That's what i'm doing...
Does God have a Church?
- Thread starter phipps
- Start date
How Many “True” Churches are There?
Some people say that there have been lots of true churches. There was the church in Abraham’s time; there was the church in Moses’ time; there was the church in Jesus’ time, the Jewish Church; there was the church during the Dark Ages, the Protestant Churches, the Waldensian Church, etc.
Some people think that there are lots of different churches, but that is not what the Bible says. What does the Bible say about how many churches there are? Let us look at the Bible.
In Ephesians 1:22-23, Paul says very distinctly that Christ is the Head of the church; the church has one Head. There are some organizations in the Bible that are described as having seven heads, but not the church of Christ. It does not have two or three or four or seven heads; it only has One.
Ephesians 1:22-23 also states that the church is Christ's body. So, how many bodies does Christ have? Ephesians 4:4 says, “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling.” There is one body. So how many true churches are there? One! There has only been one true church since the days of Adam and Eve, and there will never be more than one until the end of time. Whether you are talking about time or space, the answer is the same. There is only one body! The first three chapters of Ephesians say that His body is the fullness of Him who fills all in all. That is the whole universe.
Some people say that there have been lots of true churches. There was the church in Abraham’s time; there was the church in Moses’ time; there was the church in Jesus’ time, the Jewish Church; there was the church during the Dark Ages, the Protestant Churches, the Waldensian Church, etc.
Some people think that there are lots of different churches, but that is not what the Bible says. What does the Bible say about how many churches there are? Let us look at the Bible.
In Ephesians 1:22-23, Paul says very distinctly that Christ is the Head of the church; the church has one Head. There are some organizations in the Bible that are described as having seven heads, but not the church of Christ. It does not have two or three or four or seven heads; it only has One.
Ephesians 1:22-23 also states that the church is Christ's body. So, how many bodies does Christ have? Ephesians 4:4 says, “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling.” There is one body. So how many true churches are there? One! There has only been one true church since the days of Adam and Eve, and there will never be more than one until the end of time. Whether you are talking about time or space, the answer is the same. There is only one body! The first three chapters of Ephesians say that His body is the fullness of Him who fills all in all. That is the whole universe.
Last edited:
The Truth Is What Matters
From the time of the Garden of Eden, Satan has known that mankind was created with the inherent desire to worship, and many have accepted his counterfeit forms. Cain fell for Satan's trap. He made an offering according to his own creation and then killed his brother, Abel. The men who crucified Jesus were extremely religious. The Bible tells us that even those who receive the mark of the beast in the last days will be worshipping.
Satan is not against religion. That's why he even invited Jesus to worship him, but he is furiously opposed to the truth of Christ's religion which exposes his devices and the people who do God's will.
The devil heard Jesus say, "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:32). That is why he is working frantically to cloak the truth and confuse people as to how they should search for the true church.
I took an unofficial personal survey as to the most popular reasons why and how people join a church, and here are some of the common answers I received:
It's the church of my parents.
It's close to our home.
The people are friendly and loving.
The music is beautiful.
The preacher is handsome or dynamic.
They have a good children's program.
The building architecture is impressive.
The important or influential people attend this church.
The services are exciting.
The church needs me.
Now catch this. Though each of these elements might be good in and of itself, none-not one of them-is the right reason to join a church.
There is only one right reason to join a church, and that is because the foundation teachings of the church or denomination are the teachings of the Bible and of Jesus, and you are committed to following truth.
In light of this, you would be amazed how few people can tell you about the specific teachings of their church. Even regarding basic doctrines about God, the law, baptism, salvation, death, the second coming, heaven, and hell, most Christians have only a superficial knowledge of their church's positions on these foundational truths.
Sadly, most people shop for a church the way children choose breakfast cereal. They like the picture on the box or they want the prize inside while missing the most important criteria-reading the ingredients.
The first and most important test question to ask of any church is, "What are their beliefs?"
Are the teachings of this church consistent with the teachings of Jesus? If the doctrines of that denomination are the teachings of Christ and the Bible, then that is God's church, and you should become a member.
Link.
From the time of the Garden of Eden, Satan has known that mankind was created with the inherent desire to worship, and many have accepted his counterfeit forms. Cain fell for Satan's trap. He made an offering according to his own creation and then killed his brother, Abel. The men who crucified Jesus were extremely religious. The Bible tells us that even those who receive the mark of the beast in the last days will be worshipping.
Satan is not against religion. That's why he even invited Jesus to worship him, but he is furiously opposed to the truth of Christ's religion which exposes his devices and the people who do God's will.
The devil heard Jesus say, "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:32). That is why he is working frantically to cloak the truth and confuse people as to how they should search for the true church.
I took an unofficial personal survey as to the most popular reasons why and how people join a church, and here are some of the common answers I received:
It's the church of my parents.
It's close to our home.
The people are friendly and loving.
The music is beautiful.
The preacher is handsome or dynamic.
They have a good children's program.
The building architecture is impressive.
The important or influential people attend this church.
The services are exciting.
The church needs me.
Now catch this. Though each of these elements might be good in and of itself, none-not one of them-is the right reason to join a church.
There is only one right reason to join a church, and that is because the foundation teachings of the church or denomination are the teachings of the Bible and of Jesus, and you are committed to following truth.
In light of this, you would be amazed how few people can tell you about the specific teachings of their church. Even regarding basic doctrines about God, the law, baptism, salvation, death, the second coming, heaven, and hell, most Christians have only a superficial knowledge of their church's positions on these foundational truths.
Sadly, most people shop for a church the way children choose breakfast cereal. They like the picture on the box or they want the prize inside while missing the most important criteria-reading the ingredients.
The first and most important test question to ask of any church is, "What are their beliefs?"
Are the teachings of this church consistent with the teachings of Jesus? If the doctrines of that denomination are the teachings of Christ and the Bible, then that is God's church, and you should become a member.
Link.
Denominations
The Bible says God has a church. One Church that He is the Head of. There is no mention of denominations at all. There were no denominations in the early Christian Church. They believed, loved and obeyed God's commandments. That's what made them part of God's Church. If we do the same, we are part of God's church too. When the church is taken to heaven, all generations from all over the world, plus the angels and the beings up there, will all be one. And we will be part of it—if we are one of those who love God and keep His commandments.
Biblical teaching that all Christians need to know, believe and follow to be part of God's true church:
I mentioned earlier in this thread here and here the tests of a true church. They are:
- Test No. 1, Reject any church that tries to tell you that the Ten commandments have been abolished, Matthew 5:17-18, John 14:15, Acts 7:38.
- Test No. 2, Reject all churches that contain images, Exodus 20:4-6.
- Test No. 3, Reject any church that does not observe the true Sabbath of the Lord which is the seventh day of the week, Saturday, Exodus 20:8-11, Matthew 12:8, Mark 2:28, Luke 6:5, Luke 4:16, Acts 13:14, Acts 13:42-44, Acts 16:13, Acts 17:2, Acts 18:4.
- Test No. 4, Read Matthew 28:18-20. Jesus told His disciples that their work was to teach people throughout the world and then baptise them. Then the teaching was to continue; they were to be taught to be obedient to the commandments of Jesus. Look at the different churches and apply the following tests:
. Do they have world-wide missionary work?
. Do they baptise people before they become members of the church? The word "baptise" is a Greek word which means "to dip" or "immerse." Reject any church that doesn't baptise people who wish to become members. Churches that Christen babies cannot be the true church.
. Do they teach people first before they baptise them? Churches that christen babies obviously cannot teach them first. Other churches do baptise but they don't bother to teach people first.
. Do they continue to teach after baptism, as Jesus said in Matthew 28:20? Or do they think that the work is finished once a person is baptised?
. How much importance does the church place on obedience to the commands of Jesus? Matthew 28:20.
- Test No. 5, Ask whether the second coming of Christ is as central in their teaching as it is in the New Testament. If they tell you it is, then listen and read their literature to see whether they have told you the truth. If it really is important to them, you should find repeated mentions of it in their literature, in their preaching and in their conversations.
- Test No. 6, The Bible tells us that "every eye" will see Jesus coming. Revelation 1:7. Does this church teach that Jesus will return secretly? If they talk about "the Rapture", this sometimes is jargon for a secret return of Jesus. If they speak of the Rapture, read them 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 and ask how the voice of the Archangel and the trumpet of God can possibly be secret. (Get them to read Exodus 19:16-19, if they try to tell you that people won't be able to hear the trumpet of God).
- Test No. 7, Check this as well. Read Genesis 3:4. This was the very first lie told in this world, that people who have sinned won't actually die but go on living. When checking out a church, ask them what they think happens when a person dies. If they try to tell you that they actually go on living somewhere else, there is no light in them. They are simply repeating the devils old lie.
If a church teaches that the dead are actually alive and awake somewhere else, there is no light in it. Cross it of your list.
Obviously there is more that we need to know and follow but those are the main ones.
The Bible says God has a church. One Church that He is the Head of. There is no mention of denominations at all. There were no denominations in the early Christian Church. They believed, loved and obeyed God's commandments. That's what made them part of God's Church. If we do the same, we are part of God's church too. When the church is taken to heaven, all generations from all over the world, plus the angels and the beings up there, will all be one. And we will be part of it—if we are one of those who love God and keep His commandments.
Biblical teaching that all Christians need to know, believe and follow to be part of God's true church:
I mentioned earlier in this thread here and here the tests of a true church. They are:
- Test No. 1, Reject any church that tries to tell you that the Ten commandments have been abolished, Matthew 5:17-18, John 14:15, Acts 7:38.
- Test No. 2, Reject all churches that contain images, Exodus 20:4-6.
- Test No. 3, Reject any church that does not observe the true Sabbath of the Lord which is the seventh day of the week, Saturday, Exodus 20:8-11, Matthew 12:8, Mark 2:28, Luke 6:5, Luke 4:16, Acts 13:14, Acts 13:42-44, Acts 16:13, Acts 17:2, Acts 18:4.
- Test No. 4, Read Matthew 28:18-20. Jesus told His disciples that their work was to teach people throughout the world and then baptise them. Then the teaching was to continue; they were to be taught to be obedient to the commandments of Jesus. Look at the different churches and apply the following tests:
. Do they have world-wide missionary work?
. Do they baptise people before they become members of the church? The word "baptise" is a Greek word which means "to dip" or "immerse." Reject any church that doesn't baptise people who wish to become members. Churches that Christen babies cannot be the true church.
. Do they teach people first before they baptise them? Churches that christen babies obviously cannot teach them first. Other churches do baptise but they don't bother to teach people first.
. Do they continue to teach after baptism, as Jesus said in Matthew 28:20? Or do they think that the work is finished once a person is baptised?
. How much importance does the church place on obedience to the commands of Jesus? Matthew 28:20.
- Test No. 5, Ask whether the second coming of Christ is as central in their teaching as it is in the New Testament. If they tell you it is, then listen and read their literature to see whether they have told you the truth. If it really is important to them, you should find repeated mentions of it in their literature, in their preaching and in their conversations.
- Test No. 6, The Bible tells us that "every eye" will see Jesus coming. Revelation 1:7. Does this church teach that Jesus will return secretly? If they talk about "the Rapture", this sometimes is jargon for a secret return of Jesus. If they speak of the Rapture, read them 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 and ask how the voice of the Archangel and the trumpet of God can possibly be secret. (Get them to read Exodus 19:16-19, if they try to tell you that people won't be able to hear the trumpet of God).
- Test No. 7, Check this as well. Read Genesis 3:4. This was the very first lie told in this world, that people who have sinned won't actually die but go on living. When checking out a church, ask them what they think happens when a person dies. If they try to tell you that they actually go on living somewhere else, there is no light in them. They are simply repeating the devils old lie.
If a church teaches that the dead are actually alive and awake somewhere else, there is no light in it. Cross it of your list.
Obviously there is more that we need to know and follow but those are the main ones.
Last edited:
Here is more biblical doctrine that Christians need to know, understand and act upon which only Christ can lead us to through the Holy spirit.
A. Christ is the Head of the church, Ephesians 5:23.
B. God's people need to have the faith of Jesus, Revelation 14:12, 2 Thessalonians 1:3-5, Hebrews 11:6, Romans 14:23, Luke 17:5. Faith is connected to obedience.
C. Grace. God's people need to understand what Grace is. Its forgiveness, unmerited favour, salvation from sin, 1 Corinthians 1:24, John 5:14, 8:11, Ephesians 2:5, 8, 10.
D. God's people have to have the testimony of Jesus Christ, which is the spirit of prophecy aka the gift of prophecy, I Corinthians 1:2, 6-7.
The Remnant church have the testimony of Jesus, Revelation 12:17, 19:10.
We are told to believe in God's prophets, 2 Chronicles 20:20.
Jews rejected the prophets, Matthew 23:37-38.
E. Baptism has been mentioned above briefly but it is one of the things God's true people must do, Acts 2:38, 40-42, 47. Christ got baptised as our example and in the early Christian church new Christians got baptised. Mark 16:16, "He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned."
F. God's people believe in and understand the mediation of Christ in the Heavenly Sanctuary/Temple as is taught in the Bible, Hebrews 12:22-24, Ephesians 5:25-25.
G. Fasting and praying. The church fasted and prayed all through out the Old and New testaments, so did Jesus and the apostles, Matthew 6: 6, 17-18, Acts 12:5, 14:23.
H. God's people will have victory over the beast, its image and mark. They won't be hurt by the second death which is eternal, Revelation 2:11, 14:9-10, 20:4-6, 21:8.
If we know, understand, believe and are doers of these things above and more from the Bible, we are part of God's church.
A. Christ is the Head of the church, Ephesians 5:23.
B. God's people need to have the faith of Jesus, Revelation 14:12, 2 Thessalonians 1:3-5, Hebrews 11:6, Romans 14:23, Luke 17:5. Faith is connected to obedience.
C. Grace. God's people need to understand what Grace is. Its forgiveness, unmerited favour, salvation from sin, 1 Corinthians 1:24, John 5:14, 8:11, Ephesians 2:5, 8, 10.
D. God's people have to have the testimony of Jesus Christ, which is the spirit of prophecy aka the gift of prophecy, I Corinthians 1:2, 6-7.
The Remnant church have the testimony of Jesus, Revelation 12:17, 19:10.
We are told to believe in God's prophets, 2 Chronicles 20:20.
Jews rejected the prophets, Matthew 23:37-38.
E. Baptism has been mentioned above briefly but it is one of the things God's true people must do, Acts 2:38, 40-42, 47. Christ got baptised as our example and in the early Christian church new Christians got baptised. Mark 16:16, "He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned."
F. God's people believe in and understand the mediation of Christ in the Heavenly Sanctuary/Temple as is taught in the Bible, Hebrews 12:22-24, Ephesians 5:25-25.
G. Fasting and praying. The church fasted and prayed all through out the Old and New testaments, so did Jesus and the apostles, Matthew 6: 6, 17-18, Acts 12:5, 14:23.
H. God's people will have victory over the beast, its image and mark. They won't be hurt by the second death which is eternal, Revelation 2:11, 14:9-10, 20:4-6, 21:8.
If we know, understand, believe and are doers of these things above and more from the Bible, we are part of God's church.
Last edited:
Can you tell the difference between the true church and the churches that just profess to be the true church?
In the days of Jesus and the apostles, unless you could tell the difference between the real true church and the professed true church you would never have been a Christian. The Jewish church professed to be the true church of God all the days of the apostle Paul. In a time of apostasy, unless you can tell the difference, you will not be able to make proper decisions about what church to be a part of.
The Jews believed that the true church was professed Israel, but the apostles taught that the true church was spiritual Israel that has Jews and Gentiles.
Romans 9: 6- 8:
Israel’s Rejection and God’s Purpose
"But it is not that the word of God has taken no effect. For they are not all Israel who are of Israel, nor are they all children because they are the seed of Abraham; but, “In Isaac your seed shall be called.” That is, those who are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God; but the children of the promise are counted as the seed."
You become a member of God’s true church when you do God's will (as I've posted above) and are baptised with water and the Holy Spirit, ”By one Spirit we are all baptized into one body” (1 Corinthians 12:13). Baptism with water is a symbol of baptism with the Holy Spirit and after the ratification of the New Covenant, if a person does not receive the Holy Spirit at his baptism (Acts 2:38), his baptism is only a form.
You also become a member of the true church of God when you partake of the life of Christ; and the person who partakes of the devil’s program of living— any kind of living in known sin— is not a member of the body of Christ (the church) no matter what his profession is (1 Corinthians 10:15- 21).
Being part of the true church involves a vital union with Christ, but a person can be a part of the professed church with only a superficial or professed union with Christ (Ephesians 5:32; John 12:40-42).
To really be a member of the true remnant church, you must keep the commandments and have the testimony of Jesus (Revelation 12:17 and 19:10); but you may profess to be a member, and outwardly be a member in a time of apostasy, and not have the testimony of Jesus or keep God’s commandments.
There could be no sixteenth century reformation until men understood who the true church really was according to the Bible.
Many who are professed “Christians” are actually part of the synagogue of Satan (Revelation 2:9) they are not really part of the body of Christ, or the church, at all. This can and is true of people in all churches.
In the days of Jesus and the apostles, unless you could tell the difference between the real true church and the professed true church you would never have been a Christian. The Jewish church professed to be the true church of God all the days of the apostle Paul. In a time of apostasy, unless you can tell the difference, you will not be able to make proper decisions about what church to be a part of.
The Jews believed that the true church was professed Israel, but the apostles taught that the true church was spiritual Israel that has Jews and Gentiles.
Romans 9: 6- 8:
Israel’s Rejection and God’s Purpose
"But it is not that the word of God has taken no effect. For they are not all Israel who are of Israel, nor are they all children because they are the seed of Abraham; but, “In Isaac your seed shall be called.” That is, those who are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God; but the children of the promise are counted as the seed."
You become a member of God’s true church when you do God's will (as I've posted above) and are baptised with water and the Holy Spirit, ”By one Spirit we are all baptized into one body” (1 Corinthians 12:13). Baptism with water is a symbol of baptism with the Holy Spirit and after the ratification of the New Covenant, if a person does not receive the Holy Spirit at his baptism (Acts 2:38), his baptism is only a form.
You also become a member of the true church of God when you partake of the life of Christ; and the person who partakes of the devil’s program of living— any kind of living in known sin— is not a member of the body of Christ (the church) no matter what his profession is (1 Corinthians 10:15- 21).
Being part of the true church involves a vital union with Christ, but a person can be a part of the professed church with only a superficial or professed union with Christ (Ephesians 5:32; John 12:40-42).
To really be a member of the true remnant church, you must keep the commandments and have the testimony of Jesus (Revelation 12:17 and 19:10); but you may profess to be a member, and outwardly be a member in a time of apostasy, and not have the testimony of Jesus or keep God’s commandments.
There could be no sixteenth century reformation until men understood who the true church really was according to the Bible.
Many who are professed “Christians” are actually part of the synagogue of Satan (Revelation 2:9) they are not really part of the body of Christ, or the church, at all. This can and is true of people in all churches.
The Remnant.
Who is the Remnant?
Biblically the remnant is the last group of people living on the earth that God claims as His own. It is His last church.
To be part of God’s remnant means that a person is keeping the commandments of God and has the testimony of Jesus (Revelation 12:17, 14:12, 19:10). It means a person is living a sanctified life. Those who make up the remnant will be faithful not just by profession and baptism by water but in heart and character by the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
What is the criteria for Jesus Christ's earthly family to become the Remnant?
Mark 3:35, "For whoever does the will of God is My brother and My sister and mother.”
If Jesus Christ's earthly mother and brothers do not keep the Commandments of His heavenly Father, they cannot be the remnant on earth and the kingdom to come. They cannot be saved. The criteria of the remnant for us is the same to Jesus Christ's own family. Jesus Christ's family had no advantage over the rest of humanity when it comes to salvation and becoming the remnant.
Was the standard of becoming the Remnant different from previous generations in the Bible?
No!. The criteria is the same throughout all generations beginning from Adam and Eve to the last person on earth at Jesus Christ's return. Ecclesiastes 12:13 says, "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep His Commandments: for this is the whole duty of man."
Cain and Abel received the same spiritual lessons from their parents, Adam and Eve. Abel was the remnant since he kept the commandments of God. He was the wheat. Abel represents Christ. Cain was not the remnant, he was the tare. Cain represents the devil. So Abel was the remnant and Cain was not.
Those consisting of the remnant are part of Christ's flock, listening to His voice and following wherever He leads. Jesus said, “My sheep hear My voice” (John 10:27). They are part of the wheat harvest. In other words, they bring forth spiritual fruit in their lives. They have a vital connection with the True Vine and have become a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit. They are faithful, love God and keep His commandments from their hearts, obtaining residence in the city of refuge and being saved from the second death. They become part of God’s fortress which He holds control of in this evil world.
Who is the Remnant?
Biblically the remnant is the last group of people living on the earth that God claims as His own. It is His last church.
To be part of God’s remnant means that a person is keeping the commandments of God and has the testimony of Jesus (Revelation 12:17, 14:12, 19:10). It means a person is living a sanctified life. Those who make up the remnant will be faithful not just by profession and baptism by water but in heart and character by the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
What is the criteria for Jesus Christ's earthly family to become the Remnant?
Mark 3:35, "For whoever does the will of God is My brother and My sister and mother.”
If Jesus Christ's earthly mother and brothers do not keep the Commandments of His heavenly Father, they cannot be the remnant on earth and the kingdom to come. They cannot be saved. The criteria of the remnant for us is the same to Jesus Christ's own family. Jesus Christ's family had no advantage over the rest of humanity when it comes to salvation and becoming the remnant.
Was the standard of becoming the Remnant different from previous generations in the Bible?
No!. The criteria is the same throughout all generations beginning from Adam and Eve to the last person on earth at Jesus Christ's return. Ecclesiastes 12:13 says, "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep His Commandments: for this is the whole duty of man."
Cain and Abel received the same spiritual lessons from their parents, Adam and Eve. Abel was the remnant since he kept the commandments of God. He was the wheat. Abel represents Christ. Cain was not the remnant, he was the tare. Cain represents the devil. So Abel was the remnant and Cain was not.
Those consisting of the remnant are part of Christ's flock, listening to His voice and following wherever He leads. Jesus said, “My sheep hear My voice” (John 10:27). They are part of the wheat harvest. In other words, they bring forth spiritual fruit in their lives. They have a vital connection with the True Vine and have become a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit. They are faithful, love God and keep His commandments from their hearts, obtaining residence in the city of refuge and being saved from the second death. They become part of God’s fortress which He holds control of in this evil world.
Ephesians 5:25-27 says, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish." Jesus is going to have a church in the last generation (the remnant) that is without spot or wrinkle, one that is holy and without blemish. God is going to have a perfected people.
More on the Remnant
In Revelation 12, the remnant is made of followers of Christ, members of the Church, that seek to follow God in all things:
"And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ" (Revelation 12:17).
They are the ones that wake up from their Laodicean slumber and take the reproofs to heart. The remnant is made up of true and faithful believers of God that follow after the Second Advent movement of the 1800s, those that are looking for the soon return of Jesus Christ and who are seeking to align themselves with God's Word and the truths lost after the Reformation.
Instead of thinking that all is well and following materialistic gain, they recognize their sinful condition and return to the principles of the Reformation and allegiance to God. They base their faith on the Word and seek unity in truth and love based on Truth. To them is entrusted the final message of warning to a dying world. The message to be given is the Three Angels' Message of Revelation 14. It is a message that will cause controversy and will be opposed by Satan by every conceivable means. To live out the message will require great patience, endurance, and an abiding trust in Christ.
"Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus" (Revelation 14:12).
The devil wages war against the remnant in order to hinder God’s work. He wants to prevent the message from going out into the world. How would he best achieve this? By so preoccupying the Church with issues not directly related to the message that there is no time or energy left to do the work that the Church was instructed to do. The Church is to be a light to the world—it is one of the golden lampstands (Revelation 1:12-13).
But so many are now preoccupied with life, with the prize of success, financial wealth, pleasure seeking, and selfish ambition. Sadly even professing Christians display this same zeal for worldly gain. This is the Laodicean state.
Link
In Revelation 12, the remnant is made of followers of Christ, members of the Church, that seek to follow God in all things:
"And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ" (Revelation 12:17).
They are the ones that wake up from their Laodicean slumber and take the reproofs to heart. The remnant is made up of true and faithful believers of God that follow after the Second Advent movement of the 1800s, those that are looking for the soon return of Jesus Christ and who are seeking to align themselves with God's Word and the truths lost after the Reformation.
Instead of thinking that all is well and following materialistic gain, they recognize their sinful condition and return to the principles of the Reformation and allegiance to God. They base their faith on the Word and seek unity in truth and love based on Truth. To them is entrusted the final message of warning to a dying world. The message to be given is the Three Angels' Message of Revelation 14. It is a message that will cause controversy and will be opposed by Satan by every conceivable means. To live out the message will require great patience, endurance, and an abiding trust in Christ.
"Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus" (Revelation 14:12).
The devil wages war against the remnant in order to hinder God’s work. He wants to prevent the message from going out into the world. How would he best achieve this? By so preoccupying the Church with issues not directly related to the message that there is no time or energy left to do the work that the Church was instructed to do. The Church is to be a light to the world—it is one of the golden lampstands (Revelation 1:12-13).
But so many are now preoccupied with life, with the prize of success, financial wealth, pleasure seeking, and selfish ambition. Sadly even professing Christians display this same zeal for worldly gain. This is the Laodicean state.
Link
A People/Church Blessed by the Early and Latter Rain of the Holy Spirit.
In the Bible rain became a symbol for the divine outpouring of the Holy Spirit; both rain and the Holy Spirit were sent by God as a demonstration of His concern for life. God described the future restoration of His people using the language of rain to illustrate the work of the Spirit: “For I will pour water on him who is thirsty, And floods on the dry ground; I will pour My Spirit on your descendants, And My blessing on your offspring” (Isaiah 44:3, see also Ezekiel 39:29; Isaiah 32:15). In Joel, after announcing the coming of the early and latter rains, God added, “And it shall come to pass afterward that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions. And also on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days.” (Joel 2:28-29).
In the Bible rain became a symbol for the divine outpouring of the Holy Spirit; both rain and the Holy Spirit were sent by God as a demonstration of His concern for life. God described the future restoration of His people using the language of rain to illustrate the work of the Spirit: “For I will pour water on him who is thirsty, And floods on the dry ground; I will pour My Spirit on your descendants, And My blessing on your offspring” (Isaiah 44:3, see also Ezekiel 39:29; Isaiah 32:15). In Joel, after announcing the coming of the early and latter rains, God added, “And it shall come to pass afterward that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions. And also on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days.” (Joel 2:28-29).
Early rain
Those who make it victoriously through the time of trouble and are ready for Christ’s second coming are those who grow to full spiritual maturity under the early rain of the Holy Spirit. The early rain of the Spirit began to fall on the day of Pentecost and has been available to every Christian since that day. When we seek the baptism of the Holy Spirit, we are actually seeking the early rain experience of the Spirit.
It is important for us to experience the early rain baptism of the Holy Spirit daily in order to grow spiritually to the point where we will benefit from the latter rain of the Spirit, which prepares Christians for the final crisis and Christ’s return. However, many don’t realize this fact and feel they must wait for the latter rain of the Spirit in order finally to have the victory over their besetting sins and spiritual immaturity. Such a view will end in disaster for the one who holds to it.
The apostle Peter preached, "Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord" (Acts 3:19).
The early or former rain of the Spirit, which is the baptism of the Holy Spirit, brings us to the spiritual maturity required in order to benefit from the latter rain.
Latter rain
The latter rain, also called the "times of refreshing," is the second and final manifestation of God's power through the Holy Spirit to His people, His purified remnant people. Full spiritual growth under the early rain baptism of the Spirit is necessary for us even to be able to recognize the latter rain of the Spirit when it falls.
“Unless we are daily advancing in the exemplification of the active Christian virtues, we shall not recognize the manifestation of the Holy Spirit in the latter rain. It may be falling on hearts all around us, but we shall not discern or receive it” (Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 507).
This is why the Lord is calling His children to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit daily now and come out of their Laodicean condition. We are fast approaching the time of the full outpouring of the latter rain of the Spirit. God is giving us a merciful call or warning to prepare for this final worldwide Holy Spirit event. Only those who heed His call will receive the latter rain and be ready for Christ’s coming. At that time they will be like Jesus: “Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is” (1 John 3:2).
Those who do not experience the early and latter rain will be like those on the day of Pentecost who did not receive the initial outpouring of the early rain. They will not understand what is happening and will mock those who are experiencing the fullness of God’s power under these two great outpourings of the Holy Spirit.
The latter rain will be given to God's people to be witnesses for Jesus and it will come the second time to ripen the final crop of souls for harvesting, because it will be right before Jesus' return that this will occur.
Those who make it victoriously through the time of trouble and are ready for Christ’s second coming are those who grow to full spiritual maturity under the early rain of the Holy Spirit. The early rain of the Spirit began to fall on the day of Pentecost and has been available to every Christian since that day. When we seek the baptism of the Holy Spirit, we are actually seeking the early rain experience of the Spirit.
It is important for us to experience the early rain baptism of the Holy Spirit daily in order to grow spiritually to the point where we will benefit from the latter rain of the Spirit, which prepares Christians for the final crisis and Christ’s return. However, many don’t realize this fact and feel they must wait for the latter rain of the Spirit in order finally to have the victory over their besetting sins and spiritual immaturity. Such a view will end in disaster for the one who holds to it.
The apostle Peter preached, "Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord" (Acts 3:19).
The early or former rain of the Spirit, which is the baptism of the Holy Spirit, brings us to the spiritual maturity required in order to benefit from the latter rain.
Latter rain
The latter rain, also called the "times of refreshing," is the second and final manifestation of God's power through the Holy Spirit to His people, His purified remnant people. Full spiritual growth under the early rain baptism of the Spirit is necessary for us even to be able to recognize the latter rain of the Spirit when it falls.
“Unless we are daily advancing in the exemplification of the active Christian virtues, we shall not recognize the manifestation of the Holy Spirit in the latter rain. It may be falling on hearts all around us, but we shall not discern or receive it” (Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 507).
This is why the Lord is calling His children to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit daily now and come out of their Laodicean condition. We are fast approaching the time of the full outpouring of the latter rain of the Spirit. God is giving us a merciful call or warning to prepare for this final worldwide Holy Spirit event. Only those who heed His call will receive the latter rain and be ready for Christ’s coming. At that time they will be like Jesus: “Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is” (1 John 3:2).
Those who do not experience the early and latter rain will be like those on the day of Pentecost who did not receive the initial outpouring of the early rain. They will not understand what is happening and will mock those who are experiencing the fullness of God’s power under these two great outpourings of the Holy Spirit.
The latter rain will be given to God's people to be witnesses for Jesus and it will come the second time to ripen the final crop of souls for harvesting, because it will be right before Jesus' return that this will occur.
elsbet
Superstar
- Joined
- Jun 4, 2017
- Messages
- 5,122
Exactly.
I don't think I've heard it said like that before, but you're right. : )
This really is the crux of it all:
... Christ, and him crucified.
1 CORINTHIANS 2:2
If we don't know the meaning and the Person behind Paul's words, here-- the rest is irrelevant.
I didn't see it mentioned anywhere on this page of "must haves"-- but the scriptural interpretations and additions of Ellen White (and thus, the SDA church) are in conflict with the bible, on numerous points; including this one.
With his own blood—
not the blood of goats and calves—
he entered the Most Holy Place
once for all time
and secured our redemption
forever.
HEBREWS 9:12
-Prayer for the Latter Rain
Zechariah 10:1, "Ask the Lord for rain in the time of the latter rain. The Lord will make flashing clouds; He will give them showers of rain, grass in the field for everyone."
This is a call to pray for the latter rain of the Holy Spirit. Since prayer has always played a vital role in enabling God to carry out His will on earth it should be no surprise that prayer is also necessary for the latter rain of the Spirit to be poured out on this earth.
The prayers of God’s people remain before God and will be answered according to His divine providence. John describes this in the book of Revelation where the prayers of the saints are pictured as being in “golden bowls.”
Revelation 5:8, "Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints."
God's people have been praying for the latter rain for many centuries. God today is calling for His end time people to join with the saints of past generations in praying for latter rain power for the finishing of God's work. Not one of those prayers of the past or present generation will be lost. All are accumulating in the "golden bowls" before the throne of God. In answer to those prayers God will pour out His Spirit (of fire) in latter rain power. John depicts this great event in chapter eight of Revelation.
Revelation 8:2-5, "And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given seven trumpets. Then another angel, having a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, ascended before God from the angel’s hand. Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and threw it to the earth. And there were noises, thunderings, lightnings, and an earthquake."
"The revenue of the glory has been accumulating for the closing work of the third angels message. Of the prayers that have been ascending for the fulfillment of the promise – the descent of the Holy Spirit – not one has been lost. Each prayer has been accumulating, ready to overflow and pour forth a healing flood of heavenly influence and accumulating light all over the world." Manuscript Release, Vol. 21:155
The day will come when the final prayer surge filling the bowls to over flowing will bring about the great out pouring of the latter rain of the Spirit. The hope we have of this mighty out pouring of the Spirit is also a call to prepare for that great event. The truth is; if we are not spiritually prepared by daily receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit we will receive no benefit from the latter rain when it falls. Therefore, as we continue to pray for the latter rain I encourage all to daily seek the Lord that our hearts and lives may be fully surrendered to God.
Zechariah 10:1, "Ask the Lord for rain in the time of the latter rain. The Lord will make flashing clouds; He will give them showers of rain, grass in the field for everyone."
This is a call to pray for the latter rain of the Holy Spirit. Since prayer has always played a vital role in enabling God to carry out His will on earth it should be no surprise that prayer is also necessary for the latter rain of the Spirit to be poured out on this earth.
The prayers of God’s people remain before God and will be answered according to His divine providence. John describes this in the book of Revelation where the prayers of the saints are pictured as being in “golden bowls.”
Revelation 5:8, "Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints."
God's people have been praying for the latter rain for many centuries. God today is calling for His end time people to join with the saints of past generations in praying for latter rain power for the finishing of God's work. Not one of those prayers of the past or present generation will be lost. All are accumulating in the "golden bowls" before the throne of God. In answer to those prayers God will pour out His Spirit (of fire) in latter rain power. John depicts this great event in chapter eight of Revelation.
Revelation 8:2-5, "And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given seven trumpets. Then another angel, having a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, ascended before God from the angel’s hand. Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and threw it to the earth. And there were noises, thunderings, lightnings, and an earthquake."
"The revenue of the glory has been accumulating for the closing work of the third angels message. Of the prayers that have been ascending for the fulfillment of the promise – the descent of the Holy Spirit – not one has been lost. Each prayer has been accumulating, ready to overflow and pour forth a healing flood of heavenly influence and accumulating light all over the world." Manuscript Release, Vol. 21:155
The day will come when the final prayer surge filling the bowls to over flowing will bring about the great out pouring of the latter rain of the Spirit. The hope we have of this mighty out pouring of the Spirit is also a call to prepare for that great event. The truth is; if we are not spiritually prepared by daily receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit we will receive no benefit from the latter rain when it falls. Therefore, as we continue to pray for the latter rain I encourage all to daily seek the Lord that our hearts and lives may be fully surrendered to God.
The Church and Its Work
In the gospel of Matthew, we see the reason why Jesus organized the church and gave her a mission. Jesus’ time on this earth was limited and He needed to make sure that the work He started would continue until the end of time. In Matthew 9 we read this account: “But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith He unto His disciples, the harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest” (Matthew 9:36-38).
After Jesus spoke these words, He did not go and retire somewhere in the wilderness. When Christ said the harvest was ready, He was ready. He immediately began to organize His disciples for involvement in His work. In Matthew 10 Jesus gave them specific instructions on how to work. Too often we make a mistake in not following the Lord’s example. We can show others the need of working for the Lord. We can preach the importance of being involved in missionary work, but if we fail, by not actually showing them how to do it, we are only giving half a message. Jesus did not leave His disciples to themselves to figure out what to do, He gave them His strategy on how they could succeed. The instructions found in Matthew 10 are needed in the church today.
The first thing that we learn is that Jesus is interested in training others to work. He preached the gospel in Matthew 5-9. But He did not continue preaching all the way through the gospel of Matthew. Many sincere Christians are satisfied with just hearing. But that is not God’s perfect plan for His church. In Christ’s day there were many that followed Him because they desired to see a miracle. Others loved to see our Lord battle the demons and cast them out. There were some that liked to row Jesus across the Sea of Galilee, since they knew that He had the power to calm the sea. How many of you would like to have sat around the campfire with the Lord. There is nothing wrong with wanting to do that, but that is not God’s perfect plan for your life. Jesus is in the business of training disciples. In Matthew 28:19, the Lord says, “Go ye therefore, and make disciples.”
You can rejoice that you have heard the gospel. But the Lord says, “Make disciples.” Some say, “Oh, I have been a Christian all my life.” So what. The Lord says, “Make disciples.” Many successful evangelists or pastors have the talent to preach the Word. Teach others to do what you do. We must not be selfish and think that we are the only ones that should share the Word in our church or ministry. If God has blessed you with the knowledge of His Word, then find someone and show them how they can do what you do. If we had a hundred people doing what only one or two are now doing, we could finish the work. And that is what Christ wants to see in His church. Jesus is interested in what is known as “on the job training.”
In the gospel of Matthew, we see the reason why Jesus organized the church and gave her a mission. Jesus’ time on this earth was limited and He needed to make sure that the work He started would continue until the end of time. In Matthew 9 we read this account: “But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith He unto His disciples, the harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest” (Matthew 9:36-38).
After Jesus spoke these words, He did not go and retire somewhere in the wilderness. When Christ said the harvest was ready, He was ready. He immediately began to organize His disciples for involvement in His work. In Matthew 10 Jesus gave them specific instructions on how to work. Too often we make a mistake in not following the Lord’s example. We can show others the need of working for the Lord. We can preach the importance of being involved in missionary work, but if we fail, by not actually showing them how to do it, we are only giving half a message. Jesus did not leave His disciples to themselves to figure out what to do, He gave them His strategy on how they could succeed. The instructions found in Matthew 10 are needed in the church today.
The first thing that we learn is that Jesus is interested in training others to work. He preached the gospel in Matthew 5-9. But He did not continue preaching all the way through the gospel of Matthew. Many sincere Christians are satisfied with just hearing. But that is not God’s perfect plan for His church. In Christ’s day there were many that followed Him because they desired to see a miracle. Others loved to see our Lord battle the demons and cast them out. There were some that liked to row Jesus across the Sea of Galilee, since they knew that He had the power to calm the sea. How many of you would like to have sat around the campfire with the Lord. There is nothing wrong with wanting to do that, but that is not God’s perfect plan for your life. Jesus is in the business of training disciples. In Matthew 28:19, the Lord says, “Go ye therefore, and make disciples.”
You can rejoice that you have heard the gospel. But the Lord says, “Make disciples.” Some say, “Oh, I have been a Christian all my life.” So what. The Lord says, “Make disciples.” Many successful evangelists or pastors have the talent to preach the Word. Teach others to do what you do. We must not be selfish and think that we are the only ones that should share the Word in our church or ministry. If God has blessed you with the knowledge of His Word, then find someone and show them how they can do what you do. If we had a hundred people doing what only one or two are now doing, we could finish the work. And that is what Christ wants to see in His church. Jesus is interested in what is known as “on the job training.”
Jesus often used people who did not appear to be very well fitted for the job. Look at the twelve apostles. Here we see a group of men who did not have the necessary skills for the work they were called to do. They did not have the ability to work well with others. They were not dependable. They were slow and easily discouraged. But that is the wonderful thing about Jesus. He not only sees how we are now, but He can see what we can and will be when we accept God’s call.
“And when He had called unto Him His twelve disciples…” (Matthew 10:1). It is to Christ that we are drawn. Who does the calling? The church did not find Christ. The twelve did not say, “This Jesus is perfect for the job.” The church today is guilty of reversing the Biblical order. The church today offers a Jesus that will run all of your errands. Some say, “Lord, You get me a job, You do this or that.” These people have been waiting for years to accomplish something, but the Lord has done nothing for them. It is presumption for us to ask God to do something that He has told us to do. If you notice, the Bible says that Jesus is the one who calls and sends out workers. It is His mission, His work, His church, and His strategy. He sends them; they do not send Him. Let us look at Christ’s strategy for saving souls. Jesus said, in Matthew 10:5-6, “Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”
When we think of mission work, we think of Africa or India, and there is nothing wrong with taking our work overseas. But what about the inner city mission? We have a tremendous work that needs to be done in our own neighborhoods. We must get involved in foreign mission, but we cannot forget our own neighborhoods. Jesus said to start with the people that you know. Start with the people that you live with. He called them the lost sheep of Israel. Those are people who know that there is something wrong with them, people who have problems, and people who need help. We are surrounded by those who are crying out for help. Pray for them. Talk to them. Encourage them. Invite them to church. Tell them you love them and that God does, too. You will find many opportunities to minister and witness to those around you. The point is just do something. Make a list of five people that you know and start working for them. Never give up and you will see the fruit of your labor.
“And when He had called unto Him His twelve disciples…” (Matthew 10:1). It is to Christ that we are drawn. Who does the calling? The church did not find Christ. The twelve did not say, “This Jesus is perfect for the job.” The church today is guilty of reversing the Biblical order. The church today offers a Jesus that will run all of your errands. Some say, “Lord, You get me a job, You do this or that.” These people have been waiting for years to accomplish something, but the Lord has done nothing for them. It is presumption for us to ask God to do something that He has told us to do. If you notice, the Bible says that Jesus is the one who calls and sends out workers. It is His mission, His work, His church, and His strategy. He sends them; they do not send Him. Let us look at Christ’s strategy for saving souls. Jesus said, in Matthew 10:5-6, “Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”
When we think of mission work, we think of Africa or India, and there is nothing wrong with taking our work overseas. But what about the inner city mission? We have a tremendous work that needs to be done in our own neighborhoods. We must get involved in foreign mission, but we cannot forget our own neighborhoods. Jesus said to start with the people that you know. Start with the people that you live with. He called them the lost sheep of Israel. Those are people who know that there is something wrong with them, people who have problems, and people who need help. We are surrounded by those who are crying out for help. Pray for them. Talk to them. Encourage them. Invite them to church. Tell them you love them and that God does, too. You will find many opportunities to minister and witness to those around you. The point is just do something. Make a list of five people that you know and start working for them. Never give up and you will see the fruit of your labor.
Wow something we agree on look at that! BTW doesn't have a building either wow shocker!I'm pretty sure he doesn't even have a religion. Ha!
A High Sense of Duty
In order to fulfill the gospel commission, we must have a high sense of duty. This high sense of duty is more important than anything else we may have today. We have a duty to work. No church can last whose people are encouraged to be idlers and loafers. It is our duty to do our best and to be as productive as we can. We must love the work of God. Duty does not fall upon a select group of people, but upon the shoulders of each individual believer.
In the parable of the talents, Jesus described the responsibility of each individual as his use of that which was given him. There was no corporate report of earnings, but each individual stood alone as custodian of his gifts, and this is even more true in the day in which we live.
“We are not doing the will of God if we sit in quietude, doing nothing to preserve liberty of conscience. Fervent, effectual prayer should be ascending to heaven that this calamity may be deferred until we can accomplish the work which has so long been neglected. Let there be most earnest prayer, and then let us work in harmony with our prayers.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 714.
“Those who have been warned of the events before them are not to sit in calm expectation of the coming storm, comforting themselves that the Lord will shelter His faithful ones in the day of trouble. We are to be as men waiting for the Lord, not in idle expectancy, but in earnest work, with unwavering faith. It is our duty to do all in our power to avert the threatened danger.” Review and Herald, December 11, 1888.
We have the privilege of being called by Christ to finish the work that He began during His earthly ministry. Let us take heed to His call and bring an end to the great gospel commission of Matthew 28:19. God bless you and prepare to meet thy God.
Link
In order to fulfill the gospel commission, we must have a high sense of duty. This high sense of duty is more important than anything else we may have today. We have a duty to work. No church can last whose people are encouraged to be idlers and loafers. It is our duty to do our best and to be as productive as we can. We must love the work of God. Duty does not fall upon a select group of people, but upon the shoulders of each individual believer.
In the parable of the talents, Jesus described the responsibility of each individual as his use of that which was given him. There was no corporate report of earnings, but each individual stood alone as custodian of his gifts, and this is even more true in the day in which we live.
“We are not doing the will of God if we sit in quietude, doing nothing to preserve liberty of conscience. Fervent, effectual prayer should be ascending to heaven that this calamity may be deferred until we can accomplish the work which has so long been neglected. Let there be most earnest prayer, and then let us work in harmony with our prayers.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 714.
“Those who have been warned of the events before them are not to sit in calm expectation of the coming storm, comforting themselves that the Lord will shelter His faithful ones in the day of trouble. We are to be as men waiting for the Lord, not in idle expectancy, but in earnest work, with unwavering faith. It is our duty to do all in our power to avert the threatened danger.” Review and Herald, December 11, 1888.
We have the privilege of being called by Christ to finish the work that He began during His earthly ministry. Let us take heed to His call and bring an end to the great gospel commission of Matthew 28:19. God bless you and prepare to meet thy God.
Link
True, whenever I talk about the church I mean people who believe, obey and completely submit themselves to Christ. The Bible says, we are the living stones built upon the foundation and the cornerstone of Jesus (Ephesians 2:19-22, 1 Corinthians 3:11). The Church built upon Christ will never fail because it rests on a sure foundation. The church building is just where God's people meet to worship, praise, pray etc together.
Last edited: