Resource Manager Posted November 12, 2010 Report Share Posted November 12, 2010 The Things of the Kingdom and the Things of the Name C.R. O'Connor by courtesy of sister Beth O’Connor Punchbowl Ecclesia, NSW, Australia This work is not subject to copyright and may be downloaded, duplicated and distributed without permission with request that the work is correctly quoted, and not misstated. Cover picture based on drawings contained in “Ezekiel’s Temple” by brother Henry Sulley “Freely have ye received, freely give.” FOREWORD The late brother Rick O’Connor conducted First Principles’ Classes for 2 Sydney ecclesias on a weekly basis for over 9 years. This continuous effort has seen more than a dozen interested friends ‘put on the saving name of the Lord Jesus Christ’ (Acts 4:12). These classes were undoubtedly our brother’s forte. His presentations were frequently accompanied by colourful and well sequenced overhead projection transparencies. Many of these have been presented in a simplified format in these notes. They have been reproduced to encourage those who labour for a more effective presentation of the first principles of Truth to those seeking an answer of the hope that lies within us 1 Peter 3:15. And surely this applies to each one of us. However, our late brother would not wish his work to supplant our own studies and research upon these topics. As a consequence the layout of many of these transparencies has not been enhanced sufficiently to allow enlargement and thermal copying (although this was the original intention of the editors). Each one of us should follow the rules of Bible Exposition that were the guiding principles of our brother Rick’s approach to any subject. These rules are given on the first page of this volume. Then we may use the suitable material found in this volume as a support for our efforts. All material presented in a bold format should be suitable for enlarging and making into overhead projectuals. The nature of the classes mentioned in the foreword was informal and allowed for the selection of a wide variety of topics. The editors have taken a selection from these and grouped them together into 5 broad topic areas: The Bible: the only authority God in ManifestationThe Nature of Man The Atonement Exceeding Great and Precious PromisesWe trust that these notes will assist all who use them to “seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness” Matthew 6:33. The Editors Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 TABLE OF CONTENTS FOREWORD THE BIBLE: THE ONLY SOURCE OF AUTHORITY STUDYING THE BIBLE TO DISCOVER THE TRUTH – THE FIVE ESSENTIALS THE BIBLE What the Bible is The Bible Consists of the “Scripture” How the Content of the Bible was Settled In the New Testament Times Scripture Accepted on Basis of Inspired Test The Bible – Divinely Inspired and Infallible The Bibles Testimony to it’s Divine Inspiration The Bible – A Perfect Doctrinal Unity The Bible – Source of Infallible Prophecy The Bible – Source of Divine Morality The Bible – Its Historical Accuracy The Gospel and The Bible The Essential Steps to Salvation THE SPIRIT OF GOD God’s Spirit How the Bible Defines the Spirit of God God’s Holy Spirit The Gifts of the Holy Spirit What were the Holy Spirit Gifts? How were they given? Why were they given? How, why and when were they withdrawn? Are they available today? Holy Spirit in Your Life When will they be re-issued? THE TRUE MEANING OF THE SABBATH God’s Rest – Commencement of a Great New Work The Sabbath First Revealed at the Exodus The Sababth Less in Importance than Circumcision and Animal Sacrifice Sabbath Observance Passed Away, Superseded by Christ The Ten Commandments and the Rest of The Law Indivisible How and Why the Sabbath Should be Kept? How not to use the Bible! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 MORMONISM “Authority in the ‘Church’” Examples of Doctrinal Contradictions: Within the Mormon Sacred Books and Between Them and The Bible THE GODHEAD PAPACY “That Wicked the Lawless One” Papal Claims of Divinity Man of SinThe Meaning of Antichrist This is the Real Antichrist Authority – Roman Catholic Barriers Creed of Pius 4 incorporating Acts of Council of TRENT - 1545-1563 NOSTRADAMUS Nostradamus – His “Prophecy” in Scriptural Perspective Who was Michael de Nostredame? But God Forbids this Ignorant Superstition GOD IN MANIFESTATION GOD How to Keep God Foremost in Our Life The Most High, Most Holy God Are We Forgetful Hearers? Who God is His Name and Exposition of Himself The Real Meaning of Yahweh Yahweh the Eternal Memorial The Name of God as a Way of Life for UsWhat God Do You Worship?One God, The Father The Infinite Creator Source of Life Boundless Wisdom, Righteousness and Love The Father Alone is God Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 JESUS CHRIST, SON AND MANIFESTATION OF GOD The Only Begotten Son Mental and Moral Image of God Of One Mind with God The Word Made Flesh God Manifest in Flesh The Relationship of Jesus To His Father ONE GOD IN MANY SONS Re-created in God’s Spiritual Likeness Christ Dwells in Our Hearts The First Steps Jesus Christ – The Son and Manifestation of God – Part 1 Jesus Christ – Son and Manifestation of God – Part 2 The Name of Manifestation THE ANGELS – GOD’S INSTRUMENTS OF MANIFESTATION Their nature, relationship to the Father and an indication of our hope. Their Function Described Angels in Daniel Where did the angels come from? THE TRINITY UNSCRIPTURAL The Only True God The Father Jesus is “Lord”: Because - The Word was God – What Word? Philippians Chapter 2 – The Vital Terms An Outline of the Bible’s Answer to the Doctrine of the Trinity The Triune God Unscriptural Trinitarian Concepts The “Athanasian” Creed Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 THE NATURE OF MAN MAN IS WHOLLY MORTAL The General Principle The Original Words ‘Nephesh’ and ‘Psuche’ Translated Soul Man’s Life Cycle Souls Possess Souls Function Souls Die Animals Have Souls Souls are Never Described as Immortal Immortality is Something Resurrection – Man’s Only Hope of Life After Death MAN’S STATE IN DEATH What is your life? What does the Bible say about your life? What is Man? The Reality of Death Immortality a Hope and a Promise MAN MORTAL – REDEEMED BY CHRIST Man Mortal The “Soul” Mortal Immortality – A Hope and a Promise The Real Hell – The Grave The Lake of Fire THE OLD SERPENT, THE DEVIL AND SATAN Introduction The Bounds of Fundamental Doctrine The Seven Declarations of Principle – The Devil and Satan The Human Heart – Our Real Problem The Devil What Christadelphians Believe on the Devil The Satan Two Key Old Testament Passages Apostate Religionists, Who Oppose the Truth of God FEATURES OF ‘THE SATAN’ Other Important Old Testament Passages A Brief Consideration of Some Difficult Passages Demons Defined Reincarnation: The Bible Denies it! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 THE ATONEMENT The Fall from Innocence – Part 1 The Fall from Innocence – Part 2 Why did Christ have to Die? Where does the Mercy of God Come From? READING: PSALM 62 Christ’s Death, Our Ransom from Death A Representative Sacrifice The Source of Sin Condemned A New Way of Life Saving Sinners: The Solution from the Holy God A Representative Sacrifice The Qualification for the Representative Why Temptation? The Source of Temptation Lust of the Flesh the Source of Sin Why was Sin Condemned in the Flesh What is Sin in the Flesh? How was Sin Condemned in the Flesh Jesus Christ – Unique Channel of Divine Strength To Fill up the Sufferings of Christ EXCEEDING GREAT AND PRECIOUS PROMISES A SUMMARY God’s Plan for Eternal Life God’s Promise of Eternal Life The Gospel of The Kingdom Preached by Christ and the Apostles God’s Promises to Abraham - Genesis 13:14-17 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 THIRD PROMISE INTERPRETATION EXCURSION INTO THE FUTURE GOD IS OFFERING US THE BLESSINGS OF THE SEED OF ABRAHAM Promises to David Fulfilled in Christ Fulfilled in the Kingdom of God CHRIST IS COMING TO REIGN ON EARTH Christ Will Return Literally and Visibly to the Earth Christ is Coming to Re-Establish God’s Kingdom On Earth Christ Will Come as a Thief Christ Comes as a Thief Before the Battle of Armageddon At the Battle of Armageddon Christ Will be Revealed to the World Details of His Revelation Christ is Going to Establish World Government at Jerusalem The Basis of the Establishment of this World-Wide Kingdom will be the Return of the Jews to the Land of Israel World-Wide Pilgrimage of People to Worship at Temple RESURRECTION AND JUDGEMENT Gather Together My Saints to Me! The First Resurrection HEBREWS 6:2 - FOUNDATION FIRST PRINCIPLE Denial of the Aionion Resurrection is Error God Demonstrated in Christ Both Resurrection and His Power: Reasons for the Resurrection of Those Sleeping in Christ God, the Judge of All God Himself is Judge of All God has Appointed Christ to Judge over Men The Time of Judgement Time of Aionion Judgement Fixed as: Those Who are to be Judged Righteous and Wicked Appear Together: All Responsible by Knowledge are Arraigned: What God Will Bring into Judgement Children of Christadelphian Parents Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 CHRIST’S RETURN AND OUR RESPONSIBILITY The Second Coming of Christ Resurrection the Gateway to Life Judgement and Reward The Kingdom of God The Kingdom Restored The Condition of Mankind in the New World Order under Christ Christ’s Return and Your Responsibility Summary of Judgement God Shall Judge in Righteousness The Kingdom of God is Among You: Christ Will Return from Heaven Personally – Bodily - Visibly Christ’s Return and the Kingdom of God Our Hope, but not Our Home, in Heaven The Essential Steps to Salvation Personal Responsibility Believing the Gospel Baptism is the Essential Consequence of Faith BAPTISM What is Baptism? The Word ‘Baptise’ Baptism – A Symbol of Sacrifice Baptism – an Outward Symbol of Inward Washing Baptism An Unbaptised Person Steps to Salvation The Christadelphian and the State Christadelpians are Pilgrims here - Hebrews 11:13 Disciples of Christ are Harmless as Doves - Matthew 10:16 Christ’s Example - 1 Peter 2:21-23 Life in Christ THE HOPE OF ISRAEL Promises to Abraham The Abrahamic Promise not yet Fulfilled Israel’s Regathering – Sure Sign of Christ’s Imminent Return Ezekiel 38: A Prophetic Miracle Luke 21: Prophecy Certain of Fulfillment – Luke 21:33 Psalm The Kingdom of God The Kingdom of God, Past, Present and Future Israel – God’s Key to World History Who are God’s Chosen People – The Arabs or Israel Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 THE BIBLE: THE ONLY SOURCE OF AUTHORITY STUDYING THE BIBLE TO DISCOVER THE TRUTH – THE FIVE ESSENTIALS Bible study which has the aim of discovering THE TRUTH of its saving doctrines depends on five clear, essential rules: THE FIRST: Interpret scripture language in its normal linguistic sense, having regard to: Grammatical construction Semantic content and history Usage Figures of speechTHE SECOND: Adhere to the Bible’s inspired logic, ensuring that each interpretive step is: Necessary Consecutive Free from assumptionsTHE THIRD: Check the validity of your interpretations: By their agreement/disagreement with the immediate, surrounding contextTHE FORTH: Check the validity of your interpretations: By their agreement/disagreement with the relevant context of the whole BibleTHE FIFTH: Apply each rule rigorously: So as to reinforce, not to cancel, the effect of the other rules Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 THE BIBLE What the Bible is A library of 66 books Written by 44 different “authors” From every social class and widely differing backgrounds Over a total span of more than 1500 years Yet it contains throughout its length consistent patterns of: - Prophecy fulfilled and fulfilling Morality in conflict with man Doctrine in conflict with man Unerring Historical AccuracyThe Bible Consists of the “Scripture” Written by divinely inspired penmen of God. (Matthew 22:29; Luke 24:25; John 7:38; Mark 14:49; 2 Peter 3:15-16) The scripture is infallible. (John 10:35) Three main divisions of the Old Testament - Moses (Genesis to Deuteronomy) The Prophets (Joshua to Malachi, except the Psalms) The Psalms[*] Three main divisions of the New Testament - Gospels (Matthew to John) Letters (Acts to Jude) Revelation (Prophecy) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 How the Content of the Bible was Settled The prophecy of any prophet was tested by its fulfilment. (Deuteronomy 18:19-22) Priests investigated and validated each prophet. Contemporary “school” of prophets also provided an inspired test. (1 Samuel 10:10; 19:20) This shown in action. (1 Kings 22:5-9; 22:13-35) So each prophet prophesied some events soon to be fulfilled and some to be fulfilled in the distant future which were to be accepted on the basis of those prophecies already fulfilled.In the New Testament Times Scripture Accepted on Basis of Inspired Test Spirit of “discerning spirits”. (1 Corinthians 12:6-10) False claimant to inspiration rejected (1 John 4:1-3) Even Apostle’s word to be tested. (1 Corinthians 14:37) The true is to be approved and forgeries to be rejected. (2 Thessalonians 2:1-12)The Bible – Divinely Inspired and Infallible The Evidence: Its testimony to itself - 2 Timothy 3:16 Its internal unity - Genesis 12:2-3; Galatians 3:7-9 Its prophetic infallibility - 2 Peter 2:16-21 Its Divine morality - 1 John 2:15-16 Its historical accuracy - Joshua 6:20A book whose origin is clearly DIVINE The Bibles Testimony to it’s Divine Inspiration God has spoken, Hebrews 1:1 His written word inspired by Him, 2 Timothy 3:14-17; 2 Peter 1:19-21 The Bible is “the oracles of God’, 1 Peter 4:11; Hebrews 5:12; Romans 3:2 The Bible is God’s word to us, 2 Corinthians 4:2; Acts 20:32, Ephesians 6:17; John 10:35; Mark 7:13; Acts 13:5,44; 26:22 Our only source of knowledge of God, Job 11:7-9; Isaiah 55:8-9; Romans 11:33-36 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 The Bible – A Perfect Doctrinal Unity The inspiration of the spirit of God in each Bible writer has ensured unflawed consistency of teaching on every Bible doctrine throughout - this is simply not possible without the inspiration of God. One God, the Father, Deuteronomy 6:4; John 17:3 God’s kingdom on earth, Daniel 7:22,27; Revelation 5:9-10; Luke 1:31-33 Jesus Christ, God’s Son, 2 Samuel 7:14; John 3:16 Man is mortal, Psalm 78:39; James 4:14 Jesus Christ, the only sacrifice for sin, Isaiah 53:4-6,10,12; Hebrews 10:10-14The Bible – Source of Infallible Prophecy To predict the future - at a distance of centuries and millennia ahead - concerning clearly recognisable events of world significance is not possible to man. It in evidence of Divine inspiration. Such prophecies abound in the Bible. Israel dispersed and regathered, Jeremiah 31:10 Succession of 4 human world empires, but no 5th, Daniel 2:36-45 Rise of Russia at same time as Israel return to their land, Ezekiel 38:1-8; 38:14-17 Tyre defeated, destroyed and scraped bare, Ezekiel 26:1-14The Bible – Source of Divine Morality Mankind is sole author of every social and moral evil - persistent breaker of every Divine law, Romans 1:18-32; 8:7. Self-evidently the Bible’s morality was not originated by man. Lie not one to another, Ephesians 4:25 Love your enemies, Luke 6:27-31; 6:35-36 Avoid all sexual evil, 1 Corinthians 6:16-20 Give yourself to God to do His will, Romans 12:1-2 These are all contrary to man’s natural choice, Galatians 5:16-17The Bible – Its Historical Accuracy Ur of the Chaldees - existence disputed - discovered by Sir Leonard Woolley. Jericho - existence disputed - discovered by J.B. Garstang. Pontius Pilate - existence disputed - inscription bearing his name discovered near Tiberius. Luke once questioned on “titles of officials in the Acts” now acknowledged as an historian without peer. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 The Gospel and The Bible “Things of the Kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ” - Acts 8:5,12,14,25 The message Jesus Christ proclaimed was “the gospel of the Kingdom of God” Matthew 4:23; Luke 8:1 The gospel was preached generations BEFORE Christ’s birth - Galatians 3:8; Hebrews 4:2 The gospel concerns the Hope of Israel - Acts 26:6-7; 28:20 “The gospel” means the Good News THE BIBLE GOD’S POWER TO SAVE US (Romans 1:15-17; 1 Corinthians 15:1-2; 2 Timothy 1:8-10) The Essential Steps to Salvation God’s call by the gospel, 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14 Belief of the gospel Baptism into Christ Gracious bestowal by God of immortality on all whom Christ judges to have fulfilled the first three steps, 2 Peter 1:2-11 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 THE SPIRIT OF GOD God’s Spirit God’s spirit is His power. It has no personality, but is rather the means through which His will is accomplished. It sustains all life - “All the while my breath is in me, and the spirit of God is in my nostrils” (Job 27:3) “If He set his heart upon man, if He gather unto himself his spirit and his breath; all flesh shall perish together, and man shall turn again unto dust” (Job 34:14-15) How the Bible Defines the Spirit of God The Bible uses the word “SPIRIT” in a widely extended range of meanings, but all stem from its primary significance, as describing God Himself: God is Spirit - John 4:24 The power which emanates from God is therefore called Spirit - Acts 1:8; Micah 3:8. It fills heaven and earth - Psalm 139:7-12 By the Spirit God inspired the writers of the Bible - 2 Peter 1:20-21; Hebrews 3:7;10:15 Consequently, the word of God in the Bible is called Spirit - John 6:63; Ephesians 6:17; 1 John 5:6 A holy mind developed by the word of God is called Spirit Romans 8:2,4-6; Philippians 3:3 Any disposition of mind may be called Spirit – 1 Corinthians 2:11; Ecclesiastes 7:9. So also mind itself - Proverbs 29:11; Genesis 26:35. Even an evil disposition Proverbs 16:18; Hosea 4:12. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 God’s Holy Spirit The words “Holy Spirit” literally mean separate, or special power. They refer to God’s spirit power only when it is used for special work. The Bible speaks of the Holy Spirit as being associated with the work of redemption or salvation. Whereas God’s spirit sustains all flesh, God’s Holy Spirit has never been upon all men (see Numbers 11:16-17; 11:24-30). As can be seen from the passage in Numbers, the possession of the ‘spirit of God’ in a special sense was evidenced by outward signs. It was the power which impelled men to write inspired and unerring Scriptural records (2 Peter 1:19-21). The Gifts of the Holy Spirit In the New Testament the bestowal of the Holy Spirit was in the form of gifts - or empowering abilities. It is a much misunderstood subject. We will examine it under the following headings: What were the Holy Spirit Gifts? How were they given? Why were they given? How, why and when were they withdrawn? Are they available today? When will they be re-issued?What were the Holy Spirit Gifts? Read Acts 2:1-4. The disciples were gathered “with one accord” in the city of Jerusalem, and in fulfillment of the promise of Christ (Acts 1:8) they were anointed with the Holy Spirit. The effect was instantaneous (Acts 2:4). It was said of Jesus Christ (Acts 2:22) that the miracles were a sign that he was approved of God. Now it was true of his disciples (Hebrews 2:4). 1 Corinthians 12 gives us a list: tongues (i.e. a language not previously learnt), healing, wisdom knowledge, working of miracles, prophecy and discerning of spirits. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 How were they given? The modern world has become familiar with evangelists. Men, women and even children are among those claiming to possess miraculous gifts. Some few years back a 10 year old child toured Australia from the U.S.A. claiming to have the gift of God and the power of miracles. The Bible is quite specific as to the manner in which the gifts were bestowed. The first essential was understanding the Truth. The idea of a man teaching the immortality of the soul and possessing spirit gifts is quite foreign to the Word of God: people had to receive the Truth and then later the gift. Acts 2:38 cp. Acts 8:12-18. From this latter passage in Acts it is evident that the apostles only had the power to confer the gift and this was done by the laying on of their hands (see also Acts 6:6; 19:6; 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6). Christ himself directly bestowed the Gifts of Holy Spirit on the apostles - John 15:26; 16:7; Acts 2:1-4 - and on the first gentile converts - Acts 10:44-47 Thereafter Spirit gifts were bestowed by the apostles Acts 8:14-19 - who alone had that power; compare 2 Timothy 1:6 with 1 Timothy 4:14Consequently, these Gifts could not endure more than a generation beyond the death of the last of the apostles. When given, the Spirit Gifts were designated for free bestowal on two generations of believers - Acts 2:38-39 When the giving of these Gifts was prophesied, it was likened to a shower of rain - Joel 2:23: “For He hath given you the teacher of righteousness and He shall cause to descend for you a rain; a teacher and a latter rain in the first month”.Why were they given? Because of the great responsibility of preaching Jesus in a vast pagan world and among hostile Jewry. One reason they were given was to give a clear and accurate remembrance of the life of Jesus that it might be recorded (see John 14:26; 16:13). They were given for the “perfecting” (better understood as a ‘bringing to maturity’) of the saints (1 Corinthians 13:10 compare Ephesians 4:11-12). For other occurrences of the word see 1 Corinthians 2:6 - the idea is of being grown up spiritually, see 1 Corinthians 14:20. One of the main reasons that they were given was so that the Scriptures may be made complete - it is these that mature the saints. The Holy Spirit gifts were a Divine endowment of supernatural powers given to chosen members of the first century ecclesias with certain specific and limited objectives: To evidence by miracle the Divine origin of the Gospel of Christ - Mark 16:20; Acts 14:3 To prove beyond doubt that God offers salvation, not by works of law, but obedience that stems from faith in Christ - Galatians 3:2-5 To bring the saints to maturity to build up the body of Christ, by establishing true doctrine - Ephesians 4:11-15; 1 Corinthians 13:9-12 To testify with the force of Divine authority against Jewish rejection of Christ and the offer of salvation by faith in him - John 16:7-11 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 How, why and when were they withdrawn? The fact that they were to be withdrawn is clearly shown in 1 Corinthians 13. They were aids to the infant ecclesia to assist it to grow up. Tongues, knowledge and gifts of prophecy would cease. Why? Because the job for which they were originally given had been completed (see Ephesians 4:11-12). When did this occur? History shows that the gifts were not available or in fact to be found at all, beyond about the middle of the second century A.D. By this time the Jewish state had been overthrown (A.D. 70) and the gospel firmly entrenched in the pagan world. The word of God was then to be the entire source of authority. The gifts had served their function. How did this occur? As 1 Corinthians 13 shows, a time would come when the gifts would be removed Acts 8:18 shows that only the Apostles could pass on the Holy Spirit by the laying on of hands (even Philip the evangelist could not pass it on). When the last of the Apostles died around the end of the first century A.D. the ability to pass on the gift also ceased. This ability was not transferred to their ‘successors’ because it was not necessary that the gifts continue any longer. The result was that those who had received a gift, dwindle away in number to nothing during the second century. Since the Holy Spirit Gifts were given for particular and limited purposes, God provided for the withdrawal of the Gifts when those purposes had been accomplished. The intended cessation of the gifts is announced in unambiguous terms: 1 Corinthians 13: v8 “Whether (Gifts of - cf. 13:2) prophecies, they shall fail; whether tongues, they shall cease; whether knowledge, it shall vanish away” v10 “That which is in part shall be done away” v11 “When I became a man, I put away childish things” The time for the cessation is when “THAT WHICH IS PERFECT IS COME”. PERFECT is contrasted with PART BY PART 13:9-10, as adult is with childish 13:11. God has pledged that “When the PERFECT is come, then THAT FROM PARTS will be done away” - 1 Corinthians 13:10 This defines THE TIME for the cessation of the Gifts. As PART BY PART describes a fragmentary revelation, so PERFECT describes a complete and finished revelation - consequently: PERFECT means finished; cf. John 4:34; 5:36; 17:4; Acts 20:24 As PART BY PART describes an infant and immature condition of the ecclesia of Christ, so PERFECT describes an adult, full-grown condition of the ecclesia of Christ -consequently: PERFECT means adult, full-grown; cf. Hebrews 5:14; 1 Corinthians 14:20 This means that “THE PERFECT” had come when the Bible was complete and the original ecclesias had been developed to maturity, cf. 1 Corinthians 2:6; Philippians 3:15; Colossians 1:28. Then in the first century the gifts began to vanish. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 Are they available today? The fact that there was such a gift as discerning of spirits is most significant. It shows that there were some claiming Holy Spirit power, and were probably supporting their claim with pseudo miracles e.g. healing see 1 John 4:1-3. The gift of discerning of spirits prevented the growth of charlatans and fakes. It restrained those who, possessing hypnotic power and being able to exert a magnetic influence on others, were deluded into imagining that what they did was by the Holy Spirit. We do not deny the fact of modern ‘faith healing’ nor do we deny the power of prayer. But that is quite different from the gifts of the early Christian era. Most doctors acknowledge the need of ‘faith’ in effecting cures (e.g. the placebo). Thus in the religious world there exists the spectacle of differing sects, antagonistic of each other, each accusing the other of being entirely erroneous (e.g. Catholics and Pentecostals), yet both claiming miraculous cures. God cannot be with both. Indeed, since none of them possess the Truth of the Scriptures, how could any of them possess the spirit gifts even if they were available? What about the “miracles”? The answer is that they are not genuine miracles at all, but a phenomenon well known to science - mind over matter. For every claimed cure there are thousands of failures (naturally unrecorded). Natives can work their own ‘miracles’ e.g. voodoo and the Australian aborigines’ pointed bone. These are not miracles but psychosomatic. We must discriminate between the true and false. How? By testing the doctrine, see Acts 19:13; 2 Timothy 3:8. Holy Spirit in Your Life The principles that apply: The Gospel believed is God’s power to salvation - Romans 1:16-17; 1 Corinthians 15:1-2; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Acts 20:24,32 The Bible was written under inspiration of the Holy Spirit - 2 Peter 1:21; John 6:63 Bible Truth is what sanctifies disciples of Christ - John 15:3;17:16; Psalm 119:9,11; Ephesians 5:26 Our spirit, or mind and heart, is what the Truth sanctifies - Ephesians 4:23; 6:18; Romans 1:9; 2:29; 7:6; 8:5-6; 1 Corinthians 6:20; 7:34 As a result, the Bible frequently uses the expression “a Holy Spirit” to describe our hearts when cleansed by the word of God - Jude 20; Romans 9:1; 14:17; 1 Thessalonians 1:6; 2 Corinthians 6:6; Acts 7:55,59; Titus 3:5.When will they be re-issued? The powers will return when the Lord Jesus Christ returns. In Ephesians 1:13-14 they are described as having been given in the first century as a deposit or down payment until Christ’s return. In Hebrews 6:4-7 they are described as ‘the powers of the age to come’. First century believers were merely given a foretaste of that which all saints would be given when the Kingdom is established on the earth. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 THE TRUE MEANING OF THE SABBATH God’s Rest – Commencement of a Great New Work God worked six days in creating the present physical order on earth - Genesis 1:31 On the seventh day He rested and sanctified it - Genesis 2:2-3 Nonetheless God’s work continued unabated throughout that and every subsequent Sabbath day - John 5:16-17 But it was work of a different kind - He began the spiritual work of a new creation - Ephesians 4:24; 2 Corinthians 5:17 So God calls on us to cease our own work and to turn to doing His work each day of the week without ceasing - Isaiah 58:6-14The Sabbath First Revealed at the Exodus Sabbath imposed on Israel to memorialise rest from bondage in Egypt - Deuteronomy 5:15-16 The original observance initiated under Moses - Exodus 16:5; 16:23-30 The Sabbath first made known at the time of Israel’s exodus from Egypt - Nehemiah 9:14 The punishment for disobedience to the Sabbath law unknown before the exodus - Numbers 15:32-36The Sabbath Less in Importance than Circumcision and Animal Sacrifice Circumcision displaced the Sabbath when the two laws clashed - John 7:22-23. Ritual of sacrifice took precedence over the Sabbath each and every Sabbath day - Numbers 28:9; Matthew 12:2-8 The Sabbath made for man and displaced by God when the needs of man require - Mark 2:27; Luke 6:5,9Sabbath Observance Passed Away, Superseded by Christ The only things in the law “necessary” for Christians to observe exclude the Sabbath - Acts 15:28 Christ did away with the Sabbath - Colossians 2:16. The term “Sabbaths” includes the seventh day Sabbath - Exodus 31:13-17The Ten Commandments and the Rest of The Law Indivisible The sacrificial code was both Law of Moses and Law of God - 2 Chronicles 30:16; 31:3 All the Law was “God’s law by the hand of Moses” - 2 Chronicles 34:14; 35:6; Leviticus 26:46 The ten commandments are both “law” and “commandments” - Exodus 24:12 The ten commandments are the “covenant” of God - Deuteronomy 4:13 and the “words of the covenant” which covenant was done away in Christ - Hebrews 9:1-4; Colossians 2:11-18; 2 Corinthians 3:6-11 because it was a ministration of death - 2 Corinthians 3:7 The ten commandments were spoken by God in common with the rest of the law - Deuteronomy 5:22,31-33 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 How and Why the Sabbath Should be Kept? Reading: Deuteronomy 5 Colossians 2:16-17 In Christ we have the reality; the law was but a shadow. v14 the handwriting was taken away. The Law of Moses made salvation impossible through law keeping. The only way to take the law from man was through the death of Christ. To save man it was necessary to get the law out of the way. v16 - Don’t let anyone attempt to regulate your life or criticise your way of life in regard to these things that have been removed. Seventh Day Adventists say that it is not the weekly Sabbath because the word is plural. This is not a case because it is common in the New Testament to describe the weekly Sabbath in plural form. Matthew 12:1-2; 12:5 (plural), v10 (plural - this time Pharisees speaking), v11 (he replies - Sabbath singular) v12. There is a progression of time in v16 - yearly, monthly, weekly. Luke 6:2, 9 (same incident as Matthew 12:2,9 - the term is identical to Colossians 2:16 Sabbaths “days” not in original). Acts 16:13 (Greek - the day of the Sabbaths). “The Sabbaths” was the normal Jewish term describing the seventh day of the week. Acts 17:2 - yet obviously the normal weekly Sabbath (the word day not in original - so same as Colossians 2:16). Matthew 28:1 Sabbaths - plural, as also Luke 4:31. Now consider the Old Testament context and compare: Exodus 20:8-11, although vv8-11 clearly is singular in Hebrew, compare Leviticus 19:3-4 clearly referring to the commandments of Exodus 20. See Exodus 31:13-17 (Sabbaths obviously the weekly Sabbath - the background is Exodus 20:11) Sabbaths (same in LXX as Colossians 2:16) for IT is a sign. So in the Old Testament they are used in the same way as in the New. Perpetual does not mean unending without break - cp. Levitical priesthood Exodus 40:15 (same word here translated everlasting). Cp. Hebrews 7:12 because there is a change in the priesthood there must be a change in the Law. Ohlam - time is a length of time to be determined by context. Exodus 31:17 - between God and Israel (and no one else) for the ohlam defined in Hebrews 9:24-26 (note THE END OF THE AGE i.e. of the Law’s duration, Greek AION = Hebrew OHLAM) and for which the Sabbath was instituted. The end of the Mosaic Age from the Exodus until the Roman overthrow. There is a contrast made between the covenant to be made at Christ’s return. Hebrews 8:13 - the shadow gives way to the object which casts it. The Seventh Day Adventist’s main argument - two types of law - moral which remains and ceremonial which was done away. They say the 10 commandments are the moral and the rest was ceremonial. But the Sabbath is not essentially a moral commandment. One can work to save on the Sabbath - that is moral. Compare 2 Chronicles 30:16 with 2 Chronicles 31:3-4 - shows that one cannot divide one as law of God and other as law of Moses (Passover therefore ceremonial says Seventh Day Adventists - but ch.31 says that law of Moses - ceremonial - is law of God). The word of God doesn’t make the same distinction as do the Seventh Day Adventists, 2 Chronicles 34:14 (the first 5 books). Moses was not its author but God, cp. 35:6. Leviticus 26:46 - obviously God’s law is more than simply the 10 commandments. Is there a difference between LAWS and COMMANDMENTS? No, they are the same thing, see Exodus 24:12 (speaks of the 2 tables). Cp. 2 Corinthians 3:3; 3:6-7 (the new covenant, cp. also Colossians 2:13-17). The law kills but what God writes on your hearts saves, vv 8-9, 14-16 (cp. Acts 15:21). Deuteronomy 4:12-13 (two different Hebrew words are translated commandments - here Dabar = word/s). These words constituted a covenant, cp. Exodus 34:28; 2 Corinthians 3:6,7. Mitzwah - used in Leviticus 21 of the 10 commandments. Compare Galatians 4:9-11. Hebrews 8:6-13 the “fault” was that they condemned rather than saved. The new covenant is of righteousness, forgiveness and grace. How not to use the Bible! Deuteronomy 5:22 - Seventh Day Adventists say that since God stopped speaking and added no more - so these are special. But note vv31-33 which shows that argument is obviously unsound. It was only on that time that he added no more. The greatest commandment of all “Thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thy heart..” is not found in the 10 commandments, nor the second “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself”. They are in Deuteronomy 6:4-5 and Leviticus 19:18 (tucked away with a multitude of what is called by some “ceremonial” laws) yet v30 - Sabbaths mentioned - moral? or ceremonial? The distinction between ceremonial and moral is unscriptural. A typical institution but beneficial when used right to work hard for God (cp. Isaiah 58:6) and as Jesus said compassion can be shown even if it means working hard - e.g. pull an animal out of a pit. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 MORMONISM “Authority in the ‘Church’” 2 Timothy 3 The fundamental authority rests with God alone and what He has written. John 10:34-36 - what the Bible says cannot be contradicted. 2 Peter 3:14-16 - Two significant statements: the wisdom of Paul was given, and his writings are on the same plane as the other Scripture - Old and New Testaments.2 Timothy 3:14-17 - the Scriptures that were available when Timothy was a child was the Old Testament from God’s inspiration and able to enlighten for salvation. The teachings of the Old Testament on their own can save. The New Testament is an explanation of the substance of the Old Testament, compare Luke 24:13-27 (N.B. v27). Nothing since has altered the doctrine of the Old Testament because God hasn’t changed nor made mistakes. Acts 26:22 - Paul’s words were only an explanation of the message of the prophets alone. Anything said in the name of God must accord with Old Testament teaching. Revelation 22:18-19 announces the end of Divine revelation and determines any teaching not in accordance with Bible teaching stands accursed. Deuteronomy 4:2 - The law given through Moses was fixed and finished when Moses died. Nobody can add quantitatively to the Scriptures - nor can anyone add a concept that the Scriptures don’t support (2 Peter 3:16). (1 Chronicles 29:29 - other writings have come from God - but they have not been included in the Bible because they were not necessary for salvation.) The Old Testament canon was settled 3 centuries BC. “The Changing World of Mormonism” - Tanner - a consideration was made of a number of extracts. God makes no mistakes; only men make mistakes. Hebrews 7:7-13 - to abolish the law and Aaronic priesthood Christ came - it was correct in itself. Galatians 3:16-19 - though the law came later it didn’t change the promises. Vv23-25 the law had a specific purpose and a limited duration. Galatians 4:1-5 - the Levitican priests were mortal men - but in Christ there is an undying priest who cannot sin. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 Examples of Doctrinal Contradictions: Within the Mormon Sacred Books and Between Them and The Bible The Godhead The Book of Mormon pronounces the Godhead to be One God, whereas Doctrine and Covenants declares it to consist of a vast number of Gods: Mormon: Alma 11: 26 “And Zeezrom said unto him: Thou sayest there is a true and living God. And Amulek said: Yea, there is a true and living God. Now Zeezrom said: Is there more than one God? And he answered, No. Now Zeezrom said unto him again: How knowest thou these things? And he said: An angel hath made them known unto me”. But contrast: Doctrine and Covenants: Sec. 132:19 “And again, verily I say unto you, if a man marry a wife by my word, which is my law, and by the new and everlasting covenant, and it is sealed unto them by the Holy Spirit of promise, by him who is anointed... (132:20) Then shall they be gods, because they have no end; and therefore shall they be from everlasting to everlasting, because they continue; then shall they be above all, because all things are subject unto them. Then shall they be gods, because they have all power, and the angels are subject unto them”. Sec. 132:37 “Abraham received concubines, and they bore him children; and it was accounted unto him for righteousness, because they were given unto him, and he abode in my law; as Isaac also and Jacob did none other things than that which they were commanded; and because they did none other things than that which they were commanded, they have entered into their exaltation, according to the promises, and sit upon thrones, and are not angels but are gods”. The Bible’s doctrine of the Godhead, however, is that there is BUT ONE GOD, THE FATHER, beside whom there is, and will be, no other: John 17:1, 3 “These words spake Jesus... and said, Father: This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent”. 1 Corinthians 8:4, 6 “There is none other God but one... For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth (as there be gods many and lords many), but to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him”. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 The Book of Mormon pronounces the Godhead to be unchangeable, as does Doctrine and Covenants, which then nonetheless goes on to declare doctrine that represents God as changeable. In addition, the Book of Abraham, printed in the Pearl of Great Price, asserts the existence of a number of Gods active in creation. Mormon: Moroni 8:18 “For I know that God is not a partial God, neither a changeable being; but he is unchangeable from all eternity to all eternity”.Doctrine and Covenants: Sec. 20:17 “By these things we know that there is a God in heaven, who is infinite and eternal, from everlasting to everlasting the same unchangeable God… But contrast: Doctrine and Covenants: Sec. 132:19 “And again, verily I say unto you, if a man marry a wife by my word, which is my law, and by the new and everlasting covenant, and it is sealed unto them by the Holy Spirit of promise, by him who is anointed... (132:20) Then shall they be gods, because they have no end; and therefore shall they be from everlasting to everlasting, because they continue; then shall they be above all, because all things are subject unto them. Then shall they be gods, because they have all power, and the angels are subject unto them.” And: Book of Abraham: Sec. 3:15; 4:3,10, 25; 5:8“And the Lord said unto me: Abraham, I show these things unto thee before ye go into Egypt, that ye may declare all these words...”And they (the Gods) said: “Let there be light... And the Gods pronounced the dry land, earth... And the Gods organised the earth to bring forth the beasts after their kind... And the Gods planted a garden in Eden…” In refreshing contrast, the Bible is clear and emphatic that Yahweh, the God of Israel and Father of the Lord Jesus Christ, is omnipotent and supreme: Isaiah 43:10-11 “Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord ... that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me. I, even I, am Yahweh; and beside me there is no saviour.” Isaiah 44:6 “Thus saith Yahweh the King of Israel, and his redeemer Yahweh of Hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God.” The Book of Mormon pronounces the Godhead to be Almighty and Omnipotent, whereas Doctrine and Covenants exhibits it as limited, and able to be entered by men with whom the Deity must then share power and glory. Mormon: Mosiah 11:23 “...The Lord the Almighty God”. But contrast: Doctrine and Covenants: Sec. 132:19 “And again, verily I say unto you, if a man marry a wife by my word, which is my law, and by the new and everlasting covenant, and it is sealed unto them by the Holy Spirit of promise, by him who is anointed... (132:20) Then shall they be gods, because they have no end; and therefore shall they be from everlasting to everlasting, because they continue; then shall they be above all, because all things are subject unto them. Then shall they be gods, because they have all power, and the angels are subject unto them.” By contrast, the Bible teaches that God, the Father, is supreme in power and glory and is the only source of both: Revelation 19:6 “Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth”. Romans 13:1 “...For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God”. 2 Corinthians 6:17-18 “...I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty”. Isaiah 48:11-13 “...I will not give my glory unto another. Hearken unto me, O Jacob and Israel, my called; I am he; I am the first, I also am the last. Mine hand also hath laid the foundation of the earth, and my right hand hath spanned the heavens.” Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 PAPACY “That Wicked the Lawless One” God warns in 2 Thessalonians 2:8 of the development of an ecclesiastical power which would assert its supremacy above all law, while also claiming to be the Church of Christ. This prediction has been amply fulfilled by the papacy, as history attests. “Innocent III laid down as a maxim that out of the plenitude of his power he might lawfully dispense with the law” (“The Middle Ages”, Henry Hallam, Vol. II, Page 209) Beginning of 13th Century, A.D. Paul II: “Thou bring us before the Judges? Wouldst thou know, that all laws are placed in the repository of our breast? … I am Pontiff: and upon the pleasure of my mind it depends both to rescind, and approve the acts of others.” (“Eureka, an exposition of the Apocalypse”, J. Thomas, Volume II, Page 618) 1463 A.D. Papal Claims of Divinity “The Lord our God no longer reigns: He has resigned all power to the Pope.” TETZEL, Vendor of Indulgences to obtain money for the repair of St. Peters Basilica: Cited in “THE HISTORY OF PROTESTANTISM”, Vol. I pages 255-260 “The Pope is not only the representative of Jesus Christ, but he is Jesus Christ himself hidden under the veil of the flesh. Does the Pope speak? It is Jesus Christ who speaks…” Pope Pius X, when Archbishop of Venice; Quoted by “Catholique Nationale”, July 13, 1895 “It is certain that the Pontiff was called a God by the Pious Prince Constantine.” Canon Law, published by Gratianus, 12th Century “The Most Holy and Most Blessed One, who hath Divine Judgment, who is Lord on Earth, successor of Peter, the Lord’s Christ, Lord of the Universe, Father of Kings, Light of the World, the Chief Pontiff Pope Martin.” Annunciation of Pope Martin at the Court of the Greek Emperor. 13th Century. Man of Sin The distinctive marks of the man of sin, identified in 2 Thessalonians 2: The Apostasy- abandonment of truth. 2:3 The Man Of Sin- an individual apostate. 2:3 The Man Of Sin- a religious organisation continuing from Paul’s time to Christ’s return. 2:3 to 2:8 Exalts Self Above All That Is Called God - claim to be vicar and vice-regent of both God and Christ. 2:4 Coming After The Working of Satan – disguising Apostacy under forms of Christian religion. 2:9 With All Power, Signs and Lying wonders – claiming power of priesthood, mediatorship, secular and spiritual government, and miraculous signs and healings. 2:9 Have Pleasure- In Unrighteousness - profligate, licentious and immoral. 2:12 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 21, 2011 Author Report Share Posted September 21, 2011 The Meaning of Antichrist Antichrist is the Greek word “antichristos” transferred directly, and untranslated, into English. Antichrist has a meaning, translatable into English, which is “One instead of Christ” Antichrist is therefore someone who claims to be in Christ’s place. Antichrist is identical in meaning to the Latin term: “Vicarius Christi” - “Vicar of Christ” Vicar of Christ is one of many evidences which identify the papacy and Roman Catholicism with Antichrist. At the close of the council of Rome in AD 495, the assembled bishops thrice shouted in honour of the pope Gelasius: “Vicarium Christi te Vedemus”! - “We see thou art the Vicar of Christ”!This is the Real Antichrist In assuming the title Vicar of Christ the papacy has identified itself as the Antichrist. The pope was frequently addressed as Christ, and received the title as distinctively and only his due. “Consider that thou art the Vicar of Christ, the Christ of the Lord.” C12, S. Bernard to Pope Eugenius. “...Christ’s vicar, the successor of Peter, has the power of transferring the empire from the Germans to any others soever, if he will” A.D. 1303, Pope Boniface to the Emperor. “Thee, as the true vicar of Christ and God, the ruler of the whole Christian republic, we recognise, confess, profess obedience to and adore, in thy name adoring Christ, whose representative thou art.” A.D. 1514, Ambassador of the King of Portugal to Pope Leo X. “Every title which is in Scripture given to Christ, appertains also to the Pope.” A.D. 1580, Cardinal Bellarmine to Pope Gregory XIII (Bellarmine was first proponent of a future Antichrist!).Authority – Roman Catholic Barriers VATICAN COUNCIL, 4th Session, Ch. 4, held 18th July, 1870 “Itaque nos traditions a fidei Christianae...” “We, the Sacred Council approving, teach and define that it is a dogma divinely revealed: that the Roman Pontiff, when he speaks ex cathedra - that is, when discharging the office of Pastor and Teacher of all Christians, by reason of his supreme Apostolic authority, he defines a doctrine regarding faith or morals to be held by the whole Church - he, by the Divine assistance promised to him in Blessed Peter, possesses that infallibility with which the Divine Redeemer willed that His Church should be endowed in defining doctrine regarding Faith or Morals: and that therefore such definitions of the said Roman Pontiff are of themselves unalterable, and not from the consent of the Church.” “Catholic Belief” J. F. Di Bruno, 5th edition, 1884 Burns, Oates & Washbourne, Ltd., London, U.K. Imprimatur, H.E. Cardinal Manning. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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