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TRANSITION PERIODS IN THE NEW TESTAMENT

This message, of the transition period in the New Testament, is a revised addition. We must repeat the fact that if the transition periods in the New Testiment are not understood, there will be many things in the New Testiment that cannot be understood!

Therefore, since the Word of God is a very deep subject, when reading and studying it, we must not be shallow minded. Think very deep my friends, think deep!

( 1 )= The reader will notice that we have put words in parenthetical type {Brackets} in various verses, including Bible verses. This is done to help the student have a better comprehension of the different passages of our message. Also notice, we repeat ourselves at times, for a better understanding. This may be a little bewildering to some folks who are not use to that kind of speech.

( 2 )= Therefore, please bear with us as we teach the message. A good idea would be to read your Bible along with each verse we will quote. It is also very important for the reader to look up all the added Bible texts that we have referred to in the message (in red). This will give our readers much added information!

( 3 )= Concerning the "Transition Periods" and the beginning of the BODY OF CHRIST, we must be dogmatic here in stating that if the student does not understand the Transition Periods in the New Testament, and the difference in the various Dispensations of our Bible, one can never understand the New Testament in its entirety as one should!

( 4 )= Commentary - The question is; what is a Transition Period? When a president is voted into office, there is a period of time before he takes office after he is elected. The old president who has now been replaced, even though having been voted out of office, is still president until the other man begins his own administration.

( 5 )= The time of the voting out of the old president and the beginning of the other, when he takes office a month or so later, is called a Transition Period. Therefore, we have two administrations involved; one ending, the other just beginning and both of them overlapping each other in transition.

( 6 )= Commentary - Concerning the Mosaic Law; it actually seems that at the birth of John the Baptist, who was born six months before JESUS was born around 4 B.C. , when the Mosaic LAW ended officially. Although it was not completely concluded, i.e., paid for by CHRIST'S sacrifice with HIS OWN blood on HIS Cross.

( 7 )= {John 19:30} "When JESUS therefore had received the vinegar, HE said, It is finished: and HE bowed HIS head, and gave up the 'spirit (pneuma' spirit of human life)."

( 8 )= Commentary - The word "CHRIST" used (Tetelestai') means "it is finished and as a result it is forever done." HIS Words were the announcement of a transaction completed. HE had accomplished Redemption. It was the announcement of victory, {1st. Timothy 2:6, Romans 10:4, Hebrews 10:5-12 and Corinthians 2:14}. It was a completed victory over Satan. It fulfilled the Mosaic Law and Dispensation, but it did NOT fulfill the Transition Periods!

( 9 )= Therefore, from "JOHN'S BIRTH", as we will see, began a period of transition right on up to the Cross of CHRIST. This was when the LORD MESSIAH fulfilled the LAW that HE HIMSELF had instituted many centuries before as JEHOVAH GOD, WHO now, in the New Testament, is the same GOD as all believers know as JESUS CHRIST!

( 10 )= Since John was six months older than JESUS, both of them were born during the old Law Dispensation three or four years before the year we call A.D. began. Thus so, even though John started the Transition period at his birth, it overlapped the GOSPEL of MESSIAH'S Kingdom teachings, which ended with the LORD'S death.

( 11 )= Although, the overlapping of the Transition period did not end as yet, not as long as signs and miracles were being practiced and/or performed through the Acts Period up to {Acts 28:28}, this proves this to be so. Read on...

( 12 )= {Luke 16:16} "The law and the prophets were until John: since that time the Kingdom of GOD is preached, and every man presses into it."

( 13 )= {V. 16} Above paraphrased in commentary form: "The law and the elder prophets prognostic proclamations for the future, were until John the Baptist, since that time the good news, of the GOSPEL OF THE MILLENNIAL Kingdom of GOD is preached, and every man presses, i.e., strives violently to go and force his way into it by his own endeavors, rather than by GOD's way." The Apostle states...

( 14 )= {V. 12} "And from the days of John the Baptist until now the Kingdom of Heaven (has endured and) suffers violence, and the violent (people try to seize and) take it by force.

( 15 )= {V. 13} "For all the prophets and the law prophesied 'UNTIL' John." {Matthew 11:12- 13}

*Are You Thinking Deep?*

( 16 )= {V. 35} "And the angel GABRIEL answered and said to her (Mary), "The HOLY SPIRIT (God) shall come upon you, and the power of GOD the FATHER, the HIGHEST God, shall overshadow you. Therefore also that HOLY THING (i.e., speaking of JESUS' earthly fleshly body and HIS DEITY' within it,) which shall be born of you, shall be called the SON OF GOD."

( 17 )= {V. 36} "And behold, your cousin Elisabeth (the mother of John the Baptist), she has also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month (pregnancy) with her, who was called barren. (Read this whole chapter).

( 18 )= {V. 37} "For with GOD nothing shall be impossible" {Luke 1:35 -37}

( 19 )= Commentary - These above verses in {Luke 16:16 and Matthew 11:12 } both really allude to the same thing. Therefore, we will again, paraphrase those above two verses.

( 20 )= {v. 12} Above in commentary form - "And from the days of John the Baptist until now, MESSIAH'S earthly Millennial Administration which is called the "Kingdom of Heaven" has endured and suffers violence, and many violent Jewish men try to seize and take it by force.

( 21 )= These men tried to bring in the perfect Millennium as a prize out of its rightful place in the future, and add it to their own time, merit, zeal and intense exertions, without GOD, because of their own greed for power, (i.e., Pharisaism, Apostasy and Satanism! )

( 22 )= {V. 13} Above, in commentary form, "For all the O.T. prophets right up untill John the Baptiser was born, into the beginning of a perfect Millennial Administration." John at the age of 30 began his teaching as the forerunner in introducing JESUS and teaching that which concerned the LORD JESUS CHRIST WHO, would in HIS OWN time, bring in HIS PERSONAL Millennial reign as Israel's KING and MESSIAH.

( 23 )= Commentary - Since John being a half year older than JESUS, perhaps he had began his prophetic teachings six months before he baptized JESUS at HIS 30th year of age? (Supposition only). But JESUS being born six months after John, that would make JESUS 331/2 years old at the time of HIS death, in A.D. 30.

( 24 )= In those days, a Hebrew was not considered a full grown man until he had reached the age of 30. During the Mosaic Law period, the prophets of old had taught a great deal about the future earthly Kingdom, the coming MESSIAH, and their prophecies continued right up to the time John came on the scene to later begin his own prophetic ministry. This is prophesied from {Malachi 3:1-6}.

( 25 )= A point we wish to make here, is that the Mosaic Law had been in force for some 1500 years, right up to the beginning of the ministry of John the Baptist. Now, since John being called as a prophet by JEHOVAH GOD, was now obeying his MESSIAH in beginning a new Gospel message of a future Kingdom that had been prophesied in the past many times and was now at hand."

( 26 )= And this new earthly Kingdom, with Israel's MESSIAH as the long ago promised KING OF KING'S, would be completely in charge as a dictatorial leader and MONARCH FOREVER. This would leave the old Mosaic Law, with all it's commandments and ordinances behind, be the beginning of a new type of Grace Dispensation for Israel, should Israel accept CHRIST JESUS AS THEIR KING. (All who are saved to GOD are saved by HIS GRACE! )

( 27 )= The above verses illustrate to us the fact that the 'MOSAIC LAW' was now ended with the appearing of the prophet John, and a Kingdom Administration was just beginning, or actually at hand to begin, that is, as we have stated, if the Jewish people would accept CHRIST as their MESSIAH and KING.

( 28 )= This, as we have said, teaches us that even though the Law ended when John the Baptist came on the scene and later began his prophetic ministry, and was at hand to take place, but, was set aside for two more MILLENNIUMS, which would fulfill more prophecies, such as, {Isaiah 66:8}, that was fulfilled May 14, 1948, with the nation of Israel becoming a new sovereign nation out from the old, in just one day.

( 29 )= Therefore, we had an approximate thirty four year transition period overlapping of LAW and the KINGDOM, from the time of John's birth, at approximately 4-B.C. and JESUS' birth six month later and ministry until the 'MOSAIC LAW' was completely fulfilled on the Cross at Calvary. (Calvary refers to Golgotha, the place where CHRIST was crucified). {Luke 23:33.}

( 30 )= The Kingdom mentioned above, is actually referring to a Kingdom that is given from GOD the FATHER to GOD the SON, to set up on this literal earth, that JESUS, the long looked for MESSIAH, might reign over the entire earth as KING OF KINGS. Read {1st Timothy 6:14-15 }.

( 31 )= Thus so, MESSIAH'S appearing at HIS Second Advent, will be manifest at the proper time by the blessed and only SOVEREIGN. In other words, the return of CHRIST, {V. 14}, will occur at the time ordered and appointed by ALMIGHTY GOD."

( 32 )= We have already spoken of the Kingdom GOSPEL that began with John and how this Gospel was to be taught to the Hebrews. JESUS as the CHRIST, took over from John the work of teaching and preaching in the city of Galilee. Please remember that there was more than one GOSPEL during the Transition Periods, that of the future earthly Kingdom of Heaven, {Matthew 8:11}, and that of the Gospel of the MYSTERY of the GRACE OF GOD for today!

*Please read the message concerning the different Gospels on our web page*

( 33 )= It was then becoming increasingly evident that Israel was not going to repent and accept the offered Kingdom. The rejection was consummated in {Matthew Ch. 12}.

( 34 )= Therefore, John proclaimed the Kingdom but CHRIST WILL possess it. JESUS, being GOD the MESSIAH, was far greater than John and all the other prophets put together, although HE has, to this very day, been esteemed "LESS" by Israel.

( 35 )= The question has been asked, "Were those who were saved under the Kingdom Gospel Administration, and its teaching program, taught by CHRIST, the twelve Apostles and John the Baptist later added to the BODY OF CHRIST? "

( 36 )= There were thousands of Hebrew SAINTS who were alive at the time that GOD began the BODY OF CHRIST through the Apostle Paul's MYSTERY GOSPEL ministry.

( 37 )= Another question naturally arises: "What happened to these people who were not members of The BODY and who lived on into the new Grace Dispensation of today? Did they became members of the BODY at the time of salvation or did they remain attached to Israel under the future Kingdom promises?"

( 38 )= These are all good questions! We must understand that things were in a state of mis-understanding during the Kingdom and Acts, Transition Period, and that it is therefore difficult to determine accurately everything that was transpiring.

( 39 )= For that reason, there is a difference of understanding among Dispensationalists who hold that all of those who were saved before the BODY OF CHRIST began and who lived on into the new Grace Dispensation never became members of the BODY OF CHRIST but remained in what might be called the Kingdom: (Ekklesia - Greek, - Congregation). There are a number of facts which might possibly lead some to this conclusion .

*Now the reader should be thinking very deeply! *

( 40 )= {Number 1} CHRIST promised the twelve Apostles that they would sit on twelve thrones as Judges over the twelve tribes in Israel's Kingdom to come {Matthew 19:28}. Since the basic understanding of Dispensationism is the distinction between Israel and the BODY OF CHRIST, this distinction would be obliterated by having members of the BODY as a part of Israel's Kingdom. Therefore, some maintain that it is seemingly impossible to have the former Twelve Apostles in the BODY OF CHRIST and at the same time, have them in Israel's Kingdom. Could this be true?

( 41 )= { No. 2 } It is argued, that the principles stated in {Romans 11: 29}, forbids the placing of the Twelve Apostles and other Hebrew Believers in the BODY OF CHRIST. The gifts and calling of GOD are without repentance.

( 42 )= The word, "Calling", is interpreted to mean the Dispensational group to which one is called when he is saved, such as "Kingdom calling or ONE BODY calling". Thus, the passage is made to mean that GOD cannot repent or change HIS mind concerning the calling of one after he is saved.

( 43 )= Since all those who were saved before the BODY OF CHRIST began were saved during the Kingdom calling, some believe that it is impossible for GOD to change their calling to that in the BODY OF CHRIST.

( 44 )= {No. 3} It is evident from {Acts 15:19-21 and Acts 21:25} that the Hebrew Believers at Jerusalem carried on a different religious program from that practiced by the Christian Believers later on.

( 45 )= The Hebrew Believers during the Acts period continued with circumcision and other Mosaic customs concerning the 'OLD LAW and the Temple', whereas Paul taught the Gentiles that CHRIST would profit them nothing if they engaged in such practices. Therefore, these differences were evidences of a difference in calling between those two groups.

( 46 )= {No. 4}: Paul stated that he had been entrusted with the "GOSPEL of the Uncircumcision Gentiles", whereas Peter and obviously the previous other Apostles had been given the "GOSPEL of the "Circumcision (Jews), {Galatians 2:7-9}. The wrong interpretation has been, and this writer among many other ministers, have in the distant past been guilty of that wrong conclusion himself, that . . .

( 47 )= Since the Gospel of the 'Circumcision (Jews') was the GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM for Israel and has similar characteristics with the present GOSPEL of the MYSTERY. This is further evidence that Peter and Paul were now called to teach two different Dispensational doctrines, (A Dispensation here, refers to an Administrative time period.)

( 48 )= {No. 5} Paul stated that members of the BODY OF CHRIST have "One Hope" {Ephesians 4:4} but our hope is construed to mean the Rapture, as distinct from the Second Coming of CHRIST which is the hope of Israel.

*Start thinking very deeply now*

( 49 )= Since the Twelve Apostles were given the hope of reigning with CHRIST in the 'Millennial Kingdom' and members of the BODY has a different hope, the twelve would have two hopes if they were also members of the BODY OF CHRIST.

( 50 )= {No. 6}: A final argument is the fact that none of the other Apostles in their writings ever mention the BODY OF CHRIST or the Dispensation of the MYSTERY! Instead, their Epistles are addressed to the 12 Tribes scattered abroad {James 1:1}, and the subject matter concerns the prophetic program of Israel.

( 51 )= It is therefore argued that "IF" the 12 Apostles became members of the BODY OF CHRIST they would surely have mentioned specific truth which concerns the BODY in their Epistles.

( 52 )= {N0. 7} It is also generally held that many of Paul's fellow workers, such as Barnabas, Silas, and Apollos, men who were saved before the BODY of CHRIST began, never became members of the BODY even though they preached and practiced BODY truth.

( 53 )= On the other hand, there are those who feel that the weight of evidence is in favor of the view that all Believers during the latter half of the Acts Period, became members of the BODY OF CHRIST.

( 54 )= They believe that when GOD began forming the BODY OF CHRIST, all believers who were alive at that time, no matter if they had been believers before the death of CHRIST or not, were SPIRIT Baptized into the BODY OF CHRIST, when the BODY first began. How then, are the above objections answered?

( 55 )= {A}: The promise of CHRIST to HIS Twelve Apostles that they would "Sit upon 12 thrones judging the 12 tribes of Israel" in the Millennial Kingdom was not a part of Israel's Covenant promises, but rather a personal reward which CHRIST gave to HIS Apostles for having forsaken all and having followed HIM.

( 56 )= This reward has nothing to do with either Israel's hope or the ONE BODY'S hope. MEMBERS of the BODY OF CHRIST are going to reign with CHRIST {2- Timothy 2:12}, apparently as a reward for faithfulness. We are not told what particular position we shall hold in reigning with CHRIST, but the Twelve Apostles were told what position they would have.

( 57 )= There is considerable difference between the position of ruler or judge and that of what they are to rule over. The fact of the twelve reigning with CHRIST poses no more of a problem than other members of the BODY reigning with HIM, no matter what office HE places them in, in the future.

( 58 )= {B}: It is very doubtful that Paul used the word "Calling" in {Romans 11:29} in the sense of being called to a particular Dispensational group. In the context, Paul was not raising the question of whether GOD can put an Israelite into the, "BODY OF CHRIST."

( 59 )= Rather, he was showing that GOD's promises to Israel cannot fail its fulfillment. Israel has fallen and has become an enemy of the present GOSPEL OF GRACE, and yet GOD has not repented HIS calling of that nation.

( 60 )= The DELIVERER WILL yet return to Zion and turn away ungodliness from the Hebrew nation. Had GOD changed HIS mind, HE would have cast off Israel permanently.

( 61 )= {C}: It is true that there were two orders of religious programs for Hebrew Believers, and new converts into Christianity, who were saved out from the Gentile heathen during the Transition Period. But this does not mean that Hebrews and non-Hebrew Christians were in two separate and distinct bodies of CHRIST. SAINTS of GOD are saved out of all races of people! {Romans 10:13}

( 62 )= As long as Jerusalem and the Temple stood after MESSIAH'S death, the GOSPEL was to always go to THE JEW FIRST, and then to the UNSAVED GENTILE during the TRANSITION of the ACTS PERIOD. At that time, the Hebrews must have observed religious rites which had never been imposed upon the Christian Believers.

( 63 )= Thus, during the Transition period, the preaching of GOD'S Grace to receive salvation, was first to be taught to the Jews, before teaching about it to the Gentiles. Paul turned from the stiff-necked Jews three times, 1. {Acts 13:46}, 2. {Acts 18:6} and last (Acts 3:28}. Read also, {Romans 1:16 and 2:9-10}.

( 64 )= Even after this, Paul taught about the Kingdom of GOD {Acts 28:31}. It seems as long as Israel's Temple was standing, the Transition Period was still in force, but when the Temple was destroyed in A.D. 70, it ended.

( 65 )= On the other hand, from the very beginning of the BODY OF CHRIST, every Christian's body became a temple of the HOLY SPIRIT individually! And "IF" we haven't the HOLY SPIRIT in us , we do not belong to CHRIST. Read {Romans 8:9}.

( 66 )= {D}: Concerning Paul at that time, when he returned back to Jerusalem, he placed himself under the Mosaic requirements {Acts 21:24-26}, because he took Hebrew vows, observed ordinances of the Temple, circumcised Timothy, and practiced other Hebrew customs. But this does not prove that he was not a member of the BODY OF CHRIST. Paul went partly according to some of the former customs in order to get more Jewish people to listen to his teachings, and become Believers in CHRIST JESUS. In {V. 24}, he explains this. Read also: {Romans 2:16, Romans 16:25 and 2nd Timothy 2:8}.

( 67 )= It is true that Peter had been entrusted with The "GOSPEL of the Circumcision, (of the Jewish Kingdom), but this was before the BODY OF CHRIST Dispensation began. {Matthew 16:19}

( 68 )= The Kingdom GOSPEL had been that, "GOD'S good news to Israel", was not only of personal salvation, but of the fulfilling of all the promises of the Covenant of circumcision, etc., to that nation. But now, after the Kingdom promise and it's Dispensation had been set aside until the last days, i.e., 'after the Rapture of the BODY OF CHRIST'.

( 69 )= Now in this "New Grace Dispensation", Paul never states that Peter and the first 12 Apostles should continue preaching the Kingdom Gospel after the Gospel of the MYSTERY had been established and taught in the new Dispensation, but simply, that it had been committed to himself to be the "Instigator ( Leader" ) of it! Nevertheless ...

*Are You Still Thinking Deeply?*

( 70 )= It naturally stands to reason that the 12 Apostles still taught the Kingdom Gospel until the Apostle Paul revealed to them that, which the LORD had revealed to him, the NEW GOSPEL OF THE MYSTERY, {Galatians 2:11-12, 1st Corinthians 15:1-8, and Ephesians 3:1-9}. Paul, after being saved, instead of going to Jerusalem to reveal the contents of his Gospel to the first 12 Apostles, "he went away" and departed unto Arabia.

( 71 )= The context implies that the place from which he departed was Damascus. Paul's statement "AND 'AGAIN' - I RETURNED unto Damascus in {Galatians 1:17}," and this contains two words which suggests that his Arabian journey originated at Damascus.

( 72 )= The word "AGAIN", conveys the idea of returning back again. The word "RETURNED", speaks of one returning to the place from which he had gone forth. Thus so, we see that Paul's visit to Arabia, both began and ended at Damascus. In order to better understand Paul's going into Arabia, we need to grasp how extensive Arabia was at that time.

( 73 )= It was a vast desert area which reached almost as far north and west as the City of Damascus. Paul uses the strong adversative to emphasize that instead of receiving his GOSPEL of pure GRACE from the twelve Apostles in Jerusalem, he received it in Arabia, from the risen CHRIST.

( 74 )= In contrast to those who were Apostles before Paul in Jerusalem, who made absolutely no contribution to his GOSPEL, Paul apparently received the fundamental truths of his Gospel directly from JESUS CHRIST in Arabia, {Galatians 1:12}. We can only speculate as to where in Arabia Paul received his "DIVINE REVELATION." It may have been any place outside of Damascus to as far southwest as Sinai?

( 75 )= Scripture: "Then 'after three years' I went up to Jerusalem to visit Peter, and I abode with him fifteen days." {Galatians 1:18}

( 76 )= Commentary - Paul was converted on the Damascus road. According to the account in {Acts 9:26-30}, Paul went to Jerusalem shortly after he was converted, and as the result of a plot by the Hellenistic (Grecian Jews, "Hebrews") he was ushered to the Seaport City of Caesare'a.

( 77 )= From there "they sent him to Tarsus" { Acts 9:30 }, a trip which he could have made either overland or by sea. It is interesting that from this time on we have no specific record of Paul until Barnabas goes to Tarsus and searches him out { Acts 11:25-26 }.

( 78 )= Paul affirms that 'three years' after his conversion he went up to Jerusalem to visit Peter. The word translated "VISIT" is used only here in the New Testament, and it has the sense of inquiring or visiting in order to come to know better. The language Paul uses here suggests that his sole purpose in going to Jerusalem on this occasion was to visit Peter.

( 79 )= Other then Peter, James was the only one of the Apostles he saw. Furthermore, on Paul's first visit to Jerusalem, after he was saved, all the Disciples were afraid of him, which apparently also included Peter, but now it appears that there began a growing friendship between them { Acts 9:26-28; - & - 2-Peter 3:15-16 }. Perhaps we should briefly consider some of the reasons why Paul may have wanted to visit Peter. . . .

( 80 )= First: as a Believing Apostle himself even though he was called out of due season to reinstitute into operation, a new entirely different GOSPEL DISPENSATION, he was still one of MESSIAH'S Apostles. And thus so, now Paul undoubtedly craved for fellowship with other "like-minded Believers i.e, CHRIST'S disciples.' . . . Again I repeat: disciple means follower.

( 81 )= Second . . . Paul had revealed to Peter the principle of "Justification By FAITH THROUGH GRACE," which in "germinal firm ( i.e., as in the earliest stage of development ) in the Old Testament. And no doubt Paul, wanted to share this truth concerning the new MYSTERY GOSPEL of pure faith - with Peter { Galatians 1:12; - Romans 1:17; - 3:21-25; - Hebrews 10:38 - & - Habakkuk 2:4 }.

( 82 )= Third: Paul likely had a desire to know what Peter's relation was to the Law of Moses, and more particularly, why James was so legalistic.

( 83 )= It seems "unlikely that Paul had as yet taught Peter about the MYSTERY GOSPEL" because Peter, as late as the { "10th Chapter of Acts," } had not understood that legalism of the old Law system had been completely replaced by the Dispensation of the MYSTERY and its GOSPEL, thus the LORD HIMSELF taught Peter a lesson with the conversion of Cornelius.

( 84 )= Read { Acts Ch. 10 }. There is nothing more important then time in GOD's dealings with men. Whether GOD was dealing with Paul in Arabia or Tarsus, this three year period is secondary. Remember this, . . . all of this was still during the early "Transition Period!"

( 85 )= The all-important thing is that during this time GOD was spiritually wrestling with Paul, like with Jacob of old { Genesis 32:24- 30 }, making him the "GREAT APOSTLE PAUL"! During this time the LORD not only revealed to Paul the basics of the GOSPEL OF SALVATION, but HE also began revealing the initial truth of the GOSPEL OF THE MYSTERY OF GOD'S GRACE.

( 94 )= Scripture: "But contrariwise. when they saw that the GOSPEL of the uncircumcision was committed unto me as the Gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter, { Galatians 2:7 }."

( AND WE REPEAT . . . "ARE YOU STILL THINKING DEEP?" )

( 95 )= Commentary. . . What this verse is saying in commentary form is "But on the contrary, when the other Jews really saw that I Paul had been entrusted to carry this new GOSPEL OF THE MYSTERY OF THE GRACE OF GOD to the uncircumcised Gentiles, just as definitely as Peter and the other eleven Apostles had been entrusted to proclaim this same GOSPEL to the circumcised Hebrews, and the other eleven - were agreeable to this proclamation."

( 96 )= Paul uses the perfect tense, implying that his was a permanent commission. After Paul had gone to Jerusalem and had made known to the previous 12 Apostles the Dispensation of the MYSTERY GOSPEL, it is taken for granted that they should have conformed their ministry to agree with that of Paul.

( 97 )= It is doubtful that Paul always referred to the Rapture when he spoke of the Christian's hope. Paul stated that . . .

( A )= "JESUS CHRIST is our hope { 1- Timothy 1:1

( B )= "He speaks of the hope of eternal life { Titus 1:2 }" . . .,

( C )= "The hope of Salvation { 1- Thessalonians 5:8 }" . . .,

( D )= "The hope of the GOSPEL { Colossians 1:23 }" . . .,

( E )= "The hope of glory { Colossians 1:27 }" . . .,

( F )= "The hope of righteousness { Galatians 5:5 }" as well as . . .,

( G )= "LOOKING FOR THAT BLESSED HOPE, AND THE GLORIOUS APPEARING OF THE 'GREAT GOD' AND OUR SAVIOUR, JESUS CHRIST { Titus 2:13 }." Every Christian should memorize this verse because it applies to them personally. Since all of the aspects of the Christians hope is to be found in the PERSON OF JESUS CHRIST, our GREAT GOD . . ., Paul then is referring thus to your own BLESSED HOPE!

( 98 )= It is true that the first 12 Apostles did not write about the MYSTERY, but this fact does not necessarily prove that they did not become members of the BODY OF CHRIST after entering into the different Dispensation. Paul, mentions the BODY in only four of his Epistles.

( 99 )= He also speaks of the MYSTERY in only four or five of his Epistles. Paul was definitely the one to whom The MYSTERY was revealed, and he is the only one commissioned to write about it.

( 100 )= There are some positive evidences that all of the Believers of Paul's day after his name had been changed from Saul, his Hebrew name, to Paul, his Roman name { Acts 13:9 }, were members of The BODY OF CHRIST. We must go to Paul's Epistles for information and not merely to the Book of { Acts }, where things are in a state of change and TRANSITION.

( 101 )= Scripture: "So we being many are one BODY IN CHRIST, and every one members one of another, { Romans 12:5; - & - Ephesians 4: 12 }."

( 102 )= Scripture: "To all that be in Rome, beloved of GOD, called to be SAINTS: Grace to you and peace from GOD our FATHER, and the LORD JESUS CHRIST, { Romans 1:7 }."

( 103 )= Scripture: "For by ONE ( HOLY ) SPIRIT are we all 'baptized ( submerged ) INTO' ONE BODY, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one SPIRIT, { 1- Corinthians 12:13 }."

( "NOW . . . WHAT ON EARTH DOES THIS MEAN"??? )

( 104 )= Commentary . . . A double meaning in the above verse.

( 1 ): "SPIRITUALLY Baptized { submerged" } into CHRIST'S physical Body on HIS Cross, { Romans 6:3 } and . . .

( 2 ): also into the "ONE NEW MAN of { Ephesians 2:15; - & - 4:13 } which refers to the BODY OF CHRIST, of { Ephesians 4:12 - etc }."

( 105 )= Read again { Ephesians 4:5; - & - Romans 6:3 }. All the above verses here in these Texts have the same spiritual meaning, this only refers to HOLY SPIRIT Baptism! The baptism in { Romans 6:3 } here as we have pointed out, refers to "submerging a new just saved Christian ( past, and future ) into CHRIST on HIS CROSS, 'and into HIS DEATH, HIS BURIAL and HIS RESURRECTION WITH AND IN HIM.' No water is implied in the texts!

( 106 )= This means that when you were first saved, you were submerged into the Personal body of CHRIST past tense. Remember: your sins were on JESUS at that time - otherwise it could never be stated that HE died for all of your sins past, present and future.

( 107 )= And as we have before stated, this also means, that when HE was crucified on HIS Cross - you being in HIM, and HE - being in you: and you - spiritually speaking, were on that Cross with HIM, { Romans 6:3 }. When HE went to PARADISE down into the center part of this earth - from HIS Cross, you went with HIM! ( That is, where CHRIST went, you went, { Romans 6:4. } ( Try denying this truth according to the Scriptures ). Paradise . . .,

( 108 )= { V. 39 } Scripture: "And one of the malefactors ( thieves ) which were hanged . . . railed ( 'scolded', a 'vehement complaint to ) on HIM ( JESUS' ), saying , if you be CHRIST, save YOURSELF and us.

( 109 )= { V. 40 }: "But the other ( thief ) rebuked him, saying, Don't you fear GOD, seeing you are in the same condemnation?" . . .

( 110 )= { V. 41 ): "And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man has done nothing 'amiss ( wrong )."

( 111 )= { V. 42 }: "And he said to JESUS, LORD, remember me when YOU come into YOUR KINGDOM."

( 112 )= { V. 43 }: "And JESUS said to him, surely, I say to you, 'To day' shall you be with ME in PARADISE. ( That is, in Hades, of Sheol, at that time ). { Luke 23:39-43 }."

( 113 )= Commentary ... After CHRIST'S death, "HIS BODY, was placed in a tomb, { Matthew 27:57-60 }. JESUS' SOUL, and HIS SPIRIT including HIS DEITY - since HE being GOD THE SON, 'and YOU yourself being in HIM, descended down from the LORD'S Cross into PARADISE' - where the LORD and the 'just saved thief on his Cross' went immediately - as they took their last breath. ( And thus so, "You died too, and with HIM." ) This is not all . . .,

( 114 )= Scripture: "Now the LORD had prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three ( literal ) days and three ( literal ) nights, { Jonah 1:17 }." ( Then JESUS told HIS Apostles . . .

( 115 )= Scripture: "For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the SON OF MAN abide three days and three nights in the heart of the earth, {Matthew 12:40 }."

( 116 )= Commentary . . . "Here again, we have a two-fold meaning in the above verse.

( 1 ): That JESUS' OWN physical 'DEAD' body would spend three full literal days and three full literal nights in Joseph's new tomb, which had been given to the LORD as a permanent gift by a disciple named Joseph. Read { Matthew 27:57-60. } And . . .,

( 2 ): As has been stated above, at CHRIST'S death, HIS soul and Spirit of life ( plus HIS DEITY ) went straight down into the center part of this earth - from HIS Cross, and you went with HIM! ( That is . . ., where CHRIST went, and for sure - all the Old Testament saved SAINTS were already there in Paradise. We therefore believe that you, that had been on that cross also went there with JESUS, { Romans 6:4. } Read also { Colossians 3:2-4 }.

( 117 )= The 'soul and the spirit of life of the prophet Samuel after his death, had descended into the Paradise section of Hades in the heart of the earth where the souls of all of the saved SAINTS of the Old Testament went after they had died.' Again, 'Keep reading' . . .,

( 118 )= King Saul the first King of Israel, went to the witch of Endor, to have her bring the prophet Samuel up from his place down in Paradise so that Saul could question him. It was JEHOVAH HIMSELF we believe WHO performed the miracle of bringing Samuel up for a short period of time. Naturally only GOD could have performed this miracle.

( 119 )= Scripture . . . "And Samuel said to ( King ) Saul, "Why have you disquieted me, to bring me up?" And Saul answered, I am 'sore ( really' ) distressed; for the Philistines make war against me, and GOD is departed from me, and doesn't answer me any more, neither by prophets, nor by dreams: therefore I have called you, that you may make known to me what I shall do, { 1- Samuel 28:15 }."

( 120 )= Commentary . . . The reader can read this whole story in { 1- Samuel 28 }. We will show one more proof that Paradise during that former time, up until the time of CHRIST'S OWN resurrection . . . "was in the lower part of the earth."

( 121 )= { V. 19 } Scripture: "There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day" . . .,

( 122 )= ( V. 19 ) above paraphrased in commentary form . . . "There was a certain rich man who habitually clothed himself in purple and fine linen, and joyously feasted and made merry in splendor every day." . . . ( His name is not given, the name 'Dives', is said sometimes - to have been his name, but in the Latin tongue 'Dives' simply means "rich man." He fared sumptuously. This literally means he was merry every day of his life. That is, life was one continual party for him ).

( 123 )= { V. 2o }: "And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which 'WAS LAID at his gate', full of sores",

( 124 )= ( V. 20 ) above in commentary form ... "And at his gate there was carelessly dropped down and left a certain utterly destitute man named Lazarus, who was reduced to begging for money to purchase food - and he was covered with ulcerated sores."

( 125 )= { V. 21 }: "And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores."

( 126 )= ( V. 21 ) above in commentary form . . . "He eagerly desired to be satisfied and fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table; moreover, there were around, and about, dogs that even came and licked the beggars sores."

( 127 )= { V. 22 }: "And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried"; . . .,

( 128 )= ( V. 22 ) above in commentary form . . . "And then it occurred that the poor hungry starving beggar died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's bosom ( meaning down into Paradise. ) The rich man, whose name is not mentioned, also died and his body was buried." And his soul and spirit of life obviously went to HELL! . . . ( Abraham's bosom, is figurative speech for Paradise, or the presence of GOD ), read { Luke 23:43; - & - 2- Corinthians 12:4 }.

( 129 )= { V. 23 }: "And in 'HELL' he lift up his eyes, being in torment, and seeing Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom."

( 130 )= ( V. 23 ) above in commentary form . . . "And in Hades the HELL realm of the unsaved souls of the lost dead, the place where the lost reside between their death and their end time judgment at the "WHITE THRONE, read { Revelation 20:11-15 } the rich man in his soulish body, being in torment, lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far away, across the gulf that separated the burning HELL from Paradise, and Lazarus in 'his ( Abraham's ) bosom': ( place of rest in paradise )." That is, here we have . . .,

( 1 ): conscious existence after death . . .,

( 2 ): the reality and torment of hell . . .,

( 3 ): "NO": second chance after death; and . . .,

( 4 ): "the impossibility of the dead communicating with the living { V. 26 }. The men in this story illustrate two different lives, two different deaths, and two different destinies."

( 131 )= { V. 24 }: "And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame."

( 132 )= ( V. 24 ) above in commentary form ... "And the future eternally unsaved - tormented Hebrew who had been a rich man while yet alive on earth - "now cried out and said" . . . "Father Abraham i.e., which proves his Hebrew ancestry. That is, all Hebrews looked on Abraham as the great father of the Hebrew race, he asked: have pity and mercy on me and send Lazarus so that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool off my tongue, I am in anguish in this flame of HELL FIRE."

( 133 )= { V. 25 }: "But Abraham said, Son, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and you are tormented."

( 134 )= ( V. 25 ) above in commentary form . . . "But Abraham said, Child, remember that you in your lifetime fully received what was your good things, your comforts and delights, and likewise Lazarus in like manner the discomforts and lack of food and being continually in distress with little food; now he is comforted here in Paradise and you are the one in agony!"

( 135 )= { V. 26 }: "And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from here to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that ( would come ) from there."

( 136 )= ( V. 26 ) above in commentary form . . . "And besides all this, between us here in 'BLISSFUL PARADISE', and you in the 'FIRE of HELL' is a great chasm that has been prepared by GOD, in order that those who would even think of wanting to pass from this place in PARADISE to you who are in HELL-FIRE the place of eternal suffering and torment can: 'NOT POSSIBLY be able to do so, and no one can possibly pass from there to us. As to the rich man" . . .,

( 137 )= { V. 27 }: "Then he said, I pray you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father's house":

( 138 )= ( V. 27 ) above in commentary form . . . "And the rich man then said, father Abraham, since no one there can come to me, I beg you now to please send Lazarus to my father's house" . . .,

( 139 )= { V. 28 }: "For I have five brethren; that he may testify to them, lest they also come into this place of torment."

( 140 )= ( V. 28 ) above in commentary form . . . "For I have five brothers and I want him to go to them and give them a solemn testimony and warn them . . ., because if they are not warned they also may come into this place of torment."

( 141 )= { V. 29 }: "Abraham said to him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them."

( 142 )= ( V. 29 ) above in commentary form . . . "And Abraham answered him and said, 'they have the five books of Moses and all the other Old Testament books of the other Prophets'; 'let your family hear the words of all their prophetic warnings, and thus, read and pay attention to them."

( 143 )= { V. 30 }: "And he said, No, father Abraham: but if one went to them from the dead, they will repent."

( 144 )= ( V. 30 ) above in commentary form . . . "But the rich man answered, No, father Abraham, but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent and change their minds for the better, and heartily amend their ways, with abhorrence of their past sins."

( 145 )= { V. 31 }: "And he said to him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead, { Luke 16:19-31 }."

( 146 )= ( V. 31 ) above in commentary form ... "And Abraham answered and said to him, If they do not hear and listen to Moses and the other Prophets, neither will they be persuaded, and be convinced, or believe even if someone were to be able to rise from the dead and go to them!

( 147 ) Commentary . . . On the other hand, in this Dispensation of pure GRACE, we are not under the ORDINANCES of the former Mosaic LAW as we have stated many times. Since CHRIST dwells in the body of every SAINT OF GOD, who is it that can separate us from the love that our HEAVENLY FATHER has bestowed upon us? Can you name one true Christian . . . by using the Scriptures to prove otherwise? Read these next three verses in "COMMENTARY FORM":

( 148 )= { V. 37 } Scripture: "No, in all these things we are overwhelmingly more than conquerors through HIM WHO loved us",

( 149 )= { V. 38 }: "For I am persuaded beyond doubt . . . I am sure, positive, that neither death nor life, nor ( Demons, or wicked ) Angels, nor ( all of the evil ) principalities, ( put together, nor things impending and threatening, ) nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come" . . .,

( 150 )= { V. 39 }: "Nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of GOD which is in CHRIST JESUS our LORD, { Romans 8:37-39 }."

( 151 )= Commentary . . . Read this whole eighth chapter. The above verses prove absolutely that no one could have ever separated us from JESUS after HE died on HIS Cross! Some doubter may ask the question . . .,

( 152 )= "How can we really believe that we were in JESUS when HE arose from Paradise when Paradise was still in Hades, and then HE after HE had been there the three days and nights HE - and us were resurrected up into Heaven with HIM?" Read on . . .,

( 153 )= No doubt the Garden of Eden had been a Paradise for Adam and Eve before they started to sin, which has caused so much trouble since that time. Therefore, GOD saw fit to create HELL down in Hades for Satan and his followers afterward, or, perhaps knowing the future HE had it there already?

( 154 )= Then JEHOVAH either changed or Created a Paradise again to Hades to fulfill the Bible prophecies. No doubt there has always been a paradise in Heaven where the throne of GOD resides. Therefore, after the LORD'S short stay there in the Paradise of Hades, HE emptied Paradise and changed the place for GOD'S SAINTS to the Paradise in the third HEAVEN!

( 155 )= The Scriptures above proved we were in HIM and were dead to CHRIST, if we cannot believe that, what can we be believe? JESUS answers this question HIMSELF. . . . In commentary form . . .,

( 156 )= { V. 8 } Scripture: "Therefore It ( the Scripture ) says, When HE ascended up on high, ( from PARADISE in Hades ) HE led captivity captive." . . .

( 157 )= { V. 9 }: "Now that HE ascended ( back up to GOD the FATHER'S throne in Heaven ), what is it but that HE also descended FIRST into the lower parts of the earth ( Paradise of Hades )"

( 158 )= { V. 10 }: "HE that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might 'FULFIL' all things.) { Ephesians 4:8-10 }."

( 159 )= { V. 1 } Scripture: "If you then be risen 'WITH CHRIST' ( past tense, but now while you are still in the flesh here on the earth ), seek those things which are above, where CHRIST sits on ( at ) the right hand of GOD, ( the FATHER )."

( 160 )= { V. 2 }: "Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth."

( 161 )= { V. 3 }: "For you are dead, and your life is hid with CHRIST in ( the TRINITARIAN ) GOD."

( 162 )= { V. 4 }: "When CHRIST, WHO is our life, shall appear, then shall 'YOU" also appear with HIM in glory, { Colossians 3:1-4 }."

( 163 )= Commentary . . . The Apostle Paul himself in the spirit was caught up into the third Heaven to PARADISE, and was returned back to the earth to reveal his short stay there - in just a few words. Read Paul's experience and witness of it below in: { I- Corinthians 12:1-6 }:

( 164 )= { V. 1 } Scripture: "It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the LORD."

( 165 )= ( V. 1 ) above in commentary form ... "TRUE, ( boasting is necessary though it is not profitable; but ) although there is nothing to be gained by it, ( as I am obliged ) to boast, I will go on to receive more visions and various further revelations from the LORD." ( that is, HEAR A LITTLE BIBLE KNOWLEDGE, and later A LITTLE MORE KNOWLEDGE OF MESSIAH'S WORD, which was passed on to Paul at various times during his entire ministry. In certain ways, this is how GOD'S Children receives Bible knowledge today, ( "HERE A LITTLE, THERE A LITTLE )" the Apostle Paul stated . . .,

( 166 )= { V. 2 }: "I know a man in CHRIST above fourteen years ago, ( whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: GOD knows; ) such an one caught up to the 'THIRD HEAVEN."

( 167 )= ( V. 2 ) above in commentary form ... "I know a man in CHRIST who fourteen years ago . . . whether in his physical body or perhaps just his soul was allowed out of his body for a short period of time before it was returned back to him I do not know, GOD knows . . . ( that such a man ) was 'CAUGHT UP TO THE THIRD HEAVEN."

( 168 )= { V. 3 }: "And I knew such a man, ( whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: GOD knows; )"

( 169 )= ( V. 3 ) above in commentary form . . . "And I know that this man ( meaning himself ): whether he was in his physical body or away from the body I do not know, 'GOD only, - positively' knows all of the circumstances HIMSELF " . . .,

( 170 )= { V. 4 }: "How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter."

( 171 )= ( V. 4 ) above in commentary form . . . "And how this man was definitely caught up into PARADISE, and thus so, while he was there he heard inexpressible words beyond the power of any man to put into words, i.e., which man is not permitted to utter. That is, Paul after he was returned from Paradise, was not permitted to tell about the things he had learned, or heard while there."

( 172 )= { V. 5 }: "Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in my infirmities.

( 173 )= ( V. 5 ) above in commentary form . . . "On behalf of this same man's experiences I will boast, but of myself - i.e., only to myself personally, I will not boast to others, except as regards my infirmities - my own weaknesses."

( 174 )= { V. 6 }: "For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, unless any man should think of me above that which he sees me to be, or that he hears of me, { 2 - Corinthians 12:1-6 }."

( 175 )= ( V. 6 ) above in commentary form . . . "For should I desire to boast, I shall not be a foolish witless/braggart, for I shall be speaking only the truth; i.e., thus I, refuse from doing so/or enjoying what I have experienced so that no one may form a higher estimate of me than is justified by what they already may see in me or hear about me.

( 176 )= Commentary . . . Here we find the following facts: in both { Romans, - & - 1- Corinthians }, Paul surely gives the impression that he considers all Believers everywhere to be members of the BODY OF CHRIST. { 1- Corinthians } is addressed not only to the SAINTS at Corinth, but . . .

( 177 )= Scripture: "Unto the Congregation of GOD which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in CHRIST JESUS, called to be SAINTS, with all that in every place call upon the name of JESUS CHRIST our LORD, both theirs and ours, { 1- Corinthians 1:2 }."

( 178 )= ( V. 2 ) above in commentary form . . . To the "church i.e., { Ekklesia, Greek: Assembly/or congregation" } of GOD which is in Corinth, to those consecrated 'set apart' 'purified and made HOLY IN CHRIST JESUS,' who are selected and called to be SAINTS - i.e., 'All' of GOD'S people, together with all those who in any place upon the earth that call upon, and give honor to the name of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, both their LORD and ours" . . .

( 179 )= Commentary . . . "Every true 'BELIEVEING/CHRISTIAN' is a SAINT from the second he becomes CONVERTED to Christianity, and then he literally has become A HOLY ORDAINED SAINT AND AN AMBASSADOR BY GOD'S CALLING." Read again { Romans 10:13 - & - 2- Corinthians 5:20. }

( 180 )= The word "Church" is 'NOT' in any of this writers Greek texts, the translators took the GREEK WORD "EKKLESIA" and translated it to mean church. The correct interpretation of the word "Ekklesia" is "Assembly, or Congregation!" The word 'church' for several hundred years has caused all kinds of trouble and controversy!

( 181 )= Many people down through the centuries has taken the word "church" and used it to make up their own 'MAN MADE', and 'MAN NAMED' denomination, and by this - they state that their church is the only true church and if people will not join it they are not saved.

( 182 )= But on the other hand, and we repeat: if they used the correct interpretation of the word "EKKLESIA" . . . "which means 'CONGREGATION/or ASSEMBLY' - think how silly if they said that no one could be saved if they failed to belong their own Assembly and/or their own congregation, 'i.e., or their own Denomination!'

( 183 )= Naturally, since practically all "MAN MADE" and "NAMED DENOMINATIONS" have brain washed Christians in their own denominational doctrine, no matter, if you tell them the truth and show them the true word in the Greek text, it will likely 'NOT' be accepted or believed. Apostasy is running in a rapid torrent through the "man named denominations" of the world today!

( 184 )= In the above verses Paul, explains that "All in every place that call upon the name of JESUS CHRIST, both their SAVIOUR, and our SAVIOUR, become GOD'S SAINTS." And, he informs all of these so addressed that whether they "are Hebrews or Gentiles,"

{ A }: "NO MATTER WHAT OF THEIR RACE" after they have been converted to Christianity: they have 'all been baptized ( i.e., SUBMERGED' ) "by ONE HOLY SPIRIT into ONE BODY { Ephesians 4:5; - 4:12- 13; - Romans 12:4-5; - 1- Corinthians 10:16-17; - & - 12:13 }."

{ B }: The verses in { Romans 12:4-5 }, have a double meaning. . . .,

{ C }: The one BODY refers to the BODY OF CHRIST as a whole, concerning the people,

{ D }: also it refers to the literal body of CHRIST JESUS HIMSELF with Christians indwelling HIM, as HE indwells each and every Christian themselves. This is why each SAINTS body is called a Temple of GOD! ] ( ARE YOU THINKING DEEP? ) Read on . . . and we repeat . . .,

{ E }: { V. 16 } Scripture: "KNOW YOU NOT THAT YOU ARE THE TEMPLE OF GOD, AND THAT THE SPIRIT OF GOD DWELLS IN YOU?"

{ F }: { V. 17 }: "IF ANY MAN DEFILE THE TEMPLE OF GOD, HIM SHALL GOD DESTROY; FOR THE TEMPLE OF GOD IS HOLY, 'WHICH TEMPLE YOU ARE', { 1- Corinthians 3:16-17 }." BEWARE, ANY TYPE OF ALCOHOL DRINKERS, DOPE ADDICTS AND, TOBACCO USERS ETC., - should strongly pay attention to this warning! Have you ever realized that you as a SAINT are a holy person?

( 185 )= { 1 }: Notice Paul addressed his Roman letter to all of the SAINTS at Rome { Romans 1:7 }, and although he had not founded the Assembly of Rome, nor had he been to Rome as yet, and surely he did not know all the SAINTS that might be in Rome, he nevertheless tells them all that they are members of the "ONE BODY { Romans 12:5" }.

( 186 )= { 2 }: Paul's two main fellow-workers, Barnabas and Silas, were both saved in the Jerusalem Assembly long before the BODY OF CHRIST began. It's almost unthinkable that Paul would choose men who were not even members of the BODY to become his main leaders in conducting that ministry to the BODY OF CHRIST.

( 187 )= { 3 }: Apollos was a mighty preacher who knew only the baptism of John until Priscilla and Aquila met him and instructed him more thoroughly in Pauline doctrine. Paul states that he "planted the seed at Corinth and Apollos watered it," which would indicate that they were 'NOW' both engaged in the same ministry, read { 1- Corinthians 3:6 }.

( 188 )= { 4 }: Paul rebuked the Corinthians for being divided between Peter, Apollos and himself. If in fact, Peter and Apollos were members of the Kingdom Body and 'NOT' members of the BODY OF CHRIST, Paul should have informed them of this, and not have found fault with Peter's converts for joining themselves to Peter.

( 189 )= { 5 }: Paul, himself as an Israelite, possessed the promise of GOD concerning the Messianic Kingdom. Many of the greatest Bible students believe that he was saved before GOD began the BODY OF CHRIST. Personally, I believe Paul was living according to the dictates set forth by the Hebrew council at Jerusalem before he met CHRIST on the Damascus road in { Acts Ch. 9 }. And just in-case he hadn't as yet been saved yet, He certainly did become a Believer when he met CHRIST PERSONALLY on that road! We can be sure Paul was a strong Believer when he became the instigator of the beginning of the BODY OF CHRIST through the dictates of the risen CHRIST. He was likely the first member of it.

( 190 )= { 6 }: Paul's two kinsmen, Andronicus and Junia, were saved before Paul, and also before the BODY OF CHRIST began. These two were in Rome when Paul wrote his Epistle and therefore must be included in the "One BODY of { Romans 12:5 }." Paul gives a universal classification of the human race when he says . . .

( 191 )= { 7 }: [ Do not let yourselves be hindrances by giving offence. ] Scripture: "Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the [ lost ] Gentiles, nor to the "Church ( Congregation" ) of GOD, { 1- Corinthians 10:32 }"

( 192 )= Commentary . . . In other words, "Do not lead others into sin by your mode of life." Apparently Paul did not recognize the existence of two separate Bodies when he wrote this. The Hebrews and Gentiles here represent all of the unsaved, whereas all of the saved during this Dispensation of GRACE are classified as the BODY OF CHRIST. Read { Ephesians 4:16 }.

( 193 )= { 8 }: Timothy's mother and grandmother were true Hebrew Believers before the BODY OF CHRIST began { 2- Timothy 1:5 }. Timothy, from childhood, had been taught the O.T. holy Scriptures which were able to make him wise unto Salvation { 2- Timothy 3:15 }.

( 194 )= It would thus appear that Timothy was a true Hebrew Believer before he ever heard the 'GOSPEL of the MYSTERY' by Paul's mouth. No doubt those Godly Hebrew Believers, who lived before the GOSPEL of the BODY OF CHRIST reached them, became members of the BODY OF CHRIST if they were still alive after the time the BODY had first began.

( 195 )= But, if they died before the BODY OF CHRIST began, they would have been saved under the old Mosaic Covenant and would have became a part of the Kingdom Body before the present BODY OF CHRIST came into existence.

( 196 )= Thus, it would appear that Timothy was saved as a Hebrew with expectation of inheriting the Messianic Kingdom but, he later became a member of the present BODY OF CHRIST and as we know by the Scriptures, he became one of Paul's fellow workers.

( 197 )= { 9 }: The Assembly at Antioch, which was Paul's home-base from which he was sent out, to open the door of faith to the Gentiles and begin the new Dispensation of the MYSTERY ..., and this was later taught by Jerusalem SAINTS who had been scattered abroad by persecutions, read { Acts 11:19-20 }.

( 198 )= It would seem strange indeed if the members of Paul's home congregation were not added as members to the BODY OF CHRIST. How could Paul Minister any of his distinctive truths to the Assembly if it had not become a part of the new Dispensation?

( 199 )= { 10 }: There were, doubtless, many local Assemblies which contained people who were saved both before the old Law ended, and after the BODY OF CHRIST began.

( 200 )= If these people belonged to two separate groups, with separate Dispensational programs, with some looking for the Rapture and others for the second coming of CHRIST to establish the Millennial Kingdom, there would have been constant confusion in the teaching and preaching of GOD'S WORD, ( i.e., as there is even today! )

( 201 )= In one sense of the word the question under consideration is an academic one, affecting the Hebrew SAINTS who lived on into the new "Dispensation ( time period." )

( 202 )= All are agreed that once the BODY OF CHRIST began, all true Believers since that time, became members of that BODY. The most important aspect of the problem is the effect it has on our understanding of the general Epistles. Learned students of the WORD will argue both sides of this question until the LORD returns. Each individual must weigh the evidence for himself.

( 203 )= Before getting into more of our message, we wish to mention the fact that it has been taught by ministers, Bible teachers and even Theologians that the BODY OF CHRIST is spoken of as being in the feminine gender as recognized in the New Testament Scriptures. Their use for this type of interpretation is found as follows . . .

( 204 )= Scripture: "HE that has the Bride is the BRIDEGROOM: but the friend of the BRIDEGROOM, ( saved out from the Gentiles at the end of the Tribulation Period ) which stands and hears HIM, rejoices greatly because of the BRIDEGROOM'S voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled, { John 3:29 }."

( AGAIN I REPEAT: STUDY AND THINK VERY DEEP MY FRIEND ).

( 205 )= Commentary . . . It is thought that because JESUS is here mentioned as the BRIDEGROOM that the BODY OF CHRIST must be the Bride.

( 206 )= The plain truth on the other hand is, that the BODY OF CHRIST is NEVER mentioned in any way other than in the "MASCULINE Gender" in the New Testament! BUT, the Nation of Israel is likewise hardly ever mentioned in any other way than in the "FEMININE Gender."

( 207 )= { 2- Corinthians 11:2 }, is also one of the favourite verses people use to prove we will become MESSIAH'S Bride at HIS Second Coming. This writer finds no proof of this in the verse! This verse will also be considered in part six of our message . . . ( The BRIDE AND BODY OF CHRIST which is also on internet ). Paul stated . . .,

( 208 )= { V. 15 } Scripture: "Having abolished in HIS flesh the enmity, even the Law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in HIMSELF of twain "ONE NEW MAN," so making peace; . . .

( 209 )= ( V. 15 ) above paraphrased in commentary form . . . "Having abolished in HIS OWN crucified flesh the enmity, caused by the Mosaic Law, even the Law of commandments contained in its decrees and Old Testament ordinances; which CHRIST annulled in order to make and create in HIMSELF of 'twain - Two' 'ONE JOINT BODY', ( "Greek, Sussomos," "ONE NEW MAN ( MASCULINITY" ), so making peace;

( 210 )= { V. 16 }: "And that HE might reconcile both unto GOD 'into ONE BODY' by the Cross, having slain the enmity thereby, { Ephesians 2:15-16 }."

( 211 )= ( V. 16 ) above in commentary form ... "And that the 'risen CHRIST' might reconcile both - 'Jews and the Gentiles after they have been saved' ..., uniting them along with HIMSELF 'as the HEAD - OF A SINGLE BODY' UNTO GOD THE FATHER' by the Cross, ( thus - by the offering of HIMSELF ) having slain the 'enmity ( antagonism' ) thereby."

( 212 )= Commentary . . . "We repeat . . . both Hebrews and Gentiles out of the two types of people, into "ONE BODY OF CHRIST after they had been reborn into the 'grown-up ONE NEW MAN" in all HIS completeness! . . . "Read again concerning three classes of people in { 1- Corinthians 1o:32 }, also { Ephesians 2:11-22 }." As to Israel . . .

( 213 )= { V. 26 } Scripture: "And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Zion the DELIVERER, and ( HE THE MESSIAH ) shall turn away ungodliness from 'Jacob ( Israel' ). . . . Read { Isaiah 59:20-21. } . . .

( 214 )= { V. 27 }: "For this is MY 'covenant ( agreement and promise' ) to them, when I shall take away their sins." Read { Jeremiah 31:33; - & - Isaiah 27:9. }

( 215 )= { V. 28}: "As concerning the Gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes."

( 216 )= ( V. 28 ) above in commentary form ... "From this point of view of the 'Gospel ( good news' ) they the Jews, at present are enemies of GOD, which is for your advantage and benefit. But, from the point of view of GOD's choice . . . of election, of DIVINE selection . . . they are still the 'beloved ( dear to HIM' ) for the sake of their forefathers."

( 217 )= { V. 29 }: "For the gifts and calling of GOD are without repentance."

( 218 )= ( V. 29 ) above in commentary form . . .

{ 1 }: "For GOD's gifts and HIS call are irrevocable . . . HE never withdraws them when once they are given, and HE does not change HIS mind about those to whom HE gives HIS Grace/or to whom HE sends HIS call during this present Period of Grace."

{ 2 }: But, during the Acts transition period GOD did withdraw a few gifts such as raising the dead, foreign tongues, and handling poisonous snakes without harm to the handler - etc.

( 219 )= { V. 30 }: "For as 'you ( who were lost Gentile heathen' ) in times past have not believed GOD ( and were disobedient and rebellious toward GOD ), yet have now obtained ( the LORD'S ) mercy through their ( 'Israel's ) unbelief ( and disobedience' ):

( 220 )= { V. 31 }: "Even so have these also now not believed, that through YOUR mercy they also may obtain mercy."

( 221 )= ( V. 31 ) above in commentary form . . . "So they: the Israelis also now are being disobedient ... while you are receiving mercy, that they in turn may one day share the mercy through you as GOD'S messengers, i.e., as GOD's Ambassadors in the teaching of the Gospel of

Grace to them ) which has been shown to you, thus through the mercy you are enjoying, they may now also receive mercy also."

( 222 )= { V. 32 }: "For GOD has concluded them all in unbelief ( i.e., Hebrews and Gentiles alike after being reborn to CHRIST ) that HE might have mercy upon all ( of them alike ), { Romans 11:26-32. }"

( 223 )= Commentary . . . From { V. 26 } above: "And so all Israel shall be saved." The Greek word 'houtos ( meaning: and so' ) is important and must not be missed. It shows the relationship of what has preceded to what follows, and can be translated "and accordingly."

( 224 )= Throughout this passage Israel has been taken to mean a nation in contradistinction to the Gentiles. It must mean the same here. However, this may not be interpreted as implying that, in the future time of the fulfillment of this prophecy, every Israelite will be converted simply on the basis of his inheritance.

( 225 )= The German Theologian Adolph Harnach in his book ( "The Date of the Acts and of the Synoptic Gospels, pp. 40-66" ) attacked the Apostle Paul for this statement saying that he allowed his patriotism to override his logic, But, when Paul says "all Israel shall be saved" Paul is not repudiating the doctrine he expounded in chapter 2, "( that according to the Jews' old Law, circumcision, birth, or arguments could not have made him righteous )."

( 226 )= We must understand that "all ( Greek pas" ) to be taken in the proper meaning of the word, i.e., Israel as a whole or Israel as a nation and not necessarily include every individual Israelite. This clearly is the way the Jews used the phrase "all Israel." The ( Mishnah tractate Sanhedrin 10.I. ) says, "All Israel has a portion in the age to come", and then proceeds immediately to name the Israelites who have no portion in that age, ( i.e., such as Judas ).

( 227 )= Thus we must understand this expression to mean Israel as a company, rather than every Jew without single exception. No one is ever saved without a personal relationship with the Saviour. Paul in { Romans 11: } above seals the restoration of Israel with a prophecy from out of the past { Isaiah 59:20 } that states . . .

( 228 )= Scripture: "There shall come out of Zion the DELIVERER, and ( HE ) shall turn away ungodliness from 'Jacob ( Israel' ), { Romans 11:26 }." ( This reference refers to a manifestation to Israel - of her REDEEMER and MESSIAH. When HE comes, Israel shall be restored to the root of GOD. )

( 229 )= Concerning { Romans 11:27 } above: "For this is MY 'Covenant to them, when I shall take away their sins." Paul continues the quotation of { Isaiah 59:21 }, but then passes on into the promise of { Jeremiah 31:33 } to indicate that GOD will not fail to keep HIS Covenant with Israel.

( Think deep now - and pay attention ): . . .,

( 230 )= Of { Romans 11:28-29 } above, "From the point of view of the present MYSTERY Gospel ( good news ) they the Jews at present are enemies concerning the present Gospel of Grace of GOD for your advantage and benefit, and from GOD's favor and blessing! But from the point of view of GOD'S choice - of election, of DIVINE selection . . ., they are still the beloved (dear to HIM) for the sake of their forefathers."

( 231 )= At this present time the Israelis are beloved of GOD. Israel is still GOD's chosen people on this earth, regardless of HER present condition. This proves that: "the the Jewish nation, HER gifts and calling of GOD are without repentance."

( 232 )= Those privileges and prerogatives in { Romans 9:4-5 } have never been abrogated. What GOD promises, HE also performs. Israel will one day be restored to the favor and blessing of GOD! HER restoration is prophesied; it will happen and the conclusion of it is just around the corner to take place!

( 233 )= The above { Vs. 30-32 }, "For GOD has concluded them all in UNBELIEF, that HE might have mercy upon all." The Apostle is still addressing the Gentiles. { V. 30 } is a repetition of what he has stated in { Vs. 11, 12, 15. 28, } that the Gentiles have received GOD's mercy by way of the unbelief of Israel.

( 234 )= { V. 31 } above indicates the relationship which the salvation of the Gentiles has to the restoration of Israel. { V. 32 } above shows the relationship of GOD's mercy to all. The lost Jew and Gentile alike must realize that both are undeserving sinners and the expression of the love of GOD on their behalf is an act both of mercy and Grace.

( 235 )= { V. 10 } Scripture: "And have put on "The New Man" ( BODY OF CHRIST, Masculine ), which is renewed in knowledge "after the image of HIM" ( Masculine again ), that created him." { V. 11 }: ". . . CHRIST is all, and in all, { Colossians 3:10-11 }." ( That is, being a new creation after being reborn again into GOD'S Family, you are submerged by the HOLY SPIRIT into CHRIST, and thus so, "YOU ARE ALSO SUBMERGED INTO CHRIST'S BODY THROUGH THIS ONE NEW MAN!"

( 236 )= Scripture: "And that you put on 'The NEW MAN ( Masculine' ], which after GOD is created in righteousness ( and in GOD's image, and GOD-like ) and true Holiness. { Ephesians 4: 24 }."

( 237 )= Scripture: "Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the SON of GOD, "unto a PERFECT MAN" unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of CHRIST, { Ephesians 4:13 }."

( 238 )= The above { V. 13 } paraphrased in commentary form . . . "Do you as a Child of the GREAT LIVING KING OF KINGS, REALIZE THAT YOU ARE A PRINCE, OR A PRINCESS even while you are still upon this Planet! That is, 'all Christians that make up this NEW MAN to grow - is implied to be the great substance in his construction phase.' Have you realized in your heart - that this is truthfully referring to 'YOU PERSONALLY?'

( 239 )= Do "YOU" realize that "YOU" as the KING'S Heavenly Child are right at this very moment a very important part of the "NEW MAN" mentioned in the Scriptures? And, that we "WILL" develop "Till we all come in the unity, and attain the ONENESS THROUGH OUR FAITH, and in, and - of the faith, and of the comprehension of the full and accurate knowledge of the SON of GOD. And, that we "WILL" arrive at a really mature manhood . . ., "unto a PERFECT GROWN-UP MAN ( Masculine" ) "and unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of CHRIST and the completeness found in HIM. Read again { Ephesians 4:13 }."

( I MUST REPEAT . . . "THINK VERY DEEP MY FRIEND!" )

( MUCH OF THIS MESSAGE CONCERNS YOU PERSONALLY )

( 240 )= { V. 1 } Scripture: "Behold, what manner of love the FATHER has bestowed upon us, that we should be called . . . The Sons of GOD" ( Masculine ) Therefore the world knows us not, because I knew HIM not."

( 241 )= { V. 2 }: Beloved, "now are we the Sons of GOD," ( Masculine ) and it does not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when HE shall appear, "we shall be like HIM;" ( Masculine ) for we shall see HIM as HE is, { 1- John 3:1-2 }." ( HE formed us in HIS OWN IMAGE of MASCULINITY )! ( We are not of a female gender to become a bride! ) Read { Galatians 4:19 }.

( 242 )= { V. 10 } Scripture: "For it became 'HIM ( JESUS' ), for WHOM are all things, and by WHOM are all things, in bringing "MANY SONS" ( Masculine ) unto glory, to make the 'captain ( LEADER, AUTHOR - PIONEER ) of their salvation perfect through sufferings."

( 243 )= { V. 11 }: For both HE that sanctifies and THEY who are sanctified "are all ONE ( Masculine" ): for which cause HE is not ashamed to call them "Brethren ( Masculine," Adopted Brothers of CHRIST, AND OF HIS OWN BODY ),

( 244 )= { V.12 }: Saying, I 'WILL' declare your name unto "MY brethren ( Masculine )," in the midst of the "Church ( Greek - Ekklesia CONGREGATION" and: ) I 'WILL" sing praise to you, { Hebrews 2:10-12 }." ( "ANOINTED SONS UNTO GLORY" ).

( 245 )= Scripture: "But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the LORD, ARE CHANGED INTO THE 'SAME IMAGE ( Masculine' ) from glory to glory, even as by the SPIRIT of the LORD, { 2- Corinthians 3:18 }."

( 246 )= Commentary . . . The above Scriptures prove beyond a shadow of a doubt along with many other Scriptures, that we of the BODY OF CHRIST are always spoken of as being of "THE MASCULINE GENDER!" This should be a great help when studying our Bible.

( THE SINNERS PRAYER ) . . .

( 247 )= A good prayer to pray is as follows: Heavenly FATHER, I know that I'm a lost sinner and that I cannot save myself by good works. I believe that JESUS CHRIST is GOD the SON WHO came down from Heaven and took on a human body of flesh, and was born of the Virgin Mary. I believe that CHRIST shed HIS blood on the Cross of Calvary and died paying the price for my sins with HIS death so that I can receive salvation because of and through HIS sacrifice. I believe that after CHRIST's sacrifice and death, HE arose from the tomb after three literal days and nights. That JESUS ascended into the third Heaven to sit at the right hand of GOD the FATHER. I believe that JESUS will return for all SAINTS who belong to HIS BODY of SAVED SOULS in the Rapture, according to HIS OWN promise! I know that I have been up to this time a lost sinner and deserved to go to HELL. So . . .

( 248 )= I beseech you Heavenly FATHER, send your HOLY SPIRIT at this very moment into my heart and save me for JESUS CHRIST'S sake as has been promised me by YOUR HOLY WORD. I am receiving JESUS CHRIST at this very moment as my personal SAVIOUR, my LORD and as my only blessed hope for salvation. . . . Thank YOU LORD for now I am saved by YOUR wonderful Grace, in "the Name of the LORD JESUS CHRIST I ask this AMEN!

( 249 )= "If you really meant the prayer that you have just prayed - and accepted JESUS CHRIST as your SAVIOUR by real honest and true faith, you have just became a new Christian and a true Child of GOD of your Heavenly FATHER! And now, read and believe with all your heart all the Scriptures such as those that follow!" . . . Read on . . .

( 250 )= Scripture { V. 16 }: "For GOD so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whoever believes in HIM shall not perish, but have EVERLASTING LIFE.

( 251 )= { V. 17 }: For GOD sent not HIS SON into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through HIM might be saved, { John 3:16-17 }."

( 252 )= Scripture, { V. 8 }: "For by Grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of GOD" . . .

( 253 )= { V. 9 }: Not of works, lest any man should boast, { Ephesians 2:8-9 }."

( 254 )= Scripture, {V. 9}: "But as it is written, Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which GOD has prepared for them that love HIM,

( 255 )= { V. 10 }: But GOD has revealed them to us by HIS [ HOLY ] SPIRIT, for the SPIRIT searches all things, yes the deep things of GOD, { 1- Corinthians 2:9-10 }."

( 256 )= Commentary . . . The signs indicating the seven years of tribulation has already become evident before the Tribulation on a smaller scale, while increasing in intensity as the tribulation approaches. The signs serve the purpose of a clarion call to the BODY OF CHRIST to prepare for the coming of CHRIST as the HEAD OF THE BODY in the air, and also to the unrepentant world not to continue shunning the Grace of GOD { Hebrews. 2:3 }.

( 257 )= When we today see signs that indicate that the Tribulation Period must be close at hand, we should make sure that we are ready for the Rapture. As a matter of fact whether we observe signs or not we should always be prepared for the end of this Grace age to take place.

( 258 )= Concerning Israel during the Tribulation Period according to prophecy, they must ready themselves for the Second Coming of their BRIDEGROOM MESSIAH { Luke 21:28; - & - read also Revelation 19:7-8 }.

( 259 )= Both classes of people, the BODY OF CHRIST first and later Israel and the nations are to lift up their heads because their redemption is drawing near.

( 260 )= In all our messages we have given a list of final signs that indicate the nearness of the Rapture first, and seven years later the MESSIAH'S Second Coming at the end of the seven year-long Tribulation Period. Are you waiting and watching for this time to culminate?

( 261 )= Today, do not postpone your decision for JESUS CHRIST. Remember, it may be indeed too late tomorrow. Make use of it today, because if you really want the harmony and peace of the LORD in your heart, then you must prepare now.

( 262 )= There must be a change of authority in your mind, and that change will determine eternity. To put it briefly, you either will spend eternity in everlasting, never-ending punishment or in never-ending eternal glory with your LORD.

( 263 )= In regards to our readers, we would deeply express our thanks to those who recopy or down-load this message and pass it on to others that they too might find a blessing from this messages contents.

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