Examples of this even exist in the Old Testament, when the kingdom of Israel was ruled by the wicked King Ahab and his ungodly wife Jezebel. This was a time when spiritual idolatry was introduced and promoted by Jezebel. And because of that idolatry, the true people of God were persecuted. And so Elijah the true prophet prays, and it does not rain for three and a half years, or 1,260 days.

And at another time, after the kingdom of Judah was carried away to Babylon, the King of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar, gets lifted up in his pride. And because of this, he is judged by God. And God’s judgment causes the King to become like a beast. And he lives like a beast for a period of three and a half years, or a 1,260 days.

And still in the Old Testament, when the prophet Daniel lived in Babylon, he had a vision. And in this vision he sees another kingdom that will come in the future, and that kingdom is likened unto a beast. And this beast’s kingdom is said to prevail for 1,260 days. But in this case, the 1,260 days are intended to be interpreted spiritually, and therefore they represent 1,260 years. And this future 1,260 period of time, is once again identified within the Book of Revelation, in three different contexts.

Note: Days are often used in the scripture to represent years. Especially when speaking of God’s judgment against wrong. Some examples in scriptures where days are specifically identified to represent years, are as follows:

“[33] And your children shall wander in the wilderness forty years, and bear your whoredoms, until your carcases be wasted in the wilderness. [34] After the number of the days in which ye searched the land, even forty days, each day for a year, shall ye bear your iniquities, even forty years, and ye shall know my breach of promise.” ~ Numbers 14:33-34

“[5] For I have laid upon thee the years of their iniquity, according to the number of the days, three hundred and ninety days: so shalt thou bear the iniquity of the house of Israel. [6] And when thou hast accomplished them, lie again on thy right side, and thou shalt bear the iniquity of the house of Judah forty days: I have appointed thee each day for a year.” ~ Ezekiel 4:5-6

Particularly within the Book of Revelation, the prophetic 1,260 days period is mentioned many times, and in a number of different ways. And it is mentioned within three different contexts: one in chapter 11, and another in chapter 12, and then yet another within chapter 13. And in each contextual situation, it is representing the same period of time in history covering 1,260 years.

Revelation chapter 11: the battle of the two witnesses, against the spiritual corruption affecting those claiming to be the church.

Note: 1,260 = 42 months = “thousand two hundred and threescore days”

In Revelation, the first mention of the 1,260 days is in chapter 11 – a time that the two witnesses (The Word of God, and the Spirit of God) gave their witness while God’s people were suffering the grief of persecution. And so they are shown as being clothed in sackcloth.

“[2] But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months. [3] And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.” ~ Revelation 11:2-3

Relation chapter 11 also shows that this is the time when the two witnesses have the power to “shut heaven” and to declare: “no rain” – because there is a spiritual wilderness, desert condition, among those claiming to be the church. And so they also declare the fallen condition of blood-guilty waters (these waters represent people, and the flowing waters especially represent the work of a ministry. A ministry whose waters have become bitter and poisonous like wormwood.)

“These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.” ~ Revelation 11:6

Also note: that in type, in the Old Testament, when the children of Israel disobeyed and began to incorporate idolatry into their worship; that at that time also God sent a time of no rain. This happened in answer to the prayer of Elijah. And so there was a famine that lasted for three and a half years, or 1,260 days.

“Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.” ~ James 5:17

So we are beginning to see, that this 1,260 day period represents a time of great displeasure, and judgment by God. God’s judgment comes because of the compromise of truth, amongst those who are supposed to be God’s people.

This 1,260 year period of time happened in history when the Catholic Church had supreme power with its church hierarchy and Pope leadership. And so even in history, it has been identified commonly as the “dark ages”.

Note: there is a lesson in this also for everyone, in every age of time. Because the spiritual conditions that existed during this time, can potentially impact any locality of the church at any time in history. Just like the rest of the scripture, Revelation provides a lesson for everyone in every age of time. Even the scripture itself teaches us that things record in scripture are for our benefit in every age of time so that we might learn from them.

“[5] But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. [6] Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.” ~ 1 Corinthians 10:5-6

Revelation chapter 12: Satan’s Roman pagan red dragon beast, battles the church.

Note: 1,260 = “thousand two hundred and threescore days” = “time, and times, and half a time” (Note: time = 1 year, times = 2 years, dividing of time = ½ year. And this equals approx 42 months, or 1,260 days)

In Revelation chapter 12 we see the great red dragon, which represents Satan’s paganistic powers through the Roman government, fighting the church. And so also, we see the bride of Christ, the church, fleeing to get away from Satan’s persecuting force. And when she flees away, she goes into a spiritual wilderness condition where “they” (“They” being the two witnesses: the Word of God and the Spirit of God, already identified in Revelation chapter 11) feed the true and faithful saints for 1,260 days. So in chapter 12, the church is seen as fleeing into this 1,260 day period.

“And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days.” ~ Revelation 12:6

“And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.” ~ Revelation 12:14

Note that the power of this same great beast, is identified also in Daniel as persecuting the church, for the same 1,260 day period.

“And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time.” ~ Daniel 7:25

Revelation chapter 13: The blasphemous persecuting power of the beast, the Roman Catholic Church

Note: In a number of places in scripture, mankind without the influence of God in their life, is described as nothing better than a beast. And so we also see in these prophetic descriptions of a government or a church without God: that they also are being described as a beast.

In Revelation the 13th chapter, we see another beast, that has a different covering, but has this same structure as the Roman pagan red dragon beast before. This form of the same beast, is so that we will realize that it is essentially the same Roman paganistic power, but now working through that which calls itself the church. And note: that this beast has a name of blasphemy. Meaning that it identifies itself as the church, but it completely disrespects the Word of God and the Spirit of God.

“And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy.” ~ Revelation 13:1

And this beast also persecutes the true saints during this same 1,260 day period (or 42 months), which represents 1,260 years.

“[5] And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months. [6] And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven. [7] And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.” ~ Revelation 13:5-7

This is the earthly man rule kingdom of the beast, operating through the identity of the church. And so we also have in type in the Old Testament, a judgment that was placed upon the King of Babylon, to humble him and show him that he was nothing more than a beast before God. And this also happens for a 1,260 day period of time.

This happened for a time period of “seven times.” Which in this context, in Babylon, represents seven seasonal changes, with a seasonal change being from summer to winter, and then winter to summer. Amounting to two seasons per year. So the seven times amounts to three and a half years, or 1,260 days.

Note: The original word for “time” in the scriptures of Daniel have been up for much debate. The difficulty is that the original word does not specify any particular amount of time, but represents in general “time”. And the meaning can only be derived by being closely associated with the cultural norms that produce meaning for that word through the context of use. Many have tried to use translators from a century or two later, who were not of the Babylonian culture. But this is not an accurate way to get the true meaning. Some think that in this case it means a year. Yet the same word definitely does not mean a year in other cases within the same book of Daniel. The Greek translation speaks of it here as being “seasons”. And it is a known fact that ancient Babylon only recognized two seasons in a year.

“[30] The king spake, and said, Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom by the might of my power, and for the honour of my majesty? [31] While the word was in the king’s mouth, there fell a voice from heaven, saying, O king Nebuchadnezzar, to thee it is spoken; The kingdom is departed from thee. [32] And they shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field: they shall make thee to eat grass as oxen, and seven times shall pass over thee, until thou know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will. [33] The same hour was the thing fulfilled upon Nebuchadnezzar: and he was driven from men, and did eat grass as oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, till his hairs were grown like eagles’ feathers, and his nails like birds’ claws.” ~ Daniel 4:30-33

So for 1,260 days, the King of Babylon was made to behave like a beast. This was the judgment upon his pride. And after his judgment was completed, and he was humbled, he acknowledged the true God, and his power and authority to set up kingdoms and take them down at God’s will.

“[34] And at the end of the days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the most High, and I praised and honoured him that liveth for ever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom is from generation to generation: [35] And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?” ~ Daniel 4:34-35

And Nebuchadnezzar came to acknowledge the true King of kings, and Lord of lords.

“Now I Nebuchadnezzar praise and extol and honour the King of heaven, all whose works are truth, and his ways judgment: and those that walk in pride he is able to abase.” ~ Daniel 4:37

And so this prophetic 1,260 day period has been placed before us many times in prophecy. So that we might observe and learn the same lesson from what God has done in the past. May the Lord help us to not view the church as some kingdom ruled by men. But may we be respectful of the Word of God and the Spirit of God in our own lives, so that we would not bring upon ourselves the judgment of the prophetic 1,260 days!

The dispensational time periods of seven dispensations, is necessary to be able to justify the teachings of the rapture, and the future millennial reign of Christ on the Earth, which they claim is the 7th dispensation.

In Matthew the 24th chapter, when Jesus was asked the question, “What shall be the sign of your coming?” The first words of his answer were, “Take heed that no man deceive you.” The reason why he said this is because, end-times teachings are going to be used by many false ministers to deceive: especially in relation to the manner of Christ’s Kingdom and his second coming.

“Take heed that no man deceive you.”

Dispensational doctrine was originally presented by John Nelson Darby, and later codified into a reference version of the Bible that was developed by Dr C. I. Scofield.

So how will you know whether a particular end times teaching, like those put forth by Dispensationalism, is right or not? There are many things we need to be careful about when interpreting scripture, especially scripture that relates to prophecy.

Although they would claim otherwise, in reality Dispensationalism publishers choose when to ignore the known best practices for accurately interpreting scripture. This is so they can create their own interpretation, based on the manipulative and deceptive reinterpretation opinions of a few people. And they do this especially through the publication of the Scofield Reference Bible (heavily edited and annotated by Scofield), which many people trust as being “the gospel.”

And because most people themselves do not practice the known best practices for studying scripture, they are easily deceived into believing something else. Most people tend to prefer someone else’s interpretation, because it takes a lot less effort on their part. Consequently, they are easily deceived and led astray.

The Apostle Paul warned us in his epistle to Timothy, to not become lazy concerning studying the scriptures.

“Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers. Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.* ~ 2 Timothy 2:14-16

Dispensationalists claim that to rightly divide the Word, you also divide it into seven dispensations. Is that what is necessary to rightly divide the word?

Let’s talk about some of the basics for understanding scripture. There are two well known disciplines for studying scripture:

• Exegesis – an interpretive discipline that focuses primarily upon the word and grammar of scriptural texts.
• Hermeneutics – a discipline which seeks understanding thorough a knowledge of the original languages, the context of the ancient history during the writing of a particular scripture, and then also comparing that scripture with other scripture.

Included in these two disciplines, is the purpose of being careful to understand the full context (biblical, historical, language, semantics, cultural, etc.) of which the particular scripture is given.

But in addition to these two disciplines for interpretation, the Bible scriptures themselves have two additional witnesses that direct and inspire understanding. Witnesses that you will never find in any other ancient manuscript.

One, the scriptures are divinely influenced.

“Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” ~ 2 Peter 1:20-21

And so the scriptures contain the integrity of Almighty God himself in them. So this means, when scriptures are properly interpreted, they will not contradict the teachings of other scriptures in the Bible. Even though different scriptures were written in completely different times in history, and by authors of completely different backgrounds. The influence of God in the scriptures, keeps the teaching in them consistent, logical and spiritually sound across all the different books of the Bible. And when interpreted spiritually, they all point to and focus on the Son of God, Jesus Christ, as the one and only Savior, and as the fulfillment of all scripture.

Two, to understand the depth of the spiritual meaning contained within the scriptures, we need the Holy Spirit himself to witness and teach us in our heart and soul.

The Holy Spirit teaches more than just to the intellect of our minds. Using the Word, the Holy Spirit searches into the soul and spirit of the individual, and understands the intentions within their heart.

“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” ~ Hebrews 4:12

And so he teaches the individual, according to their spiritual need. And often in times of difficulty and hardship, the Holy Spirit speaks to our heart, and reveals to us the deeper meanings of sacrificial love that are contained within scriptural teachings. This is how the fullness of the revelation of Jesus Christ is accomplished. The fullness of the scriptural meaning is provided by God himself, through his Holy Spirit.

This is what Jesus told Peter, after Peter declared the revelation of who Jesus really is.

“And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.” ~ Matthew 16:16-17

It is the Holy Spirit that accurately knows how to apply the Word of God to an individual’s spiritual need, and reveal who Jesus Christ is to them.

Additionally, the Holy Spirit is the only one that is qualified to take the Word of God, and direct a ministry in how to preach it, and to apply it to the people that they serve. No seminary nor individual person has the authority to stand in the office of the Holy Spirit! This is why the Word of God is described as “the sword of the Spirit” and not the sword of the ministry.

“And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” ~ Ephesians 6:17

So to understand spiritual things, we need the scriptures in their original form, and accurately translated into our own language, without all the distractions and distortions of the Scofield Reference Bible. And we need the Holy Spirit to lead us into all truth, not the Scofield Reference Bible.

Jesus said:

“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” ~ John 16:13

True deep spiritual meanings from the scriptures, and especially from prophetic writings, requires the individual to compare spiritual things to spiritual. And that is impossible without the Holy Spirit!

“But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.” ~ 1 Corinthians 2:9-10

And God does not reveal things to anyone claiming to be a minister, if they are still wrestling with some contamination of sin in their life. The true Holy Spirit will not qualify an individual for the ministry, if they still have sin in their heart. Because they are not qualified to compare spiritual things to spiritual. So take heed who you allow to administer to you in spiritual things!

• “And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you” ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:12
• “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” ~ 1 John 4:1

As already stated, Dispensational doctrine teaches that the Bible is divided into seven dispensations:

1. Innocence – from the creation to the fall of man
2. Conscience – from the fall until the great flood
3. Human Government – from the tower of Babel until Abraham
4. Promise – from Abraham until Exodus from Egypt
5. Law – from Exodus until Jesus Christ
6. Grace – from the resurrection of Jesus Christ until the rapture of the church (for more information read: The Rapture Teaching, Is It True?)
7. Millennial Kingdom of Christ (for more information read: The Millennial Reign in Revelation Chapter 20)

Note: Remember Dispensationalists often interpret Bible scripture literally, and not spiritually.

Dispensationalists reject the idea that many of the promises made to Abraham, would be fulfilled in Christ’s first coming. To the contrary, they believe that many of the promises made to Abraham will be fulfilled in Jesus’ second coming, during their 7th dispensation: the millennial kingdom.

Classical dispensationalists refer to the present-day Church as a “parenthesis” or temporary interlude in the progress of Israel’s prophesied history. This view sees the Church age as having much less a connection with the preceding one of “law”, often standing in sharp contrast to it. The same may be said of the “kingdom” age that follows. Therefore they also believe that the church is not the fulfillment of the kingdom of God in the earth. Hence they believe in the need for a 7th disposition: an earthly millennial kingdom to come.

At the heart of Dispensation Theology is the belief that God’s program for the nation Israel is not the same as His program for the Church. Therefore they teach that the nation of Israel will later acknowledge Jesus Christ in the millennial kingdom on Earth, when most of the promises given to Israel in the Old Testament, will be fulfilled.

So now, let’s look at what the scriptures actually teach us about all this.

“Thy kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion endureth throughout all generations.” ~ Psalm 145:13

“Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the scepter of thy kingdom is a scepter of righteousness.” ~ Psalm 45:6

Two things are noted in this scripture:

1. The Kingdom of God is forever and ever. It existed before God created the Earth. And it still existed in the Old Testament. And it will continue to exist forever, because it is a spiritual kingdom.
2. Scepter here stands for the rod in the hand of the King, meaning the rule, or authority that the King governs by. God’s kingdom is ruled by his righteousness, through his son Jesus Christ. And Jesus Christ has always been: King of kings and Lord of lords, in the hearts of those who love him. This is the kingdom of God.

“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and forever.” ~ Hebrews 13:8

Dispensationalism openly and plainly refutes these (and many other) fundamental teachings of the scriptures. Dispensationalism claims that Christ’s kingdom has not been established yet, therefore their notion of the church is: Christians living under a type of grace where they still sin. They believe people on Earth cannot live holy sin-free lives, with the righteousness of God in them today.

When Jesus was on earth, his ministry was announced by John the Baptist, as he preached: “the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” And Jesus himself preached and brought the kingdom of heaven to Earth.

“In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” ~ Matthew 3:1-2

There is no sin in heaven. And that is why it was only Jesus that could bring the kingdom of heaven into the hearts of people on earth. The righteousness of God, through Jesus Christ, produces holiness in the hearts and lives of those who love him. Just like the way it is in heaven, where there is no sin.

“From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” ~ Matthew 4:17

When asked how to pray, Jesus told them to request that the will of God be done in his kingdom children on Earth, just like it is done in heaven.

“And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.” ~ Luke 11:2

But Jesus’s kingdom is a spiritual kingdom. It is where God reigns on the throne of our hearts.

“And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.” ~ Luke 17:20-21

Because it is a spiritual kingdom, it has always existed. Jesus made the way, by his sacrifice, so that we could be part of that spiritual kingdom. The earth is temporary. Therefore Jesus’s kingdom is not a literal kingdom on Earth.

“Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.” ~ John 18:36

Jesus’s kingdom is not of the earth, but it is within the hearts of those who dwell both on Earth, and in heaven. It is a spiritual kingdom that has existed forever within the hearts of those who love God. Through Jesus Christ, the spiritual kingdom includes both those on Earth and in heaven.

“That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:” ~ Ephesians 1:10

Dispensationalism uses the word “dispensation” to denote seven distinct and separate historical times in the existence of mankind on Earth. And Dispensationalism teaches that Jesus’ kingdom only comes into existence in the 7th dispensation, after the dispensation of grace and the church is raptured up to heaven.

Note: Dispensationalism teaches that the church and the kingdom are two separate things. Whereas Jesus Christ, and his apostles, taught that they are spiritually one in the same, through the holiness of God working in them.

“And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them. And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled. And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.” ~ John 17:10-16

Jesus’s prayer was answered by his heavenly Father. And so the church was established with God reigning in their hearts through love, as they became one with God. And that is the spiritual Kingdom of God, brought down to earth. Both in heaven and on Earth, it is the same kingdom. And so when the true church is gathered together to worship, it is described as a heavenly place in Christ Jesus.

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love” ~ Ephesians 1:3-4

This has been the plan of God all along, even before the foundation of the world. And so when he created Adam and Eve, the kingdom of God existed within Adam and Eve’s heart, before they gave into the temptation of Satan. And so Jesus Christ came to re-establish the fullness of the kingdom of heaven on Earth again, within the hearts of men and women

Dispensationalists teach that Jesus will return again to establish a literal physical kingdom on Earth during the millennial. But Jesus plainly stated before he died, that he had finished the work that he came to do on the earth:

• “I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.” ~ John 17:4
• “When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.” ~ John 19:30

Now Dispensationalism claims that there are seven time periods pertaining to the world of mankind. And these seven different time periods are called dispensations.

In the Bible, the word “dispensation” never refers to a period of time. Its actual meaning is “a stewardship,” “the act of dispensing,” “an administration.” The word “dispensation” is not used in the Old Testament at all. And in the New Testament it is only found in: 1 Corinthians 9:17; Ephesians 1:10; 3:2; and Colossians 1:25. You will not find in the Bible the term: “seven dispensations”.

In Colossians the Apostle Paul speaks about the responsibility given him for preaching, and revealing the fullness of the gospel. This dispensation (or stewardship, or administrative responsibility) was placed upon Paul when God showed him by revelation, that the gentiles would also be gathered together in Christ.

“Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus” ~ Colossians 1:25-28

The purpose of this dispensation of the gospel that was given to Paul, was so that the spiritual perfection of holiness might be produced, even in the gentiles.

Jesus Christ is the central point for the kingdom of heaven, which is the spiritual kingdom of God, being established within the heart. And when he establishes the kingdom in the heart, by the love of God in our hearts, we become one with the kingdom, through Christ Jesus.

“Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” ~ John 17:20-23

The full Gospel of Jesus Christ, is the gospel of the kingdom. Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of all the Old Testament covenant promises. And so the New Testament covenant includes all the Old Testament in spiritual fulfillment through Christ. Fulfilling the completeness of the gospel of the heavenly kingdom, within the hearts of people on earth.

“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” ~ Matthew 24:14

The Gospel of the Kingdom has covered much of the world already. In the final end of the world, everyone with the kingdom in their heart, will continue in the kingdom that has already existed, before the foundation of the world. But the world and it’s sufferings and temptations, will come to a final end.

“Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world” ~ Matthew 25:34

Dispensational teachings have only been around for roughly a hundred and fifty years. It is just one of many deceptions that Jesus warned us would come into existence, towards the end of time.

Finally, in the gospels and the Acts of the Apostles, Jesus referred to the kingdom more than one hundred times; and only twice to the church. His salvation message, and church message, was a kingdom message. And it was clear that it already existed then when Jesus instructed a certain scribe:

“And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but he: And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices. And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question.” ~ Mark 12:32-34

Jesus told him he was not far from the kingdom, because he knew now what was needed in his heart, to enter into the kingdom. And because the Kingdom was there, waiting for him to enter in.

And so now, we also know what is needed to enter into the Kingdom today. Have we entered into the Kingdom of God?

Satan wants you to wait. But Jesus wants you to believe the promises given to Abraham has already been fulfilled, and today you can live in holiness and righteousness.

“To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant; The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life.” ~ Luke 1:72-75

This kingdom of holiness and righteousness in the heart, was reestablished when Jesus first came. And it continues even until today, within the hearts of those who faithfully love and obey him.

If we are married, or thinking of getting married, marriage is intended to be part of our calling in the Lord. Since most people (deep in their heart) don’t know what a calling is anymore, they think marriage is like modern-day church organizations. You pick and choose which one best suits you, and for what you want in life. God’s purpose and calling, in actual practice, is secondary.

Serving God is supposed to be according to his calling, his time, and his purpose. But since most people don’t have a sense of answering a call, (a call that might cross their personal perception of a good purpose): they also don’t have a sense of devotion in marriage, when it may cross their personal preferences. The marriage between Jesus Christ and his church is according to those who answer his calling: to fulfill obedience to his Word, and to bring forth new faithful spiritual children. And Jesus gave the ultimate sacrifice for that relationship to exist. So why would we think of a Christian marriage as being different?

According to the Bible, true love is a long-term commitment to God’s calling. But, according to human fleshly thinking, marriage is a mutual benefit agreement and evaluation-decision process. And when most of society follows the human fleshly method, it is actually a clear sign of an impending judgment coming from the Lord. This is what the Lord said, prior to his announcement to Noah of the final destruction of the world by a flood. God was grieved and very disappointed in being left out of relationship decisions.

“And it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born unto them, That the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair; and they took them wives of all which they chose. And the Lord said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years.” ~ Genesis 6:2-3

It is clear that God was deeply offended by being left out of the marriage decision. Consequently, his Spirit would withdraw from mankind because he was not wanted in their relationships. The spiritual integrity of relationships means everything to God! And it starts with the integrity of the relationship with God himself.

True Christianity is all about true relationships that start with a true relationship with Almighty God. Then God wants us to seek and inquire with Him for our lives direction and purpose, including our marriage. We know that the first marriage that ever was, was completely ordered by almighty God, according to his calling. The relationship between Adam and Eve was modeled according to, and as an extension to, the original spiritual relationship between God and mankind. (Remember, God is a spirit, and he created mankind in his own spiritual image. So the spiritual life of Adam came when God: “breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.” God is true life, and he created that life in mankind, from a part of himself.)

So we read in Genesis 2:15-24

[15] And the LORD God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it. [16] And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: [17] But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. 18 And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.

(Note: “help meet” means in the original – a helper comparable to him. Notice that God’s plan was completely according to his calling and purpose for this relationship. First mankind was an extension of God by the spirit. Next he had a calling for Adam in the Earth, to take care of the garden of Eden: the place where God would commune with man. And Eve was being called to that same purpose, as Adam’s helper.)

[19] And out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof. [20] And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him. [21] And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; [22] And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.

(Notice that the Lord makes the distinction that the animals came from the ground, but Eve came from the side of Adam. Also notice that Eve was created from out of the side of Adam, just as the church was created out of the side of Jesus Christ: when the soldier pierced his side and his blood spilled upon the earth. The same blood that would cleanse and purchase the church for Jesus Christ.)

[23] And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. [24] Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.

And so God made mankind originally in his own image, by breathing the breath of life from his very self into mankind. Showing that they started out with the same spirit, consequently they were of the same spiritual body. So notice that Eve was not only of the same spirit, but also of the same flesh and blood. That is why the description of cleaving to one another is used. Because it is to reflect also what needs to happen in the spiritual life of mankind with God, and amongst one another in the family of God.

If you feel that this language, and the thought I’m using seems strange to you, it actually comes from the New Testament also. Let me read it to you in Ephesians the 5th chapter.

Ephesians 5:25-33

[25] Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; [26] That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, [27] That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

(Remember how God presented Eve to Adam, so Christ is presenting the church to himself.)

[28] So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. [29] For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: [30] For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.

(Note: the description of the bride of Christ, and the body of Christ, are not two different spiritual analogies. They are actually the same one! Because the bride of Christ, in the spirit, is of the same body, flesh, and bones. And that is why the Apostle Paul uses both descriptions of this relationship through Christ, in this one scripture in Ephesians. This is why it states that the husband should love the wife as his own body, because they are supposed to be one.)

[31] For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.

(Note: that many family problems are a result of not following this teaching of leaving one family to be joined to their companion. It is a mistake to try to make your marriage companion, and children, become like the family that you came from. Additionally, there needs to be healthy boundaries of responsibility and purpose between the family they came from, and the new family they are forming together. The new family is a completely new family. Formulated from the husband and the wife, and the children that they bring forth. And the old family needs to respect those differences.)

[32] This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.

(Just because you can intellectually conceptualize this thought, doesn’t mean that you spiritually understand it. Therefore the Apostle Paul gives the following instruction: to truly spiritually understand something, you do that by putting it to practice in your life, by faith.)

[33] Nevertheless, let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

The problem is that Satan gets people to get their eyes off of their calling, and to start focusing on a mutual benefits vision for their life. And the problem is that too many, right around the church, tend to also have this mutual benefits vision for their relationships: both with their companion, and with the rest of the church.

And so with this mutual benefits vision, they make decisions about where they will live, where they work, where they go to church, and who they want to marry, and stay married to. If we are truly the church, we are supposed to be married to the calling of Jesus Christ. What was Jesus’ calling? It was to labor for, and be a sacrifice for the lost to be saved. Are we answering our husband’s call? Are we the help mate of Jesus Christ? Or has our vision for the church become a mutual benefits program?

Because of what mankind did in their bad relationship decisions before the great flood, Abraham was careful about the companion that his son Isaac would have. He wanted his son’s marriage relationship to be according to the call of Almighty God. And for them to cleave together as one according to that call.

Genesis 24: 3 and 6

[3] And I will make thee swear by the Lord, the God of heaven, and the God of the earth, that thou shalt not take a wife unto my son of the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell:… …[6] And Abraham said unto him, Beware thou that thou bring not my son thither again.

Abraham gave directions to his servant, both times, according to the calling of God:

1. Select a woman with a godly vision for her life.
2. Keep my son where God has called him.

And Abraham’s servant did exactly what he was instructed to do.

Genesis 24:12-14

[12] And he said O LORD God of my master Abraham, I pray thee, send me good speed this day, and show kindness unto my master Abraham. [13] Behold, I stand here by the well of water; and the daughters of the men of the city come out to draw water: [14] And let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast shewed kindness unto my master…

So we see that everything about this relationship and marriage, was determined to be ordered by God’s calling.

But as time would go on, we would see often that mankind would go back to making decisions for their relationships based on a mutual benefit vision, instead of a calling.

Important note: The mutual benefit vision is essentially the “hireling” vision. Or the way that an employee makes a decision about working for someone else. It is for the benefits that both the employee and the employer receives. But the relationship is not considered permanent. When times get difficult, either can break that relationship if they perceive the value of the benefits are not worth it.

“I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.” ~ John 10:11-13

The hireling has no ownership in the long-term calling and purpose of Almighty God in their decision making. Thank God Jesus took full ownership of the responsibility for our salvation’s need. In fact, as it says in Ephesians, he gave his life for his marriage to us!

Do we have the same kind of complete commitment to Jesus Christ, and to his church in the Earth: the body of Christ and the Bride of Christ? Do we treat every true congregation in the Lord as “bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh”? Do we treat every member of the local congregation as “bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh”? If that truly is our calling and our commitment, it will have a huge impact on the unity of the church, and the common love and care for everyone in the body of Christ. But I’m afraid that for too many, fellowship across congregations has become a mutual benefit evaluation, causing certain ones to have favorite congregations, and favorite fellowships. And then this also gets reflected by the clicks of people who prefer to fellowship one another even within a local congregation. May God help us to get our vision clear! And treat the whole body of Christ as: “bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh!” And when the wolf comes to try to tear us apart, may we have the bold courage to stand up for our brother and our sister!

So a calling is based on a long-term ownership in the relationship.

• I belong to the Lord’s Church
• I belong to my companion
• These children are mine forever
• This calling is mine from Almighty God above
• I have left my previous family to form a new family, according to God’s call

Based on the calling, we will go about our relationships with a very different vision and purpose at their very foundational start, and we stay with them until the end.

Even though we may have come out of a family that seems to be held together in a functional way, most families have come together, and attempt to continue to operate, based on the mutual benefits vision. And consequently they have built into them more “calling dysfunctionality” then they recognize in themselves. And because the family is not focused on their calling, the Lord is not closely involved with the family.

And so we have to re-orient our vision to the calling of the Lord. Otherwise we continue to operate with too much dysfunctional fruit in our relationships and our lives. Because we lack the vision of sacrificial love in our mutual benefits vision.

And so, the apostle Paul recognized that most relationships do not come together by calling. And even if they do, they have trouble staying focused on their calling. Therefore he said:

“This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Nevertheless let everyone of you in particular so love his wife even as himself, and the wife see that she reverence her husband.” ~ Ephesians 5:32-33

When Adam and Eve were created, their eyes of their desire was on God, and towards each other. They had no one else to compare each other to. And they had no other “family ways” to try to bring into their new marriage. But then Satan came along to try to get them to change the focus their desire, to comparing to something else. And the rest of what happened, is now history.

The reality is that most couples start out only having eyes for one another. But then if their vision is a mutual benefits vision, they start comparing each other to someone else, or some other family. And one thing is for certain when they do this, that their desire is also not looking towards God at that time.

Characteristics of a “mutual benefits vision” creating a dysfunctional family (and a dysfunctional church):

• Problem resolution passes through the process of the “blame game” – which in reality does not ever really resolve.
• Authority and control in the home often is established through fear and bullying tactics (which can be masked in a variety of techniques). Instead of respect being earned through sacrificial love, and sincere consideration.
• The family is often trying to “fit in” with other perceived “functional families”, so that the pain of their own dysfunctionality is hidden from everyone else.
• Without respected boundaries of responsibility, a co-dependence formulates within the dysfunctional family, blurring boundaries of responsibility. And people on the outside often mistaken this for a close family. When in reality, it is a family that will suddenly fall apart when a real tragedy affects them. The imbalance of co-dependence actually creates a weak family, because they have lost their ability and faith to depend upon God, and to take on personal responsibility!

In 1 Corinthians chapter 7 the Apostle Paul recognized that many families coming to the Lord had a lot of dysfunctional practices and ways of relating to one another. And some of this was even worse when one part of the family was not saved, further complicating the relationship.

1 Corinthians 7:10-17

[10] And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: [11] But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife. [12] But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away. [13] And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not leave him. [14] For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy. [15] But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases : but God hath called us to peace. [16] For what knowest thou, O wife, whether thou shalt save thy husband? or how knowest thou, O man, whether thou shalt save thy wife? [17] But as God hath distributed to every man, as the Lord hath called every one, so let him walk. And so ordain I in all churches.

So notice here what he says: “as the Lord has called everyone.” So, it does not matter how we may have come into a marriage: when we have been saved, we are to work to reflect the heavenly vision that God has for his family. It can be difficult. And often one member of the relationship may not be saved. Nevertheless, we take responsibility before God, and his calling, how we personally behave in that relationship.

Note: There is much more to be said about the full subject of marriage, divorce, and remarriage: covered in 1st Corinthians the 7th chapter. I have covered that in detail already in another article published at: https://truebibledoctrine.org/2020/02/14/marriage-divorce-and-remarriage-scripture-study/

So in addition to the advice above, the scriptures also give a lot of other advice of how to work together in relationships, including family relationships:

Listening:

“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.” ~ James 1:19-20

Self-denial:

“And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” ~ Luke 9:23

Long-suffering and forbearing:

“With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love” ~ Ephesians 4:2

“Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.” ~ Colossians 3:12-14

Considering one another’s weaknesses:

“Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered. Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.” ~ 1 Peter 3:7-9

“Deprive ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.” ~ 1 Corinthians 7:5

Not controlling one another:

“Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.” ~ 1 Peter 5:3

“But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:” ~ Matthew 20:26-27

Being kind:

“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another” ~ Romans 12:10

“She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.” ~ Proverbs 31:26

“Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.” ~ Proverbs 31:28

Both very active in the raising of children:

“And ye shall teach them your children, speaking of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.” ~ Deuteronomy 11:19

“That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.” ~ Titus 2:4-5

Both providing for the home:

“But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.” 1 Timothey 5:8

“She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.” ~ Proverbs 31:27

Forgiving:

“Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.” ~ Matthew 18:21-22

“Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” ~ Ephesians 4:31-32

Just like today’s many divided church organizations and groups that oppose “heaven’s view” of one way, one faith, and one church: so it was when Jesus walked on the earth and first preached the Gospel.

So let’s look a little more into how divided the “church groups” of the first century were.

In the traditional view the Sadducees were from the Hellenized Jewish upper class, which supported stable conditions and the prevailing social order, and whose religion was reasonable and worldly. The Sadducees did not, for example, believe in life after death.

In the opinion of the Pharisees holiness was not only for the priests and the Temple. By observing the purity code of the Law, every member of the people of God might participate in the holiness of God. In the interpretation of the written Law the Pharisees had the help of the so-called ‘Oral Law’, i.e. oral tradition consisting of explanations of the Law which was thought to go back to Moses himself.

The Essenes were a protest movement which withdrew from the world. They believed that the high priest of the Jerusalem Temple was elected on false pretences, which invalidated the whole Temple cult. In addition, the calendar used by the Essenes and their way of interpreting and observing the Law of Moses differed from the rest of Judaism. The Essene community of Qumran saw itself as the only true Israel, “children of light” as distinct from the “children of darkness” and their corrupt religious practices.

The Zealots (Greek zelotes, ‘zealot’) was a general term for a person who was zealous for a cause, in particular for the religious group he belonged to. One of Jesus’ twelve disciples was Simon who bore this nickname. Later the name Zealots came to refer to a rebel organization which supported armed resistance to Rome. This group only became a united, recognizable party just before the Jewish War.

In the 1st century, scribes and Pharisees were two largely distinct groups, though presumably some scribes were Pharisees. Scribes had knowledge of the law and could draft legal documents (contracts for marriage, divorce, loans, inheritance, mortgages, the sale of land, and the like). Every village had at least one scribe. Their legalistic opinions often came in opposition to the true spiritual view Jesus presented.

The word ‘rabbi’ means ‘my master’, and is used by students to address teachers of the Jewish Torah. In the New Testament it describes the community of religious teachers of that time, who helped people understand the scriptures. Rabbis would gather a group of adherents around them and teach by example as much as by discourse. Their disciples lived alongside each rabbi, devoting themselves to the rabbi’s teaching and were guided by them as they worked out rabbinical teachings in practice, much as an apprentice learns by doing what their mentor does. These also formed strong opinions about scripture and religious practice that came in conflict with others, including Jesus.

And then there were the Samaritans. According to Samaritan tradition, Mount Gerizim (of their land) was the original Holy Place of the Israelites from the time that Joshua conquered Canaan and the tribes of Israel settled the land. Samaritans claim they are Israelite descendants of the Northern Israelite tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, who survived the destruction of the Kingdom of Israel (Samaria) by the Assyrians in 722 BCE. The Jews and the Samaritans were so opposed to each other’s claims that they would not even talk to one another.

Finally there were the Jews dispersed throughout the whole then world, in different pagan cities where they had their synagogues where they would regularly meet. And wherever you have people congregating, you have leaders and strong opinions about the local administration and how to operate, just as you do today.

How could “heaven’s divine order” ever be brought down to earth in the middle of this human controlled, opinionated, and divided mess?

You could take this same first century order and apply it to what today calls itself in a broad sense: “Christianity”.

“Today’s notion of Christianity is a broad-based community divided into several different denominational organizations and groups, each of which has its own views concerning the true Christian way of life. On the other hand, certain very basic beliefs are common to them all.”

Jesus’ heavenly ordered Kingdom was brought into power during the days of divided Judaism (and the divisional agendas and leadership of each group). So consequently there are many lessons and examples documented in the Bible to help us today to overcome divided Christianity, and to bring back the clarity and oneness of Jesus’ heavenly Kingdom. A Kingdom that reflects how things are ordered in heaven above.

Seven things that Jesus did to Overcome the Religious Groups of His Days on Earth:

(1). Repent and align your lives with heaven, for the Kingdom of Heaven (the kingdom according to how it is in heaven) is at hand (which John the Baptist also preached). It didn’t matter what group you were part of. The message was the same: repent and forsake your sins. He taught them to align their lives with heaven, because there is no sin in heaven.

“In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” ~ Matthew 3:1-2

He did not teach them that an earthly kingdom was coming in the future. He told them that the savior was bringing the kingdom of heaven down to reside within them.

“From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” ~ Matthew 4:17

And so when he taught them to pray, he taught them to ask that the will of the Father be done in them, just like it is done in heaven.

“And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.” ~ Luke 11:2

(2). He taught that we needed a new heart and Spirit to be able to fully consecrate and fulfill the completeness of the Kingdom of Heaven on the Earth. Without the Spirit of God ruling the individual, the carnal human is not able to continue to contain the will of heaven. The carnal-fleshly human (without being filled with the Holy Spirit) will break under the pressure of following the gospel in the midst of a wicked world full of hypocrisy.

“And no man putteth new wine into old bottles: else the new wine doth burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the bottles will be marred: but new wine must be put into new bottles.” ~ Mark 2:22

When they harvested the juice from the grapes, they had to put it into new wine skins, so that the wine skins could stretch when the wine fermented. And so he was saying that the old human fleshly condition could not “stretch” enough to handle the will of heaven within them. They would need a new spirit. Their own spirit would need to fully yield to the Holy Spirit.

“And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” ~ Matthew 3:10-12

“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the spirit… … For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the spirit the things of the spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the spirit, if so be that the spirit of God dwell in you…” ~ Romans 8:1 & 5-9

(3). Jesus corrected the incorrect interpretations of scripture that groups had created for their own benefit and identity (to the detriment of those outside “the group”). Incorrect interpretations of scripture hinder true obedience to the faith and the true fullness of spiritual life in the believers. Jesus addressed:

• Marriage, divorce, and adultery
• The Resurrection
• The Kingdom of God
• Outward show of religion vs what is in the heart
• And more…
• (And now the many organizations and groups of churches, have again created many more incorrect interpretations of scripture, that we must address today.)

(4). Jesus called and taught a ministry to fulfill the work of the Kingdom of Heaven – (he did not call a ministry to form another separate group – nor to work under group control). He established leadership and disciples with different gifts and responsibilities. He sent them forth under a calling by faith, and not under the direction and support of an earthly headquarters, or a bishop overseer who controlled what work the Holy Spirit could do and through whom and when, within a large geographic area encompassing many regions of a nation. And unlike the Groups of his day, He did not establish a hierarchical organization with a centralized earthly headquarters.

“And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us. And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us.” ~ Luke 9:49-50

“And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles” ~ Luke 6:12-13 (Note: the ministry was called and sent, even by Jesus, by much prayer. Not by a educational seminary that would give them a certificate. Nor by a group of men sitting down and planning and making decisions like they would for a building project.)

“And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give. Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat. And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence.” ~ Matthew 10:7-11 (Note: the disciples were called and sent without support from an organizing headquarters. Although they may have received temporary help from other brothers as they launched into a new place. In the long-term they were to be supported by those that they were sent to minister to, and by prayer and faith in God’s ability to supply for their needs.)

(5). He showed the greatest love towards all people by dying for them on the cross. And he instructed his disciples to be willing to do the same.

“This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” ~ John 15:12-14

(6). He empowered the Kingdom of Heaven to fully respond to God’s calling when he sent the Holy Spirit into the hearts and lives of the fully consecrated ones. This did not fulfill an earthly purpose as they supposed, but rather a spiritual purpose, completely under the timing and direction of the Holy Spirit. And they were commanded to “wait” and to not move until the Holy Spirit filled them, and moved them.

“And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” ~ Acts 1:4-8

(7). People were expected to leave organizations that have pagan practices (under any name, including pagan practices under the name of “Christianity”). So he had his disciples teach, “come out from among them and be separate”. Do not mix with pagan sinful practices, nor worship an idol of: a thing, a person, a spiritual gift, a way of doing things, or a teaching. Only worship God! God is not pleased with a mixed worship where the majority are hypocrites, who in their hearts are really worshiping something else, and essentially are worshiping Satan.

“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” ~ 2 Corinthians 6:14-18

They were not to allow hypocrites to come in among them and start teaching false doctrines. That is what he warned the church in Smyrna concerning.

“And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan.” ~ Revelation 2:8-9

One of the final purposes of the final book of Revelation is to again separate God’s people from the hypocrites.

“And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.” ~ Revelation 18:4-5

The places they would eventually have to leave, would also be the place of their group identity, because Jesus pronounced final judgment upon all their Jewish “church” groups:

(Jesus was grieved, just as we will be when the reality sets in that the group is not willing to align itself fully with heaven.) “And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.” ~ Luke 19:41-42

“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.” ~ Matthew 23:37-38

“And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee; and the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all in thee:…” ~ Revelation 18:23

Why does God judge so strongly a place that will not allow for his heavenly vision for the pure bride of Christ, the church, to come down and exist on Earth? Because this is not just about what you are physically joined to, but also about who you are spiritually joined to!

“Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid. What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh. But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” ~ 1 Corinthians 6:15-20

So, are we able to follow Jesus’ way, and overcome today the divisions of many “Christian” organizations and groups; and then pray as Jesus instructed us: “Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.” Can we be heaven on earth – the heavenly Jerusalem spoken of in Revelation chapter 21? That was the kind of church that Jesus established some 2000 years ago. Will we allow Jesus to bring down heaven into us individually and collectively today?

The opening of the seals of Revelation reveals a spiritual battle against hypocrisy, and a spiritual battle plan to defeat hypocrisy. The first four seals showed us how the battle unfolded during the Gospel day. The fifth seal shows us the result: true Christians have been persecuted by those claiming to be the “church”. And the sixth seal shows us how Jesus Christ begins to “clean house” again of hypocrisy. There comes a day when everything that was done in secret gets exposed!

The seals of Revelation can only be opened by the Lamb of God, because it is only through his salvation that one’s eyes can be opened to understand spiritual things. And so this video covers the opening of the first four seals which were introduced each one by one of the living creatures of Revelation, as they would say “come and see”. And as they were opened we see a spiritual warfare unfolding before our eyes, with the symbols of horses and their particular riders characteristics, portraying to us the type of spiritual battle being fought. Do we have eyes to “see” what Jesus is opening up?

The seven seals of the Revelation can only be opened to our understanding by the Lamb of God, starting with when he delivers us from sin and opens our spiritual eyes. Then we can begin to see the spiritual warfare the church faces, and the seven day “Gospel day” battle plan within Revelation to defeat the deception of spiritual Babylon. This introduction video to the seven seals actually introduces us to most of the rest of the Revelation message. As the seals begin in chapter 6, and they are completed with pouring out of the vials of God’s wrath and the destruction of spiritual Babylon in chapter 18.

After the letters to the seven churches of Revelation were given to John, next he found himself spiritually in a heavenly worship service, with Almighty God on the throne, and with the Lamb at his right hand. Also at his right hand is the book that is sealed with seven seals. This book is the Revelation of Jesus Christ message – sealed so that no one can understand it. Only Jesus, identified here as the Lamb of God, is worthy to open understanding into this book. Like John, you must come humbly to Christ, in tears, desiring to see and understand. And once you see the Lamb who was sacrificed for you, as your only hope for having the needed spiritual eyes to see, then you also will weep for his full revelation. A revelation that will reach to the very depths of your heart and soul need! Are you there yet?

The cherubim first spoken of within Revelation starting in chapter 4, have actually been spoken of many times throughout the Bible. First starting in Genesis, and also in numerous references to the establishment of the cherubim in the Tabernacle and Solomon’s Temple. And they are mentioned even more in prophesy: by David, by Isaiah, and especially by Ezekiel, and even Daniel. The visions are clear and agree in one prophetic purpose: the cherubim are for the spiritual chariot of God. This chariot is also one of God’s visions given for his Church: to overcome hypocrisy and to take the Gospel to a lost and spiritually dying world.

The message and lesson from Jesus’ letters to the seven churches of Revelation: the door of sacrificial love is still open. And when you are spiritually able to enter into that heavenly place of worship, you will find the presence of God on his throne. Are you able to enter through that open door? Have you cast your crown before the throne of God, allowing him to choose his purpose for your life?