Matthew 24:30-31 (KJV):
"And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other."
Key points to consider within this passage:
The Coming of the Son of Man:
The passage clearly describes the "Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven." This refers to Jesus Christ's return.
Gathering of the Elect:
Verse 31 speaks of angels gathering "his elect from the four winds." This depicts a gathering of God's chosen people.
The Sound of a Trumpet:
The sound of a trumpet is mentioned, which is also a common element in other eschatological passages.
Context:
It is very important to understand that this passage is within the context of Jesus giving the "Olivet discourse". In this discourse, Jesus is speaking about events that will happen leading up to his second coming. Therefore the timing of these events are heavily debated by theologians.
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Here is the text of 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 from the King James Version:
For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with1 them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the2 Lord.
Key Biblical Passages:
- 1 Corinthians 15:51-53:
- This passage speaks of a "mystery" and a transformation that will occur "in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet." It emphasizes the change from mortal to immortal. This is very important to rapture theology.
- John 14:1-3:
- Jesus speaks of going to prepare a place and then returning to take believers with him. This is often interpreted as a reference to the Rapture.
- Matthew 24:30-31:
- This passage describes the Son of Man coming on the clouds with great glory and gathering his elect. It is important to note that the timing of this event in relation to the tribulation is heavily debated.
- Revelation 3:10:
- This verse contains a promise to keep believers "from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world." This is often used to support the pre-tribulation Rapture view.
- Luke 17:34-37:
- This passage speaks of one being taken and the other left. This is a passage that is often brought up when discussing the rapture.
Aspects to Consider:
- The Nature of the Transformation:
- The idea of believers receiving glorified bodies is a crucial element. This transformation is seen as a move from a perishable to an imperishable state.
- The "Last Trumpet":
- The mention of the "last trumpet" in 1 Corinthians 15 raises questions about its connection to other trumpet references in the Bible, particularly in the book of Revelation.
- The Relationship Between the Rapture and the Second Coming:
- As mentioned earlier, this is a major point of contention. Some believe they are distinct events, while others see them as parts of a single event.
- The concept of Imminence:
- Many that believe in the rapture, believe that it can happen at any moment. This idea greatly influences the way that some Christians live their lives.
- Differing Theological Views:
- It is very important to understand that there are varying theological views on this subject. Different denominations, and even different people within those denominations, will have differing views.
The concept of the Rapture is a complex and often debated eschatological belief within Christianity, particularly among some Protestant denominations.1 Here's a breakdown of key aspects:
Core Concept:
- The Rapture is generally understood as an event in which Christian believers, both those who have died and those who are alive, will be "caught up" or "snatched away" to meet Jesus Christ "in the air."2
- This idea is primarily derived from 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17.
Key Points and Variations:
- Origin of the Term:
- The term "rapture" comes from the Latin word "raptura," which is derived from "rapio," meaning "to seize" or "to snatch away."3 This corresponds to the Greek word "harpazo" used in the original text.
- Timing of the Rapture:
- There are various viewpoints regarding when the Rapture will occur in relation to the "Tribulation," a period of great suffering described in the Bible:4
- Pre-tribulation: This view holds that the Rapture will occur before the Tribulation.5
- Mid-tribulation: This view places the Rapture in the middle of the Tribulation.6
- Post-tribulation: This view believes the Rapture will occur at the end of the Tribulation.7
- There are also other variations, such as the pre-wrath rapture theory.8
- There are various viewpoints regarding when the Rapture will occur in relation to the "Tribulation," a period of great suffering described in the Bible:4
- Relationship to the Second Coming:
- A key point of contention is how the Rapture relates to the Second Coming of Christ. Some interpretations see them as separate events, while others see them as intertwined.
- Dispensationalism:
- The pre-tribulation view of the Rapture is closely associated with dispensationalism, a theological system that divides biblical history into distinct periods or "dispensations."9
- Historical Context:
- It is important to note that the specific concept of a pre-tribulation Rapture is a relatively recent theological development, gaining prominence in the 19th century.10
Points of Contention:
- There is significant debate among Christian theologians about the biblical basis for the Rapture, particularly the pre-tribulation view.
- Many historical Christian denominations do not hold to a rapture belief.
- The literal interpretation of the biblical texts relating to end times is a major factor in the different views held.
In essence, the Rapture is a complex theological concept with varied interpretations, primarily focused on the belief that Christians will be supernaturally taken up to meet Christ.
Signs serve a multitude of purposes, essentially acting as visual communication tools. Here's a breakdown of their primary functions:
- Information Provision:
- Signs convey essential details about services, facilities, locations, and more. This includes maps, directories, and informational displays.
- Direction and Navigation:
- They guide people through environments, helping them find their way. This is crucial in places like streets, buildings, and public spaces.
- Identification:
- Signs identify locations, businesses, and objects. This helps people recognize where they are and what they're looking at.
- Safety and Regulation:
- They provide warnings, instructions, and rules to ensure safety and order. This includes traffic signs, warning labels, and emergency exit signs.
- Persuasion:
- Signs are used for marketing and advertising, aiming to influence consumer behavior and promote products or services.
- Brand Awareness:
- Signs help to create and reinforce brand recognition. Logo's and business names on signs, help people become aware of the business.
In essence, signs play a vital role in organizing and facilitating our daily lives by providing clear and concise communication.
And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.
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Matthew chapter 24 is a significant passage in the New Testament of the Bible, often referred to as the Olivet Discourse.1 It contains Jesus's predictions about the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem and his teachings about the signs of his future return and the end of the age.2 Here's a breakdown of key themes and points:
Key Themes:
- The Destruction of the Temple:
- Jesus foretells that the Temple will be completely destroyed, "not one stone here will be left on another." This prophecy was fulfilled in 70 AD when the Romans destroyed Jerusalem.3
- Signs of the Times:
- Jesus describes various signs that will precede his return, including:
- False messiahs and prophets.4
- Wars and rumors of wars.5
- Famines and earthquakes.6
- Persecution of believers.
- The spread of the gospel to all nations.
- Jesus describes various signs that will precede his return, including:
- The Great Tribulation:
- Jesus speaks of a period of intense suffering and tribulation.
- The Coming of the Son of Man:
- He describes his return in glory, which will be visible to all.7
- The Importance of Watchfulness:
- Jesus emphasizes the need for believers to be alert and prepared, as the timing of his return is unknown.8
Key Points:
- Warnings against deception: Jesus repeatedly warns his disciples to be aware of false prophets and messiahs.9
- The "abomination of desolation": This phrase, derived from the Book of Daniel, refers to a future event that will signal the beginning of the Great Tribulation.
- The unknown time: A very important point made by Jesus, is that nobody knows the time of his return, except the father.10 This is found in Matthew 24:36.
- The importance of readiness: Jesus uses parables, such as the parable of the fig tree, to illustrate the need for believers to be constantly prepared for his return.
Interpretations:
- There are various interpretations of Matthew 24 among different Christian denominations and individuals. Some view the signs as referring to events that occurred in the first century, while others see them as pointing to future events.11
- It is very important to understand that there are many different theological views on this chapter, and it is a source of much discussion.
Matthew 24 is a complex and significant chapter that offers insights into Jesus's teachings about the future. It serves as a reminder for believers to remain faithful and vigilant in anticipation of his return.
Matthew 24
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Key Themes and Signs:
- Natural Disasters:
- Increased frequency and intensity of earthquakes, famines, and pestilences.
- Signs in the heavens, such as unusual celestial events.
- Environmental degradation.
- Social and Moral Decay:
- A rise in lawlessness and wickedness.
- Deterioration of moral values and family structures.
- Increased selfishness, greed, and lack of love.
- The spread of false prophets and religious deception.
- Wars and Conflicts:
- Wars and rumors of wars on a large scale.
- Increased global conflict.
- Religious and Spiritual Signs:
- Persecution of believers.
- The preaching of the gospel to all nations.
- The appearance of false Christs and prophets.
Biblical References:
- Much of the discussion stems from passages in the New Testament, particularly:
- Matthew 24 (the Olivet Discourse): Where Jesus describes various signs of his return.
- The Book of Revelation: Which contains apocalyptic visions and prophecies.
- 2 Timothy 3: which describes moral decay in the last days.
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While we cannot name the exact date of the Lord's Return its nearness may be known by the character of the Times. As to this the New Testament gives no uncertain sound. In Dan. 12:4,9-10. we read, "But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words. and seal the Book. even to the 'TIME OF THE END' many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased... Go thy way, Daniel, for the words are closed up and sealed till the 'TIME OF THE END.' Many shall be petrified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly; and none of the wicked shall understand; but the WISE SHALL UNDERSTAND." These words declare that the prophecies of Daniel were to be "shut up" and "sealed" until the "TIME OF THE END." This expression does not mean the "end of Time," but is the angelic messenger's way of referring to the "Last Days" of the "Times of the Gentiles." At which time he declares that the Book will be "unsealed," and "knowledge shall be increased." What is here meant is "prophetic knowledge" of the things recorded in the Book of Daniel and other prophetic writings of the Scriptures. This is made clear by the statement that only the "wise" shall understand. That is, those who are enlightened by the Holy Spirit, and not those who merely have intellectual knowledge, for the wicked SHALL NOT UNDERSTAND. How wonderfully this is true of these days. The Higher Critics have labored hard to discredit the Book of Daniel, but without avail, for the Book is more studied than ever, and is being "unsealed" by holy Spirit enlightened students of the Word of God, who clearly see that we have reached the "Time of the End." and are living in the closing clays of the "Times of the Gentiles."
The "unsealing" began about 100 years ago, when the "Midnight Cry," "Behold, the Bridegroom Cometh," was heard in the "Revival of Premillennial Truth." For centuries while the Bridegroom tarried the Wise and Foolish virgins "ALL slumbered and slept," and the Church lapsed into a condition of spiritual apathy. and "The Blessed Hope" was eclipsed. But now all over the world the Blessed Hope has emerged from the shadow, and the virgins are "trimming their lamps" preparatory to going out to meet their Lord, but only the "wise" have oil in their vessels and in their lamps. We are now living in the "Fourth Watch of the Night," soon the "MORNING STAR" (Christ. Rev. 22:16) will appear and we shall be caught out at the Rapture to meet Him and go into the Marriage Feast.
Let us take a hasty glance at the "Signs of the "Times." A careful study of the Chart will reveal "Ten Signs."
1. POST-MILLENNIAL SCOFFERS.
In 2 Pet. 3:3-4 we read: "That there shall come in the 'Last Days' SCOFFERS, walking after their own lusts, and saying, Where is the promise of HIS COMING? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation." How true this is of the present day. The Doctrine of the Second Coming is "scoffed" at, and those who hold it are looked upon as deluded fanatics, and sad to say, this opposition comes from prominent religious leaders of the bay.
2. APOSTASY.
In 2 Thess. 2:3, we are told that "THAT DAY (the Day of the Lord) shall not come, except there come a 'FALLING AWAY' first." This "Falling Away" is evidenced on every hand.
3. FALSE TEACHERS.
In 2 Peter 2:1-2 we are warned against "False Teachers" who shall privately bring in "damnable heresies," even denying the Lord that bought them, such as Christian Scientists and Russelites, and that many shall follow their "pernicious ways," and sad to relate these "followers" are recruited from the orthodox church members, of whom the Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy (2 Tim. 4:3-4). saying: "The time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears: and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto FABLES." This "turning away" is evidenced on every hand. There is a "turning away" in doctrinal standards. in the demand for a regenerated church membership, in church and Sunday school attendance, and in Sabbath observance. Many churchgoers will not endure "sound doctrine." They will not go to hear those who preach the "total depravity" of man, the necessity of the "New Birth," and the conscious and endless torment of those who reject Christ as a personal Saviour. They demand teachers who will "itch" (tickle) their ears with pleasing, novel and sensational doctrines.
4. SPIRITUALISM.
In 1 Tim. 4:1 we are warned of a departure from the faith. That in the "Latter Times" (the Last Days of this Dispensation), some shall "depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils." This is being fulfilled in the increasing number of those who are forsaking their Christian belief to become followers of Spiritualistic Mediums and to dabble in Psychical Research.
5. PERILOUS TIMES.
Of these times Paul told Timothy. "This know also, that in the 'LAST DAYS' Perilous Times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection (for their own offspring), truce breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those who are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a FORM of godliness, but denying the POWER thereof." 2 Tim. 3:1-5. We have neither time nor space to enlarge upon the above, but what a catalogue we have here of the "perilous conditions" of the times in which we live.
6. HEAPED UP TREASURE.
In James 5:1-6, we are told that in the "LAST DAYS" there shall be a class of "rich men," who shall have "HEAPED treasure together," and that by "FRAUD," and who shall use their ill-gotten gain in the pursuit of "pleasure" and "wantonness," and that God will hear the cry of those who have been cheated of their just share of the profits, and will send a sore judgment upon the guilty. What a description we have here of the unprincipled, speculative and profiteering spirit of the days in which we live, when men become millionaires, and multi-millionaires, in a few years. Truly we are living in the "Last Days" of this Dispensation,
7. A LAODICEAN CHURCH.
In the Message to the Church of Laodicea (Rev. 3:14-22) we have a description of the last stage of the professing Church on earth. It is described as neither "hot" nor "cold," but nauseatingly luke warm, so that Christ says He will "spue it out of His mouth." It boastingly will claim to be "rich" and "increased with goods," and to have "need of nothing," not even of Christ, for He will be excluded and will have to knock for admittance, and it will be ignorant of its true condition, that it is wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked. Unspeakably sad it is that this is the condition to a large extent of the professing Church of today.
8. THE FIG-TREE SIGN.
When Jesus' Disciples asked Him, after He had foretold the destruction of the Temple: "Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the SIGN of THY COMING, and of the end of the world (Age)?" (Matt. 24:1-3), Jesus gave as a "Sign" of His Coming the "Fig-Tree Sign." The "Fig-Tree" symbolizes the nation of Israel, and its "budding" the revival of Israel as a nation. Here again we have evidence of the nearness of the Lord's Return for the revival of Zionism, and the passing of the Land of Palestine into the hands of a Christian nation, opens the way for the restoration of the Jews to their own land, and the fulfillment of the Fig-Tree Sign. The fact that the City of Jerusalem surrendered without the firing of a shot is significant. Jesus said that Jerusalem was to be trodden down of the Gentiles until "The Times of the Gentiles" should be fulfilled (Luke 21:24), and the taking of Jerusalem at this time may signify that "The Times of the Gentiles" is drawing to a close.
9. THE DISTRESS OF NATIONS.
In Luke 21:24-27 Jesus tells us that as the "Times of the Gentiles" come to a close, "there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth DISTRESS OF NATIONS, with perplexity; the sea and the waves (the peoples of the earth) roaring; men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the 'Powers of Heaven' (the Principalities and Powers of Evil, Eph. 6:11-12), shall be shaken. And THEN shall they see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory." In the prophecy of Haggai 2:6-7, we read: "Thus saith the Lord of hosts; yet once, it is a little while, and I will shake the heavens, and the earth, and the sea, and the dry land; and I will SHAKE ALL NATIONS, and the DESIRE (Christ) OF ALL NATIONS WILL COME." This has never been fulfilled as yet, and the present "Distress of Nations," the uprising of the masses in "National Revolutions," the "Tottering Thrones" and other indications that the nations are Being Shaken, is still further proof that we are living in the times just preceding the appearing of the Son of Man, the "DESIRE OF ALL NATIONS", who will bring peace to this troubled earth.
10. NOAH DAYS.
The last "sign" that we would mention is the "sign" of the "Noah Days." Luke 17:26-30. As it was in the days of Noah, they did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded, so shall it be in the days of the Son of Man. Where, you say, is the sin in doing these things? They are not only commanded, they are necessary. That is true. The sin was not in "doing" them, but in doing them "UNTIL the Flood came." That is, they did nothing else. They forgot to worship their Maker. So today men and women are so busily engaged in doing the good things of life that they have no time to worship God. They are so busy building homes for themselves on earth that they are neglecting to secure a home in heaven. They are more anxious that their children should make a good match on earth, than that they should be united to the Lord. They are so much concerned about their case in Court, that they have forgoten that they must stand at the judgment Bar of God.
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The common opinion that the Millennium is to be ushered in by the preaching of the Gospel, and that after the Millennium there is to be a "General Resurrection" followed by a "General judgment," and then the earth is to be destroyed by fire is not scriptural.
There can be no "General" Judgment because the Scriptures speak of one judgment as being in the "Air" (1 Thess. 4:16,17; 2 Cor. 5:6-10); another on the "Earth" (Matt. 25:31-46); and a third in "Heaven," the earth and its atmosphere having fled away. Rev. 20:11-15. And to, make sure that these three separate judgments should not be combined into one General judgment scene, three different 'Thrones are mentioned.
-
The "Judgment Seat of Christ." 2 Cor. 5:10.
"In the Air." For "Believers" only. -
The "Throne of Glory." Matt. 25:31,32
. "On the Earth." For "The Nations." -
The "Great White Throne." Rev. 20:11,12.
"In Heaven." For the "Wicked Dead."
The Scriptures speak of
They differ in five general aspects. As to "Subjects," "Time," "Place," "Basis of Judgment" and "Result."
- Subjects-Believers as to "SIN."
- Time-A.D. 30.
- Place-Calvary.
- Basis of Judgment-Christ's "FINISHED WORK."
-
Result-
- Death as to Christ.
- Justification as to the Believer.
This judgment is PAST. The Bible proofs of the results of this judgment are Rom. 10:4.
"For Christ is the END OF THE LAW for righteousness to every one that Believeth."
"Christ Hath Redeemed us from the CURSE OF THE LAW, being made a curse for us; for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree." Gal.3:13.
"Who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, BEING DEAD TO SINS, should live unto righteousness." 1 Pet. 2:24.
"There is therefore NOW no condemnation (Judgment) to them which are IN CHRIST JESUS, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the Law of the 'SPIRIT OF LIFE' in Christ Jesus hath made me FREE From the Law of 'Sin and Death."' Rom. 8:1,2.
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on Him that sent me,
and shall not come into condemnation (Judgment) but
IS PASSED
From Death Unto Life."
John 5:24.
The "Believer's" Judgment for Sin then is PAST, and was settled at the Cross.
But we must not forget that the judgment of the Believer is threefold.
- As a "Sinner."
- As a "Son."
- As a "Servant."
As we have already seen his judgment as a "Sinner" is Past. Let us look at his judgment
2. As a "Son."
As soon as the sinner accepts Christ as his personal Saviour that settles the "Sin" question for him. For if our iniquities are laid on Him (Jesus), then they are not on Us. Isa. 53:5,6. But the "Sin" question, and the "Sins" question are two different things. Christ died on the Cross to atone for "sin," to pay the penalty of Adam's disobedience in the Garden of Eden. "Sin" is that tendency in mankind to do wrong which we call "Natural Depravity." We do not get rid of this "tendency" by the "New Birth," but we get a "counteracting force" called the "New Nature." We become a "dual personality," composed of the "Old" and "New Natures," and which shall predominate depends on which we feed and which we starve. This explains the "warfare" that Paul describes as his experience, after his conversion, in Rom. 7:1-25. This warfare will continue until the "Old" nature is eradicated at death.
"Sins" are the outward acts of wrong doing that we commit as the result of our tendency to sin. These sins must be put away daily by "confession."
"My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an 'Advocate' with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous." 1 John 2:1.
"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9.
Our judgment as "Sons" is for "unconfessed sins." The punishment is chastisement. This explains much of the chastisement of Christians, and should show them that they are "Sons" and not "Bastards." Heb. 12:5-11. Paul says-
"If we would 'judge ourselves' we should not be judged. But when we are judged we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned (Judged) with the world." 1 Cor. 11:31,32.
Our duty then as "Sons" is to "self-judge" ourselves daily, "confess our sins," and so avert the chastisement of our Heavenly Father.
3. As a Servant.
This leads us to-
- Subjects-Believers as to "WORKS."
- Time-After The Church is caught out.
- Place-"Judgment Seat of Christ" (in the Air).
- Basis of Judgment-Their "WORKS."
- Result-Reward or Loss.
This judgment is FUTURE.
"We must all appear before the 'Judgment Seat of Christ,' that every one may receive the things 'done in the body' according to that he hath done, whether it be 'good' or 'bad' (worthless)." 2 Cor. 5:10.
The pronoun "We" occurs 26 times in the chapter, and in every instance it means the Believer, and the Epistle is addressed to the "Church" and "Saints" at Corinth, so the judgment here spoken of is for Believers "only." The "Time" of this judgment is when the Lord comes (1 Cor. 4:5), and the "Place" is "in the air" (1 Thess. 4:17) and before the Judgment Seat of Christ.
It will not be a judgment in the sense of a "trial" to see whether the judged are innocent (saved) or guilty (lost), for it is a judgment of the "saved only." It will be like the judges' stand at a Fair, or Race Track, where rewards are distributed to the successful contestants. Paul describes such a scene in 1 Cor. 9:24-27.
It is not a judgment for sin, but for "works." This judgment is described in 1 Cor. 3:11-15.
"Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones (valuable building stones, as marble, etc.), wood, hay, stubble; every man's 'Work' shall be made manifest; for the 'Day' (Judgment Day) shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by 'fire,' and the fire shall try every man's 'work' of what sort it is. If any man's work 'abide' which he hath built there upon he shall receive a 'reward.' If any man's work shall be 'burned' he shall suffer 'loss;' but 'he himself shall be saved;' yet so as by fire."
The result of this judgment is "reward" or "loss." All our "bad" and "dead works," represented by the wood, hay and stubble, will be consumed, and only our "good works" shall remain. There is much which passes for Christian service which is merely human and secular, and does not count in our eternal reward. For those who deserve a "reward" it will be
After the Grecian games were all over the runners, wrestlers, and successful contestants assembled before the "Bema," or judges' stand, which was an elevated seat on which the Umpire sat, and the winners received a "corruptible crown" of "laurel leaves." Some had no reward, they had lost the "Victor's Crown." But while there was no reward there was no punishment, they were not cast out.
The New Testament speaks of Five Crowns.
1. The Crown of "LIFE."
This is the "Martyr's" crown, and is mentioned twice.
"Blessed is the man that endureth temptation (testing), for when he is 'tried' (at the judgment Seat of Christ), he shall receive the 'Crown of Life' which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him." James 1:12.
"Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer; behold, the Devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried (tested) and ye shall have tribulation ten days; be thou faithful 'unto death,' and I will give thee a 'Crown of Life."' Rev. 2:10.
Notice it does not say "until" death, but "unto" death. They were not to recant but to remain faithful unto a martyr's death. To recant was to lose the crown. This refers to the martyrs of the Tribulation Period.
2. The Crown of "GLORY"
This is the "Elder's" or "Pastor's" crown, given by the Chief Shepherd when He shall appear. But it is not for those who serve for "filthy lucre" or "lord it over God's heritage." I Pet. 5:2-4.
3. The Crown of "REJOICING."
This is the "Soul Winner's" crown. Those brought to Jesus by us will be our "crown of rejoicing" at His Coming. 1 Thess. 2:19,20. Phil. 4:1.
4. The Crown of "RIGHTEOUSNESS"
This is the crown of those who "love His appearing" and will be given in "that day" the Day of His Appearing. 2 Tim. 4:8.
5. The Crown "INCORRUPTIBLE."
This is the "Victor's" crown, and is for those who "keep under their body." 1 Cor. 9:25-27. Who do not yield to their fleshly lusts. Who do not permit themselves to be diverted from the Master's work by worldly amusements and pleasure, nor saturate their body with drugs.
If we do not want to be "ashamed at His Coming," 1 John 2:28, let us see to it that we keep our body "under" and so live that we shall secure a crown.
- Subjects-The JEWS.
- Time-"The Great Tribulation."
- Place-Jerusalem and Vicinity.
- Basis of Judgment-Rejection of the Godhead.
- Result-Their Conversion and Reception of Christ as Their Messiah.
This judgment is FUTURE.
While the Church is being judged at the judgment Seat of Christ in the air, the Jews will be judged under Antichrist on the earth. The Jews are an "earthly" people; and as all the promises to them are "earthly," it follows that their judgment must be of an "earthly" character. The basis of their judgment is their "rejection of the Godhead." In the days of Samuel they rejected God the Father. 1 Sam. 8:7. In the days of Christ they rejected God the Son. Luke 23:18. In the days of Stephen they rejected God the Holy Spirit. Acts 7:51,54-60. For their sin they have been scattered among the nations until the Times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. When the Times of the Gentiles are about to end the Jews will be gathered back to the Holy Land "unconverted," and caused to "pass under the rod." Ez. 20:34-38. They will be cast into God's "Melting Pot" (Ez. 22:19-22), and pass through an experience spoken of by Jeremiah and Daniel as the "TIME OF JACOB'S TROUBLE." Jer. 30:4-7. Dan. 12:1.
Christ calls it "The Great Tribulation," and He and Zechariah the Prophet associate it with the "Return of the Lord." Matt. 24:21-31. Zech. 14:1-11.
The human agent the Lord will use will be Antichrist, the awfulness of whose rule will be supplemented by the pouring out of the "Vials of God's wrath" upon the earth. Rev. 15:1,5-8; 16:21. See the chapter on "The Tribulation."
The result of these terrible judgments will be that the Jews will call in their misery upon the Lord. Zech. 12:10. Then Christ will come back to the Mt. of Olives (Zech. 14:3) and the Jews will look upon Him whom they "pierced" (Zech. 12:10), and a nation, the Jewish Nation, shall be "born' (converted) in a day." Isa. 66:8. This will complete the judgment of the Jews. See the chapter on the Jews.
- Subjects-The Nations (Gentiles).
- Time-The "Revelation of Christ."
- Place-The "Throne of His Glory." On the Earth "Valley of Jehoshaphat."
- Basis of Judgment-Their Treatment of Christ's BrethrenThe Jews.
- Result-Some Nations "SAVED," Others "DESTROYED."
This judgment is FUTURE.
The account of this judgment is given in Matt. 25:31-46. The description of this judgment, and of the one given in Rev. 20:11-15 are combined by many, and taken to teach the doctrine of a general judgment. But when we compare them, they differ so widely, that it is evident that they do not describe the same event. What God has put asunder let no man join together. The following comparison will show the difference in the two accounts:
| Matt. 25:31-46. | Rev. 20:11-15. |
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This comparison reveals the fact that one of these judgments is "on the earth," the other in the "heavens," and that they are separated by 1000 years.
The Greek word "ethnos" here translated "Nations," occurs 158 times in the New Testament. It is translated "Gentiles" 92 times. "Nation" or "Nations" 61 times, and "The Heathen" 5 times, but it is never in any instance (unless it be this) applied either to the "dead" or the "resurrected."
As this is a judgment of nations only, the Jews cannot be in it, for they are not reckoned among the nations. Num. 23:9. And as the Church will be associated with Christ in this judgment, for the "Saints" (the Church) shall judge the "World" (the Nations), (1 Cor. 6:2), the Church cannot be in this judgment either. As we have seen the Church and the Jews have been already judged, so the "Judgment of the Nations" cannot be a general judgment. Who then, is asked, are meant by the Sheep? Do they not represent the Righteous, and all the Righteous from the beginning of the world to the end of Time? And do not the Goats in like manner represent all the Wicked?
If the Sheep are the Righteous, and the Goats the Wicked, then who are the Brethren? If they are the "followers of Christ," as some claim, they should be classed with the Sheep. The Scriptures teach that the Righteous are saved by "faith," and the Wicked are lost because they "reject Christ," but in this judgment scene the Sheep inherit a "Kingdom" and the Goats are commanded to "depart," because of their treatment of the Brethren.
All the contusion is caused by trying to make a judgment of "nations" mean a judgment of "individuals." The Sheep represent one class of Nations, and the Goats another class, while the Brethren represent the Jews (Christ's brethren).
We must bear in mind the time and place of this judgment. The time is at the "Revelation of Christ," when He comes to set up His "Millennial Kingdom" on the earth. The place is the "Valley of Jehoshaphat" in the vicinity of Jerusalem.
"For, behold, in those days, and in that time, when I shall bring again the captivity of Judah and Jerusalem, I will also gather ALL NATIONS, and will bring them down into the 'Valley of Jehoshaphat,' and will plead with them there for MY PEOPLE and for my heritage ISRAEL, whom they have scattered among the Nations, and parted my land." Joel 3:1,2.
This prophecy clearly states that there is to be a "Judgment of Nations" on the earth in the "Valley of Jehoshaphat" at the time of the restoration of the Jews to their own land, and that the basis of judgment is the treatment by the nations of Christ's brethren The Jews.
During the "Tribulation Period" the Nations that treat the Jewish People kindly, feeding and clothing them, and visiting them in prison, will be the "Sheep Nations," while those who neglect to do so will be the "Goat Nations."
At the "Judgment of Nations" the King (Christ) will say to the "Sheep Nations," inasmuch as ye have been kind to My brethren (the Jews), "Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world." This Kingdom is the "Millennial Kingdom" that the "Sheep Nations" as Nations will "inherit" and possess during the Millennium. And as they are to he among the "saved nations" of the New Earth (Rev. 21:24) it can be said of them that they, or at least the righteous individuals of them, shall enter into life eternal. Matt. 25:46.
Christ's sentence upon the "Goat Nations" will be "Depart from Me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the Devil and his angels," and "these shall go away into everlasting punishment." The "Goat Nations" will at once be destroyed as Nations, not one of them shall get into the Millennium, and the wicked individuals that compose them will perish and be eternally lost.
- Subjects-The Wicked Dead.
- Time-During the Renovation of the Earth by Fire.
- Place-Before "The Great White Throne."
- Basis of Judgment-Their "Works."
- Result-Cast Into the "Lake of Fire."
This judgment is FUTURE.
The account of it is given in Rev. 20:11-15. It will take place at the close of the Millennium a 1000 years after the judgment of the Nations, and before the "Great White Throne."
The "Great White Throne" will not be on the earth, for the "Great White Throne judgment" will take place during the renovation of the earth by fire, for the "renovation" of this Earth is reserved or kept until the time of that judgment, which Peter calls "The Day of judgment and Perdition of Ungodly Men" (2 Pet. 3:7), because the judgment of the "Great White Throne"is the judgment of the wicked dead.
All the Righteous dead will arise at the First Resurrection. If any Righteous die between the First Resurrection and the Resurrection of the "wicked" or Second Resurrection, they will rise with the wicked dead at that Resurrection. The words-'Whosoever was not found written in the Book of Life (vs. 15), implies that there will be "some," probably very few, Righteous, at the Second Resurrection.
At the close of the Millennium and just before the renovation of the earth by fire, the living Righteous will probably be translated, and the living Wicked or Ungodly will be destroyed in the flames that will consume the earth's atmosphere and exterior surface.
The Wicked or Ungodly will not be judged to see whether they are entitled to Eternal Life, but to ascertain the "degree" of their punishment. The sad feature of this judgment will be that there will be many kind and lovable people there who were not saved, and who will be classed among the "ungodly" because they rejected Christ as a Saviour. The "Books" will be opened in which the "Recording Angel" has kept a record of every person's life, and they will be judged every man according to his "works." Some will be sentenced to a more severe punishment than others, but none will escape. The worst of all is, that those who were not so bad must spend eternity with the ungodly, and that in the "Lake of Fire." Their punishment includes the second death, which means that they shall lose their resurrection bodies, in which they were judged, and become "disembodied spirits" again, and so exist in the "Lake of Fire" FOREVER.
The "Fallen Angels" (not the Devil's angels), who are "reserved in everlasting chains under darkness" will be judged at this time, which Jude calls the judgment of the "Great Day." Jude 6. When this judgment is over the Devil and his angels, and all the ungodly, will have been consigned to the "Lake of Fire," and the Universe purged of all evil, and righteousness shall reign supreme on the New Earth.
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