INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. Did He Promise an R71000?
Introductory Remarks.
1. In this lesson today, we will be discussing the theme: “Did He Promise an R71000?" This is the eighth lesson in the sermon-series entitled: "Re-digging in Old Wells." There will be many others bearing this title. We are re-digging in old wells to receive what Isaiah promised: "With joy, you will draw water from the wells of salvation," Isaiah 12:3. There are times we must re-dig in old wells to obtain the joy found in the: "waters of salvation." This sermon type is called "expository preaching." Our goal will be: "to dig a little deeper" in the text of emphasis in these lessons. We will allow the writer, the characters in the verses, and the Master's words to shed new meaning to His words of eternal life, John 6:63; John 6:67-69.
2. We will answer this question: "Did He Promise an R71000, at His Second Advent?” Is there such a thing as an "R71000?" I'm not talking about a "sports car." By this, we mean: “Did Christ promise at His Second Advent: the rapture, 7-years of tribulation, and a 1000-year reign?” We will re-dig in old wells to find a biblical answer. Ulysses Shields called this kind of teaching: "digging a little deeper," into the word of truth. He was my grandfather in Christ. We will use as a foundational text for this sermon-series: "And Isaac re-dug the wells of water, which they had dug in the days of Abraham...for the Philistines had stopped them (closed them up) after Abraham’s death,” Genesis 26:18. The Philistines: “Stopped them, and filled them with earth,” because they envied Isaac’s possessions, Genesis 26:14-15.
3. Our scripture of emphasis reads: “And now is Christ raised from the dead, and become the first fruits of them that slept...then cometh the end... when he shall put down all rule, and all authority and power. For he must reign, till...under His feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death...that God may be all in all,” 1 Corinthians 15:20-28. This text has troubled many over the years. It’s essential to consider every text within the context of the scriptures. With God’s help, we will do just that, to draw: “New water from old wells.” With this introduction, let’s consider this topic carefully, with both our bibles and hearts opened unto God.
BODY OF LESSON
I DID HE PROMISE AN R71000?
A. An R71000? In this lesson, we will answer this question: "Did He Promise an R71000, at His Second Advent?” Is there such a thing as an "R71000?" I'm not talking about a new model, a "sports car." By this, I mean: "Did Christ promise at His Second Advent: the rapture, 7-years of tribulation, and a 1000-year reign?"
1. Is this teaching religious nonsense? Has it been conceived by misinterpretation of keys, figures, symbols; along with visions, and prophecies: in the Old Testament and the Book of Revelation? Is there any truth to it? I think all these questions require a biblical answer. We will investigate these theories thoroughly. There are two methods we can employ to understand the text with more clarity. They are:
a. Dynamic equivalence and formal equivalence, each associated with two dissimilar translation approaches employed to achieve different levels of literalness between the source text and the target text, as evidenced in biblical translation.
b. Dynamic equivalence is understood basically to mean a sense-for-sense translation approach (translating the meanings of different phrases or whole sentences), with readability as the goal in mind, in the translation.
c. Formal equivalence is understood to mean a word-for-word translation approach (translating the meaning of different words and phrases in a more literal way), keeping literal fidelity as its goal.
d. We will employ the same equivalence techniques in our approach, to study each theory with the scriptures premillennialists use to teach them, while keeping sound hermeneutical and exegetical principles in mind, during our entire investigation.
Note: The theories of premillennialism are more “eisegesis” than “exegesis.” Recall eisegesis "is the interpretation and explanation of a text of scripture or spiritual truth in the Bible by reading one's ideas and feelings into the word of God. Rather than presenting the substantive truth of the passage, text, or spiritual truth by: "Comparing spiritual things with spiritual (things)," 1 Corinthians 2:13. It is more "what I believe, it means" rather than what the "bible" says, it means!
2. The premillennialists use many of the Old Testament prophecies and keys and symbols from the Book of Revelation to advance their theory of an R71000. We will dive into these texts later in the lesson. But for now, let me state the premillennialist’s doctrine, from the Foy E. Wallace Jr., and Charles M. Neal Debate, in 1933. Their theories are indicated below:
a. The theory of the rapture: “Jesus will first come invisibly, unknown to men in general (Gr: Parousia), raise the righteous dead, and take them from the earth to heaven for a 7-year period, which is called the 'rapture.'”
b. Theory of 7-years tribulation. During this time of trial, there will be great suffering on earth for the wicked. "At the end of the 7-years, the forces of evil will gather to fight against Jesus, who will visibly return (Gr: epiphaneia) to defeat them at the battle of Armageddon.”
c. The theory of the 1000-year reign. After Satan’s defeat in the battle of Armageddon: “Jesus will then establish his earthly, civil kingdom (like that of David), on earth.
He will reign as King in Palestine (Jerusalem) for 1000-years. At the end of His 1000-year reign, the wicked dead will be raised; then all men will be judged and receive their eternal rewards.” See reference 1&2 at the end of this lesson. I have given you the link to this debate at the end of this lesson.
d. Conclusion: So let’s summarize these theories:
1) Christ returns invisibly to the earth.
2) Then there is the rapture: the good is raised, changed, and taken to heaven.
3) There will be 7-years of tribulation on the earth, for the wicked yet alive.
4) The forces of Satan will gather to war against Jesus after His visible return.
5) After Satan’s defeat in the battle of Armageddon, Jesus sets up His kingdom and reigns for 1000-years on earth.
6) After His 1000-year reign, the wicked dead will be raised, changed, judged, and all will receive eternal rewards. Did you get it now?
e. After a short introduction, we will work to investigate and refute these human-made theories of the premillennialists.
3. Introduction to Revelation. You already know that advocates of a future kingdom of God on earth; will spend most of their time teaching it from the Book of Revelation. John wrote of the church’s struggles using keys, symbols, and prophetic language. John, however, never suggested that the kingdom of God had not been established, at the time of his Revelation. John began his Revelation, by writing--
a. First, "The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to show unto his servants' things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by His angel unto his servant John,” Revelation 1:1. Notice, John wrote of things, which “must shortly come to pass,” or “things which shall be hereafter,” Revelation 1:19; Revelation 4:1.
b. Further, “Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand,” Revelation 1:3. The verb "at hand" is the same word we began within our study of Mark 1:14-15. In other words, “the things” will soon come or be fulfilled.
c. Finally, “And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand,” Revelation 22:10.
d. Conclusion: John begins his writings of the Revelation describing things: "which must shortly come to pass," continues with "the time is at hand, and which shall be hereafter," and concludes with: "Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand."
1) John’s message of the kingdom of God was clear; it was in existence, suffering violence, and: “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord, and His Christ; and He shall reign forever and ever," Revelation 11:15-17; Revelation 12:10-11. Notice, he wrote: "Are become the kingdoms of our Lord."
2) Where John ends his prophecy in Revelation, the pre-millennialists begin theirs.
3) I will leave you with the facts so you may draw your conclusion about the kingdom of God. We have done some work on it, and you can have it.
NOTE: Download our lesson entitled: “Thy Kingdom Come!” Obtain it from SermonCentral.com. It will help you understand the kingdom of God, which came in 33 A. D., with the preaching of: “Repentance and remission of sins,” as Jesus promised to His apostles, Luke 24:45-47; Acts 1:8; Acts 2:1-4; Acts 2:38.
B. Overview of errors. Sadly, I must admit that those who insist on the: rapture, 7-years of tribulation, and the 1000-year reign of Christ on the earth; have no firm standing in the scriptures. The numbers and words are all made up; the teachings are foreign to the New Testament and are the misinterpretation of events and occurrences outlined in the Old Testament and the Book of Revelation. Sadly---
1. Many pulpits across the country and around the world are preaching the kingdom of God has not yet come. It will be revealed at Jesus’ Second Advent or appearance on the earth. However, this second coming will be invisible.
2. This invisible advent will trigger a great rapture; 7-years of tribulation; and, usher in a thousand year reign of Christ upon the earth. I have set forth a sufficient foundation that the kingdom of God has already been established. And it is not an earthly kingdom. Henceforth, I will address the errors mentioned regarding premillennialists' teaching of God's kingdom. You may--
NOTE: Download our lesson entitled: “Thy Kingdom Come!” You can obtain it from SermonCentral.com. This lesson establishes that Christ’s kingdom began on the Day of Pentecost, and He is reigning over His kingdom NOW.
3. Please note I seek only to present the truth of God on this important subject. Three foundational scriptures are used outside of the Book of Revelation. They are 1) 1 Corinthians 15:20-28, 2) 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; and, 3) 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10.
a. The bulk of the teachings on this subject focus on scriptures from the Old Testament and the Book of Revelation.
b. We will note them as we develop this lesson.
c. Before we begin, however--
4. I will introduce each of these errors, with Foy E. Wallace’s propositions to each of them. References are:
a. God's Prophetic Word, by Foy Wallace, p. 347-349; cf. Lion and the Lamb on Planet Earth, by Rodney Miller.
b. The [Neal–Wallace Discussion on "The thousand Year Reign of Christ"] by Foy E. Wallace, Jr., Publication, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Copyright 1933. This discussion was conducted in Winchester, Kentucky, from January 2 to 6, 1933. Now that this introduction is out of the way, let’s get started.
5. In this lesson: We will consider three theories: 1) the rapture, 2) the 7-years of tribulation, and 3) the 1000-year reign of Christ on the earth. I will present this lesson using the plain text of the Old and New Testaments.
a. In sound hermeneutics, we use the plain text to interpret the more difficult ones in the bible.
b. We will use the explicit New Testament teachings to interpret the Old Testament prophecies of the kingdom.
c. And we use the New Testament to clarify the keys, symbols, and prophecies of the Book of Revelation. We allow the other apostles and teachers, to instruct us on the meaning of these keys, symbols, and prophecies mentioned in John’s Revelation.
d. With this foundation laid, let’s consider the rapture as taught in the premillennialist’s theory. This lesson will be an honest and open discussion of the scriptures, as they pertain to these alleged teachers of truth. Observe--
C. The rapture (caught up) at His coming. Here is an overview of the “rapture,” as taught by many pre-millennialist. There are many views regarding their theory of rapture. However, we will present this one because it is clear and concise regarding their teaching. Observe--
1. The theory of the rapture: “Jesus will first come invisibly, unknown to men in general (in Gr., it is Parousia). He will raise the righteous dead, and take them from the earth to heaven for a 7-year period, which is called the ‘rapture.’” This is the first part of the theory of premillennialism. The following text is used as proof of this teaching. Let’s notice it now. To save time, I will collapse most of the scripture text and summarize its teaching afterward. You should have your bibles opened NOW!
2. Text of emphasis. Paul wrote: "But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep...For this, we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord...shall descend from heaven with a shout...and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive...shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air...Wherefore, comfort one another with these words,” 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. The text has been collapsed for our summary. Paul here discusses the Lord’s return or the Second Advent: “of the coming of Christ.” Recall, this coming will be invisible to all, and it will begin the rapture and the 7-years of tribulation. Let's notice the text, as Paul writes to the Thessalonians. Observe--
3. The return of the Lord. After affording the believers comfort regarding the “sleep” of the saints, Paul implored them not to be troubled by their “sleep in Jesus.” He wrote: “That you sorrow not, even as others which have no hope,” 1 Thessalonians 4:13. As Christians, we, our families and loved ones, which have “fallen asleep in Jesus,” have hope in the Lord’s return, 1 Thessalonians 3:13. To the saints, death is merely asleep in Jesus. And precious: "In the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints," Psalms 117:15; Revelation 14:13.
a. The promise of His return. Paul wrote: "For this, we say unto you by the word of the Lord that we which are alive and remain, unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent (precede) them which are asleep," 1 Thessalonians 4:14.
b. At Jesus’ ascension, the angels stated how Christ would return. Notice: “And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up...two men stood by them in white apparel; which also said: Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up...shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven,” Acts 1:9-11; John 20:17. I have collapsed this text for summary purposes.
c. Recall, in the first part of this theory: “Jesus will first come invisibly, unknown to men in general. The word visible in Gr., is parousia, which means: “coming to a place.” This is the same word used in 1 Thessalonians 3:13. Notice--
1) The word “invisible” in Gr., is aoratos, which means, i.e., not seen, unseen, or that cannot be seen, or invisible.” Let’s understand, this word is not in the text!
a) Paul uses this word in Colossians 1:15-16; 1 Timothy 1:17.
b) The word “invisible” is not used here in Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians.
c) He wrote only of: “the coming of the Lord,” 1 Thessalonians 4:15b.
2) The angels told the apostles: "As they had seen Him go, they shall see Him return," Acts 1:11. There will be a visible sighting of the Lord’s return from the heavens. I wish I had some help with this lesson. Amen, brother Doors. You might recall that--
a) Jesus went into heaven, “in the clouds.”
b) The Lord was seen by the apostles “to go into the heavens.”
c) The Lord will be seen in like manner, “during His return to earth.”
d. John wrote of Jesus’ second coming. Observe--
1) First, “Behold He cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see Him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen,” Revelation 1:7; Zechariah 12:10; Psalms 22:16-17; John 19:36-37.
2) Second, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is,” 1 John 3:1-3; Colossians 3:4. John wrote: “We shall see Him as He is.” Are you listening? We shall see Him as He is!
e. Paul continues: “For we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent (precede) them which are asleep. Paul assures the saints that at His coming, those yet alive and remain shall not meet the Lord before those raised from the dead. He now introduces an order of the resurrection. Recall, the pre-millennialists teach only the “good” would be raised at this invisible return of Christ to the earth. Let’s read what Paul wrote about the Lord’s descent from heaven and the order of the resurrection.
4. Lord shall descend. Paul further explains: "For the Lord, himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God...Wherefore comfort one another with these words,” 1 Thessalonians 4:16. I have collapsed this text for summary purposes. Observe--
a. For the Lord He (in person; in bodily form) shall descend from heaven.
b. He is coming with His saints and the holy angels, 1 Thessalonians 3:13.
c. With a shout, with the voice of the archangel (voice of the Son of God).
d. With the trump of God (at the last trump: for the trump shall sound), 1 Corinthians 15:52.
e. Christ’s return. Paul wrote: “For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ...whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself,” Philippians 3:20-21. Paul affirms:
1) Christ is now in heaven.
2) Christ now has a “glorious body.”
3) Christ shall fashion our “vile body” like His glorious body.
4) When shall this occur? At the time, Jesus returns from heaven.
NOTE: Illustrate Christ’s glorious body, Luke 24:36-43.
f. Conclusion: Jesus’ return will be preceded by a loud shout and the trump of God. It does not appear His second coming will be unnoticed or unheard. The voice of an archangel and the trump of God will awaken all the dead, and they shall come forth from the grave. Paul gives an order to the general resurrection.
5. The order of the resurrection. Paul wrote: “And the dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds,” 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; 1 Thessalonians 3:13. Observe--
a. First, “the dead (those that sleep) in Christ shall rise first.”
b. Second, “then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up.”
c. Third, “caught up together with them in the air.”
d. How does this coincide with premillennialism? They speak of an invisible appearance at the "rapture." Only the righteous shall be raised.
1) Paul does not speak here of any ungodly being resurrected in this text.
2) He establishes an order between the living; and those who are asleep upon His return. Those sleeping will be raised, and those yet alive shall be changed.
3) Together, both will be caught up in the heavens.
4) To meet the Lord in the air.
e. Paul’s teaching on the resurrection. He said to the council: “There shall be a resurrection of the just and the unjust,” Acts 24:25. He places no time between these resurrections. They will happen simultaneously. The order will be the just and the unjust. This agrees with what Jesus said of the resurrection. Notice--
f. Jesus spoke of the resurrection. Jesus said: "Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice: And shall come forth; they that have done good unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation," John 5:28-29. John heard Jesus say:
1) In the same hour, all in the graves shall hear His voice.
2) Both good and evil shall be raised.
3) Judgment will be given to both life and damnation.
4) There is no mention of two resurrections. Amen, brother and sisters!
5) Conclusion: How does this compare with the theory of the rapture? In Paul's letter to the Thessalonians, preaching and writing elsewhere, there is only one resurrection, including both "good and evil," "just and unjust," in the same hour, not, with a 1000-year interval between them. I wish I had some help, beloved of the Lord. We are finding some "gaps" in the premillennialist’s teaching! Let’s consider now what shall be the end of the saints after the Lord descended from heaven; and the resurrection of the dead. We shall--
6. Meet the Lord. Paul concludes: “We shall meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord,” 1 Thessalonians 4:18.
a. We shall meet the Lord in the air.
b. We shall ever be with the Lord.
c. There is no mention of 7-years of tribulations on the earth.
d. Paul wrote: Both shall be, “caught up to meet the Lord in the air.” There the saints shall ever be with the Lord. Paul's letter to these saints disagrees with premillennialists' theory of Christ's second coming.
e. How does this coincide with premillennialism? They theorize that:
1) The rapture will occur, and the righteous dead will be raised.
NOTE: There is no mention of the righteous yet alive on earth.
2) There will be 7-years of tribulation.
3) Followed by another “coming of Christ.”
4) This coming will be visible unto all. Is this their teaching of a 3rd advent?
5) Conclusion: We have not found any of this teaching in Paul's letter to Thessalonica's saints. We must support each other in times of sorrow, build up broken spirits, hold up weakened hands, offering comfort and encouragement to one another. This we do by teaching and preaching lessons learned from the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead, the second coming of Christ, and the glory of the saints to be revealed on that day. We have concluded a review of the second coming of Christ, as reported by Paul. Now let’s consider the 7-years of tribulation, as taught by the premillennialists.
D. 7-years of tribulation at His Coming. This overviews the "7 years of tribulation" taught by premillennialists. Observe--
1. Theory of 7-years tribulation. During this time of trial, there will be great suffering on earth for the wicked. "At the end of the 7-years, the forces of evil will gather to fight against Jesus, who will visibly return (Gr: epiphaneia) to defeat them at the battle of Armageddon." This is the second part of the theory of premillennialism. We will speak about the "Battle of Armageddon" at the last point in this lesson.
2. Text of emphasis. Paul wrote: “And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord...and to be admired in all them that believe... in that day,” 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10. I have collapsed this text for summary purposes.
3. Paul wrote: “The Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels,” 2 Thessalonians 1:7. Paul, in his earlier writings to these saints, suggests that God shall bring vengeance on those that trouble them. The text sets forth these things:
a. The Lord shall be revealed from heaven.
b. The Lord shall be accompanied by His mighty angels, 1 Thessalonians 3:13.
c. To inflict “vengeance (punishment) upon them that troubles the saints.”
NOTE: Recall there was no vengeance or retribution for the evil during our discussion of the rapture. Maybe this is the second coming they write about in their teaching on premillennialism. Paul continued--
4. Coming in flaming fire. Jesus is coming: “In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ,” 2 Thessalonians 1:8. Paul outlines three things at His coming in this text. Notice--
a. He is coming “in flaming fire,” 1 Thessalonians 1:8; 2 Peter 3:9-12.
b. He is coming to “take vengeance on them,” Revelation 22:12-13.
c. He is coming to pronounce judgment:
1) First, on those “that know not God,” Acts 17:30-31; 1 Thessalonians 4:4-5; Psalms 79:5-7. These are those who have rejected Jehovah’s law and righteousness.
2) Second, on those "that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ," 2 Thessalonians 1:8-9; Acts 24:22-25; Acts 26:27-29. These are the ones who have rejected Christ and His gospel of the grace of God, Acts 20:24.
d. Peter wrote: “That judgment will begin at the house of God,” 1 Peter 4:17-18; Romans 2:16. Once knew Him, these have departed from the faith, as well, as those who have apostasies, Hebrews 2:1-4; Hebrews 3:12-13; Hebrews 4:11; Hebrews 6:4-6.
e. The Premillennialists teach all this will happen at the Lord's “second return to the earth.” Recall the “first return will be invisible and silent,” according to their teaching. This return, Paul describes, is entirely different. Their account here must be a 3rd return of Christ. It will be:
1) The “visible return of Christ to earth.”
2) The culmination of the 7-years of tribulation.
3) The return that sparks the “battle of Armageddon.”
4) The time the evil forces will gather to wage war against Jesus Christ.
5) Did you read about any of this in Paul’s 1st or 2nd Letter to the Thessalonians?
NOTE: Question, Who is Satan waging war against? There are no saints of Christ on the earth (those asleep have been raised, and those that remain have been changed). Help me, somebody!
1) They are all with the Lord! (Is this their teaching on the rapture?).
2) This is what Paul wrote about the saints, in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.
3) The wicked dead haven’t yet been raised (according to the pre-millennialists). This will not be until the victory of Christ at Armageddon. This will be discussed in the third position in this theory.
4) Who are the devil’s forces? (Only the wicked remain on the earth).
5) Are Satan and his forces waging war entirely against Christ? (The Lord has no disciples on earth, according to Paul).
6) This is a “huge gap” in their teaching!
5. The victory of Christ. The pre-millennialists teach that Christ will defeat the forces of evil that are gathered to fight against Him. They cite David, in the Psalms, as their proof:
a. First, "Why do the heathen rage and the people imagine a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord, and his Anointed," Psalms 2:1-2.
b. Second, the Lord will "put all enemies under His feet,” Psalms 110:1.
c. Third, after Christ defeats all of His enemies, He will:
1) Set up His earthly kingdom. Recall Jesus told Pilot: “My kingdom is not of this world,” John 18:36. It was not of the world then; it is not now, or ever will be!
2) This will begin His 1000-year reign sitting on David’s throne.
3) He will reign in Palestine, the city of Jerusalem.
4) The pre-millennialist expend tremendous energy to advance this part of their doctrine.
6. No mention. However, Paul does not mention these events in his First or Second Letter to the Thessalonians. He affirms:
a. First, "On that day," it will be Jesus' second coming.
b. Further, the Lord Jesus: “Shall be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels.”
c. Next, the Lord will at His second coming:
1) Give the saints rest and retribution to their persecutors, 2 Thessalonians 1:6-7.
2) Come in “flaming fire” with His mighty angels to:
a) Taking vengeance on those who know not God.
b) And on those that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
3) He shall punish them:
a) With everlasting destruction.
b) From the presence of the Lord.
c) And from the glory of His power, 2 Thessalonians 1:8-9.
4) When He shall come:
a) To be glorified in His saints.
b) To be admired by all who believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day, 2 Thessalonians 1:10.
d. Conclusion: The righteous will now enter into rest from their troubles. The wicked: 1) Those that afflict the saints, 2) those that know not God, and 3) those that have not obeyed the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Lord will punish with everlasting destruction. There is no mention of the rapture or 7-years of tribulation. Judgment is given: “When the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels,” 2 Thessalonians 1:7.
1) This is what the beloved apostle Paul wrote, to give hope and encouragement to all the saints being persecuted.
2) That they may be “counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which they also suffer,” 2 Thessalonians 1:5. These saints were suffering while in the kingdom of God, as Paul wrote this letter to them.
3) This was a common challenge to all the saints in the kingdom of God during the first century, 1 Thessalonians 2:12-16; Acts 14:21-23; Acts 20:22-25.
4) May I ask another question to these distinguished proponents of the kingdom's coming after Jesus' Second Advent? How is it possible for the saints to suffer in the kingdom of God if it has not yet been set up?
5) How is it possible for the angels of God to: “Gather out of the kingdom...and cast them into a furnace of fire" if the kingdom will be set up at His second coming? See Matthew 13:41-43; Matthew 13:47-50.
a) Jesus asked his disciples: “Have ye understood all these things? They say unto Him, Yea, Lord,” Matthew 13:51.
b) I ask these pre-millennialists: “Understand these things?” I doubt they would reply, as the disciples did to Jesus: “Yea, Lord.”
7. Observe references to the judgment of Christ.
a. Jesus said: "He that rejecteth me, and receiveth, not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day,” John 12:48.
b. Jesus’ teaching: “When He comes with the holy angels, then all nations will be gathered before Him, and, He will separate the sheep from the goats (the good from the evil),” Matthew 25:31-46.
1) The righteous will enter eternal life, Matthew 25:34; Matthew 25:46.
2) The wicked will depart into everlasting fire, Matthew 25:41; Matthew 25:46.
3) The saints shall rest, and the wicked shall be punished. This will occur at the same time. At the Lord’s second coming!
4) Both the good and evil shall enter into their final reward, on that day, John 5:28-29. The resurrection shall be on the last day, John 6:44-45; John 6:54.
c. Paul wrote to Timothy: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and His kingdom,” 2 Timothy 4:1.
d. Paul wrote again: “For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living,” Romans 14:9.
8. Premillennialists teach the righteous will rest and rejoice through the rapture and millennium before the wicked and ungodly are punished. Paul makes no mention of the rapture or millennium at the Lord’s coming in this text, either. However, I have some more questions for those who teach this doctrine. They are:
a. Question: Who shall be punished at His second coming? Answer: The wicked: 1) Those that trouble and afflict the saints, 2) those that know not God, and 3) those that have not obeyed the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 Thessalonians 1:6-7. The premillennialists have all these yet sleeping in their graves! They will not be raised until after the 1000-year reign of Christ on the earth.
b. Question: How long will this punishment last? Answer: God shall: “Punish them with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of His power.” 2 Thessalonians 1:8-9. The premillennialists have this punishment (tribulation) lasting only 7-years.
c. Question: When will all this occur? Answer: “When Christ shall come to be glorified in His saints and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day,” 2 Thessalonians 1:10. The premillennialists have all this happening after the 1000-year reign! Okay then--
d. Let’s consider the last theory, the 1000-year reign of Christ upon the earth.
E. The (1000-year reign) at His coming. This is an overview of the 1000-year power of Christ on the earth, as taught by the pre-millennialist. Observe--
1. The theory of the 1000-year reign. After Satan’s defeat in the battle of Armageddon: “Jesus will then establish his earthly, civil kingdom (like that of David), on earth. They continue--
a. He will reign as King in Palestine (Jerusalem) for 1000-years.
b. At the end of His 1000-year reign, the wicked dead will be raised, then all men will be judged and receive their eternal rewards.”
c. This is the third theory of premillennialism. I don't know why they discuss this text to advance their 1000-year reign for the life of me. The scripture exposes their error in this teaching! Open your Bible again, and let's review what Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15:20-28! Review the text carefully.
2. Text of emphasis. Paul wrote: "But now is Christ raised from the dead, and become the first fruits of them that slept...But every man in his order: Christ the first fruits; afterward they that are Christ's at His coming. Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God...when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. For he (Christ) must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death,” 1 Corinthians 15:20-26; Hebrews 2:14-15. I have collapsed these verses for summary purposes.
3. Christ is raised. Paul affirms: “But now is Christ raised from the dead, and become the first fruits of them that slept...Christ the first fruits afterward they that are Christ's at his coming," 1 Corinthians 15:20-23. In these verses, Paul establishes several essential truths. Observe--
a. Christ is raised from the dead. Paul says emphatically: “But now is Christ raised from the dead.” He declares this truth by listing three reliable sources as proof. They are: 1) The Old Testament prophecies, 2) proven sightings (eyewitnesses), and 3) the preaching Christ had enjoined. Observe--
1) First, the prophecies of the scriptures, 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. The apostle uses the Old Testament scriptures to defend his preaching on the “certainty of the resurrection of Christ.”
2) Second, proven sighting (eyewitnesses), 1 Corinthians 15:5-10. He then cites as proof of the resurrection of Christ, certain eyewitnesses: (Cephas, the 12, James, himself, and at least five hundred brothers, many of who were yet alive).
3) Third, the preaching of the resurrection, enjoined by Jesus, 1 Corinthians 15:11-19. Finally, he affirms the Lord Himself sent him to preach that He had been raised from the dead.
b. Christ is the first fruit of them that slept. The notion of "first fruits" goes back to the Old Testament "feast of weeks" or "Pentecost," Leviticus 23:10-11; Romans 11:16. Paul's mentioning of Christ being the "first fruits" is the testimony; there is more to come. Christ is the first in the resurrection. However, there will be others at His second coming. Paul wrote:
1) In Adam, all die, in Christ, all shall be made alive, 1 Corinthians 15:22. He penned: “And so it is written, the first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit,” 1 Corinthians 15:45; Genesis 2:7; John 6:39-40; John 6:54.
2) Every man in his own order: "Christ the first fruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming," 1 Corinthians 15:23.
c. Christ the first fruits: “of them that slept,” 1 Corinthians 15:23a.
1) Christ’s resurrection is a pledge and earnest of our resurrection if we remain faithful to our calling and election to Him.
2) The Holy Spirit is given unto us as that pledge for our redemption, Ephesians 1:13-14. This is God’s pledge to us, certifying the resurrection of our bodies.
a) We are a part of the consecrated lump and shall be made partakers of the first fruits (the resurrection of Christ).
b) He wrote elsewhere: "For if the first fruits are holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root is holy, so are the branches," Romans 11:16; John 15:4-6.
c) Christ has risen as the head of the body, the church; we too might be raised like Him. So Christ's resurrection must, in order of nature, precede that of the saints. Therefore, Jesus is the: “Firstborn among many brethren,” Romans 8:29.
d. Afterward, they who are Christ's: “At His coming,” 1 Corinthians 15:23b. This shall occur at His second coming. Paul speaks of the “redemption of our mortal bodies.” Observe--
1) First, "But if the Spirit of him that raised Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you," Romans 8:11.
2) Further, "And not only they but ourselves also, which have the first fruits of the Spirit, even we groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body," Romans 8:23.
3) Finally, “And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption,” Ephesians 4:30. This will occur at His second coming.
e. At His coming. The resurrection and the redemption of our mortal bodies will occur at Jesus’ Second Advent to raise the dead. Paul continues:
1) First, “So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption,” 1 Corinthians 15:42.
2) Further, “It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power,” 1 Corinthians 15:43.
3) Next, "It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body... Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual,” 1 Corinthians 15:44-46.
4) Additionally, "The first man is of the earth, earthly: the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is earthly, such are they also that are earthly: and as is heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. And as we have borne the image of the earthly, we shall bear the image of the heavenly," 1 Corinthians 15:47-49.
5) Finally, “Now this I say, brethren...Behold, I show you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed. In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we (that are alive) shall be changed,” 1 Corinthians 15:50-52. Do you recall 1 Thessalonians 4:15-18:
a) The Lord shall descend from heaven?
b) With the voice of an archangel and the trump of God?
c) The dead in Christ shall rise first?
d) Then we that are alive and remain shall be caught up?
e) To meet the Lord in the air?
f) And so shall we ever be with the Lord?
6) Conclusion: “For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal shall put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, it shall be brought to pass the written saying: Death is swallowed up in victory...Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ," 1 Corinthians 15:53-58.
4. Paul affirms that there will be a resurrection and a change by both the dead and those yet alive at Christ's second coming. It will occur at the last trump, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye. And the dead shall be raised incorruptible, having immortality and eternal life, 1 Peter 1:3-5; 2 Peter 1:3-4. Notice:
a. Paul’s promise to Timothy: “Who hath saved us and called us with a holy calling...But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel,” 2 Timothy 1:9-10.
b. Peter’s words to the saints: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. To an inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,” 1 Peter 1:3-4; 2 Peter 1:10-11.
5. Recall Jesus’ teaching of the resurrection: “Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation,” John 5:28-29.
1) The "hour" is coming in which "all that are in the graves" will hear his voice and be raised, both the good and the evil. This will occur in the same "hour," not after 1000-years.
2) Pre-millennialists insist that prophecy must be taken literally; this, therefore, leaves no room for 1000-years between the resurrection of the good and the evil. It will happen in the very "same hour."
3) The event after the resurrection of the good and evil; will be their appearance at Christ's judgment seat, Matthew 25:30-46; Hebrews 9:27; Revelation 22:12-13.
6. Paul spoke of the resurrection: "But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and the prophets: And have hope toward God, which they also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust," Acts 24:14-15. Notice:
a. Paul spoke of only (one) general resurrection (“There shall be a resurrection of the dead.”) This resurrection will occur at the Lord’s second coming.
b. The just and the unjust, at the same time (“shall be raised from the dead.”)
c. There is no mention of two resurrections, separated by 1000-years. There was no mention of a 1000-year reign before or after (“the resurrection of the dead.”)
7. Then cometh the end. We now embark on the real substance of this lesson. The End! What happens immediately after the clause: “they that are Christ’s at his coming,” verse 23? An emphatic declaration: “Then cometh the end,” verse 24. It could not be any clearer. Then cometh the end! Paul’s view of what will occur immediately after the Second Advent of Christ is far different; than those who believe, teach, and preach the "premillennialist's" doctrine. Observe--
a. Paul wrote: “Then cometh the end.” When He (Christ) shall have:
1) Delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father (not set it up).
2) Put down all rule and all authority and power (not take it up), 1 Corinthians 15:24.
b. Pre-millennialist states: “Then begin the rapture.” Jesus will:
1) Make an invisible appearance.
2) Jesus will raise the righteous dead.
3) The rapture will begin in earnest (righteous caught up into heaven).
NOTE: There is no mention of the living righteous on the earth in the rapture. Mr. Graham does mention them in his discussion of the rapture, 7-years of tribulation, and 1000-year of reign. See our link at the end of this lesson.
4) This will prompt the “seven years of tribulations” upon the earth.
c. There is no mention of these events in Paul’s Letter to the Corinthians.
NOTE: Illustrate the R-7, 1000, or the rapture, 7-years tribulations, and 1000-year reign of Christ. Notice what the apostle wrote concerning Christ’s current reign.
8. He wrote: “For he must REIGN, TILL he hath put all enemies under his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death,” 1 Corinthians 15:25-26. Paul wrote of Christ’s reign in this Letter. Observe--
a. Paul affirms these four things regarding Christ’s reign:
1) First, “Christ, must reign, till,” 1 Corinthians 15:25a. He must reign, "till," which is an adverb of time. Christ was then reigning over His kingdom when Paul wrote this Letter. He is reigning NOW!
2) Second, Christ “must reign until He hath put all enemies under his feet,” 1 Corinthians 15:25.
3) Third, Christ "must reign till the last enemy shall be destroyed, and that is death,” 1 Corinthians 15:26.
4) Fourth, Christ reigns until “His coming, the End,” 1 Corinthians 15:23-24. At that time He:
a) One, He, “Shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father.”
b) Two, He, “Shall have put down all rule and all authority and power."
c) Three, He “Will have put all enemies under his feet.”
d) Four, He, “Will have destroyed the last enemy, which is death.”
b. The pre-millennialist advocate: A 1000-year reign will begin at the Lord’s visible return after the culmination of the “rapture and the 7-years of tribulation.”
1) When did Christ begin His reign? Paul wrote Christ: “shall reign till He returns and delivers up the kingdom to God, the Father.”
2) Paul's instruction concerning the reign of Christ is different from that of the premillennialists. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the start of Christ’s reign.
3) We get the first inclination about this in Peter's sermon on Pentecost. Observe--
c. Peter on Pentecost. Peter interprets David's prophecies regarding Christ’s resurrection and reigns on his throne. Luke wrote: “Men and brethren; let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David... He ...Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise Christ to sit on His throne... Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, He hath sheds forth this, which ye now see and hear. For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand. Until I make thy foes thy footstool," Acts 2:29-35. Peter preached--
1) That Jesus:
a) Was RAISED from the dead to SIT on his (David’s) throne,” Acts 2:30-32. He was raised to sit! He is seated on His throne NOW.
b) Is NOW exalted having received the promise of the Holy Spirit, Acts 2:33; Psalms 16:9-11; Psalms 132:11; 2 Samuel 7:12-13. Please note these prophecies have already been fulfilled.
c) He has been highly exalted, Philippians 2:5-11.
2) That, “Christ has ASCENDED into the heavens,” Acts 2:34.
a) He has ascended into the heavens with clouds, Acts 1:9-11.
b) He would receive His kingdom after returning to the “ancient of days,” Daniel 7:13-14; Daniel 2:44.
c) He has ascended into the heavens, Acts 1:11; Acts 2:34; Acts 7:56.
d) To sit on God’s right hand, Acts 2:34.
e) Therefore, He has received the throne of his father David, Luke 1:32-33.
3) That “The LORD said unto my Lord (Christ): Sit thou on my right hand,” Acts 2:34-35.
a) He is prophesied to sit on the right hand of God, Psalms 110:1.
b) He now sits at the right hand of God, Hebrews 1:3; Hebrews 1:13; 1 Corinthians 15:25; 1 Peter 3:22.
c) Therefore, Christ now sits on David’s throne in heaven, NOT on earth!
4) That He must remain seated: “Until I make thy FOES thy footstool,” Acts 2:35.
a) He is prophesied to have all His foes put under His footstool, Psalms 110:1.
b) He is now reigning, and shall continue to reign until all His enemies are put under His feet, 1 Corinthians 15:25-26; Acts 2:35.
c) The last enemy to be put under His feet is death, 1 Corinthians 15:26.
d) All authority has been given unto Him, Matthew 11:27; Ephesians 1:20-23.
e) Conclusion: Peter preached Christ was raised from the dead to sit on David's throne once he ascended (returned) into the heavens. Christ ascended into heaven to be exalted at the right hand of God. Christ took His seat on David's throne to begin His reign, which will continue until God makes all of Christ's foes His footstool. Peter's preaching agrees with Paul's narrative regarding the resurrection and reign of Christ over His kingdom. Christ reigns over His Kingdom NOW. His reign shall continue until he “comes, and that will be the end,” 1 Corinthians 15:23-24; Colossians 1:13; Revelation 1:9.
9. Final Conclusion: Neither Paul nor Peter mentions a 1000-year reign of Christ upon the earth in Palestine, in Jerusalem. Paul wrote: “At Christ’s second coming, that will be the end!” I suggest the following regarding this premillennial teaching. Observe--
a. The premillennialists' problems are they cite and use: "keys, symbols, and prophetic statements” to build a shaky foundation for their doctrine.
1) Sound “hermeneutic” principles require that we use the: “New Testament text to interpret the Old Testament prophetic utterances,” where it is appropriate. Peter wrote: “No prophecy of scriptures is of any private interpretation,” 2 Peter 1:20-21.
2) Premillennialists use the Old Testament scriptures (prophetic utterances) and the "keys and symbols" from the Book of Revelation to establish their premillennial teachings.
3) They easily misinterpret the New Testament's clear passages regarding the second coming of Christ and His kingdom to build their premillennial teachings.
4) This practice is a reversal of sound biblical interpretative principles.
b. Let me illustrate a few of the passages of scripture used to establish their teaching. Observe the prophecies--
1) First, Joel’s prophecy of the: "outpouring of the Holy Ghost," Joel 2:28-29.
a) Has this prophecy already been fulfilled, or is it something yet in the future?
b) Using the New Testament scriptures to interpret this prophecy, Luke wrote: “This is that which was spoken of by the prophet Joel,” Acts 2:14-17.
c) Anytime we see a "this is that," concerning a text, that will be "the end of that." We have our interpretation; no more debate or discussion is needed.
2) Further, the battle of Armageddon: “Why do the heathen rage and the people imagine a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rules take counsel together, against the Lord, and His anointed, saying, Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us," Psalms 2:1-3; Revelation 16:14-16. They contend that after this battle, the kingdom of God will be set up. Observe--
a) Does the Psalms or the Revelation give a prophetic meaning to a “battle of Armageddon?” Stay with me, please, beloved of the Lord.
b) Using the New Testament scriptures to interpret this prophecy. Let’s consider the Apostles' prayer after being released from the council. Luke wrote: "And being let go, they... lifted their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord...Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things?... For to do whatsoever thy hand and counsel determined before to be done," Acts 4:23-31. As is our custom, we have collapsed this text.
c) According to Peter, this battle has already been fought and won by God’s anointed, Christ. Paul wrote: “For we are more than conquerors through Him,” Romans 8:36-37.
3) Next, “And His feet shall stand in that day upon the mount Olivet,” Zechariah 14:4. This prophecy has been fulfilled, Matthew 24:3; Luke 21:37. Christ made His ascension into heaven from this mount, Acts 1:12. No proof, Jesus’ feet will even touch the earth at His second coming. We shall rise and meet Him in the air, and so shall we ever be with the Lord, 1 Thessalonians 4:17-18.
4) Finally, the rule of Christ: "The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand until I make thine enemies thy footstool," Psalms 110:1. This Psalm prophesies an event to be fulfilled regarding the reign of Christ. Using the New Testament scriptures, we can see it has already been fulfilled.
a) Peter’s statement on Pentecost, Acts 2:30-35.
b) Paul’s letter to the Hebrews, Hebrews 1:13.
c) Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, 1 Corinthians 15:25.
d) Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, Ephesians 1:20-23.
e) Peter’s letter to the scattered saints, 1 Peter 3:22.
c. Many other prophecies and keys. Many more passages are used, which can be adequately understood using the techniques I have just illustrated. Read the prophecy, and check the New Testament for its fulfillment.
d. This lesson cannot, or will not deal with all such errors in their teachings, Matthew 22:29. As I hasten toward a conclusion, I leave these final thoughts with you.
10. Christ’s final acts of obedience. Paul concludes his discussion of Christ's resurrection, return, and reign with His recusal, removal, and restoration of His authority to the Father. Paul wrote: "For He (the Father) hath put all things under His (Christ's) feet. But when he saith all things are put under Him, it is manifest that He is accepted, which did put all things under Him. And when all things shall be subdued unto Him, then shall the Son also Himself be subject unto Him that put all things under Him, that God may be all in all," 1 Corinthians 15:27-28. Christ's final acts of obedience will be to 1) Recuse himself from all authority, 2) remove himself from reign, and 3) restore himself to the rightful place as Son. See John 1:18; John 13:3; John 17:5. Consider--
a. First, He will recuse: Himself as king when He delivers up the kingdom to God, the Father.
b. Further, He will remove: Himself from reign after He has put down all rule, all authority, and power, and be subject unto the Father.
c. Finally, He will restore: Himself as Son, in the Godhead, that God may be all in all, Acts 17:29; Romans 1:20; Colossians 2:9. It will once again be: “Let Us,” Genesis 1:26; Genesis 11:7; Isaiah 6:8. I have enjoyed presenting this lesson to God’s people.
d. Restitution of all things. This will complete Peter's preaching: "And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: Whom the heaven must receive until the restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began," Acts 3:20-21. I charge, therefore, that all students of the Bible:
1) Strive always to: “Rightly divide the word of truth,” 2 Timothy 2:15.
2) Endeavor to: “Seek ye out of the book the Lord, and read, no one of these shall fail,” Isaiah 34:16; Nehemiah 8:8.
3) Allow the New Testament's clear passages always to interpret the Old Testament's prophecies and the Book of Revelation.
4) You may do well and remain on a solid foundation, in your scriptural studies, Acts 17:11. We have covered a lot of ground, and you have been patient. As I conclude, recall we discussed--
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. Did He Promise an R71000?
B. Summarize main points.
1. We have answered this question: "Did He Promise an R71000, at His Second Advent?" Is there such a thing as an "R71000?" I'm not talking about a "sports car." By this, we meant: “Did Christ promise at His Second Advent: the rapture, 7-years of tribulation, and a 1000-year reign?” We found that Christ did not promise such, nor does the scripture teach such a doctrine.
2. Our scripture of emphasis was thoroughly investigated, which read: “And now is Christ raised from the dead, and become the first fruits of them that slept...then cometh the end...when he shall put down all rule, and all authority and power. For he must reign, till...under His feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death...that God may be all in all,” 1 Corinthians 15:20-28. This text did not substantiate the pre-millennialist teaching of an R71000. It was essential in this lesson to consider every text within the context of the scriptures. With God’s help, we did just that, to draw: “New water from old wells.” I trust someone today/tonight will abandon this error and obey the gospel of Christ to gain entrance into the kingdom of God. Let me tell you how to do this right now.
C. Invitation. Present the pattern of conversion, H.B.R.C.B.
D. Exhortation.
E. Motivation.
I submit this verse unto you that I may: “Render therefore to all their dues: tributes to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; and honor to whom honor, (is due),” Romans 13:7. I acknowledge my consultation with these distinguished authors in this lesson.
Ron Freeman, Evangelist
ronald.e.freeman@wwmchurchofchrist.org
https://wwmchurchofchrist.org/
Website: https://en.gravatar.com/refreeman
References:
1. I recommend the [Neal – Wallace Discussion on "The thousand Years Reign of Christ"] by Foy E. Wallace, Jr., Publication, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Copyright 1933. This discussion was conducted in Winchester, Kentucky, on January 2 to 6, 1933.
2. God's Prophetic Word, by Foy Wallace, p. 347-349; cf. Lion and the Lamb on Planet Earth, by Rodney Miller.
3. Merriam-Webster, since 1828, by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated (Merriam-webster.com), 2017.
4. Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible, by Matthew Henry, Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Grand Rapids, MI, 1706.
5. The People's New Testament, by B. W. Johnson, Christian Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 1891.
6. The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament; United Bible Societies,’ Fourth, Corrected Edition, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL, 1990.
7. Textus Receptus, taken from the Greek Text of Stephens 1550, The Englishman’s Greek New Testament, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, First Zondervan Printing, 1970.
8. Clarke Commentary on the Bible, Eight Volumes, Published 1810-1826, New York, Published by J. Emory and B. Waugh, for the Methodist Episcopal Church, at the conference office, 13 Crosby-Street., J. Collord, Printer, 1831.
9. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, by W. E. Vine, Fleming H. Revell Company, Old Tappan, NJ, Copyright, 1981.
10. Link to the Neal-Wallace Debate: https://www.icotb.org/resources/Neal-WallaceDebate-Wallace.pdf
11. You can read Mr. Billy Graham’s discussion of these topics at this link: https://billygraham.org/answer/what-is-the-rapture/
Please copy and paste these links into your browser, and download them.
