of the church. It must be removed to make room for a heart that is after the heart of God Himself. A heart that is tender and loving. A heart of great compassion and care. This is accomplished by a NEW SPIRIT. A new attitude. A new understanding of the will of the Lord. Perhaps, even new doctrines. A drastic change is in the immediate future for those who in sincerity and truth are determined to follow the Lord. These will be the people of obedience and submission, to the Lord.  Eze. 11:19-20 

We have a beautiful example before us in the early church. They were all filled with the same Spirit which brought harmony amongst them. They were too overwhelmed with the mercy and goodness of the Lord and the glory and power of the Holy Spirit to grouse and gripe. 

They lived with an attitude of one heart and one soul. They were in such glorious unity that they were able to share all their possessions one with another. They were living with absolute trust and confidence in one another. Those who did not possess did not require of those who did. Those possessing did not withhold from those who had needs. That was a miracle of the ability of the Spirit to change the nature of man into the nature of God. Acts. 4:32

THE COVENANT IS TO THE OVERCOMER. 
The inheritance of the promises of the Lord are on a spiritual and not on a natural basis. it is the New Man the New Creature that is of value to the Lord. You like new things? So does the Lord, for He can be God unto them. Rev. 21:7 

The New Covenant is the assurance of salvation to all who will believe on the Lord Jesus. It is a guarantee, not only of salvation, but also of those conditions that promote eternal life. Namely, the law, the will of the Lord becoming our pattern of thought where we meditate, with our thoughts dwelling on it constantly. 

It is also to be written upon the fleshly tables of our hearts, from whence are the issues of life. No longer the Law of righteousness which we struggle to fulfill, but now the righteousness of the Law lived and manifest in our hearts, without a struggle or difficulty. Heb. 8:10   





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE               23a

EMPLOYING EFFORT TO ACHIEVE UNITY. 
In all reality, the work of unifying the body of Christ is the work of the Holy Spirit. However, there must be a desire and a willingness, on the part of those involved to submit entirely to the will of the Lord. It is termed < the unity of the Spirit >. The Spirit will be the unifying factor and will accomplish that which has been determined of the Lord. Eph. 4:3

THE BODY IS ONE! 
Christ has only one body, that body is composed of a  multiplicity of individuals, yet is blended into a unit by the power of the  Spirit. 

It is not a fractured, split and divided body with its members in opposition one to another, such as is the case of the church of today, but it  will be a gloriously unified body, under the leadership of the Holy Spirit. In Christ Jesus, His body is to be molded and formed into a perfect body, motivated in all things by the Spirit. 1 Cor. 12:12 

When we are Spirit filled, by one Spirit (the Holy Spirit) we are baptized into ONE SPIRIT. <by baptism united together. AMP>. We, by the Spirit are placed into our position in the body of Christ. Regardless of race and background, it is the Spirit that determines our function in the body. This body will perform gracefully and in complete harmony, no dissension whatsoever, no disagreement. 

However, where there is discord and division, there is another spirit, it is not the Holy Spirit. In a time when, in the church and in the world, every move will evoke some sort of a disruption, the Lord will have a perfect church. This is His ideal, never fear, He will accomplish His divine desire and purpose. ONE and ONLY ONE, body, Spirit, hope of calling, Lord, faith or persuasion (doctrine), baptism, God and Father of us all. Eph. 4:4-6

THE POSITION OF A FATHER. 
The one who has begotten the Christ and the body of Christ, that is His church. Has imparted by the new birth, by water and Spirit baptism the divine nature and characteristics of the Father to His offspring. The Father has < lavished > NIV His love on us. 1 Jn. 3:1 

His love manifest in us is also a unifying factor. Where there is love, there will not be disagreement and division. The Father is above all, He is Sovereign. The leadership and responsibility of all that is Spiritual, heavenly and eternal is His to determine. The Lord Jesus constantly acknowledged Him. 

Jesus said that the works that He did were of the Father. He revered and worshipped His Father. If we will permit Him, He will work the same works in us that He brought forth in the Lord Jesus for He will work <through> His church, using us a conduit, for His praise and glory. He dwells within His true church, He is in all. The possibilities of the manifestation of His glory and power are limitless, where there is accord, one body and one Spirit. 

Since He has declared it, rest assured, He will do it, not only that He could, but He will fulfill His Word. Not in the sweet bye and bye, but in the here and now. Eph. 4:6    



THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.            24

A RACELESS SOCIETY. 
As long as the <old man>, the natural, the carnal man exists, there will be racism. No legislation, no power or authority of man is able to change the attitude of mankind. The change comes when the old is exchanged for the <new man>, and the new man is then entered into the process of renewal. 

Thorough the revelation and the comprehension of the Word the new man is being transformed into the likeness and spiritual configuration of the Lord Jesus Christ. Col. 3:10 

The process of renewal involves a release from the desire to pattern oneself after the ways of the world, that is the natural, carnal life. That being replaced with a strong desire to be transformed into the likeness and image of Christ. He becomes the champion and glowing example of our lives. 

We want to be like Him. The whole thought pattern is altered. We now think on the things of the Spirit. Our desires must be centered on seeking the things that benefit the new man, the spiritual man. Rom. 12:2 

The spirit and attitude of the natural mind and the spiritual mind are as different as night from day. Eph. 4:23 

It is only by the new mind that is in Christ Jesus that viewpoints will be changed. None of that which is an issue to man can exist in the true body of Christ. Col. 3:11

THE HEAD OF THE CHURCH. 
The head, source of leadership and guidance. Containing the brain, the ability to think and reason. The fountainhead of motivation for the entire body. Containing the capability of speaking, seeing, hearing, tasting, as well as the sense of smell. 

Every member of the body is important but the head is of prime significance. It represents the Christ of God, who is the savior of the body. The church cannot exist apart from Him. Therefore, she is urged to be in submission to Him and to His will. Eph. 5:23-24 

The Spiritual life is one of constant growth. The church is to < grow up > into Christ, in all things. No longer being infants, naive and helpless. Quick to place every deception that is instigated by unscrupulous individuals in the mouth to taste it, sometimes to gag at the bitter taste. 

At other times to be poisoned by their < winds of doctrine > and the cunning craftiness that is used. Deception, is a practice that is exercised constantly and consistently by some whose only purpose is to gain a name and notoriety. Most frequently it concerns finances and the enrichment of the deceiver. Eph. 4:14-15 

A sure sign of maturity is to learn to try the spirits to which we are continually being exposed. In particular, those who are in positions of responsibility, as under shepherds, must be able to guard the sheep from these wolves that tear apart the flock and then depart to repeat the same deception on the next flock. 

The warning of John was that there are <many false prophets> roaming throughout the world. 1 Jn. 4:1 

If this were true in his day, how much more is it so in our day. 

Knowing that the great deception perpetrated by the antichrist is soon to burst upon this world, what care we should take to arm and prepare the church for those events that are soon to be manifest. 

The Word and the Spirit will reveal that which is not of God. Study the Word, be filled with the Spirit.




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.         25

PERFECTLY JOINED TOGETHER. 
Absolute unity. Union in its perfection. ALL possessing the same mind set, the same understanding, the same opinions and purposes. Blended together as a perfectly functioning body, flowing together, motivated by the Spirit of the Lord. 1 Cor. 1:10 

It for this purpose that the true church will have the < mind of Christ >. The ability to understand completely the Word of the Lord. Knowing and fulfilling His will in all things. 

Perfect harmony. Holy and majestic is the goal that the Lord has established for His church. As impossible as it may appear, He will finish His Temple in its perfection, in this earth. 1 Cor 2:16  

CLOSELY JOINED TOGETHER. 
The consolidating element is love. The love of God that has been poured forth into the hearts of the church. His love showing forth in each portion of the body with a full love for each and every member of the body of Christ. 

They love one another with the perfect love of the Lord. The love of the Lord working and manifesting itself in all who are in His church. Without this deep and Godlike love, one cannot be a part of this beautiful body of believers. They are fitly joined, mortised, sealed and glued as one. Eph. 4:16 

The Amplified Version beautifully and wonderfully translates the companion verse in Eph. 2:21 in the following manner < In Him, the whole structure is joined (bound, welded) together harmoniously >. It helps convey the thought of the totality of the oneness that is accomplished in the last days in the church of the Lord Jesus. 

It is thrilling to see there verbiage that Paul uses in order to communicate the enormity and the completeness of the unifying of the body of Christ. This church is to be <COMPACTED>, to force, to drive together. (Strongs). A work of strength producing a solid structure, the Bride of Christ, the eternal everlasting Temple of the Lord. The word is used and translated <knit together in love>.  

Once again showing that twinning together in the love of Christ that results in perfect unity. Cloths and garments of strength and beauty are the work of the craftsman, how much more the Bride of Christ.
Col. 2:2 

UNITY PRODUCES GROWTH AND ULTIMATELY A FINISHED PRODUCT.
Be certain that constant contact is maintained with the head, Christ. He is the source of sustenance to the whole body. For those who are <knit together> will increase and grow with the Spiritual growth that is supernatural, for it is the growth that the Lord Himself will supply. Col. 2:19 

It is the responsibility of those called of the Lord to plant and water but growth, increase is of the Lord. Therefore, those who plant and water are simple laborers, but it is the Lord that brings to harvest that which has been planted. 

We need not have qualms concerning the harvest for the end of the age. It will be the greatest in every way, numerically and more importantly, spiritually. This is the generation of the great harvest of the Lord.  1 Cor. 3:6-7  





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.             26

THE CHURCH BUILDING ITSELF IN THE LOVE OF GOD. 
Without love, the church is an institution, cold and without compassion. With love, it becomes a living organism, vigorous, warm and loving. The growth and construction of the church, the body of Christ depends fully upon the Love of the Lord displayed in each and every member. Eph. 4:16 

FAITH WORKS. 
There is not a Christian that does not know that faith works. The very fact that we are < born again > will illustrate dramatically that it < works>. But faith can only be motivated, by love. Love, the love of the Lord, agape love, not human love, is the dynamo and the force of faith. This could well be a key to those times when it seems difficult to receive a response to our prayers. Gal. 5:6c

THE LAW FULFILLED IN ONE WORD. 
That one word is LOVE. A love for our neighbor, that is equal to the love that we have for ourselves. Not always an easy task. Love involves loving even the unlovely. Gal. 5:14 

This however, is the second commandment. The first, will make the second workable. The first is, < love the Lord thy God > with the total man. The heart, the seat of affections. The soul, the source of all human emotions. The mind, The area of motivation, the ability to activate our thoughts and emotions. Strength, the energy, the capability of accomplishing our objective. 

Love for the Lord is fruitful and productive in our lives. It is absolutely the number one priority. All else in the spiritual work and realm depend upon the motivation of love. Mk. 12:30 

THE CONSUMMATION OF THE COMMANDMENT. 
Is dependent on the condition of the heart. It must be a clean, untarnished heart produces confidence and assurance. Even boldness to approach the throne of the Lord. There can be no ulterior motives. 

A pure heart is most desirable to the Lord. A conscience void of offense toward God and man, is also a divine requirement. A good conscience is the result of doing the will of the Lord in every aspect, living according to the Word of the Lord. Embracing the <faith> in all sincerity, without dissimulation. 1 Tim. 1:5

CHOSEN IN HIM. 
Chosen, not of race or because of who we are or were to become, but IN HIM. The Lord has called ALL. But only those responding become HIS CHOSEN. This He knew from before the foundation of the world. He could not be God without this divine foreknowledge. 

We were chosen by His Love to partake of and live in His Love. The materialization of that love will generate conditions in the life of the Chosen that is not seen in the unsaved. Namely, they will be holy, righteous and pure. 

Blameless, without fault or reproach of any kind, in spirit, soul or body. Love brings certain demands into our lives. Consideration must now be given to the one loved. Their desires and requirements must be placed even before our own. Especially with the Lord. 

Placing Him first and uppermost in our response of love to Him will reap great dividends. His reactions to our outpouring of Love toward Him are tremendous and deeply satisfying. Eph. 1:4  






THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.     27

EVERY JOINT CONTRIBUTING. Every part and portion of the body supplying and supporting with its help and strength. No drones to be found here. The whole of the creation working together as one. Never, with even a hint of friction or disharmony. 

Perfect, absolute accord in every function of the whole church. Not even one member out of step, or in discord. Each joint performing with the faultless competence which is made possible by the Holy Spirit. The very finest watch made by man cannot synchronize and match the perfect rhythm and movement of this many member body of Christ. It is to be the essence of coordination.  Eph. 4:16

EFFECTUALLY WORKING. 
Always when the Spirit of the Lord is involved there will be mighty works brought forth to the praise and glory of the name of the Lord. The force, the power, to produce the efficient and glorious activity of the body is supplied by the Spirit of the Lord. 

That which men have sought for and failed to achieve will be seen in the perfect activity and movements of the body of Christ. The very essence of efficiency, the perfect use of the energy of the Holy Spirit. They are motivated by the endless supply of might and the supernatural power of the Lord. Eph. 4:16 

Instructions and directions are supplied by the Word of the Lord. The Word also is an element which produces the ability to work the works of the Lord. 1 Thes. 2:13

ASSURING A CONSTANT SUPPLY OF HIS EFFICIENCY. 
Because <God is love>, the very essential quality of His being and nature is love. True love, the exact personification of love is found in Him. He is what love is. Love cannot exist aside from God. Remove God from off the scene and love is no longer. 

The love of God for sinful humanity is incomprehensible to the natural mind. Why the process of redemption, requiring the death of His only begotten Son, when He could have completely destroyed that which was marred, and started again with a sinless creation? 

Created angels can never love Him in the same manner as those who have accepted and follow the work of redemption established for them. The redeemed have the ability to love Him, reacting and responding to His love in a fashion which deeply thrills and moves His heart. 

When we dwell in His love, He dwells in us. The emotions that we find in ourselves are also found in the Lord. His feelings are sanctified and holy, even His anger and wrath is righteous, how much more that great love that He has for mankind. 

Dare to be emotional in your expressions of love and gratitude toward Him. Let praise and worship flow from a heart that is overflowing with love for Him. It will produce a fellowship that is rich and rewarding, saturated with the glory of His personal presence, in the person of the Holy Spirit. 

Love is the greatest. It is the surest and quickest way into His glorious presence. He is waiting, looking and longing for our expressions of love toward Him. 1 John 4:16-17

Love is the rich soil of spiritual growth. It is the bedrock of the gracious anointing of the Holy Spirit in our lives. It is indispensable. Love edifies the whole body.





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.                   27a

THE CHURCH BUILDING ITSELF IN LOVE.
THE WORK OF ABOUNDING LOVE. 
Love is an element that will increase by the association and relationship of time. Achieving a knowledge and comprehension of the one loved, particularly the Lord, will cause love and appreciation to increase. The more intimately we know the Lord the greater our love and attraction for Him will be. 

The Word of the Lord enlarges and increases our perception of Him. He is made known and revealed in the Word. Phil. 1:9

KNIT TOGETHER IN LOVE. 
It is evident from the scriptures that the cohesive bonding of the church is His love. Without love there will never be a church that is unified, cemented together. It is here, in this perfect unity that the absolute riches and the complete understanding of the mystery of Christ is made known. 

The ultimate of the mystery of Christ is the marriage of the Lamb. The perfect union, of love perfected between two individuals, Christ and His Bride. Col. 2:2

GOD IS LOVE. 
The only true love is to be found in Him. The very essence of His presence is the fullness of love. The Lord pours forth His great love to His church through the person of the Holy Spirit. When the Spirit of love is <shed abroad> it is easy to love. His Spirit of love overwhelms the spirit and attitude of the natural man, causing love to prevail. Rom. 5:5 

The whole secret of the Christian life is the Spirit of the Lord, the Spirit of love dwelling and remaining in our hearts. When we live with that kind of an atmosphere surrounding us and dwelling within us, we know that He rules and reigns within. We are His and are filled with His love. 1 John 4:16        

THE CONFIRMATION OF THAT LOVE IN THE CHURCH. Love the brotherhood. Likewise a part of that command to love our neighbor. Within the household of faith there are many vessels, not all are honorable. Some are irritant, like a grain of sand within the shell of an oyster, it will produce a pearl. 

That grinding, source of agitation, that pain in the neck is so necessary to the making of something that is of great value and beauty. In order to overcome personal feelings against that source of agitation love it, pray for it, do something positive for it and see what it does for you. The command is not to love just the lovely, but the whole of the family of God. 1 Pet. 2:17 

Love is to be without hypocrisy, without a condescending attitude. Even to going so far as to considering the weaker members of the body of Christ to be of greater importance. Love must be in all sincerity. Rom. 12:9 

Love within the church must be marked by kind affection and deep appreciation, one of another. Loving as brothers love. Showing honor and preference to others. Rom. 12:10 love within the body of Christ is a sign of discipleship. John 13:35 

The truth, the Word and love are the nutrients of Spiritual growth. Lacking either of these is our spiritual life will result in stunted growth. In order to become a member of the body of Christ they must be a very real and a great part of our life in the Spirit. Eph. 4:15




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.               28

CHRIST IN LOVE. 
The supreme object of His love is a church, His bride. He is searching for something more than just subjects for His kingdom. The grand conclusion of all of His efforts is a < glorious church >. It is the consummation of His work that has been the divine purpose of Calvary. 

Thank God for the beginning, our salvation, which is wonderful. The joy and beauty of the accomplishment of His eternal goal, His bride. Eph. 5:25-27

HE GAVE HIMSELF FOR IT. 
The paramount sacrifice for the Bride of the ages. The church, purchased by the offering of a life that came from eternity. The enormity of the relinquishment of leaving all that was spiritual, eternal and heavenly is beyond our comprehension. 

He was, He is and ever will be LIFE, in every sense of the word. Natural, spiritual and everlasting life. He laid aside His Godly status, to become one like us, earthly and natural. He faced temptation, identical to our temptations, yet without sin. 

All this, for the explicit intent of purchasing, for Himself, with His precious blood, {the blood of very God}, His Bride. Never has there been such a tremendous price paid for any object. That is the extent of His great and marvelous love. Acts 20:28

WALK IN LOVE. 
Maintain a constant and persistent love for the Lord Jesus. Live in His love and be, by all means, in love with Him. Carry and manifest His love in daily life. Be an example and a witness of that extraordinary love wherever you go. Christ, offered Himself freely as a fragrant offering unto God. Eph. 5:2 

WALK IN THE SPIRIT. 
The secret of walking in love is to walk in the spirit. It seems like such a simple statement, yet it is so necessary to the maintenance and health of our spiritual life. 

The listing of the fruit of the Spirit begins with love. Its position is an illustration of the great importance of love. It is the Spirit who makes the love of Christ a reality in the life of the church. 

It is He, who creates and seals the fellowship that we have with the Lord Jesus. Gal. 5:22    

LOVE TESTED. 
Anything and everything of value in life must be tested. The test of love and the unity of the body of Christ is in our attitude one toward another. 

This is a hard saying, yet it is the Word of the Lord. If we acknowledge ourselves to love the Lord, but hate our < brother >, the Word places us in the position of that of a liar. The love of God which has been birthed in the church, goes beyond those situations that bring disharmony and separation, and loves regardless. 

No one, desiring to be a member of the body of Christ can afford the consequences of hating another member of that body. Its outcome will be exclusion from that which is most greatly desired, a member of the Bride of Christ. If we cannot love our brother, despite of how badly they gall us, how can we love the Lord whom we have not seen? 1 John 4:20 

The Spirit of the Lord moving in us is constantly working in opposition to the natural man, that the old, the natural, the carnal man might be eliminated. Dying to self does not come easily, but it will be and shall positively be accomplished in each and every member of the body of His love.





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.              29

SEVEN CHURCHES IN SEVEN CITIES IN ASIA. 
Depicted as the seven candlesticks or light bearing bodies, the church, with the Lord, in their midst. Rev. 1:13 The amazing thing is, that in spite of the Lord being in their midst, they are grossly different one from another. 

Mass them together into one body and the sum is a picture of the church today. All of its good points and all of its bad become glaringly evident. The diversity of problems and spiritual benefits cannot be found in any one church any where in the world today. The nature, the character, the attitude and the atmosphere of these seven churches is scattered throughout the modern church world. 

We therefore look to find smatterings of the spirit of the seven churches in each and every present day church. Out of this muddle the Lord will develop the church of His desires. She will be that glorious church, perfect in all her ways.

THE CHURCH AT EPHESUS. 
The traditional, permissive church. The city was called <The light of Asia>. It was a sea port, a thriving commercial city, situated at the junction of several roads. 

They were not wanting of the presence of the Lord. They were about to be commended and also rebuked with a command to repent. Rev. 2:1 

HIS COMMENDATION 
to them was pertaining to their < WORKS >, their willingness to help. Good deeds, acts of kindness and charity.  Many times this becomes a substitute for waiting on the Lord. He understood their < LABOR >, their difficulties, weariness and troubles. Anyone involved in spreading the Gospel will understand the perplexities that are often faced and the fatigue of body, soul and spirit that accompanies that labor of love. < PATIENCE > What a beautiful virtue. The person possessing patience is a person who is greatly blessed of the Lord. Often one must face a segment of humanity that is grossly unrighteous in an attempt to win them for the Lord. It is then that patience has its reward. Rev. 2:2

A CHURCH POSSESSING DISCERNMENT. 
A most essential gift of the Spirit for any assembly. They did not put up with those who were unrighteous and wicked. Those who would gather together with them, but their hearts were not right before the Lord. Men possessing ungodly and ulterior motives. 

Jude calls them, spots, blemishes in their feasts of charity. Jude 1:12 They had discerned certain APOSTLES who had been found in their midst and found them to be false, liars, men without integrity. They tested and examined these false Apostles until they were satisfied that they were not of the Lord. 

The church is given the right to judge any and all of the works or utterances of the < fivefold ministries >. We have the Word of the Lord and will measure all things, accordingly. This is necessary for the church of today more so than any past generation. May the Lord grant wisdom and understanding that every voice that says; < Lord, Lord > is not of the Lord. Rev. 2:2  
  




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.            30

EPHESUS. continued.
A CHURCH MUCH TESTED. 
Able to endure and conquer every situation and problem they faced, with the patience of the Lord. A people who had labored extensively to exalt and magnify His name. Their efforts were centered on the Lord Jesus Christ and the glorification of His name. They did not grow weary in well doing. Rev. 2:3

NEVERTHELESS. 
A forbidding statement of alert and warning pertaining to their love for the Lord. Love is the very essential of life and worship to the Lord. Their relationship is flawed, causing the Lord to desire to deal with the problem. They had < left their first love >. As we are to see, this was a serious and damaging situation that had developed in their midst. 

They deserted that great love which they had in the beginning of their walk with the Lord. It was not a case of, just growing cold, but rather one of neglect and was very serious in the eyes of the Lord. 

It bordered on a serious act nigh to desertion for other things that occupied their love. Does that at all sound familiar? This is one of the signs that Jesus gave as a warning pertaining to the end of the age. The cause of lost love, abounding iniquity. 
     
Here is the cause and effect of the compromise that is evidenced in the church world today. We are living in the fulfillment of the prophecies of the Bible. Mt. 24:12

REMEMBER, THOU ART FALLEN. 
Awake to righteousness and sin not. Direct, and to the point, words that show the standard of the Lord and not those of a worldly church. Look back to the beginning of your experience with the Lord. Revive, refresh that same love and fervor for the Lord. 

You have fallen ,< to be driven off ones course, fall, fall away, be come inefficient > (Strong). Without a shadow of a doubt the issue is extremely serious and must be rectified. Rev. 2:5 

REPENT, a command, yet words of mercy. The only way to restore the high standard from which they had fallen. Repeat your first works. Return to the Lord with a Godly sorrow. With a broken heart and tears of repentance. The condition of the church is seriously flawed. They are warned of an impending judgment. 

A lax and weak fellowship is about to be completely severed by a removal of the light or the lampstand. If that light is removed the darkness will prevail.

If darkness enters in, how great is that darkness. Mt. 6:23 

The only avenue for them to maintain the light of life is to come to the Lord in deep and heartfelt repentance. Twice in this sentence the word repent is used in relationship to the church at Ephesus. It is a call that is made often in the letters to the seven churches. This is a call for repentance for those within the church, not outside. They were complacent and self satisfied. 

They had worked out for themselves a way and manner of Christianity that was comforting to them. Now, suddenly they are confronted with a letter that would once again completely change their smug and complacent ways. Repent, was the message that the Lord sent to them. What does He say to us, today?     





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.           31

EPHESUS. continued.

COMMENDATION. 
A mutual dislike, a detesting of the doctrine of the Nicolaitans (to conquer the people) and their deeds. It needs to be noted that the individuals embracing this heretical doctrine were not hated, just their teaching and their subsequent actions. Both were in opposition to sound doctrine. 

The following is a gleaning from a long forgotten source, pertaining to their teaching. < In order to master sensuality, one must know the whole range of its experience. Must abandon self without reservation to the lusts of the body. Thus involving only the body and not the spirit >. 

A practice of this nature would be in direct conflict with the teaching of Christ. The Lord hates anything contrary to righteous living and we must follow His pattern of life in our likes and dislikes. Rev. 2:6

HEARING WHAT MAY BE SOUNDLESS, TO MANY. 
Almost everyone possesses a set of appendages located on the side of the head. Some are cute {infant}, others wish that they could exchange them for something more attractive. 

Interesting, we have what is termed, an inner ear, where the ability and vital organ of hearing is located. There is an < inner ear > of the spirit enabling one to hear the voice of the Spirit. What < more sure > way is there of hearing the voice of the Spirit than to have the Spirit illuminate the WORD of the Lord to us. 

Those who overcome, the world, the flesh and the devil are granted a great privilege, they may eat, abundantly of the <TREE OF LIFE >. That which was lost to man because of sin is restored, to the new creature, in Christ Jesus. Rev. 2:7 

As our heavenly Father <has>, not only possess life but is the essential quality of life. So, that same essence has been imparted to the Son, who is life.  If we are in Christ Jesus, we then live and possess eternal life or very life, itself. John 5:26 

Through a sincere and exhaustive search of the scriptures we come to a complete knowledge that we are the possessors of eternal life. The Word witnesses to us of that life that is in Christ Jesus. John 5:39 

The gift of God is conferred upon all who come to Him, through our Lord Jesus Christ. There is no other name that can save mankind from his sins and create eternal life within him. Rom. 6:23 

The gift of God in its consummation is the revelation of His Godly nature and character in us, in the church. The divine purpose being that all that the Lord is, might be imparted to us. that His church might live His life here on this earth. His desire is that she might be joined with Him in such a magnitude that they, together, might constitute that marvelous and glorious tree of life. 2 Pet. 1:3 

The close affinity of the Bride to her Bridegroom is made known by the words of the Lord Jesus. < I am the vine, ye are the branches>. Growing together in perfect and absolute unity. One vine with the branches and leaves all dependent on the roots and trunk of the vine. Such flawless harmony can only produce the very best of fruit. The vine will not be without an abundance of spiritual, everlasting fruit. John 15:5  





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.             32

THE CHURCH LOCATED IN SMYRNA. 
Its name meaning, Myrrh. It is here that we find the church of suffering and persecution. There is a number of nations where the church is greatly persecuted today. This is difficult to reconcile with a teaching of ease and prosperity. 

Surely, if there are prophetic utterances to the church promising wealth and well being for these last days it should pertain to all of the body, not just a select group. The reality is, that the church is more apt to suffer for righteousness than it is to gain popularity and political power. One of the signs of the end of the age is the fact that the church will be afflicted and hated. Mt. 24:9 

Those who maintain their salvation unto the end, shall be saved. Mark 13:13 

Smyrna, is representative of the church that is subject to opposition and is living in poverty. Their riches are not of this world. How well we all know that wealth does not bring contentment and satisfaction. Only Christ can possibly meet and satisfy the innermost desires of the human heart. Is persecution a thing of the past? If so why are there Christians being persecuted today? When will our turn come? 

The prophecy of Paul was that all those who have a strong desire to live a holy and Godly life in Christ Jesus SHALL suffer persecution. Is it possible that we are not living that kind of a separated life that generates persecution? Certainly we do not want persecution, but it is recorded that it will happen. 2 Tim. 3:13 

BE WARNED, BE PREPARED. 
They were also troubled by religious hypocrites working within the body of believers by representing themselves as converted Jews. When in reality, they were of the synagogue of Satan. 

False teachers, presenting heresies and false doctrines, misleading the people. We are warned of disruptions that will come within the ranks of Christianity, particularly in the last days. 1 Tim. 4:1 

Jesus warned that there would be MANY false prophets and that MANY would be DECEIVED by them. Mt. 24:11 

Paul warned of FALSE APOSTLES masquerading as apostles of Christ. 2 Cor. 11:13 

This is not an amazing thing, for Satan himself represents himself as an angel of light. His great deception will be accomplished and completed in the person of the antichrist. 2 Cor. 11:14 

That segment of the church that is seeking after the spectacular is positioning themselves for the revelation of the antichrist. He will burst upon the scene with all manner of sensational acts, with ALL POWER, miracles, breath taking signs, {unusual occurrences, manifestations}, many of which have no previous spiritual history. 

They are not recorded in the Word as having take place in Bible days. Lying Wonders, amazing events, impressive even breath taking displays of the extraordinary and very obviously, supernatural. 2 Thes. 2:9 

This is an issue that every generation of Christians have had to face. Unfortunately, we are living in the end of the age where these things are increasing in great volume. Those who deceive are themselves deceived and will multiply in numbers and wickedness as we come closer and closer to the end of the age. 2 Tim. 3:13





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.           33

THE CHURCH AT SMYRNA. continued. 
It is most worthy to note that there are no words of correction, nor a call to repentance in this letter, to this church. The problems they faced were sufficient to guarantee that they were a praying people. Strange how prayer is intensified when we face adverse situations in life. The Lord was well aware of every trial and tribulation that confronted them. 

DO NOT FEAR THOSE THINGS THAT YOU WILL SUFFER. 
Not the kind of prophetic utterance that we would want to hear or that is heard. Rev. 2:9 

The world has come to a time of fear. One of the signs heralding the end of the age and the subsequent coming of Christ, is a spirit of fear griping the hearts of the peoples of the world. Currently, fear is being generated by the acts of unscrupulous men. It can only increase. 

However we would wish it to cease, it will not. Jesus said; that the hearts of men would fail because of those things coming upon the earth. The events to which He was referring are not minor happenings but will be the manifestation of the judgments of the Almighty. He said; < the powers of the heavens would be shaken >, or the heavenly bodies. {NIV}. Luke 21:26 

Not only will this earth shake but whole of the universe will convulse. Peace has been removed from the earth. The red horse and his rider are loosed on this world. His sword of war and murder is swinging mightily. Rev. 6:4 

Any peace that will come will be short lived. When men think that they have created a time which will be called a time of < peace and safety > that will be the time when sudden destruction will break forth on the world, and Christ will come. 1 Thes. 5:3 

The only source of peace is to be found in the Lord Jesus. 


IN THE FACE OF SUFFERING, TRIBULATION AND IMPRISONMENT. 
Be faithful unto death. This is the commitment of the true child of God. Not an easy one, but one of full reward. 

The three Hebrew young men present an excellent example of dedication to the Lord. When faced with a choice of worshipping an idol or staying true to their convictions, they chose the latter. 

Our God is able to deliver, and even if He does not, we will not worship an idol. No marvel, that the Lord sent the fourth man to deliver them. 

Even a furnace heated seven times hotter than usual could not touch them. They were completely untouched by the fire, neither scorched nor did they smell of the fire. The fact that the furnace was heated < seven times > hotter must be considered. Seven times, relates to the end of the age. We could well know and experience the same situations as this church. Be faithful even to death, the supreme sacrifice. 

The reward is great and eternal. Those who overcome will be granted a crown, the emblem of a winner. It is a gift of eternal LIFE. The second death has absolutely no power or authority over those who are triumphant. They have been granted life everlasting. The second death is for the ungodly and involves eternal separation from all that is Godly. Rev. 2:10-11 





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.       34

THE CHURCH AT PERGAMOS. 
A message from the Lord reminding them of His abilities and powers. The sword, an instrument of warfare. We find here another type of the Godhead, the body of the sword and the two razor sharp edges. The Word and the workings of the Spirit must be predominant in the church. 

More than any other method the sword of the Spirit makes known the will of the Lord. Any directions outside of that which is written in the BOOK, must be scrutinized and measured by the BOOK. If it does not fit the < more sure word of prophecy > it must be rejected. Rev. 2:12


THEIR WORKS KNOWN TO THE LORD. 
He knew and appreciated all of their efforts and labors for the Gospel. The central attraction and the pride of the city was a grove, named Nicephorium which contained a variety of heathen temples. It was a center of satanic worship, attested to by the fact that twice in the letter the Lord mentioned that is was the very throne and dwelling place of Satan. 

It is recorded that the symbol of the city was that of a serpent, seems fitting. The church, daily faced the onslaught of evil spirits and powers. There are areas and cities of our world where there seems to be a greater concentration of satanic forces than others. They are commended for two vital spiritual elements in which they persevered. They valued deeply the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. They strongly adhered to His name. 

Strength and victory are to be found in His name. He has given us HIS NAME to use in the salvation of a soul, in receiving an answer to our prayers, in the healing of the sick and in the casting out of devils. John 14:13, Mark 16:17 

Learn to use His name, He has given it to you to use. Why is it so awkward to declare His name? The title <GOD> is so ambiguous, there are literally millions which are called <gods> in the world. Make certain you identify the true and living God by using His name. 

The second evidence of their strength is their devotion to their beliefs, their doctrines. We are to buy the TRUTH and sell it not. The teachings and doctrines of the WORD are too precious to disavow. many today are discounting the depths of the WORD. Wanting to lay them aside, actually compromising the WORD to attain some earthly advantage. 

Jesus taught doctrine, it is not a bad word, as some would treat it. His doctrine was the doctrine of His Father. Those who chose to do the will of the Lord will come to a knowledge of His Word. John 7:16-17 

Antipas, perhaps the local Pastor, faithful unto death, the death of a martyr. Rev. 2:13 

Like Stephen a man of faith and great determination to maintain his faith unto the end. The depth of the spiritual experience of these early martyrs for Christ is to be envied. Their hope and trust was of such magnitude that they willingly gave their lives for the Gospel. 

Knowing that we will be confronted by the same powers of darkness in these end times it is time to deepen our walk with The Lord. Now, today there are those who are being incarcerated in prisons and even martyred for the name of Christ. Surely it is time for some serious thought on our spiritual status, and a very definite increase in our spiritual fervor for Him.  
    




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.         35

PERGAMOS, continued.

A REPRIMAND FROM THE LORD. 
They were at fault for allowing those who believed in the doctrine of Balaam to be in association with them. If they were not allowed to teach publicly such a false doctrine, it is certain that they would propagate it privately. Nevertheless, It was there in their midst and was accepted. 

Balaam, means: < not of the people >. Balaam presents a problem of the prophet who is a hired prophet. Having a mercenary or a personal purpose in his utterances. One seeking a position of leadership or authority in the church, who is willing to speak from their own spirit and not by the Spirit of the Lord. 

We have a certain and positive measurement which needs to be applied to every prophetic declaration. If it leads to worship to other than the true and living Lord, it is false and should be treated as such. Deut. 13:1-3 

The presumptuous prophet was under a judgment which involved a death sentence. Prophecy is a serious manifestation of the Spirit and should not be treated lightly. Deut. 18:20 

The prophecy, if spoken in truth will come to pass. If it is not fulfilled, regardless of who spoke it, it is a presumptuous prophecy. Such a prophet should be silenced. Deut. 18:22 


IDENTIFYING THE STUMBLING BLOCK WITHIN THE CHURCH. 
They are classified as those who follow the way of Balaam. Having a love for the wages of unrighteousness. 2 Pet. 2:15 

Their works are enumerated for us to that we might know them by their works. They are works of iniquity who follow after the wicked ways for the flesh. They are contrary individuals who live in opposition to authority, whether in the church or in secular government. 

This has become the age of protest and discord demonstration after demonstration. They are described as being beast like and as such will be destroyed. Their joy is to riot and create disturbances. 

The pathetic thing about all this is that they are to be found in the church with this sort of an attitude. They are noted as being spots and blemishes mixing and mingling with the household of faith. Sin, adultery, deception practicing covetousness are all signs which are evident in their lives. 

They are termed as being < cursed children >. The wages of sin is death. They follow after the attitude of Balaam. They are waterless wells, dry and empty. Clouds carried about with every whim and new thing that comes along. They are experts in psychology, knowing just the right words to be used in persuading the church to go along with their ideas. 

The hope of the church is in living a life that is consecrated to the Lord. We cannot escape being confronted by all these situations to which the church is bound to be exposed but we can be victorious. 

For, those who would live in righteousness and true holiness will escape these trials that will try the church in the end of the age. Out of all that will come upon the church the Lord will find a pure, holy bride for Himself. 2 Pet. 2:10-18         





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.          36

THE DOCTRINE OF THE NICOLAITANS. 
In the Ephesian church they hated the doctrine of these Nicolaitans, as did the Lord. Rev. 2:6 

Therefore, they would have strongly resisted any attempt to infiltrate their assembly with such a teaching. However, at Pergamos, the acceptance of this doctrine which was contrary to <sound> doctrine was one of the causes of their rebuke by the Lord. The Lord made it very plain that He hated this teaching. Rev. 2:15 

There is an attempt to disregard and discount doctrine in the church world today. True doctrine is extremely important to the body of Christ. Jesus Himself amazed the people of His day with His doctrine or teaching which was with great authority. Mark 1:22 

Paul had warned the Ephesian church of the < wind of doctrine > which would sweep against them time and time again. Bible doctrine is vital to a proper understanding of spiritual things. Eph. 4:14


A COMMAND FROM THE COMMANDER, REPENT. 
Change your attitude. Change your approach to the Word of the Lord. Change your heart. Change your desires. 

REPENT! Repentance is as important to the long time Christian as it is to the person who is coming to Christ for the first time. Repentance involves the confession and the forsaking of our sins. To confess and continue in the same sin is futile. The Word tells us that sin must be abandoned. Prov. 28:13 

The key to a righteous life is found in repentance. Sanctification and cleansing are accomplished through repentance. Not only is forgiveness granted because of repentance and confession, but healing is also available when there is confession of sin. This presents a challenge to the church. 

If we are to exercise our divine rights and the command of the Lord. 

We need within the body of believers those who are of the same nature of the Lord. Those to whom one may confess and find a companion in prayer, who will hold that confession in utter confidence. In some instances, healing may be obtained in acting in obedience to the Word. The prayers of the righteous are powerful and effective. James 5:16  


IMPENDING JUDGMENT. 
Quickly, in a brief period of time they were to be visited of the Lord. He would literally fight, commit warfare, against those involved in false doctrines that were troubling this church. The force that was to be used was the < sword of His mouth > or the Word of the Lord. Rev. 2:16 

That sword is seen again as the sword of His mouth when He is revealed as the one who controls the church. Rev. 1:6 

Ah, that His church might speak His word in power and in truth. When we are led by the Holy Spirit to the truth of the Word there will be but one doctrine, HIS. The sword of His mouth is also effective in the ultimate elimination of all sin and sinners at the conclusion of the great tribulation period, which is also His Second Coming. Rev. 19:15, 21. 

This would create a problem for sinners to be found in the one thousand years of the millennium.  



THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.       37.

HEARING EARS. 
The Spirit of the Lord is faithful in the declaration of the Word and the will of God. Today, more than any time in the past it is necessary, for our own good will, that we are aware of His voice and His words. Those who are victorious are privileged to eat of the < hidden manna >. Rev. 2:17 

When Israel first saw the manna, they said <what is it?> or manna. Moses explained to them that this is the bread which the Lord has given you to eat. Ex. 16:15 

There is a <hidden bread> within the Word of the Lord which is called a <mystery>, by the Word. These mysteries are plainly recorded for all to read, but they are not understood by mere reading and comprehension of the words. 

How blind, even good Christians can be. Jesus said; that it was given to His people to know and understand these mysteries. While to those outside the kingdom it is not granted that they should understand. Mt. 13:11


MERE SYMBOL OR LIVING REALITY? 
That which too frequently is practiced as a symbol or a ritual portrays how man can take a life giving ingredient and make it just ceremonial. Jesus proclaimed Himself as that <living bread> which had descended from heaven. As living bread, it is <LIFE> and imparts the fullness of life to those who partake of the same. 

This bread is His flesh. John 6:51 

This is my body. Luke 22:19 

By faith, we reach beyond that which represents the body and claim the body as our bread of life, that which imparts life, His life to us. The Jews well understood what was implied in the words of the Lord Jesus, for they were immediately offended. John 6:52 

Life in all of its vicissitudes, natural and spiritual, is dependent on His body and His blood. Life, is not life outside of Christ. 

EXCEPT, apart from, without having partaken of the body and the blood a person cannot possess that mysterious eternal life. John 6:53


THE GREAT MYSTERY. 
Very much is said these days concerning the Second Coming of Christ. That is good, for He is coming soon. There is an event that precedes His appearing that will herald His soon Coming. The marriage of the Lamb, the climax of the mystery of Christ and His Church is to be completed and consummated before the Second Coming. Eph. 5:32 

Of this we may be certain, He will sanctify and cleanse His church from all that defiles. Standards of Holiness and righteousness are established by the Word of God and they will be met. He will have for Himself a purified people that measure up fully to the measurement of Christ. They are known as a glorious church. Eph. 5:26-27 

A people filled with the same glory that was evident in Moses when He came down from the mountain. That exceeding great glory that was resident within the Lord Jesus on the mount of transfiguration. The marvelous, great glory that is visible in the Bride as she is pictured in Rev. 12 

Marriages are always beautiful and wonderful events. How much more the marriage of Christ and His church. Perhaps we should focus more attention on the preparation of that which has already begun in His church. The Bride has made herself ready.    



THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.      38

THE CHURCH AT THYATIRA. 
The worldly church. Generally speaking the church of today considers the standards of holiness practiced by the Pioneers of the early Pentecostal movement as being excessive. It is not uncommon to hear their standards referred to in a light and frivolous manner. 

Is the Lord searching for a church that looks like the world, acts like the world, talks like the world, walks like the world, lives like the world and has evidences that set them apart from the rest of the world. The Word of God speaks very strongly pertaining to worldliness in the church, by stating that "if any man love the world, the love of the father is not in him". 1 John 2:15 

Love is an emotion that should be reserved for our fellowship and worship toward the Lord. If we love anything in this world in a greater way than our love for Him we are living in violation of His Word. Our acceptance by the Lord is determined by our willingness to live a life of separation and holiness before Him. He has called us unto Himself, to be like Him in this present world. Note 2 Cor. 6:17


AN INTRODUCTION. 
The Lord Jesus is introduced to this church as one who is manifest in judgment. He is depicted as possessing eyes that are as a flame of fire. A vision that penetrates into the innermost being of all who stand before Him. Flashing, blazing, piercing eyes of fire. Just to read about Him and trying to visualize what the Word is saying about Him is awesome. Certainly, not a very pleasant confrontation if one is not right with the Lord.

His feet like finely polished, brightly shining brass. Brass is indicative of judgment. The day, wherein He will judge the world in righteousness, is quickly approaching. Acts 17:31 When there is a cry in the church of conviction and repentance know that His day is fast approaching, for judgment begins in the house of the Lord. There is a purification on the schedule of the Lord for the sanctification of His church. 1 Pet. 4:17  


THEIR COMMENDATION FROM THE LORD. 
Their works, deeds of kindness and good will. They had a good reputation because of the things they were doing and had accomplished. Their benevolence and care for others was commendable. Kindness of heart and a loving attitude was to be found among them. They were a people who were willing to do service to others and to the Lord. They possessed faith in the Lord and His word. Patience was also a virtue which was manifest among them. Their volume of works had increased until now they were doing more than when the first started. Rev. 2:19 

Works, however plenteous and good are not sufficient before the Lord. Salvation is by grace. Not by works, regardless of how righteous they may be, they will always fall short. Eph. 2:10 

Their faith in the Lord Jesus was made manifest by their works. Faith and works will complement one another and are to be found among those who put their trust in the Lord Jesus. James 2:26 

Works of righteousness are necessary to the church but they must spring from our faith. 




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE        39

THYATIRA, continued.

A WOLF IN THE WOOL OF A SHEEP. 
This letter to the church, was like all others addressed to the shepherd or angel of the church, the Pastor. Rev. 2: 18 

Pastors should consistently be made a subject of prayer. Their responsibility is tremendous. It touches both the secular and the spiritual. 

At some time this Pastor had permitted a woman named Jezebel to become a teacher and a leader in his flock. Unfortunately, it was a bad decision. Gleaning from the Old Testament character with the same name we find one who married king Ahab of Israel, who then became a worshipper of Baal. 1 Kings 16:31 

She was a strong enemy of Elijah and sought to slay him. Making her both a murderer and an enemy of the truth. 1 Kings 19:2 

She was a schemer, a thief and a liar. 1 Kings 21:5-15 

She was a manipulator and an instigator of wickedness. Ahab was dominated by her. 1 Kings 21:25 

She was a flirt and had the heart of an adulteress. 2 Kings 9:30  

She went to the dogs. 2 Kings 9:32-37 

This would seem to be a name that the Lord bestowed on her rather than her birth name. The woman in Thyatira had the same nature as the Jezebel of the Old Testament.


A FRAUDULENT TITLE AND OFFICE EXERCISED. 
It is important to note that <she> claimed the office to which <she> asserted <she> had been called. Really not an unusual situation. She was allowed to use a gift of utterance which would give her great influence in the congregation. 

In some instances such an individual has successfully lead the innocents of the church into dire circumstances. Her position as a teacher would likewise give her a great opportunity to direct the doctrines of the church. 

Her status in the church made her to be a woman of great power and control, it is even possible that the Pastor feared her. Rev. 2:20 

Jesus warned of situations such as this and called them <ravening wolves>. Mt. 7:15 

This spiritual cancer of the church would increase as we approached the end of the age. He warned of <MANY> false prophets and unfortunately <MANY> would be deceived by them. 

It must be admitted that there is a thin line between that which is real and that which is false. In mercy, may the Lord give us the gift of discernment. 

The abilities of these <false ones> is indeed startling, for they will show mighty signs and wonders. Even the very elect will be shaken and confused by their manipulations. Mt. 24:24 

Keep your eyes on Jesus. We do not follow signs and wonders. Signs and wonders will follow them that believe. Paul warned Timothy that men of this sort would increase, and they have. 

They themselves being deceived what else can they do but deceive. We are made to wonder, at times, if perhaps a spirit of divination has invaded the church. So many must obtain their directions by one called a prophet. What ever happened to <praying through> in order to know the will of the Lord for ourselves? 2 Tim. 3:13 




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.     40

THYATIRA. continued.

JEZEBEL, A SOURCE OF IMMORAL TEACHING. 
Creating havoc in the church by teaching contrary to the scriptures. Wresting the Word to fit her life style. Thus, causing those who were seeking a less restrictive way of life to fall into all manner of sexual sin, from porno to adultery. Rev. 2:20 

The prohibitive elements of the Law, carried over into the church were minimal. Among them were the exact sins that permissive Jezebel sanctioned and practiced. Acts 15:20, 29 


HOW GREAT IS THE MERCY OF THE LORD. 
She was allotted a period of time to come to repentance. How long, we do not know but in that <space> she could have found perfect forgiveness and absolute pardon. Who can say? 

Was it pride that kept her from repenting? Stubbornness? or was she too deeply involved in her sin to cease and ask for forgiveness? We are certain that she was not willing to be humbled and did not repent. Rev. 2:21 

The space allotted Nebuchadnezzar was twelve months. Dan. 4:29 A person living in that < SPACE > today would do well to repent and cease from sin. There is a day of reckoning where all mercy will cease. 


JUDGMENT DAY. 
Having called to repentance and granted time to do so, the only remaining consequence is to face the sentence. For Jezebel it is a bed or a couch of affliction. The NIV calls it a bed of suffering. While the AMP, adds anguish. 

Sickness and disease often confine one to bed. With her immoral living a dire sickness could easily have been contracted. Those who were her lovers and embraced her type of loose living were also called to repentance. 

There is a time element that is featured here in the judgment that was to be meted to her followers. They were to be consigned to great tribulation. 

How about the great tribulation? A time of extreme suffering, pressing distress and sever affliction (AMP). One horrible price to pay for a season of sinful pleasures. Rev. 2:23


REWARDED ACCORDING TO WORKS. 
If those works are sinful, the price paid is death. Her children, her adherents face the judgment of eternal separation from the Lord. They were to become an example to all the other churches. Their punishment was not confined to their church alone but to all the existing churches, even down to our day. 

While we look on the exterior, the Lord in love and kindness looks on the heart. He weighs the motives, the thoughts and intents of the heart. Rev. 2:23 

From eternity He knows every action and deed that we commit, both good and bad. Yet, He is merciful and long suffering and would lovingly lead us to repentance. He is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. 2 Pet. 3:9      



THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.     41

APPROBATION OF THE LORD. 
How important it is to know that we are accepted and appreciated. In particular, that we are pleasing the Lord. There was a definite resistance to, and a rejection of the false teachings for which this church (Thyatira) is noted. The < depths of Satan > would indicate the seriousness of the practices to which they had plunged, following the teaching of Jezebel. This savors of spiritualism and the powers of the occult. A false, lying spirit that would imitate and duplicate the true Spirit of God. Rev. 2:24 

There is no length to which Satan will not go to create havoc in the church. He is our constant archenemy. Enumerating the wiles of our foe not a pleasant subject, but a necessary one, particularly so as we approach the end of the age. 

A common denominator that is found in them, is a spirit of pride. A magnifying of self, and so often the mighty works that were manifest somewhere else, while locally and presently there is nothing spectacular. 

They are labeled false apostles. Workers of deceit. Self appointed. They follow the pattern of Satan who transforms himself into an angel of light. 

Church be aware, you may be under attack. If not now, you certainly will be tried and tested. Maintain the presence of the Spirit of God in your life and in your gatherings. 2 Cor. 11:13-15


PROMISES TO THE VICTORIOUS. 
Those who persevere unto the end are they who will win. After all, it is the conclusion of the race that will determine the winner. Those things that we have put to the test, the good things of the Lord are to be sustained unto the end. They are worth while and of great value. 1 Thes. 5:21 

HOLD FAST, without vacillating to our hope and profession in the Lord Jesus. This does not mean that we sit idly by and await an attack, but we continue in the glorious moving and operation of the Spirit. Knowing, that the Lord will add even more knowledge, wisdom and power to His church. We are not fully equipped, there is much more to come. Heb. 10:23 

Authority, rule, power to rule the nations will be designated to the last day church. His Bride will be His Queen and will rule in accord, as one, with Christ. Rev. 2:26 


MORE THAN CONQUERORS. 
The leadership is of ultimate strength. It is the strength of the < strong one >. It is therefore a rod of iron which becomes the scepter of the kingdom. The Lord Himself. That position of a victorious people and of being equal to their leader is afforded His Bride. 

None can stand before the army of the Lord and continue to exist. The vessels, bodies of dirt and clay will be utterly smashed and broken before the army of the Lord. Rev. 2:27 

They are the great battle force depicted in the words of Joel. A burning fire preceding them and flames following after them. Before them a land as beautiful as Eden but behind them, a desolate wilderness. The land completely destroyed and emptied. 

None will be able to stand or fight against them in the day of the judgment of the Lord. He will fulfill His Word and visit the earth with manifold judgments. Joel 2:3      




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE               42

THE GIFT OF THE MORNING STAR. 
When the Lord slew Balaam, that is, caused him to fall into a trance true words of pure prophecy proceeded from his mouth. The subject being the star, or great shining light, that would come out of Jacob. { Interesting, that of the patriarchs, Abraham (Father), Isaac (the Son), it is Jacob who is a type of the Holy Spirit. 

It is the Holy Spirit who illuminates our hearts, revealing Christ to us}. Balaam would see Him, but not in his sojourn here on earth. He would face Him at the great judgment bar of Christ, as will all who have been born into this world. Num. 24:17


AMAZINGLY, HIS STAR LED WISE MEN TO WORSHIP HIM. 
The simplicity of the scriptures settles the question of the star which the wise men followed. Note, they recognized Him as the King of the Jews. They had come to worship Him. These men were not magicians, they were wise men from the East or the rising of the sun. Mt. 2:1 

Because Daniel was elevated to the office of < master of the magicians > does not mean that he was one of them, Because of the presence of the Lord in his life he was greater than them all, put together. Daniel consistently maintained his faith in the Lord. 
  
He could give understanding and wisdom where the others failed. Dan. 5:11 

The star which led them was < HIS STAR >, it was not one of the stars of the heavens, nor was it a conjunction of several stars or planets. It was that < STAR > that arose out of Jacob. 

That STAR was different from all others. It had the character of a guide. It led them to the place where the Christ child was domiciled. They did not go to the stable. 

That STAR, STOOD over the place, it was positioned to indicate the house where He was. Mt. 2:9 

These men were traveling in the will of the Lord and in revelation. Who else could see the star? Herod nor his wisemen had not seen it. He had to inquire of them as to the time of its appearance. Mt. 2:7 

This STAR, was HIS STAR and it was supernatural and spiritual.


THIS IS THAT LIGHT THAT SHINES IN A DARK PLACE. 
The light is the glory of the Lord. This is that sure word of prophecy. We are now living in the light that shines in the darkness of sin and iniquity, but we anticipate the DAWNING of a new day. A day when the day star will complete fill our hearts and lives with the glory of Himself. 2 Pet. 1:19 

There is a day, appointed by the Lord, when the fullness of the glorious light of that STAR will completely fill the life, and being of every member of the Bride. The splendor and exceeding great glory of the Lord upon her is noted in Rev. 12:1. 

Every heavenly light bearing body is depicted as a part of her bearing and glorious status, words, as wonderful as they are do not begin to declare the glory that will be manifest in her. She is one, in every aspect with that glorious ONE who is the offspring of David and the bright and morning star.  Rev. 22:16    




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.        43

THE CHURCH AT SARDIS. 
The church with a reputation of being alive, spiritual and active, in the view of others. However, the fact of the matter was that they were dead. There are many church organizations with great and impressive histories, but they are living on their fame and popularity, alone. This is a pathetic condition, that most unfortunately exists even in our day. Rev. 3:1 


THEIR WORKS ARE ACKNOWLEDGED. 
Deeds that would involve all manner of good works. No doubt a mature, sophisticated group of believers, who had settled into a form of service and had become so content with it that they were gradually losing out with the Lord. Their works were not of such a nature that they were pleasing to the Lord. They did not pass inspection. Rev. 3:1-2 

That recognition is accompanied by a strong, three fold warning. BE WATCHFUL, wake up, be alert, arise out of your lethargy. Being watchful is not an uncommon warning from the Lord. Jesus, associated watchfulness with His return. He stated; < ye know not what hour your Lord cometh >. Mt. 24:42 

Please note He limited the lack of knowledge to the precise hour. Last day events are alerting us to the fact of His soon coming. The times and the seasons, when completely fulfilled will alert the church to the nearness of His appearing. There are several prophetic occurrences which precede His blessed appearing yet to be accomplished. 1 Thes. 5:1 

Not the least of which is the ministration of the Gospel to the entire world, then the end shall come. Mt. 24:14 

STRENGTHEN, make secure, those spiritual qualities that are so vital and which are so close to dying. Become established, settled in a spiritual environment and life. The Lord will establish us by WORD and WORK. 2 Thes. 2:17 

REMEMBER, your beginnings, the joy with which you receive the blessings of the Spirit into your life. 

REMEMBER, the thrill of the teaching and depth of the word which you received. Be obedient to it. Follow your first convictions and willingness to receive and live out the precepts of the Word. Come to repentance once again. Rev. 3:2-3


COMING AS A THIEF. 
On this occasion, it is to a church that has neglected the call of the Spirit to repentance. To these He will come as a thief, and <THEY> will not know the hour of His coming. Rev. 3:3 

This element of surprise is not to the whole of His people. There are Christians who are not in darkness. That day will not come upon them as a thief in the night. They are the children of light. Those walking in the illumination and comprehension of the Word and the Spirit. If we love the Lord and are walking in the power of His life, we should not anticipate that day coming to us as a thief. We are children of the day and not of the night. We walk in light, the light of the world, His light.  

     

THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.       44

THE CHURCH AT SARDIS. (continued).

A REMNANT. 
In the midst of every congregation there is a group that maintain a standard that makes them worthy of the blessing of the Lord. In Sardis it is a small portion of the whole who serve the Lord in true holiness and righteousness. 

These have not been contaminated with the conduct and attitudes that develop in a church of this nature. Robes of righteousness will be given them as a reward for their faithfulness. 

Spiritual surroundings did not deter them from living a life that was pleasing to the Lord. They are accounted as those who are deserving of the privilege of walking with the Lord. 

They are blessed for they did not flow with the general direction of the church. The Lord will always have His seven thousand who will not bow to Baal. Rev. 3:4


THE CHALLENGE. 
Addressed to each of the churches is this invitation to be a victorious Christian. Our walk with the Lord is an individual choice. we need not follow the example or short coming of others. 

Each and every one in the bride will be a strong triumphant believer in Christ who has been obedient to His Word. They are clothed, surrounded and bathed in the glorious light of the Lord. Their raiment is WHITE. {Greek leukos - from luke, light}. They are a blaze with the majestic glory of the Almighty. Rev. 3:5 

The garments of the Bride include that fine twined linen, that has a sheen to it. Most certainly she will shine forth the glory of the Lord. A cloth that is pure and white. WHITE. {Greek. lampros, magnificent or sumptuous in appearance. Gorgeous, bright, clear}. This is a manifestation of her righteousness. Rev. 19:6 

No wonder John describes her as a being of light. Clothed with the sun, standing on the moon and crowned with a diadem of twelve stars. He who is light, has made her to be what He is. She too is a being of light. Rev. 12:1


BLOTTED OUT? 
The mere suggestion of a name being blotted out of the book of life is a frightening thing. It would not have been mentioned if it were not a possibility. This must be considered very seriously. To blot out would mean that ones name was erased, obliterated or wiped out. Thus, causing a loss of eternal life, and everlasting separation from the Lord. Rev. 3:5 

Such a thought on the part of the Lord is not without precedence. Even while He was giving Moses the Law, the Lord wanted to blot out a sinful and disobedient nation. Deut. 9:14 

Fortunately for Israel Moses became a mediator and prayed that if the Lord could not forgive them to blot out His name from the book of the Lord. Ex. 32:32 

The Psalmist prayed that his enemies be blotted out of the book of the living and that their names not be written with the names of the righteous. Ps. 69:28 

It is imperative that a walk of righteousness be the goal and aim of our lives. Being continuously reproved without repentance produces a separation that is without remedy. Prov. 29:1  





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.             45

THE CHURCH AT PHILADELPHIA. Known as the church of brotherly love. The love indicated in the name Philadelphia comes from a root meaning, love of a friend, fraternal affection, human, natural love. The love of God is agape love which is far greater. Love, as only the Lord can love. The Lord would reveal Himself to His church as:

    HE THAT IS HOLY. All that the word HOLY can be made to imply describes His being and make-up. He is the personification of all that can be constituted as HOLY. When unclean spirits confronted Jesus they were forced to cry out and acknowledge Him as the < Holy One of God >. So great and forceful is He as being the HOLY ONE that unrighteousness and evil could not stand an encounter with Him. Mark 1:24 

The completeness of His HOLINESS is so overwhelming and comprehensive that when He judges and avenges, it is still an act of Holiness and justice. Rev. 6:10 

Because He is HOLY, He is the only HIGH PRIEST. None other could by any means fulfill the necessary qualifications. As the Holy One He has offered to God the perfect sacrifice. Satisfying forever the demands of a Holy and Just God for a righteous and full atonement. Heb. 7:26-27

    HE IS TRUE. There is no greater example of that which is true. All that is true is to be found in the Lord Jesus. The word is also translated <freeman>. There is none who are as free as Christ and those who put their trust in Him. 1 Cor. 7:22 He is likewise entitled, the faithful and true witness. Rev. 3:14 

Any verdict or judgment made by Him is a decision that is faultless and irreproachable, for it is just and true. It will not be reviewed nor altered. It is final and eternal. Rev. 16:7 

His Words are true and cannot fail. Rev. 21:5-6


    HE POSSESSES THE KEY OF DAVID. 
The ability to have complete control over all those that are permitted to have access and egress to pass through the door. Only through Jesus, who is the door and holds the key may any gain entrance into the eternal, everlasting kingdom of God. Full authority to open or shut is in the power of His hands. Rev. 3:7  

No one will ever be able to force the lock or achieve entrance in some other manner. Isa. 22:22  

Not only does He hold the key of David but also the keys of hell and death. There is no area of life, death or eternity known to man and to God that is not under His command. Rev. 1:18 

The church built on the rock Christ Jesus, will be granted the keys to the kingdom of God. Accompanying the keys is the undiminished power and supremacy of that kingdom which has been delegated to the people of the kingdom. The same ability to bind and loose, to close and shut, which will evoke the exact response in heaven, has been gifted to the church of the Lord Jesus. Mt. 16:19 

The church is His representative here on earth and must demonstrate the same capabilities that were manifest in Him. The workings of His kingdom can only be made known by the might and power of a people who are filled with His Spirit. The Spirit is our empowerment, His name is our authority, His Word instructs us and encourages us to be like Him, in all things.





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.             46

THE CHURCH AT PHILADELPHIA (continued).

AN OPEN DOOR ESTABLISHED FOR THEM. 
The Lord was well aware of their works. Their abilities and their willingness to serve the Lord was commendable in the sight of the Lord. A door of ministry had been established for them. Rev. 3:8 

Paul spoke of a great door that had been opened where he would minister the gospel. 1 Cor. 16:9 

To the church it was an opening which no man would be able to close. With the Lord there are no impossibilities. There is not a closed door that He will not penetrate with the gospel in these last days. 

Though their strength was, the positive fact is that they did have sufficient strength to accomplish any task set before them. The strength of the Lord is made manifest and perfected
through the weakness and frailties that are in the church. 2 Cor. 12:9


A CHURCH THAT PLACED GREAT VALUE ON THE WORD OF THE LORD.
They were a people who lived according to the teachings of the Word. A deep love and appreciation for the Word is a must for any who would grow in the Lord. Without the Word, the church is anemic, weak and ineffective. Rev. 3:8 

Spiritual growth is dependent on the Word of the Lord. If we say we love the Lord then that love has to be expressed in a strong desire to know Him better. We know Him through His Word, for He is the Word. The sign of our love for Him is not in lip service but in obedience to His Word. How can one obey the Word if they do not know the Word? John 14:21 

This is particularly true as we approach the end of the age. It is essential, in the light of the fact they we are living in the last days, that we pay great heed to the teaching of the Word. Those who live according to the Book are and will be blessed of the Lord. Rev. 22:7


THEY DID NOT DENY HIS NAME. Could this have been a problem in the seven churches? The very existence of this statement is indicative of the value which the Lord places on His own name. He wants to be known and called by His name. He is identified by His name. His character and nature are revealed by His name. The Bible is replete with the revelation of His wondrous and glorious name. There is only one name that will bring salvation to the penitent, and that is His name, the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Acts 4:12 The author of that name was God Himself and was bestowed on Him by very God. His name is greater, higher and more powerful than any name that has ever been named among men. The day will come when ALL men, who have lived in the past, the present and whatever future remains, will bow and confess that Jesus is the Christ. Love His name. Use His name in prayer. When speaking of Him address all reference to Him by identifying His by His name. In a world filled with <gods> of every kind it is well to acknowledge and identify the one to whom we refer when speaking of God. Phil. 2:9-10 



THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.          47

AN EVIL FORCE RESISTING THEM. 
Called the synagogue of Satan, which was composed of certain individuals who claimed to be Jews but were not. A mark of condemnation placed on these who were hypocritical in their actions. Paul speaks of false brethren in Gal. 2:4 

Of dissemblers who separated themselves from the gentiles for fear of the Jews. Gal. 2:12-13 

And of those who did not walk uprightly in following the truth of the gospel. Gal. 2:14 

Any or all of these attitudes that would be displayed would indicate that there were those who created problems in the body of believers, even as there are today. They were labeled as being liars, which would very definitely identify them as being members of the synagogue of Satan. Satan is recorded as being lustful, a murderer, not abiding in the truth and the father of lies and liars. John 8:44 


KEPT FROM THE HOUR OF TRIBULATION. 
Cared for in a special way because they had adhered to the Word in a very patient manner. Rev. 3:10 

Some of the promises pertaining to the end of the age seem to be a long time in coming to pass. The Lord is working according to His schedule and not ours. He is following His agenda perfectly and on time. There is an appointed day for each item that is to come to pass. Acts 17:31 

This special care and protection is to be in a time of trial that will have its affect on the whole of the world. Be warned, that while there are those who are delivered from the great tribulation not all who call themselves Christian will escape from the trials of that time. Repeatedly in the scriptures we are told that there are certain spiritual preparations that must be followed in order to be freed from the events that take place during the tribulation. Failure to measure up to the standards that the Word has established for that glorious deliverance will result in one entering into the great tribulation.


HOLD FAST. 
What more could we want for a warning? Jesus is coming and His coming is inevitable. But He will not receive unto Himself a cold or a luke warm church. His Bride has made herself ready. Rev. 19:7 

Imagine the embarrassment, and in this case great consternation, when the Bridegroom comes for His bride and she is totally unprepared. The maintenance of a Christian life that is established by the Word of the Lord is of prime importance to every member of the body of Christ. 

The Bible is our guide. Those who keep its saying and teachings are blessed of the Lord. Rev. 22:7 Keep, nurture, persevere in a spiritual life that is well pleasing to the Lord.

Beware, lest some unscrupulous person rob you of your crown. It is important that we realize that the crown can be taken from us, by theft (Satan is a clever thief), or by neglect, or by complete disregard. Rev. 3:11 

Make certain that your wedding garment is prepared, cleaned, pressed and shining brightly. The Spirit of the Lord is being poured out all over the world. The last day revival will culminate in the wedding of the Lamb and only those who have prepared for that beautiful event will participate.   



THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.          48

A SPECIAL PROMISE TO THOSE WHO ARE VICTORIOUS.

TO BECOME A PILLAR IN THE HOUSE OF THE LORD. 
A pillar representing that which is upright, steadfast, stable, unchanging, and a strong support. Rev. 3:12 

No doubt this is a reference to the pillars on the porch of the Temple of Solomon. The pillars through which all who enter into the Temple must pass. Guardians of the door, the entrance. The pillar on the right was named Jachin, meaning, He (God) will establish. In Christ Jesus the way into the true Temple has been established and will never be altered. 

The pillar on the left was named Boaz, meaning, in Him (God) is strength. The strength of the Lord is made manifest in His bride. All that she is or is to become is because of the impartation of His strength to her. 1 Kings 7:21 

James, Peter and John were recognized, by the early church as pillars. Gal. 2:9 

This is a permanent, eternal status that never will be altered. Those who are triumphant cannot be separated from the eternal, heavenly Temple of the Lord. 


HOW IMPORTANT IS A NAME? 

THE NAME OF GOD. 
A name written by the revelator. Rev. 3:12 

A name is important because it identifies ownership. People whose names have become famous are sought after in order to obtain their autograph. The signature of some could be of extremely great value. To have the NAME OF GOD written upon one is absolutely the greatest. 

It is an imperative that this be accomplished so that we might be identified with Him. It indicates His desire toward that individual bearing His name. God, the Father, does indeed have a name and He has proclaimed that name to be LORD. Isa. 42:8 

That very special segment of the Bride of Christ will bear not only the Fathers name but the all important name of the Son in their foreheads, for they are in complete submission to the Bridegroom. They are married to Him, therefore they bear His name. Rev. 14:1 

The redeemed will likewise and that most gladly bear His name. Rev. 21:2 There is none other name that can compare to that of the Lord Jesus Christ.


THE NAME OF THE CITY OF GOD. 
The city is the true CITY OF GOD, that which He, Himself has named the NEW JERUSALEM. There must be a comparison drawn, from the scriptures, in relationship to the old and the NEW. To raise the hopes of a nation that the Lord has an interest in the old and that He will restore it is, to mislead that nation. 

Much better, is the truth of the writings of the Apostle pertaining to the blessed hope of the NEW JERUSALEM. The contrast of the old and the new is comparable to flesh and spirit. One is natural, carnal and will pass away. The other is spiritual and is therefore eternal and will never pass away. The NEW JERUSALEM will grace the heavens of the Lord forever and ever. 



THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.         49

CONTRASTING, CONVERGING AND CONFLICTING COVENANTS. 
New Jerusalem and its eternal status is the conflux of these two Covenants, both ordained by the Lord. One, the old, was ordained to be a schoolmaster to lead its adherents to Christ. Bringing them to a place of < justification by faith > and not by works. Gal. 3:24 

Faith in Jesus Christ replaced the works of the Law. Therefore the Law is no more valid for salvation. Now that faith is the door to eternal life, through the Lord Jesus Christ the school has been closed and no one should continue longer under the old schoolmaster. Gal. 3:25  


THE CONTRAST IS THE SIMILARITY YET THE GREAT DIFFERENCE. 
The root, origin and creator of both covenants is the Lord. Because of the ineffectiveness of the old the New was established. The weakness of the old was because of the flesh, human frailties and the willful desires of the men who were its human leaders. Rom. 8:3 

The sons of Abraham, born of different mothers, under different circumstances were extremely dissimilar. The one, Ishmael, was born of the will of carnal flesh and not according to the promise that the Lord had given to Abraham that he would have a son for an heir, Isaac. Gal. 4:22-23 

These two ladies are made to represent the two covenants. Strangely, the Lord seemed to get the covenants confused and exchanged the one with the other.  


JERUSALEM WHICH NOW IS. 
This famous city, the city which the great religions of the world focus on as the heart and core of their religion is given a status that is unique by the Apostle Paul. It is the statements that he made which we will consider here. He, himself, being a Hebrew of the Hebrews and well versed in the Law. Phil. 3:5 

He did not speak, nor is this written from an anti-Semitic point of view. The purpose is to seek out and embrace the truth as it is recorded in the Book of Truth. 

JERUSALEM WHICH NOW IS, is represented by an Egyptian woman who was a slave to Abraham and Sarah. Egypt to Israel and to Bible scholars portrays BONDAGE. In the switch, Hagar symbolizes Mount Sinai, the giving of the Law. Her children are born into bondage, slavery. These are born after the flesh and not according to the promise. Gal. 4:23-25


JERUSALEM WHICH IS FROM ABOVE. 
That which is spiritual, and eternal. The city, the nation, the people who are to be counted as the people of faith in Christ. This is the city of freedom. Sarah and her son Isaac are they who represent this glorious freedom which is in Christ Jesus. Paul embraced the whole of the New Testament family into the group who are noted as being the children of the promise. Gal. 4:26, 28 

This New Jerusalem is the Bride of Christ. SHE, and SHE alone may be stated as being the Holy City of the Lord. Rev. 21:2 

Never, absolutely never, will there ever be any kind of a contaminate found in that city. It is composed of people who have been through the test and have been purified and sanctified and made like unto His Holiness. No abomination nor lie will ever be found there. Rev. 21:27 

THIS IS THE HOLY CITY. None other is worthy of the name.       




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.     50

HIS NEW NAME. 
From before the very beginning the Lord Jesus was the Word of God, or the Logos. John 1:1 

That Word was from eternity as self-existent as the Father. Equal with the Father in matters pertaining to God. He possessed all the divine nature and attributes of God. Phil. 2:6 

In order to open a way of eternal life for all mankind, He laid aside His eternal status, powers and glory to take upon Himself the form of man and become a servant. Literally, making Himself to be nothing. Completely humbling Himself. Phil. 2:7 

As the Word, not only was He in fellowship and companionship with His Father, but it is recorded that the Word was God. John 1:1 

The prophet Isaiah had proclaimed that one of the God given names whereby He would be called was Emanuel, or God with us. Isa. 7:14 Mt. 1:23 

God veiled, in human form, yet visiting man in the demonstration of great power and glory of the Lord. God, in Christ was bridging a gap that existed in His relationship with man. He brought man unto Himself. Purified and sanctified him that He might dwell in man, making him His temple.


HIS NAME, HAS BECOME THE NAME OF HIS FAMILY. 
To give homage and honor to the Father is to acknowledge the blessed name that He has given to His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. The whole of the family, those which are already in heaven and those remaining on earth are to bear His glorious name. Eph. 3:15 

They were first called Christians at Antioch. Acts 11:26 

To be willing to be called a Christian is evidence that, that individual is ready to bear all the blessings and the persecutions that are associated with His name. A Christian is an anointed follower of Christ. 

It is not a term that may be properly used to differentiate between the heathen and those who are not, for instance, those born in a < so called > Christian country. 

It is not a generic name, but is to meant to refer to those who specifically are willing to identify themselves as a people who are committed to Christ.

HIS NAME. 
The name by which He would be identified was given by the Lord to Joseph, before His birth. It would be JESUS, Joshua, or Savior. That name was and is a name that is shared by many. But God, went far beyond that common name and not only added to His name, but made Him to be all that is hidden in His full name. He is both Lord and Christ, in name, and in the enforcement of the powers invested in His name. God MADE Him to be both LORD and CHRIST. Acts 2:36 

This is not a work of man or the early church but is a divine act of God. He has been exalted to the very highest position in heaven and earth, in time and eternity. He was given that name which is superior to every other name, that has ever or ever will exist. This is the choice, the act of very God Himself. 

Virtually, God named Jesus with the name of the Father, Lord, and the name of the Spirit, Christ, or anointing. To recognize, to worship, to exalt that name is to glorify the one who named Him, His Father. Phil. 2: 9-11 

Honor His name and thereby glorify the Father.       



THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.     51

THE CHURCH AT LAODICEA. Laodicea, means, justice of the people. This is not only a permissive church but also a conforming church, with a controlled pulpit. There is not much that the Lord would correct in this
church that is not common in the church of today. It is therefore very fitting that we pay particular heed to this message of the Lord directed to His church.


A THREEFOLD REVELATION OF THE BEING OF CHRIST. The AMEN. 
The one who is steadfast and faithful. Morally, true and certain. To build up or support. To foster as a parent or a nurse. Rev. 3:14 

Christ is the verification of all the promises of the Lord. He is the seal, the assurance that they will be fulfilled in our lives. 1 Cor. 1:20 

The WITNESS. The record of the plan and purposes of the living God. He likewise is the one who brings to fruition all the promises of the Lord. His witness is steadfast and certain. He is the faithful witness (Greek, martus, martyr). A true witness is a witness unto death and so was Christ. When all else fail, He will not, it is impossible for Him to fail or let us down. He is the beginning of the creation of the Lord. He is the chief architect. His is the power and magistrate. 

He commenced the creation of God. He has sustained it and He will bring it to its conclusion. He is the head of the church, controlling its movements, its thought patterns and its way of life. He is the resurrection and the life, the first born of a new, eternal, everlasting generation. Col. 1:18 

Some of whom will be resurrected while others will be translated into His glorious kingdom. 


WORKS WELL KNOWN, BUT A PITIFUL CONDITION PREVAILING. 
A church that is neither in nor out. Spiritually stagnant. Not of the world but not separated from the world. Identified as not being cold, completely missing the mark or being hot, on fire for the Lord. 

The desire of the Lord is that one of the two prevail, most satisfactorily the condition of being on fire for the Lord. Instead they were somewhere in between and were termed to be lukewarm or tepid. A condition that to some is intolerable but to others immaterial. However to the Lord the condition was unbearable. Rev. 3:15 

The resulting action taken by the Lord was to spew or spit them out of His mouth. Rev. 3:16 

That would entail rejection and separation from the Word. The Word of God is the Word of His mouth. While it is crude and your forbearance is requested, the word is; spew, (Greek. emeo, to vomit). It illustrates the disdain of the Lord toward that which is not real. A church that is just playing church. Possessing the necessary equipment but displaying the usage of the same, motivated by the spirit of man and not by the Spirit of the Lord. 

This is the church of our generation and will be held responsible before the Lord for its lack of real spiritual fire. In His mercy and compassion may the Lord rekindle His fire in each and every heart of His church. The situation is desperate.      



THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.        52

THE CHURCH AT LAODICEA. (continued).

THOU SAYEST. 
I am rich. Is that a good thing? To the church of Laodicea it had become a hindrance and a stumbling block, as we shall see. The first thing that must be considered is our attitude toward riches or money. If the obtaining of riches is the desire and drive of the heart then it has become sin and is in control. 

Here is a sure word of prophecy and a < thus sayeth the Lord > which is as potent and true as any spoken in the general assembly. This is the voice of the Lord; < They that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition > 1 Tim. 6:9 

A stern warning from the Word of the Lord which we cannot ignore. A love for money is the root of all evil. Money in itself is not the problem. It is a love, a strong lust and desire to obtain it, regardless of the means, which becomes the dilemma. This was a situation which was found in the early church for some had already lost their faith and were experiencing the pain and sorrows that accompany riches, especially when ill gained. 1 Tim. 6:10 

One would think, that men of faith, would not need to appeal constantly for funds with which to run their organizations. Is not faith enough? Will faith not work to supply all of our needs? 


I HAVE NEED OF NOTHING. 
There is something about a statement such as this that seems to exclude the Lord. A warning of the Lord to Israel is just as legitimate for us today. The Lord saw them in their <plenty > and warned them lest their heart be filled with self-sufficiency and they forget the Lord. Deut 8:14 

Lest they come to a bragging point and say; < My power, my strength, my hands have produced this wealth for me > Deut. 8:17 and they forget that it all comes from the blessing of the Lord. Deut. 8:18-19 

There is a certain judgment when the Lord is forgotten and forsaken. Watch and pray. 


UNKNOWINGLY. 
What a pathetic condition, not being able to rightly evaluate our own spiritual condition. Interesting that the Spirit mentioned five human emotions and conditions which all would avoid if at all possible. 

Wretched, unhappy, distressed, dejected and forlorn. Miserable, uncomfortable, distressed and uneasy. Poor, when are the rich poor? Riches do not buy peace of heart and mind. Money does not purchase satisfaction. Blind, eyes closed to spiritual things and focused on the beggarly elements of this world. The lust of the eye is never satisfied, regardless of its possessions. Naked, exposed, others seeing what the rich cannot see because of the blindness of their eyes to spiritual things. 

The church has gone from the store front to palatial church structures. It is adequate evidence that we have come to the status of the Laodicean church and will know its problems and blessings, for the Lord always has a way for correction and betterment for His people.



THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.    53

THE COUNSEL OF THE LORD. 
In a day when counseling has become a part of the ministry, with some congregations having highly trained and effective professional counselors on staff, it is well to remember the counsel that is found in the WORD of the LORD. The counsel of the Lord is threefold and has not changed from that day to this. Rev. 3:18 

BUY TESTED, PURE GOLD. 
An excellent investment, yielding positive and eternal returns, when it is purchased from the Lord. Peter likened it to the <trial of your faith >, which is of far greater value than the purest of gold. The reward of faith is found in praise, honor and glory, at the revelation of the Lord Jesus. 1 Pet. 1:7 

The mercy seat of the tabernacle and temple was of pure. The place of ultimate atonement and worship. That most exclusive and awesome place of the shining glory of the Lord. Ex. 25:17 

The Word of the Lord, and obedience to it is to be accounted as that of highest value. Its worth is greater than the best and purest of gold. Ps. 119:127 

Natural gold will one day be absolutely worthless. The gold of the Lord assures one of riches that never fade, fail or lose its value.

WHITE RAIMENT. 
A casual stroll through the book of Revelation will quickly evaluate one as to the worth and great necessity of being clothed in the white, glistening garments of the redeemed. It is the heavenly robe that is worn by the righteous saints of the Lord. Garments so beautiful that we will never think of changing them, nor will they ever become < common or boring >. Rev. 19:8 

It is also a sign of acceptance and worthiness. Robes that belong to those who have walked with Him. They are triumphant Christians who will be acknowledged by the Lord. Rev. 3:4-5 

It is clothing that will assure them of acceptance when Jesus comes as a thief. Rev. 16:15 It is the apparel that will be worn by those who died as martyrs for their faith in the Lord Jesus, during the great tribulation. They rejected the mark of the antichrist, choosing death instead. Rev. 7:13-14.


ANOINT YOUR EYES. 
Thus, being granted the ability to see and understand. Rev. 3:18 

The eyes, the gate of wisdom and knowledge. The door of the soul and spirit of man. Anointed sight creates vision and comprehension enabling the individual who is anointed to comprehend the Word of the Lord. All may possess the ability to read the Word but it is the anointed eye that discerns that which is revealed in the Word. A book written by the anointing of the Spirit may only be understood when the reader is anointed by the same spirit. While men were the scribes, they were unctionized by the Spirit of the Lord. They wrote by inspiration. 2 Pet. 1:21 

Unfortunately there are those who are like the religionist of old, seeing but do not see. Likewise, who have ears to hear whereby they hear but do not hear, with an understanding. Mt. 13:13 

The things that are easily seen and the things that are temporal, earthly and will pass away. The things not seen by the unaccounted eye are those things of the Spirit and are eternal, everlasting in the heavens. Our vision must be focused on that which is Spiritual and eternal, for it is everlasting and will never cease. 2 Cor. 4:16 




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.           54

THE CHURCH AT LAODICEA.  (continued).

THE MANIFESTATION OF TRUE LOVE. 
Everyone who is loved of the Lord will receive the same treatment from the Lord. Rebuke and chastening are strong evidences of His love for us. Rev. 3:19 

Every Christian should rejoice when undergoing correction for we know then that it is an act of His love. Rebuke, conviction of wrong doing is the blessing of the Lord. There is not one who comes to Him who will not receive correction from Him. Every child of God is well disciplined that they might show forth the life of Christ. Contrariwise, to be without divine correction is to be placed in the position of an illegitimate child. One not acknowledged as a son by the Lord. Heb. 12:5-8 

Chastisement now, is a golden opportunity to escape the condemnation of the world which will come in the end of the age. 1 Cor.11:2 

For correction to be effective there must be sincere repentance and Godly sorrow. 


BEHOLD! 
See me standing at the door, hear my knocking, listen to my voice. What a strong desire on His part for entrance and participation in the lives of His church. What a pity, must He be on the outside seeking to gain access or will His church open to Him and embrace all that he wishes to accomplish in her? There is so much to know about Him that can only be learned in intimate fellowship with Him. A relaxing time around the table of the Lord will result in the revelation of Christ being made known. Rev. 3:20 


THOSE WHO TRIUMPH. 
The victorious, those who overcome the world the flesh and the devil are a privileged people. They are afforded the right to sit with Him on His throne. What a massive throne He has, to include what would unquestionable be His Queen, and then all others who may be counted worthy to be in such close proximity. 

It is a throne that is called the throne of the Father, but it is likewise called His (Jesus) throne. A throne which is shared and shared alike in the glorious unity that exists in the kingdom of Heaven. Rev. 3:21 

The place and the relationship of the Lord Jesus in things heavenly is dramatically shown. For in the very midst, the center, the heart of the throne is the Lamb as it were, slain. So precious, so valuable is the blood of redemption that it will always be on display in that eternal kingdom. 

Men in this world may reject the blood of salvation, but it is the good pleasure of the Lord to make the blood of Jesus to be the very focal point of His eternal kingdom. Rev. 5:6 

God, in the greatness of His love, commissioned His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ to be the eternal sacrifice for all who would believe on Him and repent of their sins. Jesus is our propitiation, our mercy seat, the only redemption. This is the revelation of His great love for humanity. 1 Jn. 4:10 

The show piece of heaven is the blessed sign of redemption, the slain Lamb of God. The Love of God, the mercy and grace of the Lord Jesus flow from that eternal blood sprinkled throne which will be occupied by people who have been redeemed.





THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE       55

THE GRANT OF THE LORD TO THE CHURCH. 
Paul prayed that the church of his day would come to an experience of great depth. An encounter with the Lord Jesus that would manifest the < riches of His glory >. Eph. 1:16 

These riches, true, everlasting, heavenly riches revealed as < CHRIST IN YOU >, the hope of the glory of the Lord. The relationship that the Lord desires with His church is limitless. Regardless of how much of His glory He has revealed in us, there is still more. 

We speak of having Christ in our hearts and too often are satisfied with the basic, foundation experiences of salvation, water baptism and Spirit baptism. While these are marvelous and wonderful events that take place in our lives, there is so much more of His presence and glory to be obtained. 


RICHES THAT CANNOT BE MEASURED. 
Paul speaks of the RICHES as being unsearchable or untraceable, past finding out. In other words they are bountiful, measureless and inexhaustible. When we have received more, there is still more, and more and more beyond that. We are not to be spiritual paupers. All that the Lord is, He has made available to us. Eph. 3:8 

Counted among the RICHES that He so copiously pours out upon us, is the blessedness of redemption and the forgiveness of sins by His atonement, the shedding of His precious blood. The phenomenon of the RICHES of His grace granting absolute and complete salvation. Eph. 1:7 

Incomparable RICHES of His glorious grace that will eternally be on display as an expression of His kindness and love toward His saints. Eph. 2:7


REVELATION. 
What a frightening subject to those who have never had the Lord open up His Word to them. Unfortunately, even among the ministry, there are some who are without divine comprehension of the depths of the Word. It is vital that the eyes of our hearts, place of understanding and knowledge, be illuminated by the Holy Spirit. The church has been called, by the Spirit, to participate in His glorious inheritance. Eph. 1:18 

The spiritual man is quickened and strengthened by the RICHES of His glory. There is no strength like His and that strength is imputed to His church. The secret of the Christian life is the Spirit, the presence of Christ dwelling within our spirit. His faith and His love are made known and are working to create stability a system of strong roots and a foundation that will not fail. 

The power of the Lord enabling us to grasp the enormity of His love made known to us through His Spirit and His Word. The ultimate being a bride that is the vessel in whom dwells all the fullness of the Lord. The church is His house, His temple. It is His divine purpose to occupy and permeate those who are fully surrendered to Him with the totality of all that He is. Eph. 3:16-19 

Of His capabilities there is no end nor limit. That which He has proclaimed in His Word He will accomplish in that glorious, spotless, perfect church that He even now is calling unto Himself. He is the God of all possibility. He works far beyond, immeasurable, all that we could ask or think. HE WILL DO IT!  Eph. 3:19




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.     56

THE HOUSEHOLD OF FAITH. 
The occupants of a household may be as low as one and as many as scores. Depending on the country and culture. The Lord has called His people to be Members of the <household of faith >. Dwelling together in glorious and wonderful unity. A people who have believed fully in the truths of His Word. They have accepted and live according to the will and instructions of the Lord.  Gal. 6:10 

Regardless of conditions and situations, what the Lord has purposed He will accomplish. He will have a people who are bound together as one. Bone of His bone and flesh of His flesh. In other words, perfectly functioning in divine harmony. 


THE HOUSEHOLD OF FAITH, IS HIS TEMPLE. 
It is amazing that He has determined to have a church, composed of human beings which will become His eternal dwelling place. Buildings, palaces, He could well speak into existence by the multitudes. But He has chosen to make the redeemed His dwelling place. 

What a tremendous high calling and privilege is ours. He will dwell in the place of His holiness, high and lifted up. Exalted on high. Those who become His household are they who are contrite and lowly in their spirit being. 

He will revive the heart and spirit of the contrite ones. The Lord knows exactly the type of individuals He will chose to make up His temple. Isa. 57:1    


IT IS THE PLACE OF HIS ETERNAL HABITATION. 
The temple of the <living God >, the Lord of life, natural and spiritual. He has spoken and it shall not be altered. He will abide in His people, not only among them but within them. He will walk in them. They are motivated by His presence that abides within them. 

They may claim Him as their God, the one and only true God. He in turn will proclaim them to be His very own people. By the Spirit and the Word the call has gone out to be a holy people, separated from all ungodliness and unrighteousness, that he might be able to receive them unto Himself. 

He has promised to be a Father and accept them as sons and daughters of the most high. He longs for a people of this nature, and He will find them in these last days. 2 Cor. 6:16-18


A PEOPLE CHOSEN EXCLUSIVELY FOR HIMSELF. 
The world, the unsaved cannot be accepted in this < set apart > number. They do not know THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH, The truth is not in them, therefore they cannot know Him or receive Him. He can only be found where truth reigns supreme. 

Those who have been born of the Spirit will know Him for He has begotten them into the kingdom of the Lord. They not only have been born of His Spirit but they have also received of His Spirit. In this fashion they will know Him and will be aware of His Spirit dwelling within their Spirit nature. 

Truth becomes the evidence of the nature and the Spirit that dwells within that person. They have been born into the truth. The very Spirit of truth has been imparted to them, it now dwells within them and will manifest itself by living and speaking only that which is the truth of God. They are new creatures, and that new being prevails and will show forth
itself. Jn. 14:17   



THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.      57

IF HIS SPIRIT. 
The same, the identical Spirit that was in Christ, is the Holy Spirit who has now made His habitation in every Spirit filled member of the body of Christ. That Spirit, is the like Spirit of resurrection whereby Christ was raised from the dead. Rom. 8:11 

The baptism of the Spirit is a baptism of < POWER >. A supernatural force and demonstration of the might and power of the Almighty. The Greek meaning of the word < power > is dynamite, which is demonstrated both, when being filled and after having been filled. The baptism of the Spirit is very practical. He endues for service.  Acts 1:8 

It is a power that is incomparable. Destroying, yet building and doing good. A display of great strength and intense energy, yet it will create the most pleasant sensations in spirit, soul and body. It is the < exceeding greatness > of His power imparted to us. Who can measure it? It is beyond comprehension. It is the same power that created the universe, and in that case the Lord just spoke it into existence, by the power of His mouth and WORD. Eph. 1:19


THAT SAME SPIRIT SHALL QUICKEN YOU. 
The Spirit of resurrection. The Spirit that raised Christ from the dead. THAT SPIRIT, shall also <QUICKEN> your physical body. The consequence of the Spirit dwelling in us has a profound evidence in the < mortal man >, body, soul and spirit. There is a life giving force, the life of very God Himself that accompanies the presence of His Spirit in us. The Holy Spirit is the vital entity of life, both natural and more essentially spiritual. Rom. 8:11 

It is in, and because of the LORD that all life has life. Outside of Him there is no existence. Everything that lives is totally dependent on Him. Acts 17:28 


THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THAT QUICKENING DEPENDS ON THE CROSS. 
The statements of Paul show how closely his life was associated with the cross. The cross is the secret of a < quickened > life. What relationship do we have with the cross? A life of constant affiliation with the cross or the death of Christ will produce the revelation of the Christ life in us, now, in our mortal flesh. The cross of wood on which He was crucified is totally ineffective. 

A cross on our lapel or hung about the neck is many times used as a charm and certainly does not bring protection. It is the Christ of the cross who is our salvation. The revelation of the life of Christ in us comes after we have died to the self life. 2 Cor. 4:10-11 

Here is the challenge that will produce the manifestation of HIS LIFE in us, which is absolutely necessary for the Church, His Bride in the end of the age. Crucified with Christ in order to produce that life that gives evidence of itself in the total man. There is absolutely no loss of anything of value when we are crucified with Christ. 

What is no longer in evidence are the works of the flesh, which we despise anyhow. The gain is so much greater, there is absolutely no comparison between the lost and the found. True, complete life is in fully serving the Lord Jesus. In total commitment to Him. Gal. 2:20    



THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.          58

THAT I MAY KNOW HIM. 
These words are indicative of a people who are intent on seeking and comprehending Christ in the deepest manner. He may be known as a casual friend or as the true lover of our being. The measure to which we know Him is dependent on our individual, and personal devotion to Christ. Phil. 3:10 

The sign of commitment is determined by our obedience to His Word. His will and purpose for the Christian is already recorded in the book. It is ours to follow His commandments and in that fashion demonstrate our true love for Him. 1 Jn. 2:3 

The example of the only way of fully knowing Christ has already been established for us by the Apostle Paul. He was willing to count < all things > as being unworthy and unprofitable. In order to acquire the < excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus >. < The priceless privilege, the overwhelming preciousness, the surpassing worth and the supreme advantage of knowing Christ > Amp. This knowledge is invaluable, for it leads to the evidence of the life of Christ in His church, now and for eternity.  Phil. 3:8 


THAT I MAY KNOW THE POWER OF HIS RESURRECTION. 
A demonstration of power that is needed now. It is not the desire of the Lord that the Christian life be one of advances and failures, There is a life that is consistent with His will. It is the life of the living dead. 

Not some gruesome ghoulish group of individuals, but those who have sincerely consigned their life here on this earth to Christ. They are dead, for their life is hidden, with Christ in God. Their dedication to Christ is absolute, full and complete. They are in the secret place of the Most High, abiding under the shadow of His wings. Watched over, protected and cared for by the Almighty. Col. 3:3 

This depth of consecration is witnessed to by the desire of their hearts, by those things sought after. When the Lord Jesus becomes the center and the only object of the hearts desire of His church, these are they who will come to come to a full knowledge of Christ. Their minds and beings are < set > on things that are spiritual and not the natural. They seek after the Lord. Col. 3:1-2  


MUST THERE BE A FELLOWSHIP WITH HIM IN HIS SUFFERINGS? 
As much as we may not like the thought, there is a place and a time when each and every child of God will associate with Jesus in the emotions of His rejection, agony and emotional pain. How can one know Him without experiencing and understanding the depths of His suffering? Phil. 3:10 

That this was part of the experience which the early church encountered is obvious. Paul speaks of; the sufferings of Christ overflowing into their lives, so, to an equal measure the consolation and comfort that is in Christ Jesus was manifest in their lives. The portion of the recompense would be equal, but the comfort and consolation is of far greater benefit and value than the sufferings. 2 Cor. 1:5 

The blessings and mercies of the Lord are of such great portion that they overwhelm the hurt of the sufferings.  




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.      59

KNOWING CHRIST. 
Of all people that may be known, there is no one more worthy to be known than the Lord Jesus Christ. He must be known by a spiritual experience, whereby knowledge of who and what He is becomes understood. 

The Greek word translated knowledge, indicates a relationship between the person knowing and the object known. 

There must be a full and complete alliance between the one worth knowing and the one who is to receive knowledge. We are to be filled with the knowledge of His will, in complete wisdom and comprehension. Col. 1:9


QUICKENED BY HIS POWER AND MIGHT. 
The Father possesses the ability to quicken whomsoever He will. The Son has been delegated the same power, authority and ability to impart life to those whom He chooses. Jn. 5:21 

Where we were once dead in trespasses and sins, Christ has quickened us by forgiving all our sins. He has called us to the same quickening that raised Christ from the dead. Col. 2:13 

We have been brought to a life that does not know death. Having received His resurrection life we will no longer die. The body may cease to function and return to the dust but that new life in Christ Jesus lives on and on, eternally. John 11:26 

If we have been buried with Him by water baptism we are privileged to walk in that new life, the eternal life, which is the life of Christ. There is a fuller meaning to water baptism than what some have believed or accepted. It is not a ritual. The Lord intended it to be a very real step toward accomplishing the spiritual goals that He has set for us. Rom. 6:4 

If the Spirit of resurrection that dwells in Christ likewise dwells in you Then there is made available, by the Spirit, an importation of life that has a tremendous effect on the mortal body as well as the spirit. The presence of the Spirit brings death to the sinful man and glorious Spiritual life to the Spiritual man. This is the place of victory over the world, the flesh and the devil. Rom. 8:10-11


THE COMPLETENESS OF FELLOWSHIPPING CHRIST. 
There is always a period of time in the Christian experience where there will come a time of suffering and sorrow, the intent here is not sicknesses of the physical man. Rather there will be anguish of soul and or spirit. Deep waters that are not easily understood. We proclaim ourselves to be heirs and joint heirs with Christ in all that is His eternal possession. A situation that requires that we suffer with Him. Our participation with Him must be complete, in all things. Rom. 8:17 

Surely Peter is referring to crucifixion with Christ when he encouraged the church to have the same mind, the same attitude as Christ. Acknowledging the fact, that they who have crucified the flesh are finished with sin. A dead man cannot be tempted to participate in any act that is sinful, by the very fact that he is dead and there is no response whatsoever. 1 Pet. 4:1 

The Lord has prepared every means possible whereby His saints are victorious over sin. We are more than conquerors.          




THE CHURCH AT THE END OF THE AGE.    60

MADE TO BE LIKE JESUS. 
A very necessary part of spiritual growth. We are to bear His nature and being, in all things. Living the Christian life is not a series of improvements, such as is practiced by so many. It is being made < conformable > to the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. It is in true identification and full association with His death that we triumph over our fleshly, carnal nature. Phil. 3:10 

To merely suppress the < old nature > is insufficient, for at the slightest provocation, that nature will exercise itself again and again. Joining with Christ by experiencing His cross and death by the cross is the only way to rid oneself of the sinful nature. Mind you, we are not considering physical harm of any sort. If there is a submission to the will of the Lord, He will lead us into areas of conformation where we are made to be like Him.


SOME SPIRITUAL EXERCISES LEADING TO CONFORMATION. 
A proper attitude and comprehension of WATER BAPTISM is certainly one great step. The candidate is to be baptized < into His death >. Not just an outward sign but a spiritual experience and performance. Rom. 6:3 

We are buried < with Him >, in death. So that resurrection life that is in Christ might become our walk and way of life. The new man prevailing. 

v. 4 Conformed, planted together, to bear the likeness of His resurrection, now. 

v.5 We are not to live under the domination of sin. Therefore, when we are crucified together with Christ, the sinful nature will die and the spiritual man will dominate our lives. 

v.6 The dead individual can no longer sin. Sin cannot dominate him. Die with Christ, in the waters of baptism. 

v. 7-9 In this manner, consider yourself dead to sin but < alive > to Christ. 

v. 11 Another step is in PUTTING OFF THE OLD MAN, which is corrupt. This is most easily accomplished by doing those things that may be termed, spiritual exercises, being renewed in the spirit of our mind. 

The study of our Bible, not just reading it, which is needful and good, but to STUDY it. There must be sincere prayer. A change in our companionship must be brought to bear.  Eph. 4:22-23 

MORTIFY, put to death the works of the flesh as listed in Col. 3:5-9 

By PUTTING ON THE NEW MAN. Give that new nature room to grow and expand. Feed and nurture him spiritually. Seek those things which are above. Be spiritually minded. That NEW MAN is increased in knowledge and understanding through the WORD of GOD. Col. 3:10 

The Lord has a program whereby He is bringing a people into existence who will bear His image and His likeness. They will live and act like Him. They will think like He does. They will possess and be possessed by His style of life and have His mind in all things. 

In order to reach the high and holy calling in Christ Jesus there must be some terrific changes brought about in the church and in each an every individual who is a part of the church. 

Christ will not marry a bride that is inferior to Himself. The bride must attain to the fullness of the stature of the measure of the man Christ Jesus. Eph. 4:13 

This high standard is available to all who will conform to the will of the Lord.        



10:31 21-12-02
edited slightly 09:45 22/11/2004
eof