NO. 561 THE LAW OF MOSES - PART ONE

In Luke 24:44 Jesus expresses the three component parts of the Old Testament: the Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms.  By the Law Jesus meant the writings of Moses - the Pentateuch, or the first five books of the Old Testament.  By the Prophets He meant the prophecies of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, etc. (the Prophets being subdivided into the Major and the Minor prophets).  And by the Psalms He meant the Psalms, the Book of Job, Proverbs, etc., the same being the more or less sentimental writings; and we believe that all of us will agree that there is much of sentiment in those writings.

To digress here just a little, we would offer the four component parts of the New Testament: the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John); the Acts of the Apostles; the Epistles (beginning with Romans and ending with the letter by Jude); and the Apocalypse (Revelation).  Thus we have pointed out to us the seven parts of the Bible, the seven revealing the Divine origin of the inspired writings, which we designate as the Bible.

MORE SPECIFIC DETAIL

Many good Christian people regard THE LAW as a reference to the Ten Commandments given to Moses by God, as set out in the 20th Chapter of Exodus, vs. 2 through 17.  This is definitely true, of course; but in Psalms 119:97 there is this: “O how I love thy law!  It is my meditation all the day.”  The Law here, however, embraces much more than the Ten Commandments.  It refers to the entire Bible, which is indeed the meditation of all true believers.  Next, it would refer to that part of the Bible as expressed by Jesus - the first five books of the Bible; then in the very narrow sense, the Ten Commandments.  The revelatory and strictly religious features of the Law have their beginning in Exodus 12, where the Passover was instituted, and which definitely ends that period from the Covenant with Abraham to the Exodus - a period of four hundred and thirty years. (Gal. 3:17)  The minute exactness of this period is stressed in Ex. 12:51: “It came to pass the selfsame day, that the Lord did bring the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt by their armies.”  And here we have the beginning of the Law - begun by the Passover and elaborated in great detail in the remainder of the Pentateuch.  It is well we keep this in mind in all our studies of this subject.

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

Many sincere people consider the Ten Commandments as the Law of Moses; but they are just the nucleus of that Law.  The Ten Commandments are the mandatory feature of the Law of Moses - divided into parts, “Thou shalt” and “Thou shalt not.”  The secondary part of the Law of Moses is the Ceremonial features which was much more extensive, much more complicated, and much less understood - although we would stress here that the mandatory features of that Law are also greatly misunderstood by many sincere people.

In Lev. 18:5 the Lord said unto Moses: “Ye shall therefore keep my statutes, and my judgments: which if a man do, he shall live in them.”  This was certainly welcome news to the Jews; they would continue to live if they kept that law, and that they promised to do.  They did not realize that this was a perfect Law, which as imperfect beings, they were totally unable to keep.  When Jesus began His ministry at the age of thirty, the Jews shortly began to accuse Him of ignoring, or setting aside, this Law which was so sacred to them.  And in response, Jesus said, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” (Matt 5:17)  And this He did fulfil (fill full that Law); but the Jews did not recognize that He was perfect, and could keep that perfect law, which they were unable to do.  Thus, the best of them, those who very earnestly endeavored to keep that Law, continued to die; and this is a vivid proof to the unbiased mind that they were unable to keep that Law.

The Law is set forth in the 20th Chapter of Exodus, vs. 2 through 17.  In referring to this section of Scripture the word commandment is not strictly correct.  In Hebrew it is properly given as word; thus, the first word, the second word, etc.  As a brief summary, we would express the first word thus: “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.”  And the second word: “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven images.”  The third word: “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.”  The fourth: “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.”

The second table of the Law begins with the fifth word: “Honor thy father and thy mother”; the sixth word: “Thou shalt not kill”; the seventh, “Thou shalt not commit adultery”; the eighth, “Thou shalt not steal”; the ninth, “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor”; and the tenth, “Thou shalt not covet.”  Much elaboration could be offered on the foregoing, but that is not primarily the purpose of this writing.

As most of our readers know, we often become involved in extensive controversy regarding our understanding of the interpretation of the Scriptures; and these ten words are no exception.  Just recently we became involved with a Brother about these words, and especially so on the one concerning “The sabbath day.”  And our main reason now for writing this article is to help our readers to a better understanding of this subject.  Thus we reproduce some of the questions involved, with our answers, in the hope that our readers will profit thereby.  But before proceeding, we would offer the opinion that the Ten Commandments (words) are a grand law of justice, since they embrace every duty of God’s creatures to Him and to one another - perfection from every standpoint - and this does indeed prove them to be the inspired word of God.  And believing this, it should immediately become apparent that in nowise do we wish to abrogate - or even mitigate - any part of those ten words.

Now, for some of the questions: “Doesn’t your belief in the Creation Week help the evolutionists in their false teachings, since it does away with the Sabbath?”

Answer: Regarding the Ten Commandments, it seems we have a little different understanding on that - although you believe in them, even as I do.  But no man has been able to keep the Ten Commandments - neither the Jew nor the Christian.  Only the perfect man Jesus was able to keep a perfect law.  Paul says, “having blotted out what was written by hand [the two tables of the Law, the Ten Commandments] in ordinances which was against us, and has removed it from our midst, having nailed it to the cross.” (Col. 2:14, Dia.)  We know the Jews were able to keep the ceremonial features, because the High Priest was told to do it all exactly as Moses gave it that he die not.  And there is no record that any of the High Priests died because of failure to perform the ceremonial features - regardless of their moral delinquencies.  However, the Ten Commandments were the written Law, but not the ceremonial features.  The latter were all given orally to Moses.

Moses told the Jews that they would live if they kept the Law (Lev. 18:5); but they soon learned that they could not keep the Ten Commandments, because they all continued to die.  Jesus, being perfect, was able to keep the Law, and proved it by what He did; He knew that we could not keep it - thus He nailed it to His cross.  St Paul writes, “I was alive without the Law once [in the Abrahamic Covenant]: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.” (Rom 7:9)  St. Paul says, “Do we then make void the law through faith.” (Rom. 3:31)  In answer to this we quote from Rom. 10:4: “Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.”  Also, “Love is the fulfilling of the law.” (Rom. 13:10)  If our life is motivated by love for God and love for man, we are fulfilling the law, which is the same for all who “walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” (Rom. 8:1)

We are in full agreement that we should keep the Law to the best of our ability, because it is a perfect law.  All these moral laws are incorporated in the New Testament, however, but there is nothing said about keeping the Ten Commandments.  Should we fall short on any of them through weakness of the flesh, we should immediately go to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in the time of need. (Heb. 4:16)  At the same time we are fully convinced that none of us have the ability to keep a perfect law - although we can keep it in spirit.  As Gentiles, we were never under the Mosaic Law; therefore, when Jesus “nailed it to His cross” it was only for the Jews that He did that; and He did that only for those Jews that became Christians - footstep followers of Him.  All other believing Jews are still under that law, but none of them can keep it; that is why they all continue to die.  “Ye shall therefore keep my statutes, and my judgments; which if a man do he shall live in them: I am the Lord.” (Lev. 18:5)  And those Jews who kept the Law as best they could were blessed.

Some of those Jewish heroes are mentioned in Chapter 11 of Hebrews, but there is nothing said about their having kept the Law.  In fact, some of them lived many years before the law even appeared.  It is clearly stressed that they were victors “by faith.”  Also, some of them mentioned grossly violated the law, but later repented.  Consider, for instance, the case of David.  The Law was then here and David knew it, yet he grievously violated it.  But the Apostle Paul includes his name with the heroes of the Old Testament.  David’s heart was always right before God, but not toward man. (1 Kings 11:4; 15:5; 1 Sam. 13:14)  But there is no doubt that he had that “godly sorrow that worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of.” (2 Cor. 7:10)  The same with Rahab, the harlot, whose life was a gross violation of the law, yet her faith in the God of the Hebrews places her in the select company of the Old Testament heroes. (Heb. 11:31)  So they lived “above the Law” in many respects, and “by faith” and repentance because of their fleshly weakness in violating the perfect law, were reinstated in the “Household of Faith.”

In the third and fourth chapters of Galatians St. Paul treats of this subject in some detail; and in Gal. 3:22-24 he tells us that we are saved by faith, not by keeping the Law.  “The law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ.  Then (v. 25): “But after faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.”  Here is a very clear and plain statement by a one time Jew, that “we [the Jews who accept Christ by faith] are no longer under a schoolmaster.”  However, those faithful Jews who are mentioned in Hebrews Chapter 11 lived above the law: they lived by faith, although punished when they violated the Law, as in the case of David.

Here we cite Martin Luther’s fundamental doctrine (by which he mutilated the Roman Church): “Being justified by faith, we have peace with God.” (Rom. 5:1)  He had the same difference with the Roman Catholic Church that we have with those who believe they can be saved by works.  That Church contended that we are saved by works; whereas, Luther correctly contended we are saved “by faith” and no longer under a schoolmaster (the Law).

  Note also this very pertinent Scripture on this subject: “Sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.” (Rom. 6:13-18)  And 1 Kings 8:6-9: “The priests brought in the ark of the Covenant of the Lord unto his place… There was nothing in the ark save the two tables of stone, which Moses put there at Horeb, when the Lord made a covenant with the children of Israel.”  And so it will be when the New Covenant is inaugurated in Christ’s Kingdom. (Jer. 31:31-33)  This Scripture (1 Kings 8:6-9) relates to the dedication of Solomon’s Temple; and makes very clear what St. Paul meant when he stated what he did in Col. 2:14 - “the handwriting of ordinances.”  He is referring clearly and specifically to the two tables of the Law that ONLY were in the Ark when the Temple was dedicated.

Today many sincere people believe they are saved by works for a good cause.  And many unsavory characters are highly praised for their “works of charity.”  The Jehovah’s Witnesses tell their dedicated devotees (many of whom have our good opinion) that if they are faithful in serving so many hours a day or week, they will be chiefs in the Kingdom.  At one time they told them they will live right on through to the Kingdom, but have softened that somewhat, as many of their faithful followers have since died.

By the foregoing statements we would not have our readers believe that those who have faith are to sit idly down and do nothing but have faith in our Lord and in God.  “I will shew thee my faith by my works.” (James 2:18)  And that is our position, as all who have true animated faith will do with their might what their hands find to do.  They will demonstrate their faith by their works.  But faith cometh first!  Every man should be able to “give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason for the hope that is in you with meekness and fear [reverence].” (1 Peter 3:15)

During this Gospel Age it is a “narrow way” that leadeth unto life; and, as Jesus said, “Few there be that find it.” (Matt. 7:14)  But, when the New Covenant is inaugurated (Jer. 31:31) - made with the Jews just as the Law Covenant was made - all will be given a chance to walk up the Highway of Holiness (an easy way compared with the “narrow way” now operating).  And all nations will be blessed by this Covenant as soon as they come under it and comply with its terms.  The “narrow way” during the Gospel Age is a call: “But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.” (1 Cor. 1:24 - also see verses 25-30)  In the Kingdom it will not be a call but a command, if they get life.

Question: “When St. Paul told the Jews ‘we are free’ in Christ, is there anything here that says the Jews were not obligated to keep the Law - the Ten Commandments?  Or was he referring to the Ceremonial Law?”

Answer:   By this question we would not infer that the Brother is not sincere in his query, but sincerity alone is not sufficient.  When the nations went at each others’ throats - as they did in 1914 - there is no doubt at all in our mind that many were sincere on both sides.  However, at least one side had to be wrong; and some prominent individuals have contended that both sides were wrong.  But the latter point we do not argue.  We now confine ourselves specifically to one expression by St. Paul in Col. 2:14: “Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross.”

Now follows this same text from a more exact translation: “Having blotted out what was written by hand in ordinances which was against us, and has removed it from our midst, having nailed it to the cross.”  Let us stress here that the ONLY part of the Law that was written by God’s hand was the Ten Commandments - contained on two tables of stone - and nothing else.  The ceremonial law was all given orally to Moses; none of it was written by God’s hand. (Ex. 31:18; 24:12; Deut. 9:10)

As said above, when the Ark was placed in Solomon’s Temple, the only thing it contained was the two tables of the Law - written by God’s hand. (1 Kings 8:6-9)  Aaron’s rod that budded, and the golden pot of manna were no longer in the Ark.  This is to tell us that God’s eternal law - the Ten Commandments - will be perfectly implanted into human hearts and minds “in due time.” (Jer. 31:33)  Solomon’s Temple in this picture is a replica of what shall be when the “living temple” of God is established in the earth.  But for the present - and because of our frailty - it is “removed from our midst.”  Certainly this statement by St. Paul is plain enough and positive enough for a child to understand it.

When the lawyer wanted to know what he should do to inherit eternal life, Jesus said, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.” (Luke 10:25,27)  So it is love for God and man that will eventually give us eternal life.  This applies now in this Age, and will apply toward all men in the next Age.

  Question:  “When the Commandment says, ‘Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy,’ is not this a perpetual obligation?”

Answer:       Yes, to those who have put themselves under it; but Gentiles have never done that - have never been asked to do it - so there is no obligation on their part to try to keep it.  However, that same Commandment says, “In it thou shalt not do any work, thou… nor thy manservant, nor thy maidservant.” (Ex. 20:10)  Can any seventh Sabbath Day adherent honestly say he is keeping this commandment?  Does their manservant leave them a newspaper on Saturday?  Does their manservant leave them milk on Saturday?  Does their manservant operate a bus that carries them to church on Saturday?  Many years ago we lived next door to a very religious Jew, who scrupulously tried to keep the Sabbath; so, every Friday evening at six o’clock - when his Sabbath began - he gave us a penny to come into his kitchen, strike a match and light his stove fire.  Seemingly, he did not realize that in hiring us for that penny he was having his ‘manservant’ - or boyservant - do some work for him.

This general thought of the Ten Commandments - handwriting of ordinances - is further emphasized in Ex. 31:18: “God gave to Moses… two tables of testimony, tables of stone [the Ten Commandments are the only “tables of stone”], written with the finger of God.”  And to emphasize the superiority of the Ten Commandments (written by the finger of God), note now the record in Deut. 31:24-26: “When Moses had made an end of writing the words of this law [the ceremonial features, written by Moses - in contrast to the Ten Commandments written by God] upon a scroll [not on tables of stone]… Moses commanded the Levites… Take this scroll of the law, and put it at the side of the ark [not in the ark - as was done with the two tables of stone, written by the finger of God] of the covenant of Yahweh your God.” (Rotherham translation)

When Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another” (John 13:34), that terse statement embraced everything in the great addition problem set forth by St. Peter in 2 Peter 1:5-7: “Add to your faith virtue [fortitude]; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance [self-control]; and to temperance patience [stick-to-itiveness]; and to patience godliness [piety]; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity [love].”  And this addition circumvents all the ethical, ceremonial and mandatory elements of the Christian religion.  If any of us could keep the mandatory Law of Moses, we could not improve on what St. Peter has instructed us.  However, be it emphasized here that no one of the fallen human race has ever been able to do perfectly what St. Peter has prescribed.  In not one of these seven character qualities have any of us been able to reach perfection - just as none of the Jews could reach perfection in keeping the Law of Moses; but it is the ideal set before us - “that we should follow in his steps.” (1 Peter 2:21)

In no place does Jesus insist that His followers should keep the Law of Moses; on the contrary He tells us, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me… for my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matt. 11:29,30)  Here He was making a clear distinction between the yoke of the Law - which no Jew had been able to keep - and His yoke (“follow in His steps”), which we keep imperfectly, but, if faithfully, is satisfactory to God, because Jesus is with us in that yoke, bearing the heavier part of it - a help the Jews did not have in their attempt to keep the Law of Moses.

Solomon’s Temple should be considered here in connection with this discussion.  It was an elegant structure - one of the finest then in existence.  And in this it was typical of the grander Temple, the spiritual temple that will appear when the Kingdom is established.  At the dedication of Solomon’s Temple we are told, “The priest brought in the ark of the covenant [the golden ark from the Most Holy of the Tabernacle] of the Lord unto his place, into the oracle of the house, to the most holy place [which now supplanted the Most Holy of the Tabernacle], even under the wings of the cherubims.” (1 Kings 8:6)  Then verse 9, “There was nothing in the ark save the two tables of stone, which Moses put there at Horeb [where the Jewish ritual was first established after they left Egypt], when the Lord made a covenant with the children of Israel.”

All during the Jews’ journey through the Wilderness of Sin, on their journey to Canaan, the golden Ark in the Most Holy of the Tabernacle had contained the two tables of stone, Aaron’s rod that budded, and the golden pot of Manna that never decayed; but two of these items were no longer there when the golden Ark was transferred to Solomon’s Temple - showing us very clearly that when the antitypical Temple appears in the Kingdom, there will no longer be need for the Rod or the Pot of Manna.  Only the eternal law of God will be there - the “words” engraved on the two tables of stone by the finger of God, which Jesus temporarily suspended, “Nailing it to His cross,” because no one had been able to keep it; but its presence in the Temple tells us very clearly that in the Kingdom all the willing and obedient will then be able to keep that Law - just as Jesus Himself kept it when He was with us at His First Advent - being a perfect man He could keep a perfect Law.

Question: “In Matt. 5:17 not one word is said about Jesus nailing the Law to His cross; why, then, do you quote it now?”

Answer:   He does not say anything in Matt. 5:17 about nailing the Ceremonial Law to the cross either.  He had disposed of that in Matt. 22:38 - as we pointed out aforegoing.  And, as for the mandatory feature of the Law (the Ten Commandments) certainly He did not nail that to His cross for Himself.  He had no need to do that, because He Himself kept that Law perfectly - something we cannot do.  Therefore, at His crucifixion He nailed it to His cross to remove that ‘schoolmaster’ that had afflicted the Jews for centuries.  “For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” (Rom. 8:3,4)  That statement about ‘nailing it to His cross’ applied only to those Jews who had agreed to keep that Law; but it does not apply to any Gentiles, because they never were under that Law - had made no covenant with God to keep it.  This is no “private interpretation” on our part: it is just simple logic applied to a very much circulated illogical interpretation that quite a few good people mistakenly try to place upon it.

However, we would emphasize that both the Law Covenant and New Covenant are regulated by the same eternal Law of God, the Ten Commandments; and these must eventually be kept perfectly by all who will gain eternal life under the New Covenant - when “Satan is bound, that he should deceive the nations no more.” (Rev. 20:2,3)

Question: “If we are caught stealing, and plead exemption from prosecution because the Law was nailed to the cross, would the judge accept that excuse?”

Answer:   No, of course he would not!  There are some features of the Law Covenant that we can keep - such as stealing, thou shalt not kill, commit adultery, etc., but that is a far cry from including the entire Law.  The Gentiles who were not under the Law had enough light not to do those things, if they were motivated by right and wrong.  “But glory, honour, and peace to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile.” (Rom. 2:10)

Question: “Why do you make so complicated the plain and simple statement of Jesus in Matt. 5:17,18?”

Answer:   We do not make it complicated; the question complicates it when it tries to put Gentiles in the same category with Jesus Himself.  In that text Jesus says, “I come not to destroy the law.”  Neither do we come to destroy it.  But He also said, “I am come to fulfil it” - which we do not do because we lack the ability and the heredity to do that.”

THE CURSE: “As many as are of the works of the law are under the curse.” (Gal. 3:10)  “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law… for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree.” (Gal. 3:13)  The whole human family is now under the curse of sin and death; when the Jews covenanted to keep the law, but were not able to do so, it put them under a double curse.  Thus, Jesus had to “hang upon a tree,” the cross, to redeem the Jews from the double curse which rested upon them - the curse inherited from Adam, and the curse of the works of the Law.

Question: “What about Matt. 5:19 - ‘Whosoever shall break one of these least commandments… shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven?” 

Answer:   Jesus had said that if any one break the least of the commandments, he is guilty of all.  Yes, here He says that even the “least” will be in the Kingdom of heaven.  Coupled with this, we have His statement about John the Baptist, a Jew who was scrupulously trying to keep the Law: “There hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the Kingdom of heaven is greater than he.” (Matt. 11:11)  Here is a clear statement that John the Baptist will not be in the Kingdom of Heaven (the heavenly phase of the Kingdom), although he painstakingly tried to keep the Law to the best of his ability, which he could not do.  By our Lord’s statement, we know that he will be included among the faithful, honored Ancients, mentioned by the Apostle Paul in the 11th Chapter of Hebrews - his reward being the earthly phase of the Kingdom and not the Spiritual phase, which is the Kingdom of Heaven.

Also, according to the questioner’s reasoning, the Apostles Paul, Peter, James and others will also be least in the Kingdom of Heaven, because they taught that the followers of Jesus - Jews or Gentiles - were not under the Law, as noted by the following Scriptures: “By him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the Law of Moses.” (Acts 13:39)  “By the works of the Law shall no flesh be justified.” (Gal 2:16)

More now from Acts 15:5-20: “There rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses. [v. 5]  And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter. [v. 6]  And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the Gospel, and believe. [v.7]

“And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Spirit [Gentile believers], even as he did unto us [v. 8]; and put not difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. [v. 9]

“Now, therefore, why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers or we were able to bear? [v. 10]  [The fathers were able to bear the ceremonial: many of the fathers had very little to do with the ceremonial features, although they were faced daily with the mandatory yoke - the Ten Commandments.]  Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them. [v. 12]

“And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying, Men and brethren, hearken unto me. [v.13]  Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a  people for his name. [v. 14]

“And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written. [v. 15]  After this [after selecting a people for His Name among the Gentiles] I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David [the earthly phase of the Kingdom], which is fallen down [since A.D. 70, when the Jews and their temple were devastated]; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up [v. 16]: that the residue of men [the world during the Kingdom] might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things. [v. 17]  [After selecting a “people for His name” among the Gentiles, these saints will bless the residue of mankind in the Kingdom: “Know ye not that the saints will judge the world?” - 1 Cor. 6:2]

“Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world. [v. 18]  Wherefore, my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God [v. 19]; but that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood.” (v. 20)

Also Acts 15:24-26: “Forasmuch as we have heard that certain which went from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the Law: to whom we gave no such commandment. [v. 24]  It seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul [v. 25], men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [v. 26]

“For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things; that ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if you keep yourselves, ye shall do well.  Fare ye well.” Acts 15:28,29)

  Note there is not one word here about those converts keeping the Law of Moses.  Nor do they criticize them for coming together on Sunday instead of Saturday.  The Apostles were readily agreeable with the Sunday meetings, inasmuch as the Lord had risen from the dead on that day, which would cause those assembled to manifest a sober and a happy attitude in their worship.

It should also be noted that from all the foregoing Scriptures there is not one word of criticism against the Apostles for accepting and preaching Jesus; their whole contention is against the teaching that the Apostles were then relieving Jew and Gentile of the burden of the Law yoke - “which our fathers were not able to bear,” the Law of Moses.

Note now 1 John 5:3: “This is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous” - not unbearable, as was the Law of Moses.  “For Christ is the end of the Law for righteousness to every one [Jew and Gentile] that believeth.” (Rom. 10:4)  “And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith.” (Phil. 3:9)

More will be given on The Law of Moses in Part Two.  For now it would be well for us to follow the Apostle’s advice in 2 Tim. 2:15: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”  “The fear [reverence] of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.” (Psa. 111:10)

(Brother John J. Hoefle, Reprint No. 434, July 1992)

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  “MASS PRAYER RALLY PLANNED:  Leading Israeli rabbis are hoping thousands will join them at the Temple Mount later this month to pray for the future of the Land of Israel.  The rabbis, including two former chief rabbis, say they oppose Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s plan to unilaterally withdraw from the Gaza Strip and parts of Judea and Samaria - all post-1967 territories.  The rabbis maintain Israel must keep control of the areas, which were an essential part of biblical Israel.”  (The Media Line, February 15, 2004) 

“PRAYER FORCUS:  Pray that Christians and Jews will all turn their faces toward God in prayer and supplication, asking for His holiness, righteousness, and salvation.  ‘You are forgiving and good, O Lord, abounding in love to all who call to You.  Hear my prayer, O Lord; listen to my cry for mercy.  In the day of my trouble I will call to You, for You will answer me.’ (Psalm 86:5-7)”  (Bridges for Peace)

NO. 560 "THE SHEEP AND THE GOATS"

Recently we have been urged to offer an analysis of this parable and related subjects as given by Jesus in Matthew 25:31-46.  At the outset we would stress that in a parable the thing said is never the thing meant.  Probably every one would accept that statement as respects this particular parable; nobody believes that Jesus was discussing literal sheep and goats, although many take just the reverse position with His other parables and try to read them literally, thus reading themselves into a morass of confusing error.

First of all, the time and place: Most nominal Christians believe the time will be at the judgment day - a 24-hour period when the Lord and His faithful Church “will come down from Heaven with a shout, with an archangel’s voice, and with God’s trumpet.” (1 Thes. 4:16, Dia.)  Of course, to fit that together with any semblance of logic they cannot do; nor can they locate the place, except to state it will be on this earth at the time it is burned up at the last day.

Our own thought, as we shall presently show, is that the parable covers the entire Kingdom reign of a thousand years, in harmony with the prayer of Jesus; “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”  And that will be a time of purifying the sheep and making manifest the sheep and making manifest the goats - making manifest some of  the goats during that thousand years, and some after it is completed - graphically stated in Ezekiel 46:23,24: “It was made with boiling places under the rows round about… These are the places of them that boil, where the ministers of the house shall boil the sacrifice of the people.”  This is somewhat akin to the Roman Catholic purgatory, the fires of which supposedly burn out (“purge”) the evils of the salvable.

ANALYSIS OF MATTHEW 25:31-46

“When the Son of man shall come in his glory [in the Kingdom], and all the holy angels [messengers - the Saints] with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory.” (v. 31)  “And before him shall be gathered all nations [first the living who survive the “Time of Trouble,” and then those who come forth from the tombs]; and he shall separate them one from another [during His Mediatorial reign - the final and complete separation being in the “Little Season” - Rev. 20:7-9], as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats.” (v. 32)  “And he shall set the sheep [the meek, the teachable] on his right hand, but the goats on the left [opposite of favor - as subjects of condemnation].” (v. 33)  “Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand [those during the Mediatorial reign who will have obtained the position of favor by harmony and obedience], Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world [when Christ delivers up the dominion of earth to the Father - 1 Cor. 15:24 - He will do so by delivering it up to mankind, who were designed by the Father to have this honor],” (v. 34)  “For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in [All who are awakened in the Kingdom will be without possessions of any kind].” (v. 35)  “Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me [was sick - neither actually well, perfect - nor actually dead].” (v. 36)  “Then shall the righteous answer him saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungered, and fed thee? Or thirsty, and gave thee drink?” (v. 37)  “When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?” (v. 38)  “Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?” (v. 39)  “And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of my brethren [Restitutionists - the least of His brethren], ye have done it unto me.” (v. 40)

“Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed [condemned - unfit for eternal life] into everlasting fire [annihilation - everlasting destruction], prepared for the devil and his angels [the Devil, fallen angels and the “goats” into the Second Death from which there is no recovery - See Rev. 20:14 and Berean Comments].” (v. 41)  “For I was an hungered, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink.” (v. 42)  “I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.” (v. 43)  “Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord when saw we thee an hungered, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?” (v. 44)  “Then shall he answer them saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.” (v. 45)

“And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.” (v. 46)  The goats to be cut off from life, eternally punished; just the opposite of the sheep who receive eternal life - eternally blessed, as promised the obedient in the Kingdom.  The goats “shall be as though they had not been.” (Obadiah 16)

THE ADAMIC DEATH

During past centuries every member of the fallen race that has entered the tomb has gone there by experiencing the Adamic death; but all of them that return from the tomb will never again experience the Adamic death, although the dying process will be present with every one of them.  It is this dying process that will be “boiled” out of them if they are to receive the real “resurrection from the dead” - a raising up to life again in exact duplication of what Adam had in the Garden of Eden.

Although the parable of the Sheep and Goats is exclusively applicable to the Kingdom reign, there are related expressions that may be applied to the Jewish and Gospel Ages.  The goats of the Jewish Age are described as the “chaff” in contrast to the wheat; but it should be emphasized here that the “chaff” did not go into everlasting destruction, as will be true of the goats of the Mediatorial reign.  However, when Jesus said, “Other sheep have I that are not of this fold” (John 10:16), He was referring exclusively to the sheep of the parable we are now discussing.

There was only two classes in the Jewish nation at the First Advent; but there are three classes here in the Gospel Age, as there will also be three classes in the Millennial Age.  In 1 Peter 4:18 there is this: “If the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?”  The “righteous” in this text are the Lord’s true sheep; the “ungodly” are the Second-Deathers; and the “sinner” is the Great Company (see James 5:20 Berean Comments).  In the Kingdom reign there will also be three classes: sheep, goats and princes. (Psa. 45:16)

THE ADAMIC-DEATH PROCESS

The Adamic-death state and the Adamic-death process are closely related, yet there are pronounced differences in the two expressions.  As every person is raised from the grave, he at that instant permanently separates himself from the Adamic-death state (hades - oblivion); it no longer has any hold on him.  But not so of the Adamic-death process.  At the awakening of the Restitutionists most of the Adamic-death process (the evils of the “curse”) will still be noticeable present with all.  Note the Berean Comments on Rev. 20:14: “Death and Hell were cast into the lake of fire - including aches, pains, mental and moral imperfections of every sort… gradually, from the beginning of the Millennial Age to its close.”

Adam had been told, “In the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die” - “Dying thou shalt die” (see margin of Gen. 2:17).  It is the dying process that must be eliminated after the awakening if man is to return to perfection.  This is tersely told in Psa. 103:2-4: “The Lord forgiveth all thine iniquities; healeth all thy diseases; redeemeth thy life from destruction; crowneth thee with loving kindness and tender mercies.”  The first two of these promises are already arranged, and guaranteed to every one that returns from the grave in the Mediatorial Kingdom.  “He is the propitiation for our [the Christ Company] sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” (1 John 2:2)  “Make reconciliation for the sins of the people.” (Heb. 2:17)

The second two sections of this text will require the cooperation of the people themselves if they are to be fully consummated.  The sheep will give full cooperation, but the goats will not.  Some of these latter will die during the Mediatorial reign (Isa. 65:20); the large majority of them, those who outwardly conform to the benevolent requirements of the Kingdom, but who inwardly retain some of the evils of the past, will not be destroyed until the end of the Little Season.

It should now be clear enough to all our readers that the dying process is not a person, but a thing - a condition - indelibly stamped into the character of the goats.  And this being true, it should also require little argument that this contagion, in whatever form it may appear, could not possibly be destroyed, be put out of existence, until the last goat infected with it would be destroyed.  It is indeed “the last enemy” of 1 Cor. 15:26; and “He must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet… the last enemy is death.”  That this “last enemy - death” cannot possibly mean the Adamic-death state is self-evident because that will have passed out of existence at least one hundred years before the end of the Mediatorial reign.  Therefore, the Adamic-death process is the last enemy; and it will not be destroyed until the full end of the Little Season.

The question has occasionally come to us, Did Brother Russell teach the Adamic-death process in this manner; and the answer is definitely, Yes, he did!  In Parousia Volume 5, page 380, par. 3, middle, there is this: “In the future no one will die for Adam’s sin: it will be out of view as a factor in the trial of the future.  The only death thereafter will be the Second Death, which will affect only the sinner who commits the sin, not the parents, not the children.  In that day he that dies shall die for his own sin.  ‘The soul that sinneth it shall die.’ (Ezek. 18:4)  Though such will have weakness of the Adamic nature [the Adamic-death process] from which they will never recover, for refusing to use the means and opportunities placed within their reach during the Millennium by the Mediator of the New Covenant, yet under that New Covenant inherited weaknesses will not be reckoned against them, being fully offset by their Redeemer’s sacrifice.  Hence from and after the time when this opportunity of the Millennial Age is offered to each one, the Adamic weakness and imperfections [the Adamic-death process] will still be upon them, their death will not be counted as being a part of the Adamic death [hades], but as being part of the Second Death; because their failure to make progress will be the result of their own willfulness [by keeping the Adamic-death process in their being], and not the result of Adam’s transgression, nor of their own heredity to its weaknesses.”

It has been said that if the goats of the Little Season still had the Adamic-death process in them, they would be dying the Adamic death.  Once the Kingdom is fully established, those who die will die the Second Death - even though they have the Adamic-death process in them, and willfully refuse to have it striped out; and this same condition will prevail with the goats in the Little Season.  Those who die during the Mediatorial reign, because they would not even outwardly submit to the Kingdom opportunities of purging themselves of the evils within themselves, will die the Second Death, not the Adamic death.  The difference between the two classes of goats is that the goats who continue into the Little Season will have been smart enough to obey outwardly, thus living throughout the Mediatorial reign and to the end of the Little Season.  And at the full end of the Little Season “the last enemy’ will be destroyed.  Our present assurance that God’s love and justice operate in fullest harmony gives us confidence that the same principles will continue to rule the universe forever.  The “wrath” - the “curse” - will be lifted from all who come into harmony with God through Jesus the Savior; but all who do not avail themselves of this saving grace will be swallowed of the Second Death - the “wrath [the Adamic-death process] of God abideth on them.” (Acts 3:23; John 3:36; Rev. 22:3; Parousia Volume 5, page 439, par. 2)  Thus, all who will survive the Little Season must enter it with perfect characters; no more opportunity for developing character during the Little Season.

The following from p. 111 Tabernacle Shadows, par. 1, states very clearly that Brother Russell understood the Adamic-death process, and taught it just as we have given it in the earlier pages of this article: “The cleansing of defilement through contact with the dead would seem to teach that this cleansing, effected by and through the experiences of the Ancient Worthies, will especially apply to the world of mankind during the Millennial Age, while they are seeking to get rid of all the defilements of Adamic death - seeking to attain human perfection [ridding themselves of all the evils that harbor the Adamic-death process].  All the blemishes of the fallen condition are so much of contact with death; all constitutional weaknesses and blemishes through heredity are contacts with death; and from all of these the ashes of the Red Heifer are to be used for the cleansing of all who will become the people of God.  Like the ashes of the Red Heifer, laid up in a clean place, so the results of the painful experiences of the Ancient Worthies will be a store of blessings, instruction and help, by which they, when made subordinate ‘princes’ in the Kingdom, will assist in the restitution work.  Each pardoned sinner, desiring to be cleansed perfectly, must not only wash himself perfectly, must not only wash himself with water (truth), but must also have applied to him the instructions of these ‘princes’ - said instructions being typified by the sprinkled ashes of the heifer, representing the valuable lessons of faith and obedience learned through experience by this class - Ex. 12:22; Lev. 14:4, 49; Psa. 51:7; Heb. 9:19.”

OTHER OBSERVATIONS

During this age, whether in the Household of Faith or out of it, all are afflicted with the Adamic-dying process.  Although forgiven from their sins, all the faithful followers of Jesus still possess these evils - inherited or acquired.  And, though they make resolute effort to rid themselves of these imperfections, they yet retain some of them - although they all make some progress toward perfection if they are to be “more than conquerors.”  They also inherited the Adamic death, but they “have passed from death unto life.” (1 John 3:14)  If they continue faithful, they die the sacrificial death; if they are only measurably faithful, they die the constrained death; if they become totally unfaithful, they die the Second Death; they no longer die the Adamic death.

The following quotation is from Parousia Volume 5, p. 330, 331: “But while, as the Adamic death has been turned, by reason of God’s plan and ransom, from being a destruction to a suspension of existence, called sleep, yet we find that the Bible very distinctly asserts that after the revival or awakening from the death-sleep, it will depend upon each individual whether he shall go on unto perfection and life, under the guidance, government and tutelage of the glorious Christ, or whether he will willfully, deliberately and stubbornly choose the way of sin.  If he chooses the latter, he will get the punishment designated for father Adam: death, but no longer Adamic death, the penalty of Adam’s sin: this is styled the Second Death.  This Second Death is nowhere spoken of as a sleep, nor is there the slightest intimation anywhere that there will be any awakening from it.  On the contrary, it is designated ‘everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord.’ (2 Thes. 1:9)

“Of this redeemed and awakened class, that shall have its trial during the Millennial Age, the Bible declares, ‘The soul that sinneth it shall die.’ (Ezek. 18:20)  That this verse is not generally applicable now is evident from three considerations:

(1) It would be meaningless, at the present time, when all die - saints and sinners.

(2) It is expressed in the form of a second sentence, and based upon the individual action, and this could not be applicable now, because now we all die because of ‘one man’s disobedience,’ and the sentence of death which came upon him and indirectly affects all his race. (Rom. 5:12)(2

(3)The context shows that this verse refers particularly to those who have gotten free from Adamic sin that prevails in general today.  Its special applicability, therefore, must belong to the next Age, the Millennial Age.  Note the connections, not forgetting that the Law Covenant of the Jewish Age was analogous to the covenant of the Millennial Age, except that the latter will have a better Mediator, able and willing to succor and to help all seeking to walk righteously, not imputing unintentional short-comings.”

And further from Parousia Volume 5, p. 361: “‘The wicked shall be [re]turned into hell [sheol, oblivion] and all nations that forget God.’ (Psa. 9:17)  The Hebrew word shub in this text is properly translated ‘returned.’  This gives the thought of one recovered from sheol, oblivion, and that some thus recovered will be returned to oblivion on account of wickedness and forgetfulness of God.  The deliverance of mankind in general from sheol will occur during the Millennial Age, as a result of the ransom price finished at Calvary.  However, those once awakened and brought to a knowledge of the Truth, who then are willfully perverse, will be returned again to oblivion, ‘the Second Death,’ from which there is to be no ransom and no restitution.  That this passage is not applicable to the masses of mankind (the heathen) who have never known God, is very evident; from its own statement it refers to those who forget God after they have been brought to a clear knowledge of Him, and to corresponding responsibility.”

It should be emphasized here that the cause for the Second Death in the next age will be the Adamic-death process that the possessors refuse to eliminate in themselves.  The evils of this curse are everywhere evident now, nor will they be eliminated while their possessors are in the tomb.  “In the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be.” (Eccl. 11:3)

However, today the world of mankind is dying the Adamic death.  God’s wrath is not only revealed against the grossest of sinners, but against all unrighteousness, even the slightest.  Hence there is no escape for “there is none righteous, no, not one” (Rom. 3:10); and hence the infants as well as the gray-haired are subject to this ‘wrath,’ this ‘curse.’  This time of wrath that has now lasted six thousand years is to be brought to a close by the great Day of Vengeance, in which Justice prescribes that there shall be additional trouble upon mankind, because of the rejection of greater opportunities and privileges, and failure to obey the laws of righteousness, to the extent that these laws have been discerned by Christendom.  Hence this Day of Vengeance and of special wrath, additional to what has prevailed previously, it is declared, will be “a Time of Trouble such as was not since there was a nation.” (Dan 12:1: Matt. 24:21)

Further from Reprints 3433, column 1, pars. 5,6: “Revelation 20:12 reads, ‘And I saw the dead, the great and the small, stand before the throne, and the books were opened; and another book of life was opened, and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books according to their works.’

“This is a brief description of the work of the Millennial Age.  The whole world will be on trial before the throne - the Millennial throne - the throne of Christ.  Our common version says, stood before God, but this is not in agreement with the reading of the oldest manuscripts, from which we have quoted above.  The world will be standing on judgment before the throne of Christ throughout the Millennial Age in the same sense that the Church has been standing on judgment during this Gospel Age.  A picture of the world’s judgment is given in Matt. 25, where two classes that will be found amongst men are to be separated into sheep and goats, and the division between them is to be the work of the Millennial Age - to separate the true sheep, who will be accounted worthy of Divine favor everlastingly, from those of the goat nature, who, refusing to come into subjection to the Lord’s will, shall be estimated unworthy of any favors beyond the Millennial Age, and will be destroyed with Satan, as described in Rev. 20.9,10.”

During this Age all are afflicted with the Adamic-dying process, although the footstep followers of Jesus, faithful to the end, are not dying the Adamic death; they die the sacrificial death, even as did Jesus.  However, Jesus was perfect in His humanity, whereas none of His footstep followers are perfect - they continue to have some of the Adamic-death process inherent within them.  Nevertheless, they are reckoned perfect; Christ’s merit covers their imperfections. (Rom. 4:3,5,8,11)

In the Kingdom, even as it is now, fully willful sin will not be forgiven; in other words, those who have sufficient light and ability to obey what that knowledge requires, will not be excused without some chastisement.  But it requires perfect wisdom to know when a person has such knowledge and ability and refuses to obey.  In this Age, as well as in the Kingdom, we are to wait until the Lord’s judgments are made manifest.  The Lord is the heart-searcher and the manifester.  (See Hebrews 4:12 and Berean Comment.)

GOD THE SAVIOR OF ALL MEN

1 Timothy 4:10 shows that God will save all men from the Adamic condemnation, but not eternally: “We trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men [from the Adamic death sentence - but not eternally; after this sentence is removed from each one, he is given an individual trial for life; and only those who prove worthy in their trial gain everlasting life], specially of those that believe [He is the Savior to the uttermost only of the faithful elect now and the faithful non-elect in the Kingdom].”

Titus 2:11-13 (A.R.V.): “For the grace [favor, love] of God hath appeared [in His gift of Jesus for man’s salvation, and in the Gospel message], bringing salvation to all men [this ransom grace is salutary for all men, saving all now or in the Millennium from the Adamic sentence, and also, as the bread of life - John 6:33-58 - offering eternal life to all who will partake of it on the Divinely-arranged conditions, and withholding it from all who will not], instructing us [especially God’s people], to the intent that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly and righteously and godly in this present world; looking for the blessed hope [of seeing and being with and like our Lord] and appearing [epiphaneia, bright shining] of the glory of the great God and Saviour Jesus Christ.”

It is not the bright shining of a literal light that is meant here, but rather the brightness of God’s and Christ’s characters, shining resplendent in perfect wisdom, justice, love and power, in connection with the entire 1000 years’ stay of our Lord in His Second Advent.  This bright shining continues until the entire earth is filled with God’s glory. (Num. 14:21; Psa. 72:19; Isa. 6:3)  Antichrist is to be destroyed by this bright shining (epiphaneia) of our Lord’s Parousia or Second Presence (2 Thes. 2:8), which will bring more and more brightly to light the corrupt persons, principles and things of the papacy.  This will result shortly in the masses arising against it and annihilating it in the revolution stage of the Great Tribulation.  This Great Tribulation was begun by the World War (phase I) in 1914.  God’s faithful people love the appearing  (epiphaneia, bright shining) of our Lord (2 Tim. 4:8), for it will effect not only the overthrow of Satan’s empire in the Great Tribulation, but also will fill the earth with the glory of God during the Millennium, in the eternal overthrow of all evil persons, principles and things and the eternal triumph of all good persons, principles and things.

A NEW HEAVENS AND EARTH

Another Millennial testimony, which incidentally identifies the Judgment Day with the Millennium, is found in 2 Peter 3:6-13: “Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished [not the literal world - the earth - nor the human family perished, but the symbolic world, the order of affairs which then existed, was destroyed by the flood]: but the heavens and the earth, which are now [‘this present evil world’ - Gal. 1:4, the order of affairs now existing: its heavens being its religious systems and teachers - and its earth being its organized society], by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire [a symbol of destruction - Mal. 3:2,3; 4:1,3; Matt. 3:11,12; 1 Cor. 3:12-15; Rev. 17:16; all the symbolic earth will be devoured by the fire of God’s jealousy - Zeph. 3:8] against the day of judgment and perdition [destruction] of ungodly men.  But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing [do not forget], that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day [this identifies the Day of Judgment of v. 7 as a thousand year day].  The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness [God’s time seems slow to the natural man]; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.  But the day of the Lord [the thousand-year Judgment Day] will come as a thief in the night [Compare 1 Thes. 5:1-5]; in the which the heavens [not the literal heavens, but Satan’s false religious systems - compare Heb. 12:26,27] shall pass away with a great noise [uproar and confusion], and the elements shall melt with fervent heat [the various component elements of the present symbolic heavens and earth will disintegrate], the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up [Satan’s selfish, unjust and corrupt social arrangements shall be destroyed; but the literal earth is to remain, just as it remained after the flood - ‘the earth abideth for ever’ - Eccl. 1:4].

“Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God [the thousand-year Judgment Day], wherein the heavens being on fire [a symbol of destruction] shall be dissolved, and the elements [the political, financial, religious, etc.] shall melt with fervent heat [of human passion and wrath].  Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens [Jesus and His faithful followers, the Millennial religious ruling powers] and a new earth [human society organized on the basis of truth, righteousness and love, as against the erroneous, unjust and selfish arrangements of the ‘present evil earth’], wherein dwelleth righteousness.”

1 John 2:2 shows that Christ is the Satisfier of Divine Justice for Adamic sins, on behalf of the elect during the Gospel Age, and the non-elect during the Millennial Age: “He is the propitiation [satisfaction] for our sins [the Church’s sins of Adamic source]: and not for ours only [who now accept Christ as our Substitute or Redeemer], but also for the sins of the whole world [the non-elect’s sins of Adamic source, for which satisfaction is effected during the Millennium].”

THE HALLELUJAH CHORUS

Revelation 5:12,13: “Worthy is the Lamb, that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.”  Christ at the time of His ascension is set forth here, as he then became the Inheritor of all things (Heb. 1:2).  God is the Owner of all the universes with all they contain, which makes Him very rich - wealthy to the utmost.  All of the universes’ solar systems, each one carrying along as their parts many planets, belong to God.  Also, all the spirit beings present and future, and all other things that now are or yet will be, belong to God.  These universes in the Ages of Glory in their planets and in their suns will be perfected and their planets will be inhabited by perfect beings, which the wisdom of God will plan, and which Christ, as God’s Chief Agent, will bring into being unto perfection.  God has made Christ His Heir; for the Lamb has been found worthy of inheriting all things, including these riches of God, as well as His power, wisdom, strength, honor, glory and blessing.

By the end of the Millennium the Adamic-death state (the imperfections of the humanity - the physical infirmities) will have been eliminated; and by the end of the Little Season the Adamic-death process (the evil character of the goat class) will be eliminated from the earth when the last of the “goat” class is annihilated.  The goats (the wicked human beings) are those who refused to have the Adamic-death process plagued out of them during the Mediatorial reign.  As said, the Adamic-death process is the evils retained from the “curse.”  These evils are all striped out from the sheep by the beginning of the Little Season, because they cooperated with the opportunities, the instruction and good influences of the Kingdom.  They will be able to stand the crucial test of the Little Season and gain eternal life; while the goat class will not be able to stand the tests of the Little Season, and will be annihilated - eternally cut off.  The Adamic-death process cannot be eliminated from the earth until the “goats” (all evil persons) are eliminated.  When Satan (Ezek. 28:19; Heb. 2:14), the unrepentant fallen angels (Matt. 25:41), and the “goat” class - all the wicked (Psa. 145:20) - will be utterly, completely and eternally annihilated in the Second Death, symbolized by the lake of fire - “they shall be as though they had not been.” (Obad. 16)

Then “the righteous shall see it and rejoice; and all iniquity shall stop her mouth.” (Psa. 107:42)  Sin shall never rise again.  God will be glorified forever and ever by perfect creatures, both in heaven and on earth.  “And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever.” (Rev. 5:13)  “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” (Rev. 21:4)  “And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him.” (Rev. 22:3)

Much of the foregoing is drawn from the writings of That Servant and the Epiphany Messenger - some of which is verbatim.  We are grateful for their faithful ministry, but we give praise to God, the Author of the Plan of Salvation, who has revealed His Plan in His Word: “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.” (Psa. 25:14)

“Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart.  Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.” (Psa. 97:11,12)

(Brother John J. Hoefle, Reprint No. 380, June 1987)

NO. 559 SOME THOUGHTS FOR THE MEMORIAL

We again approach the Memorial of our Lord’s death, and with it the realization of the truly sanctified faith-justified that its observance under existing conditions draws nearer and nearer to a finality.  This realization should ever determine us to continue in the course we have embraced and to reside in that isolated and privileged place provided for us as we

“GO TO HIM WITHOUT THE CAMP.”

In Exodus 33:7 we read, “And Moses proceeded to take a tent and pitch it by itself outside the camp afar off from the camp, and he called it the Tent of Meeting, and so it came to pass that whosoever was seeking Yahweh went out unto the tent of meeting, which was on the outside of the camp.” (Rotherham)  Moses in this instance types our Lord as He arranged to remove the Star Members and His fully faithful people from the midst of the measurably faithful and the tare class, beginning in the Pergamos epoch of the Gospel-Age Church and continuing until 1799.  We quote parts of Brother Johnson’s comments on this from E-11, p. 430 (70):

“God had our Lord do another thing indicative of His displeasure with His nominal people, i.e., remove the faithful servants of the Truth and its Spirit from places of prominence and influence in the nominal church - caused the symbolic woman, the Covenant promises and the servants who apply them to the brethren into the wilderness condition (Rev. 12:6) - to the Tent of Meeting, not the Tabernacle, but Moses official residence - and that not but slightly away from the erroneous doctrines, practices, organization and disciplines of the nominal church, but very far from these, and made the Truth and the servants who applied it to the brethren, as well as these last, the place where God resided, met with His people and blessed them.  Henceforth every one who in heart’s loyalty sought fellowship with the Lord in spirit, truth, righteousness and holiness went forth from the nominal church to such Truth, its applying servants and the others of His real people, apart from the nominal church (without the camp)… When our Lord busied Himself with Truth matters, its applying servants, etc., the Truth and its Spirit as due became manifest (the cloudy pillar descended), and remained at the entrance, consecration, where God revealed truths to Jesus in the star-members.”

The foregoing dovetails so very beautifully with St. Paul’s admonition in Heb. 13:13, Dia., “Let us, then, now go forth to Him outside of the camp, bearing reproach for Him.”  And it is such a very clear-cut and definite course of procedure for all who elect to “follow in His steps.”  Such indeed is one very appropriate Thought for the Memorial.  In principle, this arrangement is as true today as it ever was, of which we shall offer some elaboration further on.

“WHAT MEAN YE BY THIS SERVICE?”

All the details of the original Passover in Egypt were pre-arranged with meticulous care and exaction, even to its future remembrance “throughout your generation,” and the instruction of the Jewish children during future observances.  It was properly anticipated that inquiring and curious children would ask, “What mean ye by this service?” (Ex. 12:26), thus providing the opportunity to instruct them in the niceties and the solemn responsibility of every Jew participating in it.  And this exaction so thoroughly gripped the Jewish conscience and imagination that the Passover observance today is almost identical to what it was in the day of Christ, excepting only the temple sacrifices which are no longer performed.  However they yet make very elaborate preparations for the festival.

The original ordinance had commanded that “ye shall put away leaven out of you houses” (Ex. 12:15); and this injunction had taken a vise-like hold on the Jewish conscience.  On Nisan 13 the head of each house placed a chunk of leavened bread on a window sill, or other prominent place, and proceeded thence with a pan, a lighted candle and fine brush to gather even fine dust from every corner of the house until the circuit was completed back to the piece designedly placed.  Thus, they would be sure of removing any particles of leaven that mice or other animals may have scattered about.  Here is another instance of their “straining at gnats,” after which they proceeded to “crucify the Lord of Glory” - although it must be noted that those who did this from “an honest and good heart” eventually did recognize the Messiah and came into the Christ Company.

But not only was the tangible and visible leaven removed, every taint of leaven was also eliminated by having all the culinary and other vessels to be used during the festival cleaned and legally purified from all contact with leaven or leavened bread.  They were then said to be “kosher.”  As we ponder this minute examination of each house, we are then more acutely impressed with St. Paul’s admonition, “Let a man examine himself… therefore let us keep the feast, not with the old leaven of malice and wickedness, but with unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.”  As leaven was a type of sin, so each participant of our great Memorial of “Christ our Passover who is sacrificed for us” should just as scrupulously as did the Jewish fathers eliminate sin and the “lusts that war in our members” as we come to the antitypical observance.  We realize, of course, that it was physically impossible for the Jewish fathers to recover all the leaven from every rat-hole and other inaccessible places; nor was it the Divine purpose to impose an impossible burden upon them.  Just so, it is not now God’s edict that we do the impossible and eliminate the sin “which has passed upon all men” through the transgressions of our forbears that reach back to Father Adam.  Therefore, we can only attempt to emulate the typical Jewish householders and free ourselves of such as we can control from a “pure heart.”

In all the minute Jewish preparation, the oldest son of each family, if he were thirteen years of age or older, was required to fast on the day leading up to the Passover table.  The table also was scrupulously set, the special foods provided, and cups or glasses set for wine for each one present - and one extra cup “for Elias.”  Had not the last lines of inspired Jewish Scripture warned them, “I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord”? (Malachi 4:5,6)  And not realizing that this was one of those “dark sayings,” every serious-minded Jew was alerted to the possibility of Elijah’s visitation “in an hour when ye think not” - possibly into his own house.  Thus, he would not be overtaken unawares.

But this meticulous arrangement was yet further augmented by the decree that at least four vials of wine were to enter into the feast.  If any Jews were too poor to bear such expense, the wine was supplied for them out of public funds.  Thus, every house would have measurably identical ritual with every other house; each would rest in the assurance that his brethren throughout Jewry were in physical and heart accord with him that momentous night.  Nor was this arrangement without purpose.  One cup was drained at the very beginning, at which the Small Hallel was recited, or sung.  Then followed the feast with diverse and profuse ceremony - all ending with the fourth cup and recitation of the Great Hallel.  On that awesome and fateful night in Egypt the Jews were to eat the Passover “with your loins girded, your shoes on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and ye shall eat it in haste” (Ex. 12:11) - probably standing up, as an indication that they were still in bondage, not yet free from the yoke of Egypt.  But in Jesus’ day they observed the ritual reclining on couches, or the like, about the table - as becometh free men.  It will be noted in Luke 22:17 that Jesus “took the cup, and gave thanks”; but this could not have been the Memorial Cup, the latter being described in verse 20 as “the cup after supper” - after “he took bread, and gave thanks.”  The cup mentioned in verse 17 was probably the third of the four cups, the Memorial Cup being the fourth one of the feast.

AND THEY SANG THE HALLEL

Above we spoke of the Small Hallel and the Great Hallel.  The Hallel in its entirety is the 113th through 118th Psalms, No. 113 and 114 being the Small Hallel; and the remaining four the Great Hallel.  In Matthew 26:30 (see Margin) it is related “they had sung a hymn, went out into the Mount of Olives.”  What they sang was the Great Hallel.  “Hallel” means “praise” - and being the root of our English word “hallelujah,” which means “praise to God” - praise by bondsmen now made free, formerly blind but now able to see.  It is little wonder that those today who are inclined to give voice and outward emphasis to their religion should so easily shout, “Hallelujah!”

In medieval times King Arthur’s Knights of the Round Table often set forth in quest of the Holy Grail, the same being that mythical golden cup which Jesus supposedly used as He said to the Disciples, “This cup is the new testament in my blood.”   That Holy Grail was never found, of course, undoubtedly through God’s overruling providence.  That Cup today would be the most priceless treasure on earth - an idol of Christendom.  But God did provide that we should be heir to the exact words of Jesus, when we are informed “they sang the Hallel”; and for this heritage we may now offer our own Hallel - our “praise to God” for the words in Psalms 113 through 118; and we do well to include some parts of that Scripture in our Memorial observance.

The eldest son of each family, if he were thirteen years or older, was required to fast on the day leading up to the service.  Then on the evening of the 14th all the male members of the house betook themselves to the synagogue, attired in their best apparel.  On their return they would find the house lit up, and the “Seder” or paschal table prepared.  The head of the family took his place at the head of the table, after which all the family, including the servants, were seated around the table, to partake of the Seder, or Haggadah, as some Jews designate it.  To be certain the question would properly arise, the oldest son was previously coached to ask, when they came to the table, why on this night above all other nights do they eat bitter herbs, unleavened bread, etc., at which the head of the house would relate the story of the original Passover and deliverance of the Jewish firstborn on that fateful night in Egypt.  Then proceeded the feast, which had been elaborately and meticulously prepared - the bitter herbs such as parsley and horseradish, and a kind of sop with charoseth consisting of various fruits compounded into a sort of mucilage and mixed with vinegar and salt water - each arranged in its own vessel.  At the outset the master took some of the bitter herbs, dipped them into the charoseth and gave to each one present to be eaten along with the first cup of wine.  Thus the feast continued throughout the evening until the fourth cup and the recitation of the Great Hallel, after which, in the case of Jesus and the Disciples, “They went out into the Mount of Olives.” (Matt. 26:30)

“When the time was come that he should be received up, he steadfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem.” (Luke 9:51)  The determination of Jesus as expressed in this text offers an example in perfection of the grace of patience in its true biblical meaning - cheerful continuance in well doing amid contrary circumstances.  His course herein was against all human concept as viewed by the natural man; hence, Peter said to Him, “Be it far from thee, Lord; this shall not be unto thee.”  And Jesus gave him appropriate correction: “Get thee behind me, Adversary; thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.” (Matt. 16:22,23)  Jesus knew full well that the “fullness of time” had come - that it was not the time to wait for His enemies to come to Him (which had he done, would have displayed only the passive grace of longsuffering) - that the active aggressive grace of patience should now be perfectly revealed in and by Him.  And “hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.” (1 Peter 2:21)

Be it noted that those who condemned Jesus to the cross were not the “beggarly elements” of that time, not the irreligious; it was the “good” people who were guilty of that - those who would not cross the Gentile door “lest they should be defiled for the feast.”  And, “As he was, so are we in this world.”  The Heathen Pilate strove to avoid the tragic miscarriage of justice; and it was the High Priest of Israel who “had the greater sin” in the matter.  It was those people schooled in the Law, who “sat down and watched him there” - watched the tragedy of the cross as the idly curious might watch a street-corner side show - watched the final hours of agony of “the Lord of Glory” with a calloused indifference that would be unbelievable were it not written in the sacred record.

And Jesus, knowing in the final hours of that awful night, that He had “finished the work God gave him to do,” resigned Himself to what was to be.  The time for controversy had passed - “now is your hour, and the power of darkness”; so He “held his peace.”  “No man taketh my life from me; I lay it down of myself.”  There is in this a lesson for us, too: The day previous and the day following our observance of the Memorial should be a time of calm meditation insofar as lieth in us.  If any wish to be contentious at that time, let them go their way for the time being; there will come more suitable occasions to answer such.

Nor should we allow the “maddening maze of things, as tossed by storm and flood” to make us bitter or morose or hateful.  It is a time at which we should lift our minds to the highest spiritual levels possible - to repose in the sublime reflections of the past, to “consider him who endured such contradiction of sinners against himself.”  “To be spiritually minded is life and peace.”  And again, “The kingdom of heaven is not meat and drink, but righteousness and joy and peace in the holy spirit.”  Nor should we allow those of contrary disposition to deter us in these resolves.  As it was in Jesus’ day, so it has been all through the Age: “Thou has them there that say they are Jews, but are not; but are of the synagogue of Satan.”  As we have now come into the “evil day” when “the end of all things is at hand,” let us embrace with full determination the Apostle’s words: “Above all things, have fervent love among yourselves.”  Jesus stated of this time in which we live: “Because iniquity shall abound, the love of many will wax cold; but “he that endureth unto the end, the same shall be saved.”  Those words are a warning to all; and blessed are they who give ear to them.  “The leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy” abounds in all quarters; but God’s faithful people will accept and do - particularly at this season - what St. Paul admonishes: “Purge out the old leaven.”

In the type the lamb was taken up five days before it was killed; and that was typical of Jesus, the Greater Lamb, presenting himself to the Jews five days before He was “lifted up.”  But there was another compelling reason for the five-day interval:  That most memorable of nights, when the Angel of Death would “pass over” the Jewish first-born, was not to be approached flippantly or carelessly.  As each family took up its own lamb, and removed all leaven from the home, the course of these five days would put them into a proper mental attitude and contrition of heart for that awesome night.  And this is well in keeping with St. Paul’s words to all who commemorate the antitype: “Let a man examine himself” not five minutes before the service, perhaps in public confessional; not just and hour before the service; but let each do so in “sincerity and in truth” during the days preceding it.  As most of us know, Brother Johnson always counseled all to read Brother Russell’s treatise on the Passover in Volume 6; and we now counsel the same.  It is also very helpful to read Exodus 12 five days before the Memorial, with the Berean Comments; then the same with the pertinent writings of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John - one each day with the Berean Comments.  This should prove most refreshing and helpful for a man “to examine himself”; and we venture the opinion that any who follow this, or a similar course, will most likely “eat and drink worthily” in full discernment of the Lord’s body and blood.

We here at Mount Dora, Florida will observe this Memorial at 2501 Morningside Drive at 7:30 P.M. on April 2, 2004, and all who are like-minded are welcome to meet with us.

With this writing comes the Christian love to all God’s people wherever they may assemble.  We especially offer a prayer for the Lord’s nearness and rich blessing in the preparation for, and participation in this coming service.  “Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us.”

(Excerpts from several of Brother John J. Hoefle’s writings.)

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THE WORK OF THE MESSIANIC KINGDOM

“The creature [creation, Diaglott] itself shall be delivered from bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the sons of God.” (Romans 8:21)

Death, not eternal torment, was the penalty which God placed upon Father Adam when he disobeyed (Gen. 2:17; 3:17-19).  Over four thousand years after the fall of man, our Lord Jesus came into the world to lay down His life to be a payment of that penalty; and thereby with His own life he made arrangements for the ultimate purchase of all mankind.  He has laid down the price, and eventually will take over the purchase.  He has not yet completed His work.  Thus far He has merely used the merit of His sacrificial death to make and imputation on behalf of the Church class.  As soon as the Church shall have been completed, they will be glorified as the Body of Christ, His associates in the Heavenly nature, glory, honor and immortality.  Then will come the time for Christ - Jesus the Head and the Church His Body - to inaugurate the great Messianic Kingdom, which God has long promised, and for which we pray “Thy Kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth, as it is done in Heaven.

Attentively considering the transaction by which Jehovah is to turn over the world to become responsible to His Son Jesus Christ, we perceive that it is pictured in the Jewish Day of Atonement.  When the high priest had completed his work of making satisfaction for the sins of the Israelites, he forthwith had the Divine authority to begin to bless the people (Lev. 9:22-24).  So when Christ, the great antitypical High Priest, shall have finished the work of offering the “better sacrifices,” and when the last member of the Body of Christ shall have been glorified, then the merit of those “better sacrifices” will be made applicable to the whole world (Heb. 9:23).  As in the one man Adam all mankind were constituted sinners, so in the one man Christ both Adam and all of his children will be justified from the original condemnation, that which came upon the human race because of Adam’s disobedience (Rom. 5:12-19).

The squaring off of accounts will be accomplished by the transfer of Adam’s account to the account of Christ.  The death of Christ will be found to be the full equivalent for the sin of the whole world; and as far as the Divine judgment is upon the world, mankind will be set free.  They will be freed from the sentence which came upon Father Adam  in Eden.  Forthwith Christ will take possession of the whole world.  His Millennial Kingdom is for the very purpose of lifting the Adamic race out of sin, degradation and death, and restoring them to human perfection.  But He does not purpose, nor is it in the Father’s Plan, that anyone be forced to receive the Divine Blessing.  “Whosoever will, let him take the Water of Life freely.” (Rev. 22:17)

Under the beneficent rule of the Messianic Kingdom the light of the glory of the goodness of God will be manifest to all mankind.  They will be made to know that restitution to all that was lost in Eden is God’s provision for the world.  When they shall have come to the knowledge of the Divine goodness, it will be their part to conform their lives to purity and righteousness.  They will retain their own individual will, however, and if anyone should will to do otherwise than what is right, he will have the opportunity to do so.  But he will not be permitted to do that which is injurious to others; for the power of Messiah will be exercised at such a time, and will not permit anyone to work injury.  Under the full light and opportunity of that blessed time, a sinner who makes no progress toward perfection will be cut off from life at the end of a hundred years of trial.  Having had every possible incentive to do right under that glorious Messianic Reign, he will have no excuse for wrongdoing.  If he does not yield to the regulations of that righteous Rule, he will thereby demonstrate that he loves iniquity (Isa. 11:9; 65:20).

God purposes to give life everlasting only to those who manifest a disposition to become loyal and obedient to Him, and who by patient perseverance will develop a character worthy of being raised up to perfection of life.  Those who manifest the right disposition will be lifted up out of their fallen condition to the full standard of human perfection as it was originally in Father Adam.  This work of human uplift will be the work of Christ and the Church through the various agencies of that time.  The world will then be free from the condemnation which came upon Adam because of his disobedience in Eden.  God is willing to give them everlasting life upon condition of obedience to His righteous Law.  But they will be expected to cooperate in this matter; and in their endeavor to rise out of sin and degradation they will have His assistance, through Christ.  Ultimately the willing and obedient will have everlasting life; but the unwilling and disobedient will be cut off from life - in the Second Death.

Manifestly, then, there will be an interim between the time when mankind is legally forgiven and the time when they will either reach perfection or die the Second Death.  During this interim they will still be of the Adamic race.  So when the hosts of sleeping dead are awakened, they will not come forth from the tomb as children of Christ, but as children of Adam.  Under the arrangements of the Messianic Kingdom they will be given the opportunity of renouncing their relationship to Adam and accepting the Life everlasting that Christ will give to those who demonstrate their loyalty to God and to the principles of righteousness.  So far as the world is concerned, this work of the Christ will continue until the end of the thousand years of the Messianic Reign.  Then mankind will be perfect, ready to be turned over to the Father, as the Apostle Paul points out (1 Cor. 15:21-28).  During those thousand years the Father will ignore humanity altogether.  He will have turned the whole Adamic race over to the Christ, who will have full charge of mankind.  While the Messianic Kingdom is in power, neither the Father Himself nor anyone else except the Christ will have anything to do with humanity.  At the end of the Millennium, Christ will present the perfected race to the Father.

Speaking of the human family, the Apostle Paul says, “The creation was made subject to vanity [frailty], not willingly.” (Rom. 8:20)  That is to say, the Adamic race did not become imperfect through any will of their own.  Father Adam got out of touch with his Creator.  Sin invaded his domain and he was led astray.  Condemnation to death came upon him; and because of being in his loins, through the law of heredity; all of his posterity were involved in his condemnation.  But “God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

Our Lord Jesus is ready to redeem those who have come unwillingly into sin, if they will accept His terms and conditions.  The first-fruits of His work form the Church of the Gospel Age (James 1:18).  The expression first-fruits suggests after fruits.  In other words, members of the Church are not the only ones who are to be saved, but are a first gathering only.  It is theirs to share with their Lord in His Kingdom glory, honor and immortality.  Then all mankind will have their opportunity - the creation itself which was made subject to frailty, and which is to be delivered from the bondage of corruption (Rom. 8:19-22; 1 John 2:2).  Eventually the whole world will have the opportunity of getting out from the bondage of death.  First there is the legal phase of the condemnation upon earth.  This legal condemnation will be set aside at the beginning of the Millennium.  Then there is the actual condemnation - death and all its concomitants.  Mankind has become so infected with the virus of death that their minds and bodies have both become diseased.  “There is none righteous, no, not one.”  Everybody is wrong, imperfect, out of the way, religiously, mentally, morally and physically; and the race will still be in this condition of imperfection after the legal phase of the condemnation is set aside.

When at the beginning of the Millennium Christ presents the merit of His sacrificial death on behalf of the world, forthwith the race will be turned over to Him.  But, on being raised from the dead, the world would soon come into condemnation again, were it not in the hands of the “Mediator between God and men.” (1 Tim. 2:4-6)  If anyone had his sins forgiven and then stood forth in his own strength before God, for even one day, by nightfall he would again be under condemnation, unless he could live sinless for that one day.  Because of their inability to stand before God, He will pass the world over to the ministry of Messiah, and will ignore mankind altogether until the end of the Millennium.  The work of Christ will be to effect the deliverance of humanity from the bondage of corruption, from which they are unable to deliver themselves.  Christ will set the groaning creation free from the power of Sin and Death, and will bring the willing and obedient back into full liberty of sons of God.  Whoever will may then become a son of God, on the human plane, perfect as Adam was before he fell from Divine favor.

When Adam was a son of God, he was not “sold under sin”; but on the contrary, he was perfect, the image and likeness of His Creator - “very good.”  And so it is with the holy angels.  They are the sons of God on the spirit plane.  Thus does God design that it shall be with His human sons.  They shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the full liberty of the sons of God (Rom 8:19-21).  Father Adam was originally called a son of God (Luke 3:38).  So when humanity shall have been restored to perfection, the Son will deliver up the Kingdom to God, even the Father, when He shall have put down all insubordination (1 Cor. 15:24-28).  Then all those whom God will receive, will be perfect, in the image and likeness of their Heavenly Father, as was Adam.

(Brother Johnson, The Herald of The Epiphany, January 15, 1921)

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LETTERS OF GENERAL INTEREST

Dear Sister Emily:  Christian greetings through our Beloved Savior.

Hoping that this finds you in good health.  Another year has slipped away and I praise our heavenly Father for the comfort we have in His blessed word of Truth, giving hope and strength in these troubled times.

On September 14th part of our small Ecclesia traveled to Yosemite Lakes Community Church to hear a discourse by Clarence Wagner from Bridges for Peace.  What a joy it was to hear Clarence deliver an eloquent talk to a nominal Christian Church, on the rich scriptural promises given to the Nation of Israel.  The congregation seemed to embrace this message and be willing to support Israel with prayer and monies, as their obligation as Christians to help in restoring that Nation.

We had a short visit with Clarence after the meeting and assured him of our prayers and support also. 

It seems that many denominations are dropping the replacement theory and recognizing Israel’s return and rebirth as prophecy being fulfilled.

In November Lev and Hava Bausch visited our Ecclesia.  I know you have corresponded with them, and are aware that they have lived in Israel for thirty years.

Both Lev and Hava told us many stories of current conditions in Israel.  The most exciting news for me was the number of Messianic Jews in Israel, and their number is growing daily.  These Jews do not claim to be affiliated with any nominal church system because of their witnessing or Missionary efforts.  My understanding is that these are mainly orthodox Jews that have read the New Testament and have decided their Messiah has come, and they believe much as we do.  We continue to pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

Our small Ecclesia continues in Bible Study, and I am still conducting the second hour of study on Sundays.  As you know there has been disagreement on some basic doctrinal points that Brother Russell made so clear to us.  The second hour of study gives me an opportunity to plant seed refuting those errors.  There has been some progress in this regard, and I suppose that is what keeps me going.  My prayers are with these brethren, and I will go on planting seed, relying on the Lord for growth and fruitage.

Your articles are a blessing to me and are used many times to assist in study planning.  I ask for your prayers on my behalf as I continue to pray for you and your work in the Lord.  May the Lord bless and keep you.                         Your Brother in His Name, …       (CALIFORNIA)

…………………………………………………..

Dear Emily, Marjorie and all there,

May you see God’s hand in all around in the coming year.  It is indeed a time to keep our eyes on the Lord and trust that He has all in His plans and purposes day by day.

Again Israel has had the eyes of her watchmen on the situation here as over 18 suicide bombers have been discovered in the last two weeks.  What a big loss of life those bombers could have taken if they were successful.  Of course Israelis have rejoiced over the capture of Saddam, and are adding up their own claim for all the damage he did with his missiles here in the Gulf War!

Now we are celebrating the Festival of Lights or Channukah, and that is a nice time of year to remember God’s miracles for His people Israel.  Again God is blessing the Land with good rains in the last weeks.

Hope this finds you well there, Emily, and all the others as well.  Lev has been battling a foot infection for the last month right on the bottom of his foot.  This is always extra dangerous when one has diabetes as Lev does.  We appreciate your prayers!

The economic situation has not gotten better in Israel in the last months, and we have had a lot of strikes, especially of various government offices causing many hardships for people.  It is certainly a time of growing stress for the people here.  May God be their help and show His mercy on His people.

Well, as we again start a New Year may you have the daily strength and health you need to carry on and may God bless your work for 2004.  In His love, Lev and Hava Bausch    (ISRAEL)

NO. 558 RETROSPECT AND PROSPECT - PART TWO

“SIMON SAYS:  Tomb’s inscription backs up tradition: JERUSALEM - A barely legible clue - the name ‘Simon’ carved in Greek letters - beckoned from high up on the weather-beaten facade of an ancient burial monument.

“Their curiosity piqued, two Jerusalem scholars uncovered six previously invisible lines of inscription: a Gospel verse - Luke 2:25.

“Archaeological finds confirming biblical narrative or referring to figures from the Bible are rare, and this is believed to be the first discovery of a New Testament verse carved onto an ancient Holy Land shrine, said Emile Puech, and inscriptions expert who deciphered the writing.

“A few Old Testament phrases have been found on monuments, and a passage from Paul’s Letter to the Romans (3:13) is laid into a floor mosaic in the ancient Roman city of Caesarea.

“Jim Strange, a New Testament scholar from the University of South Florida, said that the ancients apparently believed that chiseling Scripture into monuments debase sacred words.  The widespread use of Bible verses on shrines began only about 1000 in Europe, said Strange, who was not connected with the discovery.

“The inscription declares that the 60-foot-high monument is the tomb of Simon, a devout Jew who the Bible says cradled the infant Jesus and recognized him as the Messiah.

“It’s unlikely that Simon is buried there; the monument is one of several built for Jerusalem’s aristocracy at the time of Jesus.

“The inscription does back up what until now were scant references to a Byzantine-era belief that three biblical figures - Simon, Zacharias and James, the brother of Jesus - shared the same tomb.

“This year an inscription referring to Zacharias, who was John the Baptist’s father, was found on the same facade.  Puech and Joe Zias, a physical anthropologist, continued to study the monument.  Applying a ‘squeeze’ - a simple 19th century technique of spreading a kind of papier mache over a surface - they uncovered the Simon inscription.  Now, they hope to complete the three by finding writing referring to James.

“The Simon and Zacharias inscriptions were carved about the fourth century, a time when Byzantine Christians were searching the Holy Land for sacred sites linked to the Bible, said Puech.

“The monument is in the Kidron Valley, between Jerusalem’s walled Old City and the Mount of Olives.

“The Bible says that James was thrown off the Jewish Temple, bludgeoned to death in the Kidron Valley below and buried nearby.  The historian Josephus refers to a Temple priest named Zacharias being slain by zealots in the Temple and thrown into the valley.  There is no word on Simon’s death.

“The Zacharias and Simon inscriptions were chiseled into what is known today as Absalom’s Tomb, one of three big funerary monuments built in the Kidron Valley for the city’s rich.”                                                                     (The Associated Press, November 21, 2003)

“ANTI-SEMITIC TEXT BOOKS IN NEW YORK SCHOOLS:  Textbooks used in New York City’s Islamic schools contain ‘passages that are blatantly anti-Semitic’ and repeat ‘old canards’ about Jews, the New York Daily News reports after a three-month-long investigation.

“The report notes that a textbook written for children in grades 3 through 6, entitled What Islam is All About, says that Jews and Christians ‘lead such decadent and immoral lives that lying, alcohol, nudity, pornography, racism, foul language, premarital sex, homosexuality, and everything else are accepted in their society, churches, and synagogues.’

“According to the paper, the book has sold over 40,000 copies and is said to be in use in more than half the city’s Muslim schools.

“Another textbook, Mercy to Mankind, which is used by 5th and 6th graders, states that the Jews ‘killed their own prophets’ and sought to deceive Muslims by altering the text of the Bible, the newspaper says.

“New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg strongly condemned the use of the textbooks, saying, ‘Personally, I find it disgraceful; any textbook that tries to take away other people’s rights or condemn other people because of their beliefs, I think is inappropriate and undemocratic.’

“New York City has 15 private Islamic schools registered with the state, with approximately 3,000 to 4,000 students enrolled.”

(By Michael Freund, The Jerusalem Post, April 3, 2003)

“FIRST ISRAELI U.N. RESOLUTION OFFERED:  For the first time in its history, Israel has introduced a resolution before the United Nations General Assembly.  A main component of the decision to do so is to test whether the body will accept anything originating in Israel.  The resolution calls for the protection of Israeli children victimized by Palestinian terror.  A similar resolution on behalf of Palestinian children had been offered by Egypt, but has not come up for a vote.  According to the Associated Press, which quoted Aryeh Mekel, Israel’s deputy U.N. Ambassador, the test of the U.N.’s willingness to deal fairly with the regional conflict will be whether it passes both resolutions, merges the two, or drops the Israeli version altogether.”

(The Media Line, November 4, 2003)

“AL-QA’IDA WEBSITE TELLS MUSLIMS TO LEAVE D.C., L.A., N.Y.:  The Middle East Research Institute has discovered and translated a warning posted on an Al-Qa’ida website exhorting Muslims to ‘immediately leave Washington, D.C., New York, and Los Angeles.’

“The message continues, ‘We are a serious warning.  The next few days will prove to you the truth of this warning.  To the oppressive rulers of America we say, ‘Expect our terms following the first strike of Allah’s believing solders.’  The latter phrase is a quote from the Qu’ran.”                                                                           (The Media Line, November 5, 2003)

“LAST IRAQI JEWS:  Six elderly Jews from Iraq, among the last remaining Jews in the country, have been brought to Israel on a direct flight from Baghdad in a joint project by Israel’s Jewish Agency and the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society.

“Among the six was a 99-year-old woman and her 70-year-old daughter, a blind 90-year-old former Baghdad resident, and another 70-year-old woman who was the last Jewish resident of the southern Iraqi city of Basra.”                                                    (World Jewry, August 2003)

BOOK REVIEW:  Yasir Arafat: A Political Biography, Barry and Judith Rubin, Oxford Press, 2003, 354 pages.

“For more than four decades, since he founded Fatah in 1959 and then the Palestinian Liberation Organization in 1964, Yasir Arafat has enjoyed the flattering glare of the international spotlight.  Mr. Arafat is one of the inventors of modern terrorism and continues to instigate it to this day.  Despite this, a multitude of admirers and apologists in the West have been taken in by the pose of moderation, at least until recently.  As a result, he has visited nearly every royal palace and presidential residence in Europe and was a guest of honor at the White House several times.  He has even won the Nobel Peace Prize.

“How did this happen?  As [the Rubins] show in their admirable, impressively documented book he is one of the great con men of modern politics.  Even those who know what a slippery character Mr. Arafat is may be surprised to learn from the Rubins account just how deceitful he can be.

“He claims to have been born in Jerusalem, for instance, but was in fact born in Cairo.  He has told of single-handedly stopping an Israeli tank column in the 1948 war, though the evidence places him in Egypt at the time.  Some of his falsehoods have been utterly fantastic such as that there was never a Jewish temple in Jerusalem.  As for political tactics, the Rubins remind us that Mr. Arafat is often astute, positioning himself between competing Islamic, Marxist, and nationalist Palestinian groupings.  Even today, though the Western media talks of a ‘new Palestinian prime minister,’ Chairman Arafat retains control of almost all the key elements of power in Palestinian politics.

“The Rubins, along with documenting his corruption and misrule, make clear how much Palestinians and Israelis alike have suffered from his refusal to entertain a two-state solution.”

(By Tom Gross, Wall Street Journal, August 21, 2003)

“ARAFAT: ROAD MAP IS DEAD:  Yasser Arafat has declared that the Road Map for peace is dead.  He told CNN on September 2 that ‘The Road Map is dead but only because of Israeli military aggression in recent weeks.’  The Palestinian leader complained that because of the attention being paid to Iraq and because of the impending presidential election, the United States has not paid enough attention to the Road Map process.  His remarks came on the same day that Israel Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz said it was a mistake not to have expelled Arafat two years ago.  Mofaz told Army Radio that Arafat ‘needs to disappear from the stage of history.’  Mofaz has come under sharp criticism by the opposition Labor Party for his remarks, and Israel Radio reported on September 3rd that the American Administration has asked for a ‘clarification’ of those remarks.”                                       (The Media Line, September 3, 2003)

“PRAYER FOCUS:  The Road Map cannot succeed.  It will not fail because of the actions of Arafat or Abbas.  It will not fail because of the actions of the Israelis.  It will ultimately fail because it is in opposition to God’s Word.  Pray that God’s plan for the land and peoples of Israel will be fulfilled in its entirety.  God called for the land to be given as an everlasting inheritance to the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.  But, He also called for justice and mercy for the foreigner living in the midst of His people, Israel.  Only when the peoples of Israel line up with God’s plan will they know His blessing.”

(Bridges For Peace comment, September 3, 2003)

“LEGAL KILLINGS:  Harvard law professor Alan M. Dershowitz says there is ‘absolutely no doubt’ that Israel’s policy of targeted killings of senior Hamas terrorists is legal under international law.  In an opinion piece in last week’s Toronto Globe and Mail, Dershowitz wrote, ‘Hamas has declared war against Israel.  All of its leaders are combatants, whether they wear military uniforms, suits, or religious garb.’

“‘Under any reasonable standard,’ he concluded, ‘Israeli policy with regard to the targeted assassinations of ‘ticking bomb terrorists’ does not deserve the kind of condemnation it is receiving.

“‘Any democracy facing threats to its civilian population comparable to those faced by Israel would respond in much the same way Israel is now responding to the terrorism being conducted by Hamas and other terrorist groups,’ he said.”

(The Jerusalem Post, October 3, 2003)

“ARAFAT SEIZED U.S. $750 MILLION OF PA BUDGET:  The International Monetary Fund (IMF) said Yasser Arafat has seized U.S. $750 million from the PA budget, much of which is financed by Western donors.  The IMF concluded that Arafat took the U.S. $750 million from the PA budget and placed the funds in a bank account under his sole control.  Arafat was found to have embezzled the funds from 1995 until 2000.

“The assertion came in wake of the first IMF investigation of PA finances and the role of Arafat.  The IMF said Arafat, chairman of the PA, invested most of the missing PA funds in 69 companies that he directly controls.

“IMF officials acknowledged the investigation and its findings regarding Arafat at the summit by the financial institute held in the United Arab Emirates city of Dubai.  The IMF and World Bank summit stressed the need for transparency in government.”

(Bridges For Peace, October 7, 2003)

“THE NOT-SO-NOBLE-NOBEL:  Kaare Kristiansen, a former member of the Nobel Prize Committee, has appealed to his former colleagues to ‘publicly deplore’ their decision in 1994 to grant the Nobel Peace Prize to Palestinian Authority Chairman Yasser Arafat.

“Kirstiansen, a former Norwegian minister who served as president of his country’s parliament, sent a letter this past weekend to the Norwegian Nobel Committee denouncing the PA leader for undermining any prospects of Middle East peace.  And calling on committee members to distance themselves publicly from the 1994 award.

“‘Arafat is not a peace-loving pacifist but a warmonger and a butcher, an ill-fortune both for his own people and for his neighbors,’ Kristiansen wrote.

Hence, he said ‘out of consideration for political decency and for its own reputation,’ the committee should ‘find a way to distance itself from its award of 1994.’”

(The International Jerusalem Post, September 26, 2003)

“LET JEWS LIVE ON HOMELANDS:  The term Judenrein means an area cleansed of Jews.  In the past, this German [Nazi] concept was applied throughout Europe.  Now we hear American and other liberals saying that Jewish communities on the biblical land of Judea and Samaria, the cradle of the Jewish nation, must be emptied of all their inhabitants, so that even in a Jewish homeland there can be Judenrein areas.  The expulsion of the Jews from Europe, which reached its height during World War II, was a manifestly barbaric and inhumane act.  But there, at least, the Jews were unwelcome guests, having lived in that area for merely a thousand years or so.  However, to drive out the Jewish community of Hebron, where the matriarchs and patriarchs of the Jewish people are buried and King David first ruled 3,000 years ago, is unthinkable.

“The United States is dotted with towns named for biblical cities in Israel: Hebron, Shilo, Bethlehem.  But according to the terminology of many in the U.S. press, the Israeli Shilo, the original one, is a ‘settlement,’ and consequently must be cleansed of Jews.

“If someone decided to expel Jews, from Shiloh, Ohio, Hebron, Nebraska, USA Today might be among the first to come out against what it would likely term racism.  Why then does it support the expulsion of Jews from the original Shilo, the Jewish one?  Why are Jews living in their own homeland considered ‘an obstacle to peace?’

“Why is it the only place in the world where Jews cannot live, according to liberals, the very place where the Jewish faith was born, where it developed monotheism, where the Judeo-Christian civilization took shape; and where the Jewish people returned after 2,000 years of exile?

“It is not the presence of Jews in the settlements that is a provocation to Palestinians; it is the presence of Jews anywhere in Israel on either side of the Green Line, the 1949 armistice line.

“So, if you support the expulsion of Jews from Europe, America or anywhere else, you’re racist.  But if you advocate the expulsion of Jews from the heart of their homeland, you’re a liberal.

“Liberals demand to drive Jews off their own land to create a Judenrein area, in the land of the Jews, of all places, is the height of hypocrisy by those who claim to be fair-minded advocates of justice in the world.”                      (By Israel Harel, Haaretz, September 22, 2003)

“FROM A DISTANCE: Death has no glory:  In the book of Genesis, God tells Abraham: ‘And through you will all the nations of the earth be blessed.’

“I’ve often wondered about that blessing we Jews are supposed to bring the world.  After six months of having the world heap the vilest slander on my people and my country; after going through Holocaust Remembrance Day, and then Remembrance Day for the fallen soldiers, I don’t think, if it was up to me, that heaping blessings on the world, particularly on my Semitic neighbors, would be high on my list of ‘must do’s’ right now.

However, since the Jewish people’s fate isn’t something you get to vote on, I recognize that I, and my fellow Jews, will have little say about this blessing thing either.  And so, willy-nilly; we are going to bring blessings to the world.

“And I’ve finally figured out how.  It was last week, as I was watching the official memorial service at the Western Wall for Israel’s fallen soldiers.  And in that holy place, Israel’s top general, its chief of staff, got up to speak.  What do you think he spoke about, this general and army man?  If he were any other nationality or religion, and this were any country but Israel, we wouldn’t even have to ask: The glory of our fallen heroes.  Their bravery and sacrifice on the battlefield.  The greatness of our victories.

“But not Chief of General Staff Shaul Mofaz.  He spoke about remembering the birth of a child.  The first picture taken in kindergarten.  The first baby tooth that falls.  The bar-mitzvah pictures.  The graduation from high school.  The mother’s kiss on the cheek of the new recruit.  He spoke about the incalculable loss to each fallen soldier’s family, his parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, girlfriend, wife, children.  About the preciousness of life, and the horror of death.

“The Jewish people indeed have a blessing to bring to the world, especially to our Semitic cousins.  If only they would stop shouting and crying and threatening long enough to listen, how different their lives would be!  And we would give it to them freely, generously - this, our hard-earned knowledge, the knowledge of the Jews.  And it is simply this: that death has no glory.  And life can never be replaced.

“There is no honor, no holiness in bombs and guns and knives and mortars in wounded flesh, and blood-soaked streets.  In dead children and broken-hearted mothers.  And that peace is a value to be cherished above glorious victories.

“If only the BBC, and CNN and Sky News would stop interviewing the mothers and uncles of suicide bombers, who speak of holy martyrdom, and sacred deaths, and holy wars; if only their confused reporters would simply sit and listen to Israel’s keening on Remembrance Day, and broadcast that to the world instead, what a blessing they would bring mankind.  What a lesson.                                                                        (Excerpt by Naomi Ragen, May 3, 2003)

“LIBRARY IN EGYPT WITHDRAWS COPY OF ANTI-SEMITIC TRACT:  CAIRO, EGYPT - The Alexandria Library has withdrawn the first Arabic translation of the Protocols of the Elders of Zion from an exhibit after U.N. cultural officials questioned the display of the 19th century anti-Semitic tract.

“In a statement yesterday, Ismail Serageldin, the director of the library, denied allegations that the book was displayed next to the Jewish holy book, the Torah.

“‘The book was promptly withdrawn from public display.  But its very inclusion showed bad judgment and insensitivity, and a internal hearing is under way to determine whether further action is to be taken’ read the statement.”                         (Associated Press, December 7, 2003)

Comment:  It is very unusual for the U.N. to do anything in Israel’s favor.

 ___________________________________________________________________

SOME COMMENTS ON THE MIDDLE EAST

  The turmoil in the Middle East has engaged our attention very closely because we believe that some prophecy is now being fulfilled there; and we shall yet see much more of it.  As instance, Zechariah 14:1-3: “Behold, the day of the Lord cometh [we have been in the “evil day” (Eph. 6:13) since 1914, with the “evil” steadily becoming worse and worse], and thy spoil shall be divided in the midst of thee.  For I will gather all nations against Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken, and the houses rifled, and the women ravished; and half of the city shall go into captivity, and the residue of the people shall not be cut off from the city.  Then shall the Lord go forth, and fight against those nations, as when he fought in the day of battle.”

AS IN THE DAY OF BATTLE:  Some outstanding instances where the Lord fought for Israel in former times are (1) when He gave a great victory to David in the Valley of Rephaim in close-by Baalperazim (2 Sam. 5:17-21); (2) when Gideon commanded 300 men, who were used to inflict a miraculous defeat upon the Midianites and Amalakites, who were “in the valley like grasshoppers for multitude - their camels as the sand by the seaside for multitude” (Judges 7:12-23); and (3) with Joshua in Ajalon, where “the Lord discomfited them.” (Josh. 10:8-14)

AJALON:  Of these citations we shall give detailed analysis on only one, mainly because this one, we believe, may find close kinship in the years immediately ahead of us.  Upon the “death of Moses… the Lord spake unto Joshua, saying… there shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life… I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee… be thou strong and very courageous.” (Josh. 1:1-7)  As we come to the narrative in Ajalon, the various units of Canaan had heard of the prowess of Joshua, of the great defeats he had inflicted upon his enemies in various places.  This struck such terror into their hearts that thirty-one kings combined to fight against Joshua; and the battle was joined in the Valley of Ajalon.

Now those kings were sun and moon worshipers, so the Lord caused a heavy cloud to appear - so dark that it was almost night.  This terrorized the enemy, thinking their gods had turned their backs on them, so they turned and fled, at which the Lord “cast down great stones from heaven upon them unto Azekah, and they died: they were more which died with hailstones than they whom the children of Israel slew with the sword… And Joshua said… Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon.  And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies.” (Vs. 11-13)

A similar situation exists today in the Middle East: About twenty of those Moslem rulers have banded themselves together to destroy Israel; but the “sure word of prophecy” is there that the Lord will again “fight for them as he did in the day of battle.”  And the promise is sure, “By myself have I sworn saith the Lord… that in blessing I will bless thee [Abraham]… thy seed shall be as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the seashore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies.” (Gen. 22:15-17)

Perhaps a bit of historical humor may be acceptable here: After America gained its independence, Benjamin Franklin was appointed the first American ambassador to France; and the French leader in France, the English ambassador and Franklin were having lunch together, when it was suggested that a toast be offered by each one of them for the nation he represented.  The Englishman:  Here’s to England, whose sun never sets; the Frenchman: Here’s to France, who like the moon controls the tides and the sea; Franklin: Here’s to the United States of America, who, like Joshua in Ajalon, commanded the sun and the moon to stand still - and they stood still!

As we contemplate the great victory of Joshua in Ajalon, we come to a much better appreciation of his final address to the Jewish people: “This day I am going the way of all the earth: and ye know in all your hearts and in all your souls, that not one thing hath failed of all good things which the Lord your God spake concerning you; all are come to pass unto you, and not one thing hath failed thereof.” (Josh. 23:14)  And further from Joshua 23:9,10: “No man hath been able to stand before you unto this day.  One man of you shall chase a thousand: for the Lord your God he it is that fighteth for you, as he has promised you.”  And we may accept the statement literally now, that in our day “the Lord will fight against those nations [now combined against Israel], as when he fought in the day of battle.”

BENJAMIN DISRAELI:  We believe emphasis will be added to the foregoing if we consider this Jew, and what one authority says about him: “Statesman and novelist, twice British prime minister (1868; 1874-1880), was one of the most extraordinary figures to reach the pinnacle of British politics.  He was of Italian Jewish descent.  As a result of his father’s quarrel with the synagogue, he was baptized as a Christian, but for which curious accident his career could not have taken the form it did.  After some failures in his pursuit of political opportunity he was returned to Parliament (1837) as a conservative member for Maidstone in Kent.  In 1848 he acquired a claim to the leadership of the opposition in the House of Commons after being elected to Parliament as a member for the County of Buckinghamshire in 1847.  He served as chancellor of exchequer for a period in 1852 and again in 1858.  Disraeli became prime minister in 1868, but when the autumn election was won by Liberals, he resigned.  His second period as prime minister was 1874-1880.  In 1876 he accepted a peerage, taking the title of Earl of Beaconsfield.”

BERLIN CONGRESS OF NATIONS:  The foregoing is given about Disraeli because he was the first Jew ever to become prime minister of England; and he was a prominent figure at the Berlin Congress which was held June 13 - July 13, 1878.  That Congress was attended by all the major European powers, and it replaced the Treaty of San Stefano of March 3, 1878 at the conclusion of the Russo-Turkish war of 1877-78.  At that time England was the greatest empire on earth.  London was the financial center of the world; and English ships controlled the sea.  And Disraeli used that tremendous power to force acceptance of his move to gain favor for the Jews in Palestine.  That was the beginning of various efforts to promote the Jews to where they are today.  At that Berlin meeting Disraeli secured certain rights for aliens in Palestine that were not previously tolerated - the principal benefactors of that decision being the Jews.  It is of interest here to note that the date 1878 is exactly 1845 years after the crucifixion of Jesus, previous to which they had enjoyed great favor from the Lord for 1845 years - from the death of Jacob.  This “double” is mentioned in Isa. 40:1-3; Jer. 16:18; Zech. 9:12; and the word means an exact duplicate, as if we should fold a piece of paper in the middle, the lower half would be exactly the same size as the upper part.

ZECHARIAH 8:23:  At that time in 1878 we believe the following prophecy was fulfilled: “In those days it shall come to pass, that ten men out of all the tongues of the nations shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard that God is with you.”  The “ten men” of the text are the various nations of Europe.  While it is true that there are many more than ten governments in Europe, yet there are only ten-language nations (aside from the Jewish): (1) The Scandinavian (Norway, Sweden, etc.); (2) The Anglo-Saxon (England, Scotland, etc.); (3) The Teutonic (Germany, Austria, etc.); (4) The Gallic (France, Belgium, etc.); (5) The Hispanic (Spain and Portugal); (6) The Latin (Italy); (7) The Greek (Greece); (8) The Turkish (Turkey); (9) The Slavic (Russia, Poland, etc.); and (10) The Magyars (Hungarian).

The words of Disraeli are most pertinent here: “Had it not been for the Jews of Palestine the good tidings of our Lord would have been unknown forever to the northern and western races.  The first preachers of the gospel were Jews, no others; the historians of the Gospel were Jews, no others.  No human being has ever been permitted to write under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit except the Jew.”  Truly, Disraeli was a man of destiny; one among the greatest Jews in all history!

Thus, the situation in the Middle East today is indeed an engaging “prospect.”  We conclude this feature about the Jews with Jeremiah 30:7: “That day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob’s trouble; but he shall be saved out of it.” “Jacob’s trouble” will be the climax - the grand finale - of that trouble over there - when those Arab countries make a combined attack upon Israel, and God will then “fight for them as he did in the day of battle.” (Zech. 14:3)  As That Servant has said: “How true the statement that those who have cursed, or injured, Israel have brought injury to themselves!  As we scan the whole field of the world, we find that every nation, which has dealt harshly with Israel, has received chastisement or blight.  On the contrary, Great Britain and the United States, nations which have blessed the Jew, have in turn received great blessings.” (Reprint 5323, October 1, 1913)  

NO. 557 RETROSPECT AND PROSPECT - PART ONE

“The watchman said, The morning cometh, and also the night: if you will inquire, inquire ye: return come.” (Isaiah 21:12)

We are in the Morning - the Millennial Day - but the night, the Time of Trouble precedes the blessings.  Certainly, no one who has even a little understanding of the Truth, will deny that we are in the Time of Trouble.  And it has escalated greatly during the past year.  We had hoped the war in Iraq would be short and it was in the sense of the basic attack, but the peace and rebuilding is proving very elusive.  Also, crime has increased, as well as suicide bombings in several countries, and protests and riots all over the world.  There is no peace anywhere.  We also have had the elements bombarding different parts of the world with hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, floods, etc., not forgetting the blackouts in the U.S. and Europe and the devastating forest fires in California.  And we do not have to mention the trouble in Israel, how it has become very critical.  Screams of agony echo throughout the Land as terror attack follows terror attack.

We may rejoice that the blessed morning of the Millennial Kingdom is at hand, even though we must weep with the world also in this dark hour of trouble which precedes the sunburst of the Millennial Kingdom.

Our text says “inquire ye: return come.”  We should inquire for more information, for the length of the night is hidden.  But, “Thou shall not be afraid for the terror of night,” (Psa. 91:5)  For we know that the Kingdom is near at hand.

2003 IN REVIEW:

1. The U.S. invades Iraq and captures Saddam Hussein.
2. Space shuttle breaks apart, kills seven astronauts.
3. The outbreak of SARS in Asia kills 800 people worldwide.
4. Actor Arnold Schwarzenegger elected California governor.
5. A summer blackout hits Northeast, Midwest and Canada.
6. Supreme Court strikes down bans on homosexual sex.
7. Terror strikes Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Turkey and Indonesia.
8. Michael Jackson arrested.
9. Consecration of gay bishop divides the Anglican Church.
10.  President Bush’s tax cut.
11. Death toll from earthquake in Iran surpasses 20,000.

“DEAD SEA IS FACING ITS OWN DEATH, STUDY FINDS:  JERUSALEM - The Dead Sea is dying, and only a major engineering effort can save it, according to Israel’s Minister of the Environment.

“The Dead Sea gets its name from its heavy salt content, because no aquatic creatures can live in it.  Now there is a new “death threat” - the Dead Sea is drying up and disappearing.

“An Israeli TV reporter, illustrating the government report issued Monday, stood on a spot where, just 20 years ago, water met land.  Now that point is 2,000 feet of parched ground away, he said, as the sea gradually recedes.

“Because it is landlocked in a hot desert area, evaporation is high, accounting for the dense salt concentration that allows bathers to float on top of the water with no effort.  The area is popular for spas and treatments, with luxury hotels on both sides.

“The Environment Ministry study said that to secure the sea’s future, engineers would have to develop a new infrastructure of bridges and roads leading to its shores.

“For millennia, the balance was maintained by the Dead Sea’s only water source, the Jordan River, pouring in from the north.  In recent years, however, Israel and Jordan have been tapping in to irrigate big swaths of agricultural land along the narrow river that divides the two countries, robbing the Dead Sea of its replacement water.

“A five-year drought has added to the woes of the Dead Sea, which occupies the lowest point on Earth, 1,320 feet below sea level.  The sea is about 38 miles long and about 11 miles wide.

“The Israeli study said that without an intensive engineering effort, the sea’s water level will continue to recede by as much as 3 feet a year, adjacent ground water will disappear, surrounding land will buckle and collapse, and nearby wildlife and vegetation will be lost.

“Environment Minister Yehudit Neot said she would ask the Israeli Cabinet to hold a detailed discussion on the study’s conclusions.

“‘If the conclusions are not implemented, there is a real danger to the future of the Dead Sea as a world-class natural resource,’ Neot said.”

(The Associated Press, November 5, 2003)

Comment:  The Jordan River is the source of the Dead Sea.  The name Jordan means “The Descender,” or “Judged down.”  Therefore it is a type of the downward course of the human race and it reaches the Dead Sea, which represents the ultimate condition of mankind.  It is aptly named for typing the dead world.  

“REVELATION:  A car crash in Chalmette, Louisiana, has revealed that a building thought to house a home improvement business was actually home to the New Christian Crusade Church, and headquarters for the Christian Defense League, both white supremacist organizations.

“Stacks of racist books and pamphlets, including Hitler’s Nazi manifesto, Mein Kampf, were discovered when the car smashed into the brick storefront.  An investigation revealed the building’s owner as James Warner, a founder of the American Nazi Party and associate of former Ku Klux Klan Grand Wizard and one-time Republican gubernatorial candidate David Duke.” 

(World Jewry, August 2003)

“ATTORNEYS FILE BRIEF REJECTING SUIT OVER SIGN:  LEXINGTON, NC - Attorneys for the Davidson County commissioners rejected yesterday a claim that the “In God We Trust” sign on a county building is unconstitutional because of its size and prominent location.

“In a brief filed yesterday in U.S. district Court, the attorneys tried to counter the argument of two Thomasville men who have sued the county commissioners to have the sign taken down.  The men claim that the sign is a government endorsement of religion in violation of the First Amendment, particularly because the sign’s context makes it imposing to anyone doing business in the county’s government building.

“The commissioners’ attorneys agreed yesterday that context is important to the sign’s constitutionality, but they pointed to the motto’s historical context.  It has been the official motto of the United States since 1956 and was on U.S, coins as early as the Civil War.”

(Winston-Salem Journal Staff and Wire Report, October 1, 2003) 

Comment:  An alert citizen wrote in to the Editor thusly: “If God is going to destroy a nation, wouldn’t He first remove his Name completely from that country”?  That motto is also on U.S. paper money, so a lot of erasing would have to be done.

FRANCE:  “The staggering number of deaths in France due to the heat wave is finally drawing the nation’s attention to who died and how.  The government estimates that the heat killed perhaps 5,000 people.  The largest undertaker, General Funeral Services, said Wednesday that the number could be more than twice that.  The victims were generally found inside apartments or houses or hotels.  In virtually every case, there was no air conditioner.”

(International Herald Tribune, August 21, 2003)

“GENERAL STRIKE HITS ITALY:  ROME - Post offices and schools were closed, flights were canceled, buses and trains were killed in Italy Friday as millions of workers stayed home to protest government plans to reform the pension system.

“The general strike was called by Italy’s three largest and most powerful unions, which also organized some 100 demonstrations in piazzas across the country.  Big festive crowds gathered in Rome, Bologna and Naples, where rallies were headed by union calls to protest Premier Silvio Berlusconi’s resolve to overhaul Italy’s generous pension system by raising retirement ages and the number of years of work required.

“Hundreds of flights were canceled, most of them by Italy’s flagship airline Atialia, but foreign carriers also scrapped or rescheduled flights because Italian ground personnel were among the strikes.  Among the airlines affected were Air France, Lufthansa, British Airways and KLM.”

(The Lexington, NC Dispatch, October 21, 2003)

“ITALIAN COURT ORDERS CRUCIFIX REMOVED FROM A CLASS ROOM: ROME - An Italian court has ordered a crucifix removed from a classroom - setting off a debate in a secular but culturally Catholic nation that is home to the Vatican and where a law still requires public schools to display a cross.

“The ruling Saturday highlights the country’s awkward relationship with its growing immigrant population, whose migrant population, whose presence belies the notion of Italy as solely a Christian nation.

“Islamic activist Adel Smith, an emigrant from Egypt whose father was Italian, filed suit challenging the legality of the cross in the elementary school attended by his two sons in the small town of Ofena, 90 miles northeast of Rome.  ‘Above all, Italy is a secular country,’ Smith said.

“Judge Mario Montanaro ruled that the cross should be removed because ‘the presence of the crucifix in classrooms communicates an implicit adherence to values that, in reality, are not shared heritage of all citizens.’” 

(The Associated Press, October 27, 2003)

“CORRUPTION AT HIGH LEVEL WORLDWIDE, SURVEY FINDS:  LONDON - Rich countries should end their financial support for corrupt governments and blacklist companies that get caught paying bribes abroad, a watchdog group that monitors corruption in 133 nations said yesterday.

“Half of developing countries suffer from ‘a high level of corruption,’ and some wealthy nations fare little better, according to surveys of business people, academics and risk analysts by Transparency International.

“Bangladesh came in last, at 133, trailed by Nigeria and Haiti as the three most corrupt countries, according to the 2003 Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index.  Rated No. 1, or least corrupt, was Finland, followed by Iceland and in a tie for third, Denmark and New Zealand.  The United States was 18 on the list, tied with Ireland.”

(Winston-Salem Journal wire report, October 8, 2003)

“D.C. CHARITY SUSPECTED OF FUNNELING MILLIONS TO TERRORIST:  The U.S. Department of Homeland Security believes that the SAAR Network/SAFA Group, a net-work of charities and think tanks, has funneled at least U.S. $26 million to terrorist organizations including Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and Al-Qaida, according to the Washington Post.  According to the newspaper, most of the money came from Saudia Arabian donors.  An attorney for those named in the DHS affidavit quoted by the Post denied the allegations and said that it was ‘rank speculation.’”

(The Media Line, October 19, 2003)

IN FINANCE

The economy seems to have been better in 2003 than in 2002.  The tax breaks that the President pushed through in 2002 is helping the economy.  Business spending has improved after three years of a timid spending for business.

It is predicted that spending by firms will gain a solid 10% in 2004, up from only 2.5% in 2003, as companies rebuild their inventories and buy new equipment to expand production.  Business has learned how to produce with less people.

Job outlook may be brighter.  Job creation is predicted to reach 1.8 million in 2004, a 12-fold increase over the net gain of 150,000 in 2003.  But the unemployment rate won’t fall much because many previously discouraged jobless will look for work again.  The job gain will buoy consumer spending.  Even so, interest rates will remain low, and maybe prime rate will be up to 5% by midyear.

The threat of terrorism continues to loom, and there is fear of an attack on U.S. soil in the midst of a heated presidential campaign.  The Iraq war has changed things.  President Bush’s economic team said they would hold the line on Government spending in 2003, but the war changed this.  The deficit will get worse in 2004 and again in 2005. This is because few voters care.

The economy is starting to grow, but the worry is Iraq.  More people were killed at the World Trade Center than at Pearl Harbor at the start of World War II.

As a nation in 2002 in the USA, the stock market lost nearly a quarter of its value, as millions of people lost jobs, and as many others lost sleep worrying about terrorism and imminent war.  Americans nonetheless gave a record $241 billion to charitable causes with ordinary American households, rich and poor, giving an average gift of $2,499, or more than 80 percent of the total given.

Gold prices should stay the same.  Export growth will probably double aided by the weaker dollar.

Since we are in the Time of Trouble things change quickly.  “O Lord, be gracious unto us; we have waited for thee: be thou our arm every morning, our salvation also in the time of trouble.” (Isa. 33:2)    

“U.N. TREATY OPENS BANKS TO AN INCREASE IN SCRUTINY: MERIDA, MEXICO - The first worldwide and anti-corruption treaty was signed yesterday, a move that may open banks in money havens to more scrutiny and allow some poor countries to recover billions of looted dollars.

“U.S. Attorney General John Ashcroft and President Vicente Fox of Mexico were among the U.N. Convention Against Corruption, a pact that requires countries to aid in investigations of and return money to wherever it was stolen or embezzled from.

“The Convention, expected to be signed by more than 100 nations over the next three days, will put rich and poor nations on more equal footing when it comes to tracing and returning scandal-tainted money that often winds up in wealthy banking capitals.

“Corruption ‘is a tax on the poor,’ Ashcroft said in this colonial city, 620 miles east of Mexico City.  ‘It steals from the needy to enrich the wealthy.  Corruption must end.’

“Of most interest to the United States are provisions requiring other countries to open up money-laundering investigations, expedite extraditions and prevent the establishment of phantom banks with little legitimate business.

“Although the pact doesn’t require countries to repeal banking-secrecy laws or the immunity from prosecution granted to some politicians as part of their tenure in office, it does require safeguards so that politicians can be held accountable for their acts and banking records can be examined.

“U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan said in a written statement that the pact will ‘provide more transparency and accountability of the international business community.’

“The treaty will take effect once ratified by the congresses of at least 30 signatory countries.”                      

(Associated Press, November 10, 2003)

IN RELIGION

“THREE NETHERLANDS CHURCHES APPROVE MERGER BY BIG MARGIN:  AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - Three Dutch Protestant churches formally agreed yesterday to put aside their ideological differences and merge, the culmination of a process that began more than 40 years ago.

“The Dutch Reformed Church, the Calvinist Reformist Church and a small Lutheran Church will unite to form the Protestant Church of the Netherlands, together representing about 2.2 million churchgoers - about 24 percent of the population.

“The synods of the three churches approved the merger by large majorities at three separate meetings in the city of Utrecht, 30 miles southeast of Amsterdam, Dutch national television reported.”                

(Wire Report, December 13, 2003) 

“SHOWDOWN IN INDIANAPOLIS:  Members of a neo-Nazi group hope to stir up a Hitler-like frenzy Sunday when they stage a white supremacist rally at the state capitol protesting the rapid influx of Hispanics and Latinos in Indianapolis.

“In response, religious and city government officials have planned a counter-event they hope will shine a light on the new racial diversity the city has experienced in recent years.

“‘This promises to be a wonderful opportunity to show what the city has become,’ said the Rev. Samuel Ruiz, head of the Lutheran Church Latino Outreach in Indianapolis.  ‘We don’t need this hatred, these old ways.’”     

(Orlando Sentinel, August 23, 2003)

“CHINESE SAID TO HAVE CLOSED CHRISTIAN GATHERING PLACES:  BEIJING - Authorities in an east China province have sealed off 125 Christian gathering places since July, cutting off 3,000 believers from their places of worship, a human-rights organization said yesterday.

“The human-rights group, based in London, said that police and state-security officials have subjected inmates to shocks, beatings, whippings and other forms of abuse.”

(Winston-Salem Journal Wire Report, November 21, 2003)

“SCIENTISTS DATE CRUCIFIXION:  Two Romanian astronomers claim to have pin-pointed the exact time and date of the Crucifixion of Jesus, the Internet news service Ananova has reported.

“According to Liviu Mircea and Tiberiu Oproiu of the Astronomic Observatory Institute in Cluj, Romania, Jesus died at 3 p.m. on Friday, April 3, A.D. 33.

“According to their reading of the New Testament data, Jesus was crucified on the day after the first night with a full moon after the vernal equinox.

“If the Crucifixion took place some time between the years 26 and 35, this could mean either Friday, April 7, 30, or Friday, April 3, 33.

“But it was only in the latter year that records show a solar eclipse as having occurred in Jerusalem (‘And when the sixth hour had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour,’ according to Mark 15:33).

“The two astronomers have also timed the Resurrection as having occurred at 4 a.m. on Sunday, April 5.”                    

(Orlando Sentinel, May 17, 2003)

CATHOLICS:  “VATICAN INTERFAITH EFFORT:  A top Vatican official last Tuesday urged Christians, Jews, and Muslims to forge deeper ties as a way to encourage peace while respecting their own religious identities.

“Cardinal Walter Kasper’s appeal came in a speech to mark the 38th anniversary of a groundbreaking Vatican document, ‘Nostra Aetate,’ which sought to end the church’s official anti-Semitism.

“‘For a future of peace it is necessary that each of us, thoroughly, be oneself; in the deep simplicity of one’s vocation, in the adhesion of that holiness that all of us, Jews, Christians and Muslims, maintain is the most essential response to the gift of God,’ Kasper said.”

(The Jerusalem Post, November 7, 2003)

Comment:  “And all the host of heaven shall be dissolved, and the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll: and all their host shall fall down, as the leaf falleth off from the vine, and as a falling fig from the fig tree.” (Isa. 34:4)  It is quite evident that this does not mean the abode of the heavenly Father and other spirit beings.  It refers to the ecclesiastical systems as they exist in the world today.  “For while they be folden together as thorns, and while they are drunken as drunkards, they shall be devoured as stubble fully dry.” (Nahum 1:10)

“CHURCHES’ EFFORTS AT UNITY FACING ‘SERIOUS DIFFICULTIES,’ POPE WARNS: Anglican leader in Rome for talks with officials at Vatican.  VATICAN CITY - Pope John Paul II warned the archbishop of Canterbury yesterday of ‘serious difficulties’ in efforts to unify the Roman Catholic and Anglican churches, pressing the Vatican’s case against the U.S. Episcopal Church’s election of its first openly gay bishop.

“The visit was the first to the Vatican by Archbishop Rowan Williams since his installation in February and came two weeks before an emergency meeting of the Anglican Communion’s 38 primates to discuss the controversial election of the openly gay V. Gene Robinson as bishop of New Hampshire.

“Williams said that the pope’s view about the risks to Catholic-Anglican relations ‘weighs very heavily’ on his church going into the emergency meeting.  ‘I hope none of what has been achieved in all these years will be lost,’ he said.

“The Vatican recently issued a new broad condemnation of homosexuality that urged Catholics and non-Catholics alike to unite to stem a trend toward granting legal recognition to same-sex unions.  The document called homosexuality a ‘troubling moral and social phenomenon’ and repeated the Vatican’s position that homosexual acts were ‘intrinsically disordered.’

“Neither man made direct mention of the issue, but it was clear that the pope was referring to it as the two men exchanged speeches after 15 minutes of private talks.

“‘As we give thanks for the progress that has already been made, we must also recognize that new and serious difficulties have arisen on the path to unity,’ the pope said.

“‘These difficulties are not all of a merely disciplinary nature; some extend to essential matters of faith and morals.’

“With increasing secularism in the world, the pope continued, ‘the church must ensure that the deposit of faith is proclaimed in its integrity and preserved from erroneous and misguided interpretations.’

“The 83-year-old pope, who suffers from Parkinson’s disease, read his speech with difficulty but completed the text.

“Since talks began, both sides have stressed the importance of theological efforts to overcome what John Paul called ‘the sad division’ between the churches.

“The Anglicans split from Rome when King Henry VIII bolted in 1534 over the pope’s refusal to grant him an annulment.  The Episcopal Church is the U.S. branch of the 77 million-member Anglican Communion.”  

(The Associated Press, October 5, 2003)

EPISCOPALIAN:  “TWO EPISCOPAL VOTES INDICATE A WIDENING RIFT:  The conservative dioceses’ measures came after the consecration of a gay bishop in New Hampshire.  PITTSBURGH - Less than a week after the Episcopal Church consecrated its first openly gay bishop; two conservative dioceses approved measures Saturday indicating the split in the church has widened.

“The Diocese of Pittsburgh approved an amendment aimed at allowing the diocese to ignore some of the national church’s policies.

“The amendment says the diocese will prevail ‘in cases where the provisions of the constitution and canons of the Church of the Diocese of Pittsburgh speak to the contrary’ or where resolutions of the Episcopal Church are found ‘to be contrary to the historic faith and order of the one holy catholic and apostolic church.’

“In Texas, Fort Worth-area clergy and lay delegates passed a resolution Saturday repudiating New Hampshire Bishop V. Gene Robinson’s appointment as ‘a schismatic act.’  The resolution passed 160-34.

“Jack Iker, bishop of the Diocese of Fort Worth, said the decision clearly represents a split in the church.

“We made it clear if they went ahead and did this, they’d split the church,’ he said in an interview after the meeting.  ‘The only thing that’s holding us together now is we have the same name.  But there’s been a radical break in our relationship with each other in the Episcopal Church.’  He said he doesn’t know what the next step will be.

“For the Pittsburgh measure, a second vote by clergy and parishioners at the diocese’s annual convention next year is required before the amendment can take effect.

“Church leaders in the Pittsburgh Diocese earlier approved resolutions declaring ‘null and void’ the national church’s decisions this summer both to consecrate Robinson and to approve the blessing of same-sex unions.

“Both that vote and the votes Saturday are part of a national drive among conservative dioceses and clergy seeking to distance themselves from the Episcopal Church for making moves they think go against the worldwide Anglican Communion.

“U.S. conservatives who believe gay sex violates Scripture have said they want Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, the spiritual head of the Anglican Communion, to authorize a separate Anglican province for them in North America.” 

(By Allison Schlesinger, The Associated Press, November 9, 2003)

LUTHERAN:  “REMARKS RATTLE CHURCH:  “‘There is no heavenly God, there is no eternal life, there is no resurrection,’ Thorkild Grosboel, a Lutheran pastor, told The Associated Press in a recent interview.

“The Danish priest was suspended Tuesday for those comments, which have baffled members of Denmark’s state-supported Evangelical Lutheran Church and raised questions over whether a pastor must profess a belief in God to serve the church.

“Despite strong reactions to Grosboel’s words within the church, the final decision over whether he should be defrocked falls to the Danish government’s Ministry of Ecclesiastical Affairs.  Under Denmark’s Constitution, Lutheran priests are employed by the state and cannot be dismissed by bishops.”                                                      

(Orlando Sentinel, June 7, 2003)

“ELCA STANDS FIRM:  The Church wide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America has decided to stick with its timeline for considering sexuality matters, meaning the denomination will consider whether to bless same-sex unions at its meeting in 2005.

“By a vote of 687-278, the assembly meeting in Milwaukee commended the current ELCA Studies on Sexuality effort.  The gathering rejected a request to delay decisions concerning same-sex unions and whether people in such relationships should be pastors in the denomination, the ELCA’s news service reported.

“In a separate vote, the assembly defeated a resolution to suspend the denomination’s full communion relationship with the Episcopal Church until after the decisions concerning sexuality had been made.  The Episcopal Church recently approved its first openly gay bishop and recognized that some of its bishops permit same-sex blessings.”

(Orlando Sentinel, August 23, 2003)   

BAPTIST:  “BAPTISTS ON TERRORISM:  Delegates to the biennial meeting of the American Baptist Churches USA adopted a statement on countering terrorism with pluralistic views.

“The statement responding to terrorism acknowledges that ‘hatred often uses religion as justification for violence’ and asks church members to foster interfaith dialogues and mutual respect.

“In other business, the denomination’s General Board gave final approval to the establishment of the Evergreen Baptist Association, which includes congregations in the northwestern United States that welcome gay and lesbian members.

“American Baptist Churches USA is a 1.4 million-member mainline denomination that embraces both evangelical theology and ecumenical relations.”

(Orlando Sentinel, July 12, 2003)

“MONEY WORRIES FOR BAPTISTS:  The Southern Baptist Convention is facing ‘serious financial challenges’ that could lead to a crisis if giving does not increase, a new report states.

“For example, the Southern Baptist foreign mission agency has deferred missionary appointments and the domestic mission agency ‘has not met income projections four of the last five years,’ according to the report, which cites research from empty tomb inc., a Christian research organization in Illinois.

“‘The alarming fact is not just that the 2.03 percent giving average falls miserably short of the tithe [10 percent], but that the percentage has dropped dramatically in the last 30 years,’ the report reads.” 

(Orlando Sentinel, October 4, 2003)

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Many thanks and much appreciation for the beautiful Christmas cards received, with special thanks for the love and prayers expressed, which we heartily reciprocate.  We wish all our readers a prosperous and Blessed New Year.

Announcement:  The date of our Memorial is April 2, 2004, after six p.m.

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“IN THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW”

J. Douglas Williams, 39, entered into the “sleep in Jesus” on September 21, 2003.  Douglas was the son of Leonard and Marjorie Williams.  Most of our readers know that Marjorie is the main helper at the Bible house.  Leonard is a helper, also, and Elder of the Bible Study class.  Douglas attended the Study class also.  He understood the Truth and had faith.  He was also a worker at the Bible House.  Douglas was a wonderful, cheerful, witty young man, with a pleasing word at all times.  He will be greatly missed by family and friends, for he was a ray of sunshine in a dreary world.

We look forward to the Kingdom when:

“We shall meet to be parted no more

We shall meet on eternity’s shore.”