REVIVAL—IS IT COMING?
From
India to America, from America to Africa the voices ring out that revival is
coming. From short wave radio, to the mud brick churches in third-world countries,
to Christian television broadcasting, preachers are proclaiming, "Revival
is coming!" Several questions need to be asked:
Is a great revival going to come before the Rapture or not?
Is the statement that a great revival is coming before the
Rapture based on Scripture, hope, or falsehood?
Has Satan deceived people regarding a great revival coming
before the Rapture in order to hide a message that God has for His people? Read
on—you might get a surprise.
(Subjects in this Section)
1-PROPHECIES
CONCERNING THE CHURCH
2-FALSE CHRISTS
AND FALSE PROPHETS BEFORE THE RAPTURE
3-HOW
PEOPLE’S REACTION TO GOD’S WORD WOULD BE BEFORE THE RAPTURE
4-PEOPLE WOULD
BE LEAVING THE FAITH, FALLING AWAY
5-FALSE FORMS OF WORSHIP
6-SPEAKING AGAINST GOD
7-SIN AND EVIL: HOW
THE PEOPLE WOULD BE
8-HOW THE PEOPLE WOULD BE OVERALL
9-HOW THE CLERGY WOULD BE
10-PERTAINING TO KNOWING THE
TIMES
11-WHAT THE PEOPLE
WOULD BE LIKE WITHIN THEMSELVES
12-WHAT
PEOPLE WOULD BE LIKE TOWARD OTHERS
13-PEOPLE WOULD
BE FOLLOWING THESE SINFUL LIFESTYLES
14-PEOPLE WOULD
BE GOING ABOUT BUSINESS AS USUAL, AS IF NOTHING WAS
ABOUT
TO HAPPEN
15-OTHER ITEMS ABOUT THE PEOPLE
16-PEOPLE WOULD NOT BE DOING THIS
17-HOW THE WORLD WOULD
BE REGARDING EVIL
18-THE
CONDITION OF THE CHURCH AS THE RAPTURE DRAWS NEAR
19-PEOPLE
FALLING AWAY FROM TRUE TRUST IN JESUS CHRIST: PEOPLE FALLING
AWAY
FROM THE TRUTH
20-COMMENTARY—2ND THES 2
21-REVIVAL
NOT COMING DURING THE LAODICEAN CHURCH AGE
22-THE LUKEWARM CHURCH OF TODAY
23-WARNING
24-BAD THINGS
25-ADVICE ON WHAT TO DO
26-SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
|
The last church age would be neither hot or cold, but lukewarm. |
|
The last church age, many would not be
warning about Jesus returning to rapture His
people. |
Many will come professing
to be Christ.
The false Christs shall deceive many.
Many false prophets shall come.
The false prophets shall deceive many.
The false Christs and false prophets shall show great signs, wonders, and miracles.
Without any question, the Scriptures from which these
titles are taken reflect no revival, but rather deception.
People would be ever learning
but not able to understand the truth.
People would be willingly ignorant of the truth.
People would resist the truth.
These would be depraved, unprincipled, of corrupt minds.
People would not receive the love of the truth.
People would not endure sound doctrine.
People would turn away from God’s Word and follow things that are untrue.
People would forget that the world was destroyed by water.
People would gather around themselves teachers to say what they want to hear.
Without any
question, the Scriptures from which these titles are taken reflect
no revival. Instead, we see people resisting the truth, not enduring sound
doctrine, and gathering around themselves preachers and teachers to say what
they want to hear.
Some would forsake the
faith of Jesus Christ.
Some would fall away from the faith of Jesus Christ.
Some servants of God would begin to smite their fellow servants.
Some servants of God would begin to eat and drink with the drunken.
Without any question, the Scriptures from which these
titles are taken reflect no revival. Rather they reflect the opposite of revival—that
of falling away from God’s Word. What is the opposite of falling away? It is
revival. Could it be that Satan is concealing the truth of the falling away
with the lie of revival? Is it possible he has been so skillful at doing this
that even some of the most respected Bible teachers have been deceived in this
matter?
Some that follow Jesus
would turn and follow devils.
Some would worship devils.
Some would worship the work of their hands.
Some would worship idols of gold.
Some would worship idols of silver.
Some would worship idols of brass.
Some would worship idols of stone.
Some would worship idols of wood.
Without any question, the Scriptures from which these
titles are taken reflect no revival, but rather people being greatly deceived.
Ungodly sinners would
speak against God.
Definitely no revival indicated here.
People would be ungodly
and doing ungodly deeds.
People would be unholy.
Women would be laden with sins.
The world would be increasingly evil.
Sin shall abound and increase.
The wickedness of the people would be great.
The transgressors or people’s wickedness would come to the full.
Without any
question, the Scriptures from which these titles are taken reflect
no revival. Rather they reflect the opposite of revival. These portray people
becoming more and more sinful. All one has to do is compare how people were
40 years ago with how they are today to prove these Scriptures are true.
People would not love
God as much as pleasures.
People would have an outer form of godliness but denying Jesus.
People would be scoffers or mockers regarding the return of Jesus.
People would be questioning the promise of the coming of Jesus Christ.
Some of God’s people would say, "My Lord delayeth His coming."
Very few people would be following God’s ways and be saved.
Without any question, there is no evidence of revival here.
Clergy would be lying.
Clergy would be committing adultery.
Clergy would be strengthening those who do evil, so that they do not repent.
Clergy would be saying, "I have dreamed."
Clergy would try to cause God’s people to forget His name.
Clergy would steal or repeat each other’s words.
Without any
question, the Scriptures from which these titles are taken reflect
no revival. Rather they portray the clergy becoming more and more deceived,
more and more sinful.
The wicked shall not
understand the latter days or time of the end.
Those that do not watch will not understand the time of the end.
Many will not understand in their heart that the coming of Jesus is very close.
Without any question, the Scriptures from which these
titles are taken reflect no revival. They reflect a people that do not understand
that the coming of the Lord is very near.
People would have no
conscience of doing wrong.
People would love themselves.
People would be covetous and lovers of money.
People would be proud.
People would despise those that do good.
People would be conceited.
People would love pleasures.
People would have pleasure in doing evil.
Women would be weak-willed in resisting sin (including sex).
Women would be involved in all kinds of evil lusts and desires.
People would be walking after their own lusts.
People would be very worldly and controlled by their natural instincts and impulses.
Many people’s love would grow colder and colder.
People’s imaginations and thoughts would be evil continually.
Without any
question, the Scriptures from which these titles are taken reflect
no revival. They reflect a world that is getting further and further away from
the truth of God’s Word.
People would be hypocritical
liars.
People would be very boastful.
People would falsely accuse one another.
People would be insulting and abusive.
People would be disobedient to their parents.
People would be unthankful and ungrateful.
People would be trucebreakers.
People would be arrogant.
People would be without self-control.
People would be savage, violent, and cruel
People would be traitors.
People would be rash, impetuous, reckless, and doing things with little thought.
People would be murmuring and grumbling.
People would be complaining and finding fault with others.
People would use flattery to gain an advantage.
People would kill the just, even when they do not resist.
People would be committing murders.
People would be stealing.
People would try to cause divisions between the saints.
People would betray one another.
People would hate each other.
Without any question, the Scriptures from which these
titles are taken reflect no revival. They reflect a world that is turning away
from God and His Word.
People would be homosexuals
and lesbians.
Many would have sex outside of marriage.
People would be going after their own lusts.
People would follow perversion.
People would commit abominations.
Without any question, the Scriptures from which these
titles are taken reflect no revival. Rather they reflect a very deceived and
perverted society.
People would be getting
married, as if nothing was going to happen.
People would still be giving away their offspring to be married.
People would still be eating, as if nothing was going to happen.
People would still be drinking, as if nothing was going to happen.
People would still be getting drunk.
People would be buying things, as if nothing was going to happen.
People would be selling things, as if nothing was going to happen.
People would be planting, as if nothing was going to happen.
People would be building, as if nothing was going to happen.
Without any question, the Scriptures from which these
titles are taken reflect no revival. Rather they reflect people oblivious to
the fact that Jesus will soon come to rapture the few people that are still
following Him.
People would be overindulging.
People would have an abundance.
People would have lots of idle time.
People would be taking drugs.
Men would enter the houses of women to seduce them.
People would be laying up wealth.
People would be laying up gold and silver.
People would be running to and fro (or going here and there).
Employers would be holding back the wages of workers.
The employers would hold back the wages by fraud.
Those cheating the laborers would be living in pleasure and leading a life of
self-indulgence.
People would have filthy conversation.
People would be doing things that are wrong or unlawful.
People would be as those of Sodom and Gomorrah.
People would not be hiding their sin.
Without any question, the Scriptures from which these
titles are taken reflect no revival. These picture people becoming more and
more sinful. These picture people that are so corrupt that they do not even
hide their sin. These reveal that people have no understanding of right and
wrong according to God’s Word.
People would not be repenting
in great numbers just before the Rapture.
Many would not help the poor and needy.
Without any question, the Scriptures from which these
titles are taken reflect there will be no revival.
The earth would be corrupt.
The earth would be filled with violence.
The earth would have more and more totally uninhibited, senseless, violent,
unreasonable people committing unspeakable acts.
Witchcraft, in various forms, would increase throughout the earth.
Without any question, the Scriptures from which these
titles are taken reflect there will be no great revival. There will be no great
true repentance prior to the Rapture.
Today’s church "knowest not" that they are blind. Prophecy fulfilled-gradually
getting worse and worse from 1948 to the current time.
It is written,
THOU...KNOWEST NOT THAT THOU ART (or you do not realize) (that you are)...BLIND-Rev
3:17.
Jesus is showing that this church believes what they are
saying; however, there are things they do not know. They are ignorant. He is
showing that they are not in the light, as they think, but are in darkness,
and they are totally unaware of their true condition. This church is portrayed
as having a cancer, heart condition, or terminal illness but are ignorant of
it. They do not know that they are going to die and perish. Jesus continues
by telling what the true condition of this church is. It is blind.
Jesus is showing that this is the worst church, yet they
are the most confident. The condition of this church is a reflection not only
of the Bible schools and what is being preached from the pulpits
but of what is being taught by the missionaries, also.
Sound biblical doctrine is disappearing.
They are "blind," but they do not
know it. They are blind regarding God’s Word, in salvation, in repentance, in
seeing and understanding fruit, in who is saved, in understanding what Satan
is doing, and in seeing the falling away that is happening and has already happened.
They preach revival, which is just the opposite of falling. Their
guard against the schemes of the devil is down, when it should be up. They think
they can stamp Satan under their feet, when, in reality, Satan is stamping them
under his feet, yet they are so blind that they do no know it. They are trying
to see the great moves of God and are not understanding the moves of the adversary.
They call deceit truth and truth deceit. They are blind in knowing these things.
Blindness indicates a person cannot see. Yet they are sure their condition is
rich, increased with goods, and in need of nothing. Many preachers also think
they are rich in knowledge as they proudly display their college degrees on
the wall of their office and have shelves filled with hundreds of books "about"
the Bible. Their big church, or the many churches under their control, or their
large ministry seems to testify that they are spiritually in the light. Yet
God’s Word said that this church age is blind.
They teach the gifts of the Spirit but do not teach or demonstrate
the fruits of the Spirit. Jesus taught water baptism by full immersion (ref
Ro 6:4; Col 2:12), and His disciples spent much time baptizing people, but some
of today’s churches teach against water baptism. Others argue that sprinkling
baptism is the right way. Jesus taught clearly, BAPTIZING THEM IN THE NAME OF
THE FATHER, AND OF THE SON, AND OF THE HOLY GHOST: TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE
(or obey) ALL THINGS WHATSOEVER I HAVE COMMANDED YOU-Mt 28:19,20. Yet many do
not even teach that we are to obey God’s Word and keep His commandments. They
teach about the love of God but do not teach that the reflection of a person’s
love for God is shown by, IF YE LOVE "ME," KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS-Jn
14:15.
This prophecy is correct. Without any question, these Scriptures
also reflect there will be no revival. They show a very deceived and misled
church.
People would fall away from the faith of Jesus Christ. Prophecy fulfilled-beginning
around the 1960's or before and getting worse and worse to this current time.
It is written,
EXCEPT THERE COME A FALLING AWAY (or apostasy) FIRST-2 Thes 2:3.
It is also written, AS THE DAYS OF NOAH WERE, SO SHALL ALSO THE COMING OF THE
SON OF MAN BE-Mt 24:37. In Noah’s day, they also fell away. It is written, ALL
FLESH HAD CORRUPTED HIS WAY UPON THE EARTH-Gen 6:12. There was no great
revival in the days of Noah. It is also as in the days of Lot. It is
written, LIKEWISE ALSO AS IT WAS IN THE DAYS OF LOT…EVEN THUS SHALL IT BE IN
THE DAY WHEN THE SON OF MAN IS REVEALED-Lk 17:28,30. There was no great
revival in the days of Lot. Rather, the people were corrupt and were
not following God’s ways. They did not repent.
Many in this last generation have become a part of the apostasy.
Many people have already fallen. It becomes so very clear when knocking on people’s
doors to witness. Multitudes tell how they once were following Jesus, but they
no longer are. Satan has very cleverly clouded the minds of many born-again
people and clergy, so that the falling away that has already happened
is not recognized by very many. The apostasy (the falling away from
Jesus) will continue to get worse and worse until that day comes when the trumpet
shall blow. Then the very few saints, who have remained faithful,
shall be raptured. It will be as Noah’s day was. Few were saved and escaped
the flood. It will be as Lot’s day was. Few were saved and escaped the destruction
of Sodom and Gomorrah. This prophecy is fulfilled.
The Scripture clearly shows this is the age of deception
and falling. What would be the opposite of falling? The
answer is revival. If Satan would desire to hide the fact that many
are falling, then the opposite can be expected to be taught. Thus, the
falling away is seldom taught. In its place, the deception of
a revival before the Rapture is taught. Thus, the people are looking
for revival and are not on their guard against the schemes of the devil.
Many well-known, highly esteemed evangelists and ministers
are teaching this deception. "Revival coming" is what multitudes
of itching ears want to hear, even though it is not true.
The next worldwide revival will be during the Tribulation;
however, many will not get saved, as they have no knowledge of these things.
Those that do get saved, during that horrible time, can expect to flee for their
lives. They can expect to be betrayed by people they trust, ridiculed, beaten,
tortured, and beheaded for their faith in Jesus. They will be pressured to take
the mark of the beast (or Antichrist) and worship the image of the beast (or
Antichrist). Many can be expected to buckle under these pressures and turn away
from Jesus to spare their own lives. But he that saves his life in this world,
by turning from Jesus, shall lose his life for eternity.
2:1. NOW WE BESEECH
(or ask)
YOU, BRETHREN. Paul is, perhaps, reminding them that
they are brethren and trying to draw their attention to what he has to say.
BY THE COMING OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
This is Jesus coming in the clouds for the Rapture.
AND BY OUR GATHERING TOGETHER UNTO HIM (or
to meet Him). This is the Rapture, as the saints are gathered together to Jesus.
As it is written, FOR THE LORD HIMSELF SHALL DESCEND FROM HEAVEN WITH A SHOUT,
WITH THE VOICE OF THE ARCHANGEL, AND WITH THE TRUMP OF GOD: AND THE DEAD IN
CHRIST SHALL RISE FIRST: THEN WE WHICH ARE ALIVE AND REMAIN SHALL BE CAUGHT
(or it may be said—gathered) UP TOGETHER WITH THEM IN THE CLOUDS, TO MEET THE
LORD IN THE AIR: AND SO SHALL WE EVER BE WITH THE LORD-1 Thes 4:16,17. As Paul
had clearly taught them (in 1st Thessalonians), the Rapture would come first,
followed by certain events, and then the return of Jesus with all of the saints.
He goes on to say, regarding the Rapture,
2:2.
THAT YE BE NOT SOON SHAKEN (or unsettled, or disturbed)
IN MIND (or in your thinking),
OR BE TROUBLED (or alarmed). The brethren had apparently
been receiving false teachings on the Rapture and the times they were in, which
caused them to be shaken, troubled, and perhaps even fearful. They may have
believed that they were already in the Tribulation period. Paul is exhorting
them not to be troubled,
NEITHER BY SPIRIT (or some prophecy). Some false prophecies
may have been given by persons other than the apostles, causing confusion.
NOR BY WORD (or a spoken message) or possibly by some
reports. A misled person or persons may have brought forth what seemingly was
the Word of God, but was actually deceit and confusion.
NOR BY (a)
LETTER AS (supposed to have come)
FROM US. Someone may have forged a letter on this
subject, using Paul’s name, causing the saints to be confused and troubled.
Paul is earnestly asking them not to be disturbed by the
deceptive teaching and rumors, which false teachers were bringing forth,
AS (saying)
THAT THE DAY OF CHRIST IS AT HAND (or has already
come, or is present). This is assuring the Thessalonians not to be worried or
troubled in any other way, regarding the day of Christ being at hand (or about
to happen, or has already happened). In this case, the day of Christ is referring
to the Rapture—the coming of Jesus and our gathering together unto Him-v.1.
Some may have been troubled or misled about this subject; they may not have
understood that this day was not yet at hand.
The term the "day of Christ" is also used in Phili
1:10 and 2:16-THAT YE MAY APPROVE THINGS THAT ARE EXCELLENT; THAT YE MAY BE
SINCERE AND WITHOUT OFFENSE TILL THE "DAY OF CHRIST" (or day of the
Rapture). HOLDING FORTH THE WORD OF LIFE; THAT I MAY REJOICE IN THE "DAY
OF CHRIST" (or day of the resurrection and Rapture), THAT I HAVE
NOT RUN IN VAIN, NEITHER LABOURED IN VAIN.
2:3.
LET NO MAN DECEIVE YOU BY ANY MEANS (or in any way). Paul refers
to deception. This suggests that, as the time draws near for our gathering
together unto Jesus, there will be much religious deception concerning the Rapture.
Paul is urging, not to let anyone deceive us regarding this event. This lines
up perfectly with the very first thing that Jesus said in Mt 24, Mk 13, and
Lk 21, regarding the generation that would be alive when these things happened.
Jesus said, TAKE HEED THAT NO MAN DECEIVE YOU-Mt 24:4. This is also very much
in harmony with the last church age (the Laodicean). Jesus showed
that this age was the most deceived of all church ages-ref Rev 3:14-22.
FOR THAT DAY (the day of the Rapture)
SHALL NOT COME. In other words, the day of Christ,
when the saints are caught up to Jesus, shall not take place, except some other
event first transpires. That other event, which "must" take place,
is:
EXCEPT THERE COME A FALLING AWAY (or apostasy,
rebellion, defection from truth, forsake)
FIRST. Clearly, there is an event that must occur
before the Rapture. It is a falling away of Christians from Jesus, His
Word, from truth. It is multitudes of people leaving or forsaking the
faith of Jesus Christ, a departure from the truth replaced by religious deception,
even rebellion against God’s Word. This is all in complete harmony with Mt 24,
Mk 13, and Lk 21. The lukewarm, wretched, blind, and naked Laodicean church,
of Rev 3:14-22, that will be spit out, also reflects this. It is the church
that will not teach sound doctrine; its people will not endure sound doctrine,
but rather choose to listen to teachers that say what their ears and flesh desire
to hear. This is also in harmony with how it was in the days of Noah. It is
written, AND GOD LOOKED UPON THE EARTH, AND, BEHOLD, IT WAS CORRUPT; FOR ALL
FLESH HAD CORRUPTED HIS WAY UPON THE EARTH-Gen 6:12. HE THAT HATH AN EAR, LET
HIM HEAR WHAT THE SPIRIT SAITH UNTO THE CHURCHES-Rev 3:22. It might be asked,
"Does anyone have an ear to hear and understand such things in these latter
days?"
Satan very skillfully has embedded in
many people’s minds that a great revival is coming prior to the Rapture and
Tribulation. This is opposite of the truth, which states
there will be a "falling away." Unknown to most clergy
and people, the "falling away" is nearing completion.
Churches may have many people, but very few of these are truly following Jesus.
Many profess Jesus, but follow deception and "self."
Thus, Paul is exhorting them not to worry and not to be deceived.
The Rapture will not come until the falling away occurs first. After the falling
away and the Rapture, then
THAT MAN OF SIN (or lawlessness) (shall)
BE REVEALED, THE SON OF PERDITION (or the man
doomed to destruction-NIV). The man of sin is the Antichrist. He shall not be
revealed until after the falling away and the Rapture. (The son of perdition
is another name given to the Antichrist. This same name was also used for Judas
in Jn 17:12.) This confirms that the Antichrist is alive on the earth somewhere
prior to the Rapture, but he is not revealed until the falling away and the
Rapture transpire.
2:4.
The Antichrist WHO OPPOSETH AND EXALTETH HIMSELF ABOVE ALL (or
over everything)
THAT IS CALLED GOD, OR THAT IS WORSHIPED (or that
people call a god or make an object of worship; he will put himself above them
all-JNT259).
Seven things about the Antichrist should be noted in this
verse.
1. The Antichrist shall oppose all that is called God.
2. The Antichrist shall oppose all that is worshiped.
3. The Antichrist shall exalt himself above all that is called
God.
4. The Antichrist shall exalt himself above all that is worshiped.
5. SO THAT HE AS GOD. The Antichrist presents himself
as God.
6. He SITTETH IN THE TEMPLE OF GOD. The Antichrist
will sit in the rebuilt temple of God in Jerusalem.
7. SHEWING HIMSELF (or proclaiming)
THAT HE IS GOD. The Antichrist will proclaim himself
to be God.
These seven things occur during the Tribulation.
2:5.
REMEMBER YE NOT (or don’t you remember),
THAT, WHEN I WAS YET WITH YOU, I TOLD YOU THESE
THINGS? Paul had apparently placed great emphasis on these things, when
he was with the Thessalonians. Here, he is emphasizing these points and reminding
them of what he had said. It is as if he is saying, "Why are you being
deceived by false teachers? Why do you have doubts? Don’t you remember, I told
you these things?" First Thessalonians contains many references to "these
things" that he had told them.
2:6.
AND NOW YE KNOW. The people are being told that they know something.
That something is
WHAT WITHHOLDETH (or what is restraining, or is holding
him back). Paul must have explained clearly what it was that was withholding
the Antichrist from coming forth.
He is assuring the saints that the Antichrist is still being
held back from being revealed until something happens. That something is very
clearly stated. Verses 1-3 give an order of events.
First, there had to come a falling away. Religious deception
was also alluded to.
Second, the saints had to be gathered to Jesus in the Rapture.
Third, the Antichrist could then be revealed.
By God’s Word, the saints could know what was holding back
the Antichrist from coming forth. First, the falling away had to occur, followed
by the Rapture. Before these events, the Antichrist could not be revealed. Once
the Antichrist is revealed, which is seal one, then the confirming or signing
of the covenant (or agreement, or treaty) with Israel can take place-ref Dan
9:27. This begins the Tribulation.
THAT HE (the Antichrist)
MIGHT BE REVEALED IN HIS (proper)
TIME. There is a specific time for the Rapture to
happen. There is a specific time for the Antichrist to be revealed.
2:7.
FOR THE MYSTERY OF INIQUITY (or secret power of lawlessness)
DOTH ALREADY WORK (or is already at work).
The mysterious, hidden power that is behind wickedness and sin and the planned
coming forth of the Antichrist is already working to accomplish its purpose.
Satan and his kingdom are already at work.
ONLY "HE" WHO NOW LETTETH (or is restraining)
WILL LET (or will continue to do so-NIV),
UNTIL "HE" BE TAKEN OUT OF THE WAY.
To paraphrase this verse, it is saying that someone ("he")
is holding back (or restraining) the Antichrist from being made known (or revealed),
until that someone ("he") is removed (or taken) out of the way.
The "he," in this verse, is much debated among
Bible scholars. Some say, the "he" represents the church. Others say,
the "He" represents the Holy Spirit. Still others say, the "He"
represents the restraining power of the Holy Spirit that is in the believers.
There are other opinions as well.
There is no question that the Holy Spirit will remain on
the earth, for people cannot be saved apart from Him. Multitudes will be saved
during the Tribulation, which follows the Antichrist coming forth. Thus, it
would appear that the "He" represents the restraining power of the
Holy Spirit in the believers. The Holy Spirit does appear to be holding back
the Antichrist from being revealed; however, there is a day coming when He will
let (or allow) the Antichrist to come forth. "He be taken out of the way,"
perhaps, means that His restraining power will be taken out of the way. Thus,
the Scriptures are fulfilled.
As a result, when the church is removed in the Rapture, the
Antichrist should immediately be revealed and initiate his plan to dominate
the world.
Just prior to the Tribulation, the true church (consisting
of converted, born-again believers that have put their trust in Jesus Christ)
is removed.
Multitudes of saints (who get saved during the Tribulation)
will be given into the hand of the Antichrist. They will not have power to stand
against him. Many will be martyred, because of their faith in Jesus Christ.
The church must be removed before the Antichrist can come forth.
2:8.
AND THEN, once the saints have been raptured,
SHALL THAT WICKED (or lawless one), which is the Antichrist,
BE REVEALED. The Antichrist will be allowed to come
forth and confirm a covenant with Israel, which begins the Tribulation.
Now, the time shifts to immediately after the Tribulation.
Jesus returns in power and great glory. At that time, the Antichrist shall be
consumed. The verse continues,
WHOM THE LORD (Jesus)
SHALL CONSUME (or overthrow, or slay, or execute)
WITH THE SPIRIT (or breath)
OF HIS MOUTH, AND SHALL DESTROY WITH THE BRIGHTNESS
(or glory)
OF HIS COMING. Jesus speaks the Word, and the Antichrist
shall be destroyed. When the Lord returns, it will be as the LIGHTNING COMETH
OUT OF THE EAST, AND SHINETH EVEN UNTO THE WEST-Mt 24:27. It appears that there
will be some sort of a flash of intense light. God is light. The Antichrist
shall be destroyed with the brightness or glory of the return of Jesus Christ.
2:9.
EVEN HIM (or this man, or the lawless one), which is the Antichrist,
WHOSE COMING IS AFTER (or in accordance with)
THE WORKING OF SATAN. God does not give the Antichrist
his power: Satan does. The Antichrist’s coming is a result of the works of Satan.
As it is written, THE DRAGON GAVE HIM HIS POWER, AND HIS SEAT, AND GREAT AUTHORITY-Rev
13:2.
WITH ALL POWER (to work all kinds of false miracles-JNT260).
This will be beyond human ingenuity and ability. It will be supernatural.
AND SIGNS. These are meant to persuade or prove to
people that the Antichrist is really God and that he is telling the truth.
AND LYING WONDERS. These will attract attention and
cause people to be amazed. The Antichrist will have the power of his father,
Satan, to do all kinds of signs and false miracles to convince people that he
is God.
Jesus said, AN EVIL AND ADULTEROUS GENERATION SEEKETH AFTER
A SIGN-Mt 12:39.
The unbelieving world would not repent, in great numbers, just before the Rapture.
Prophecy fulfilled-from Israel’s rebirth to this current time and getting worse
and worse.
It is written,
AS THE DAYS OF NOAH WERE, SO SHALL ALSO THE COMING OF THE SON OF MAN
BE-Mt 24:37. For THE EARTH…WAS CORRUPT BEFORE GOD...ALL FLESH HAD CORRUPTED
HIS WAY-Gen 6:11,12. The people were DISOBEDIENT...IN THE DAYS OF NOAH...FEW...SOULS
WERE SAVED-1 Pe 3:20. Despite the witness of Noah and his family warning people,
the world did not believe or repent. There was no great revival.
It is also written, AS...IN THE DAYS OF LOT...THUS
SHALL IT BE IN THE DAY...THE SON OF MAN IS REVEALED-Lk 17:28,30. AND LOT WENT
OUT, AND SPAKE UNTO HIS SONS IN LAW...AND SAID, UP, GET YOU OUT OF THIS PLACE;
FOR THE LORD WILL DESTROY THIS CITY. BUT HE SEEMED AS ONE THAT MOCKED UNTO HIS
SONS IN LAW-Gen 19:14. Despite the witness of Lot, the people did not believe
or repent. There was no revival in the days of Lot.
No great revival is forecasted in God’s Word
prior to the Tribulation. There are some that have misunderstood certain passages
of God’s Word and have proclaimed that a great world revival is coming before
the Tribulation. This is a direct contradiction to the many, many passages that
clearly show no revival is coming. No revival is prophesied in the Laodicean
church age of today. No revival is portrayed in Matthew chapter 25:1-13, prior
to the Rapture.
However,
as already covered in many earlier prophecies, a great increase in sin and wickedness
is forecasted. As already covered in an earlier prophecy, the "falling
away" is shown by God’s Word. As it is written, EXCEPT THERE COME
A FALLING AWAY (or apostasy) FIRST-2 Thes 2:3. It is also written,
AS THE DAYS OF NOAH WERE, SO SHALL ALSO THE COMING OF THE SON OF MAN BE-Mt 24:37.
In Noah’s day, they also fell away. They did not repent. It is written, ALL
FLESH HAD CORRUPTED HIS WAY UPON THE EARTH-Gen 6:12. It is written, LIKEWISE
ALSO AS IT WAS IN THE DAYS OF LOT…EVEN THUS SHALL IT BE IN THE DAY WHEN THE
SON OF MAN IS REVEALED-Lk 17:28,30. The people were corrupt and were not following
God’s ways. They did not repent.
In this last generation, it is as the days of Noah and Lot.
As wickedness and falling away from God increases, fewer and fewer people are
truly repenting, as evidenced by their fruits, especially in the USA
but also around the world. Those who have knocked on doors to witness for many
years can see the drastic difference. People’s emotions want to believe a great
revival is coming before the Rapture. God’s Word clearly shows they are wrong.
This prophecy is clear-cut and is true.
Many people in this last generation have become a part of
the apostasy. Many have already fallen. It becomes so very clear when knocking
on people’s doors to witness. Many tell how they once were following Jesus,
but no longer are. Satan has very cleverly clouded the minds of many born-again
people and clergy so that the falling away—that has already happened—is
not recognized by very many. The apostasy, the falling away from Jesus, will
continue to get worse and worse until that day comes when the trumpet shall
blow. Then the very few saints that have remained faithful shall be raptured.
It will be as in Noah’s day. Few were saved and escaped the flood. It will be
as in Lot’s day. Few were saved and escaped the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah.
The lukewarm, sleeping church of today doesn’t know its true condition. EXCEPT
THERE COME A FALLING AWAY (or apostasy) FIRST-2 Thes 2:3.
It is also written, AS THE DAYS OF NOAH WERE, SO SHALL ALSO THE COMING OF THE
SON OF MAN BE-Mt 24:37. In Noah’s day, they also fell away. It is written, ALL
FLESH HAD CORRUPTED HIS WAY UPON THE EARTH-Gen 6:12. There was no great revival
in the days of Noah. It is also as the days of Lot. It is written, LIKEWISE
ALSO AS IT WAS IN THE DAYS OF LOT…EVEN THUS SHALL IT BE IN THE DAY WHEN THE
SON OF MAN IS REVEALED-Lk 17:28,30. There was no great revival
in the days of Lot; rather, the people were corrupt and were not following God’s
ways. They did not repent.
The Scripture clearly shows this is the age of deception
and falling. What would be the opposite of falling? The answer is revival. If
Satan would desire to hide the fact that many are falling, then the opposite
could be expected to be taught. Thus, the falling away is seldom taught. In
its place, the deception of a revival before the Rapture is taught. Therefore,
the people are looking for revival and are not on their guard against the schemes
of the devil. (Repeated further on in the text.)
Many well-known, highly esteemed evangelists and ministers
are teaching this deception, not realizing it is wrong. Revival occurring before
the Rapture or Tribulation is what multitudes of itching ears "want"
to hear, even though it is not true.
Some people in this last generation have turned from Jesus
Christ and now follow: Armstrongism, astrology, Buddhism, Christian Science,
Hinduism, Islam, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormonism, the Moonies (or Unification
Church), New Age doctrines, the Roman Catholic Church (which is the great whore),
Seventh-Day Adventism, Spiritism, Spiritualism, the United Pentecostals (which
do not believe in one God manifested in three separate Persons and baptize in
the name of Jesus only), Unitarianism, Unity, and Yoga. The list can also
include "spiritually dead" churches and any church that does not believe
and teach the following: FOR BY GRACE ARE YE SAVED THROUGH FAITH; AND THAT NOT
OF YOURSELVES: IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD: NOT OF WORKS, LEST ANY MAN SHOULD BOAST.
FOR WE ARE HIS WORKMANSHIP, CREATED IN CHRIST JESUS UNTO GOOD WORKS, WHICH GOD
HATH BEFORE ORDAINED THAT WE SHOULD WALK IN THEM-Eph 2:8-10.
It can include any of the other approximately 25,000 false
ways or cults leading to eternal damnation. Some practice Satanism.
Many worship devils. Many claim to be witches. Some practice ancestral
worship. Some trust in the lie of reincarnation. Many readily accept
the lie of evolution rather than the truth that God created all things;
others try to combine them both together. New doctrines, devised by men and
seducing spirits, seem to be springing up daily. Demonically inspired games
are widely available in toy stores, game rooms, and for use on home computers.
Demonic teaching can also be found in American schools, on the radio, and on
television. Demonically inspired music fills the airwaves. Multitudes of people
are being deceived. This prophecy is precise.
The next revival will be during the Tribulation, however,
many will not get saved as they have no knowledge of these things. Those that
do get saved during that horrible time can expect to have to flee for their
lives. They can expect to be betrayed by people they trust, ridiculed, beaten,
tortured, and beheaded for their faith in Jesus. They will be pressured to take
a mark and to worship the image of the beast (or Antichrist). Many can be expected
to buckle under this pressure and turn away from Jesus to spare their own lives.
But he that saves his life in this world, by turning from Jesus, shall lose
his life for eternity.
Mt
25:1-13-THEN SHALL THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN BE LIKENED UNTO (or comparable
to) TEN VIRGINS, WHICH TOOK THEIR LAMPS, AND WENT FORTH TO MEET THE BRIDEGROOM.
Mt 25:2-AND FIVE OF THEM WERE WISE, AND FIVE WERE FOOLISH.
Mt 25:3-THEY THAT WERE FOOLISH TOOK THEIR LAMPS, AND TOOK
NO OIL WITH THEM:
Mt 25:4-BUT THE WISE TOOK OIL IN THEIR VESSELS (or jars,
or flasks along) WITH THEIR LAMPS.
Mt 25:5-WHILE THE BRIDEGROOM TARRIED (or was a long time
in coming-NIV) (or was delaying, or was late), THEY ALL SLUMBERED (or
got drowsy) AND SLEPT (or began to sleep).
Mt 25:6-AND AT MIDNIGHT THERE WAS A CRY (or shout)
MADE, BEHOLD, THE BRIDEGROOM COMETH; GO (come) YE OUT TO MEET HIM.
Mt 25:7-THEN ALL THOSE VIRGINS (woke up) AROSE, AND TRIMMED
(or prepared) THEIR LAMPS.
Mt 25:8-AND THE FOOLISH (ones) SAID UNTO THE WISE, GIVE US
(some) OF YOUR OIL; FOR OUR LAMPS ARE GONE OUT.
Mt 25:9-BUT THE WISE ANSWERED, SAYING, NOT SO (no); LEST
THERE BE NOT ENOUGH FOR (both) US AND YOU: BUT GO YE RATHER TO THEM THAT SELL
(the dealers), AND BUY (some) FOR YOURSELVES.
Mt 25:10-AND WHILE THEY WENT (on their way) TO BUY (to make
the purchase), THE BRIDEGROOM CAME (or arrived); AND THEY THAT WERE READY WENT
IN WITH HIM TO THE MARRIAGE (or wedding, or wedding banquet, or feast): AND
THE DOOR WAS SHUT.
Mt 25:11-AFTERWARD (or later) CAME ALSO THE OTHER VIRGINS,
SAYING, LORD, LORD, OPEN (the door) TO US (let us in).
Mt 25:12-BUT HE ANSWERED AND SAID, VERILY (or indeed) I SAY
UNTO YOU (I tell you the truth-NIV), I KNOW YOU NOT (I do not know you-NASB).
Mt 25:13-WATCH THEREFORE (keep watch) (be on the alert),
FOR YE KNOW NEITHER THE DAY NOR THE HOUR WHEREIN THE SON OF MAN COMETH.
Mt 25:1-THEN SHALL THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN BE LIKENED UNTO
(or comparable to) TEN VIRGINS, WHICH TOOK THEIR LAMPS, AND WENT FORTH TO MEET
THE BRIDEGROOM. Note the beginning words, THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. Then it continues
BE LIKENED UNTO. The ten virgins represent ten Christians. These are ten people
that believe in Jesus. They had lamps, and their lamps were burning. They went
forth to meet the Bridegroom. All ten were waiting for the return of Jesus Christ
to come for them.
Mt 25:2-AND FIVE OF THEM WERE WISE, AND FIVE WERE FOOLISH.
The next verse defines the difference between being wise and foolish.
Mt 25:3-THEY THAT WERE FOOLISH TOOK THEIR LAMPS, AND TOOK
NO OIL WITH THEM. These had oil in their lamps, but they failed to take extra
oil in their jars. The oil represents the Holy Spirit, which can be illustrated
in the lamps that burn in the tabernacle and in the temple. These were not prepared
to wait a long, long time for their Bridegroom to come and take them.
Mt 25:4-BUT THE WISE TOOK OIL IN THEIR VESSELS (or jars,
or flasks along) WITH THEIR LAMPS. The wise had oil in their lamps and also
took additional oil in their jars. These were prepared to wait as long as it
would take, till the Bridegroom would come and take them away. They knew what
to expect. They made the needed preparations. They were prepared to replenish
their lamps as needed. The foolish did not prepare. They did not know what to
expect. They were not prepared for the long wait and all that might go along
with it. Their root withered away.
Mt 25:5-WHILE THE BRIDEGROOM TARRIED, THEY ALL SLUMBERED
AND SLEPT. The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy
and fell asleep-NIV. The Bridegroom was a long time in coming, and, indeed,
the church has now been waiting for the Bridegroom for nearly 2000 years. We
see pictured here the church age that will see the return of Jesus to take His
bride away. All ten virgins became tired and fell asleep.
Mt 25:6-AND AT MIDNIGHT THERE WAS A CRY (or shout) MADE,
BEHOLD, THE BRIDEGROOM COMETH (or here’s the bridegroom); GO (come) YE OUT TO
MEET HIM. Here is the warning that the Bridegroom is about to arrive. Here is
the warning that the Rapture is about to happen. From this warning, we may note,
that just prior to the Rapture actually happening, there will be some kind of
a cry, or a warning, so that all the virgins will know the time, for the Bridegroom
to carry His bride away, is at hand. The cry was made at midnight. Some might
consider this indicates the cry just before the Rapture may happen at midnight,
Israeli time.
When the bridegroom (in the Jewish marriage of olden times)
was returning for his bride, a shout would let her know that he was arriving.
He had made a contract for her some time before. He had then gone away to prepare
a place for her. Once his father approved the bridal chamber, he would then
give permission to go and fetch his bride, who had been patiently waiting for
him. Now the bridegroom anxiously returns for her. She has made herself ready.
She always kept oil in her lamp, for she was never quite sure when her bridegroom
would return. It might be at night, so she had to be ready. There would be a
"shout" or warning that the bridegroom was coming, just before he
would enter to take her away to the dwelling he had prepared for her.
In this last generation of time, true born-again Christians
should be anxiously awaiting the "shout," which signals that the Bridegroom
is arriving to "snatch" us away. Through all the signs and prophecies
God’s Word has given, we "know" that it is near, even at the door.
Mt 25:7-THEN ALL THOSE VIRGINS (woke up) AROSE, AND TRIMMED
(or prepared) THEIR LAMPS.
Mt 25:8-AND THE FOOLISH SAID UNTO THE WISE, GIVE US (some)
OF YOUR OIL; FOR OUR LAMPS ARE GONE OUT. It seems, up to this time, that either
the foolish virgins did not realize their lamps had gone out, or they just did
not care, as the bridegroom tarried.
Here is a picture of five foolish Christians. They believed
in Jesus. Their lamp was burning. They had oil. They were a light for Jesus,
but, as time passed, they ran out of oil. As time passed, their lamps faded
and then went out. We might say that in the time of testing, they fell away.
Perhaps, they became lukewarm as a result of all the deceptive, lukewarm preaching.
The foolish virgins, or foolish Christians, now realize that
their lamp went out. The foolish virgins still believed in Jesus, but their
flame had become cold. Their love for Jesus had become cold. Though they did
believe in the Rapture, it caught them by surprise. They realized they were
not ready to meet Jesus. He had come as a thief in the night to them. They were
not truly expecting in their heart that He would come when He did. They were
unprepared.
The wise virgins, even though they had fallen asleep, still
had oil in reserve. Their lamps, or light for Jesus, did not go out.
But now, the foolish Christians turn to them for oil.
Mt 25:9-BUT THE WISE ANSWERED, SAYING, NOT SO (no); LEST
THERE BE NOT ENOUGH FOR (both) US AND YOU: BUT GO YE RATHER TO THEM THAT SELL
(the dealers), AND BUY (some) FOR YOURSELVES. It is interesting to note, the
wise virgins thought that they did not have enough oil for both themselves and
the foolish virgins. They told the foolish virgins to go to them that sell.
Was the supply of oil that the wise virgins had also running low in this lukewarm
age of falling away?
Did the foolish virgins go to their preacher to get oil?
Note the words, BUY FOR YOURSELVES. It might be difficult to buy oil at midnight.
The Holy Spirit cannot be shared. The Holy Spirit regenerates each person individually.
These Christians were not ready. They didn’t understand that once the shout
had gone out, it was too late. They couldn’t be saved and taken in the Rapture.
Yet, in this short span, from the time of the "shout" to the time
Jesus will return, they will try in vain to get ready; however, it is too late.
(Note, there is no indication in this parable of a great revival waking
up the church before the Rapture.)
Mt 25:10-AND WHILE THEY WENT (on their way) TO BUY (to make
the purchase), THE BRIDEGROOM CAME (or arrived); AND THEY (the virgins) THAT
WERE READY WENT IN WITH HIM TO THE MARRIAGE (or wedding, or wedding banquet,
or feast): AND THE DOOR WAS SHUT.
The foolish virgins depart to go buy more oil. It appears,
as we will see, that they went to the blind leaders of the blind, or a "different
Jesus." They did not know how to get saved. They were blind.
And while they were gone, Jesus came. All those wise Christians
that were ready, whose lamps had not gone out, were raptured and went to the
marriage.
Mt 25:11-AFTERWARD (or later) CAME ALSO THE OTHER VIRGINS,
SAYING, LORD, LORD, OPEN (the door) TO US (let us in). Now the foolish virgins
return. To whom had they gone? They could not have gone to born-again preachers,
as the born-again preachers would have been raptured. They seemingly went to
the blind leaders of the blind. Apparently, they could not recognize the difference.
It appears, they now think they got saved. They think they now have oil, as
they say, LORD, LORD, OPEN TO US. They seem to say, "Jesus, we have accepted
You as our Savior." There is a difference between accepting Jesus and "receiving"
Him, as the KJV states. Seldom do ministers preach "will Jesus accept us?"
in this Laodicean age. We appear to have a picture of five foolish Christians
that are terrified. They recognized that the Rapture had happened. They recognized
that they had been left behind. They are pleading, OPEN TO US—but it is too
late. We might also conclude from this that once the cry is made, just before
the Rapture occurs, from that point on, no one will get saved. None of the foolish
virgins were able to get saved, even though they tried.
Mt 25:12-BUT HE ANSWERED AND SAID, VERILY (or indeed) I SAY
UNTO YOU (I tell you the truth-NIV), I KNOW YOU NOT (I do not know you-NASB).
The terrifying message comes forth, I KNOW YOU NOT. They now face the Tribulation,
but will they survive?
There are many foolish virgins in this last generation that
will be left behind when the Rapture comes. They may be screaming, "No,
Jesus, don’t leave me!" We may note, only those that were "ready"
were taken.
Mt 25:13-WATCH THEREFORE (keep watch) (be on the alert),
FOR YE KNOW NEITHER THE DAY NOR THE HOUR WHEREIN THE SON OF MAN COMETH. Jesus
continues in His message to the five foolish virgins whose lamps went out. He
tells them and all the foolish virgins, WATCH THEREFORE. These did not watch.
Then the second message to the foolish, YE KNOW NEITHER THE DAY NOR THE HOUR
WHEREIN THE SON OF MAN COMETH. The foolish are not watching. They do not understand.
They are not ready. They do not know the day or hour. Clearly, this message
is to all the foolish virgins to watch and be ready; then they should understand.
There is a clear message here. A person can believe on Jesus.
They can believe that the Rapture will come. Their light can be burning, but
it can go out. If Jesus comes and finds them not ready, they will be left behind.
(Note, there are some that relate this parable to the second coming of Jesus
at Armageddon.)
The Rapture will be a great joy for the saved, but a "horror"
for the unsaved. For the unsaved, death and the lake of fire lies ahead. However,
some will get saved during the Tribulation, but they will go through such a
horrible time that words cannot adequately describe it. Death by decapitation
lies ahead for most that do.
1.
THAT THOU ART NEITHER COLD NOR HOT. Then Jesus makes a comment,
I WOULD THOU WERT COLD OR HOT (I wish you were either
one or the other!-NIV). If a person is cold, he can sometimes be reached for
Jesus. On the other hand, Jesus would prefer that His servants were "hot."
3:16.
2. SO THEN BECAUSE THOU ART LUKEWARM, AND NEITHER COLD
NOR HOT. Consider the nature of something lukewarm. A cup of cold water
can be very satisfying-ref Mt 10:42. A cup of hot tea or some other beverage
can also be very satisfying and taste delicious. But a cup of lukewarm water
or lukewarm tea can be very unappealing; it may taste so bad, a person may want
to spit it out. This describes the Laodicean church age.
It was the cold, spiritual atmosphere of the church in England
that motivated John Wesley to begin his own meetings. It was the coldness of
the Methodist Church that caused William Booth to become "on fire"
for the Lord. God wants His people to be "hot" in knowledge and in
zeal for Him. However, if this is not the case, then He would prefer them to
be cold. When one is cold, it is clear-cut; this distinction can eventually
lead some to want to be hot. However, the lukewarm often do not recognize their
condition or seek to change as the cold do. They are deceived, but confident
they will not perish and are usually comfortable in the world.
Many of today’s churches, in America, are a type of social
club. They have committees, lots of programs, recreation areas, entertainment,
paid singers, and comedians. There are many things to lure a person in and to
please the carnal nature and flesh. Soulwinning is like a business. There are
many types of crusades and "revivals"; however, few generate true
conviction for sin, where people are driven to their knees, confessing their
sins, denying themselves, and crying out in brokenness over their wickedness.
Revivals, in this lukewarm generation, seldom spark desire within one
to be so hungry for Jesus that he turns off the TV and sets aside other activities
to spend hours a day studying God’s Word and humbly seeking Him in prayer. And
if one does come to Jesus, he may be quickly "cooled off," as he is
surrounded by his friends, relatives, local churches, radio and television preachers,
who may bring forth a lukewarm message of compromise, deceit, and truth intermixed.
The, perhaps, "one out of a thousand preachers" that he might hear,
who brings forth sound doctrine, is often quickly discredited by everyone around
him. Thus, lukewarm becomes the accepted way of truth, and sound doctrine is
viewed as the way of deceit in the seventh and last church age. Whether it is
the large cathedral, or the small church with a grass roof, or the hidden house
church—lukewarm is the church of this generation. Many have pride in the fact
that they have a new building, or more people, or more children. Others have
pride that they have gotten many to say a sinner’s prayer, even though, afterwards,
not one may have shown any evidence of denying himself, taking up his CROSS
DAILY, and following Jesus-ref Lk 9:23.
Today’s church seems to think that more finances
and things to attract the carnal nature will convert the world. True conversion
comes through the work of the Holy Spirit. The Laodicean church is centered
on "self" rather than on Jesus. It lures with promises of miracles,
healings, prosperity, good times, fellowship, and friends.
The Laodicean church seldom tells people that if they decide
to follow Jesus, the biblical way, they can expect problems, persecutions, the
loss of their friends, ridicule, false accusations, their name dragged through
the mud, and their families to forsake them. They are not told that they may
get very sick, enduring much pain and anguish. They are not informed how Satan
will tempt them, or that they could lose everything they possess. They are unaware
that many of the traditions that they are following—of their church, country,
tribe, etc.—are an abomination to God. They are seldom told, by any preacher,
how blind and wretched this Laodicean church age is.
Of the few, true Christians that do exist, no matter what
they go through, Jesus will be with them.
Jesus described the Laodicean church as lukewarm.
The lukewarm are confident they are correct and righteous. Their confidence
is so deeply rooted that it is nearly impossible to reach them with the truth.
Lukewarmness comes from mixing both hot and cold. They are not cold toward the
things of God, but neither are they hot. They are content, apathetic, indifferent.
They are not truly concerned with what is right and wrong or what is good and
evil. Within the Laodicean church is the prevailing attitude of "live and
let live; don’t rock the boat; don’t cause waves; it will all turn out O.K."
They are taking a neutral position. They are trying to serve God, but are also
trying to please men. They are serving two masters and justify their position.
They are serving God, and they are serving "self." They are serving
God, and they are serving the world. This is totally unacceptable with God.
Remember, the name "Laodicea" means "the rights of the people."
Their knowledge and understanding of God, His Word, and of these things is,
at best, only lukewarm. Their obedience, love, fruits of the Spirit, and works
are, at best, only lukewarm. Their daily conversation may be centered on both
the things of the world and the things of God. They are like a wave. They are
carnal and have not denied themselves. They are not fully following Jesus, though
they are usually sure they are. Jesus is in their life, but He is not the center
of their life. Their life revolves around things of the world and worldly circumstances;
Jesus is only a part. They have need of milk (basic doctrines) and not meat
(perfection). They are not ready for the doctrine of perfection and holiness.
Their thoughts are divided between Jesus and the things of the world. Laodiceans
want to maintain a level of control over their lives; they will trust Jesus
only to a point. They do not have the understanding that Jesus is in control
when very difficult situations come against them; their knowledge is lukewarm.
At best, their understanding of who is saved, by the grace
of God, and who is not saved is only lukewarm. It may be said, they do not fully
comprehend the strait gate and narrow way.
Their teaching may consist of some sound doctrine mixed with
confusion, false doctrine, deceit, doctrines of men and denominations, new fads,
or other distortions of Scripture that come along.
They may have a great church complex, a magnificent choir,
large attendance, much money coming in, a vast radio and television ministry,
an extensive mailing list reaching multitudes with a monthly magazine, and many
letters and telephone calls coming in. They may be claiming to have won many
souls, but if the message being proclaimed is only lukewarm, then that is all
they are.
The following should be considered. Sound doctrine is disappearing;
most people will not tolerate it. One might ask, "What would happen if
sound doctrine was being taught?" The answer is found in the Scriptures.
In the days of the apostles, sound doctrine was being taught in Laodicea; however,
it was rejected. The Laodicean church was only lukewarm; this is unacceptable
to God.
For those who may wonder if lukewarm is really so bad, Jesus
gives the following warning.
1.
I WILL SPEW (or spit)
THEE OUT OF MY MOUTH. The entire Laodicean church
will be spit out and perish. There will be such a small number from this church
that will repent, not even the word "few" is used as it was in the
"dead" church of Sardis. The lukewarm will not be taken when the Rapture
comes.
3:17.
3. BECAUSE THOU SAYEST (or because you say),
I AM RICH. Laodicea was prosperous, and the church
had taken the same attitude. This church considered itself rich and increased
with goods. Indeed, throughout much of the world today, there are large, beautiful
church buildings. Even in poorer countries that do not have these nice facilities,
many believe the success of their ministry depends upon getting financial help
from abroad, rather than trusting in Jesus and waiting upon Him. Jesus is showing
the focus of this church and what they are saying is wrong.
4. The church also is saying,
I AM…INCREASED WITH GOODS (or I have acquired wealth). So much emphasis
is placed upon prosperity.
5. AND HAVE NEED OF NOTHING. They are centered on
"self." They are satisfied. They are content.
Laodicea is a proud church that
sees itself as a good and spiritually sound institution with no needs. In many
countries, the Laodicean churches seemingly prosper in their organization, in
material assets, in university degrees, in attendance, in offerings, in paid
staff, and in volunteer workers. Never in church history has there been so many
Bible schools and universities. Never has the church owned so much property;
spent so much money; had so many books, programs, guest speakers, radio and
television ministries; broadcasted on short-wave radio around the entire world;
had so much material wealth, yet been so spiritually bankrupt. In Rev 3:20,
the Lord Jesus Christ, Himself, stands outside knocking at the door.
This is today’s church,
the most deceived of all seven. It is filled with all sorts of half truths and
distorted doctrines. It sees itself totally different than what it really is.
It is so blind and deceived, it does not even understand that these passages,
in Rev 3:14-22, are written directly to them. These passages are for all of
us, right now.
6. AND KNOWEST NOT
THAT THOU ART (or you do not realize) (or you don’t know that you are the
one who is-JNT121). Jesus is showing this church believes what they
are saying, yet there are things they do not know. Jesus is showing that they
are not in the light as they think they are, but are in darkness, unable to
see their true condition. This church is portrayed as having a terminal illness,
yet are unaware of it. They do not understand they are going to die and perish.
They are completely deceived. Jesus continues by revealing what the true condition
of this church is. It is,
7. WRETCHED
8. AND MISERABLE (or pitiful)
9. AND POOR
10. AND BLIND
11. AND NAKED
Jesus is showing that this
is the worst church, yet they are the most confident. The condition of this
church is a reflection of the Bible schools, and what is being preached
from the pulpits, and what is being taught by the missionaries,
and what is in the people’s hearts.
They are "wretched,"
but they do not know it. Being wretched comes from no faith, lukewarm faith,
or faith like a wave. It comes from a lack of truth and understanding. It comes
from being taught a form of the milk of God’s Word, which is so diluted by other
things mixed in with it, that people are no longer standing upon the Rock of
truth. People are standing upon truth and deceit mixed together. This is a church
that hears lukewarm preaching and comes away empty and unfulfilled, yet is in
such darkness that it is content; it does not even know it is wretched. This
word appears only one other time in the New Testament. It is in Ro 7:24, where
Paul describes himself, by saying, "O WRETCHED MAN THAT I AM." Unlike
Paul, the Laodicean church cannot recognize its condition.
They are "miserable"
(or pitiful), but do not know it. This is the result of being wretched—they
are tossed about with all kinds of doctrines that come in like the wind from
all directions. The truth has been set aside to please people’s flesh. The popularity
or charisma of the preacher often replaces the appeal of Jesus, which is the
Word of God.
They are "poor,"
but do not know it. They are poor in wisdom, in knowledge, in faith, and in
understanding the Word of God. They are not zealous for the truth.
They are "blind,"
but they do not know it. They are blind regarding God’s Word, in salvation,
in repentance, in discerning fruit, in who is saved, in understanding what Satan
is doing, and in recognizing the falling away that is happening and has already
happened. Many preach revival is coming, which is just the opposite of falling.
Their guard against the schemes of the devil is down, when it should be up.
They think they can stamp Satan under their feet, when, in reality, Satan is
stamping them under his feet, and they do not know it. They are trying to see
the great moves of God and are not understanding the moves of the adversary.
They call deceit, truth and truth, deceit. In these things they are blind, which
means they do not see or understand these things. Yet they are positive their
condition is rich and increased with goods—they think they need nothing. Many
preachers also think they are rich in knowledge, as they proudly display their
college degrees on the wall of their office and have shelves filled with hundreds
of books "about" the Bible. Their large church, or the many churches
that are under their control, or their vast ministry seems to testify that they
are spiritually in the light. Yet God’s Word said that this church is blind.
They teach the gifts of the Spirit, but do not teach or demonstrate the fruits
of the Spirit. God’s Word teaches water baptism by full immersion (ref Ro 6:4;
Col 2:12), and Jesus’ disciples spent much time baptizing people; yet some of
today’s churches teach against water baptism. Others argue that sprinkling baptism
is the right way, and some baptize in the name of Jesus only. However, Jesus
taught, clearly, BAPTIZING THEM IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER, AND OF THE SON, AND
OF THE HOLY GHOST: TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE (or obey) ALL THINGS WHATSOEVER
I HAVE COMMANDED YOU-Mt 28:19,20. Many do not even teach that we are to obey
God’s Word and keep His commandments. They teach about the love of God, but
do not teach that the evidence of a person’s love for God is demonstrated by,
IF YE LOVE "ME," KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS-Jn 14:15.
They are "naked"
and do not know it. Nakedness reveals a person’s condition. They are exposed.
They have no clothing on. Their condition is shameful. They think they are covered
by grace but are not. Spiritual nakedness denotes no covering. It illustrates
that they are not covered with God’s Word, with wisdom, knowledge, and understanding.
They are not covered with the blood of Jesus by true faith that is evidenced
by what they do. As it is written, FAITH WITHOUT WORKS (or actions) IS DEAD-Ja
2:20. Their covering is deceit. They know not that they are naked and walking
in lukewarmness. They know not that they shall perish.
This church may think highly
of itself, but its wretched condition is naked before God.
3:18.
I COUNSEL THEE (or My advice to you is-JNT122)
1. TO BUY OF ME GOLD TRIED (or refined)
IN THE FIRE. The Laodicean
church has gold, but it is the wrong kind. The purchase of the gold must come
from Jesus. This is not regular gold but refined gold (Jesus, the Word of God).
This is the righteousness that comes from faith.
2. AND ANOINT (or rub)
THINE EYES WITH EYESALVE.
Because this church is spiritually blind, they are being admonished to use eyesalve,
so their blindness might be cured. They do not have correct spiritual discernment.
Their understanding of their condition is opposite of the truth. This would
indicate that Satan’s deceptions in this church are great, which explains why
Jesus said, TAKE HEED THAT NO MAN DECEIVE YOU-Mt 24:4. This church did not love
truth.
3:19.
3. BE ZEALOUS (or be earnest) (or exert yourselves-JNT123)
THEREFORE,
4. AND REPENT (or turn from your sins).
The message is clear to this church. First, believe all of God’s
Word. Believe what He is saying to this church. Then follow what Jesus said
to do. Obey the Gospel. Put on eyesalve that you may see and understand. Be
zealous and repent.
Rev 3:20-22-Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man
hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him,
and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne,
even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. He
that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
CERTAIN PORTIONS OF THIS ARTICLE HAVE BEEN REPEATED IN THE SINCERE HOPE THAT THIS VERY IMPORTANT MESSAGE MIGHT GET THROUGH TO SOME.
In
the beginning of this message three questions were asked. Now, through the Word,
they have been answered.
Is a great revival going to come before the Rapture or not?
The answer is no.
Is the statement that a great revival is coming before the
Rapture based on Scripture, hope, or falsehood? It is based on a false hope
and falsehood.
Has Satan deceived people regarding a great revival coming
before the Rapture to hide a message that God has for His people? The answer
is yes. The message of a great revival (which is pleasing to people’s ears)
conceals the truth of the falling away that is predicted. Yes, the falling away
is almost complete. Are some of you that read this message part of the
falling away? It is not to late to repent—but time is running out.
[Copyright © 2000 bibledesk.com
and Gospel Truth Publishing—copied with written permission.]
BIBLE PROPHECY—REVIVAL-IS IT COMING? MAY BE COPIED WITH
THE FOLLOWING RESTRICTIONS:
IT MUST BE REPRODUCED IN ITS ENTIRETY AND MAY NOT BE SOLD OR USED FOR PROFIT
IN ANY WAY.
THIS COPYRIGHT INFORMATION MUST BE INCLUDED.
| CLICK HERE FOR—TODAY’S CHURCH Pt 1 |
| CLICK HERE FOR—COPYRIGHT INFORMATION |