Note: I have edited Pastor Salazar’s article using words to make it non-denominational specific. Why? Because if we are in Christ, we are in His body of believers regardless of where we attend church.
As a pastor, I have noticed over the years that one of the main reasons people stop going to church is the lack of friends and meaningful relationships in the church. Loneliness and church should be an oxymoron.
The Church is losing members at an alarming rate. Even though the evangelism in our churches is winning people, we lose about 49 of every 100 baptized,” writes Kirk Thomas.”* We are losing many members because of the lack of meaningful connections in the church.
Recently a friend who will soon retire and move away went to a church where no one made eye contact with him. The next weekend, he went to a different church. The people were friendly. A man asked if he had plans for lunch and told him not to make other plans because he was coming with his family to eat. I call that a warm welcome!
Our present post-pandemic culture is making it harder to develop meaningful personal relationships. The shopping mall is Amazon. The movie theater is Netflix. The office is Zoom. And the church service is on the Internet.
Church as a Social Club
Some say we go to church to meet God, which should not be used as a social club. I disagree. Acts 2:45 says, “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in the breaking of bread, and in prayers (KJV).
The social aspect in our churches is bigger and deeper than we realize. In fact, this verse says that as important as doctrine is, it is not the only thing the early Christians were committed to do. They steadfastly had koinonia (Greek for “fellowship”).
Acts 2:46, 47 continues: “They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”
People should join the church because of the doctrines (or the truth), but they should stay because of the friends they have in the church.
After the pandemic, people are more disconnected than ever before, and some are not returning. Fut for those that do, there should be a small-group ministry they can be immediately connected to–not only for Bible study but also to socialize and have fun.
This small group should be established for more than studying theology–it should also develop deep friendships.
Weekend Bible Classes as Small Group Ministry
Several years ago, my wife, Janet, and I had just moved to Columbia, Maryland, and were looking for a church to call home. After visiting several churches, we found the one we were looking for–all because of the Bible class. They gave us a warm welcome in their class. We join their potluck; we go on weekend afternoon walks. We play table games on Saturday nights; we go camping together and celebrate special occasions together. Our class goes beyond the worship time because there is koinonia.
If every Bible class were as engaging, many of our churches would need to have a couple of services. Why? People are looking for meaningful Christian friends that go beyond a few hours at church. It should be a requirement for the local church to plug every newly baptized member into an active Bible class.
During the month of January this year, Maryland went through a wave of COVID-19 Omicron variant illness, and my wife and I got sick. Our Bible class showed their care for us by bringing us food. The best medicine against the loneliness of COVID is an active Bible class that is watching out for each other.
And for us, going to Bible class is not a duty but a delight.
Elitism is a word we hear often in today’s society. It paints a picture of people, or groups of people, who consider themselves superior based on one or more factors such as education, position, philosophy, privilege, wealth, race, politics, etc. You name it. Sinful, selfish, narcissistic humans can find many reasons to raise themselves above others and snub their noses at those they consider inferior.
Religious people are not exempt from this practice. The comic, Damon Carvey, made fun of the religious snobs as the Church Lady in Saturday Night Live. His character of the ultra-conservative religious woman was forthright when she bragged, “I’m just a little bit more superior than you.” Then, to the audience’s delight, she would do her “superior dance.”
I have fun with my wife, imitating the Church Lady. When I do something a little bit better than her, which is not very often, I’ll ask her if I should do my “superior dance.” If she calls me out and makes me dance, I feel a little embarrassed because the movements resemble a combination of Mick Jagger and a proud goose!
While Christians may not be as obvious, we can feel it and exhibit it in subtle forms. The feelings of superiority are fueled by the fact that there are over 300 denominations. Those affiliation differences split us off from other Christians resulting in some form of feeling “just a little bit more superior,” particularly over doctrines and church traditions.
The largest split occurred in the “dark ages” between those who protested against the large and powerful Catholic church. Then Protestants began to split off from each other as the Bible came out of seclusion and became available to the public to read, including priests such as Martin Luther.
Some of these splits were probably necessary. An example would be over the authority of Scriptures vs. the authority of a pope and the Catechism. This is the most obvious and well-documented split in Christianity. But, there are many splits in both Catholic and Protestants congregations. These divisions have often been used as ammunition for the unbelievers. They point to this family dysfunction as proof that Christians are all delusional in their beliefs and therefore are deceived. It makes them feel “a little bit more superior.”
But, overlooked in the reasoning of the unbeliever is the prediction of division. Paul warned the followers of Christ for three years of coming divisions. The ultimate objective of the “savage wolves” was to “draw away” people and make their own disciples.
For I know this, that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also, from among yourselves, men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves. Therefore watch, and remember that for three years, I did not cease to warn everyone, night and day, with tears. Acts 20: 29-31
To this day, spin-offs within religious congregations continue to occur, and the idea of superiority maintains its course. When congregations become disciples of a particular preacher or leader and depend upon him or her completely for spiritual guidance, the relationship becomes cultic regardless of the denomination and how charismatic the speaker is. It doesn’t have to be a David Koresh type to be a cult. It is much more subtle and accepted if it is a controlling pastor in a large mainline denomination.
What makes a denomination feel superior to others? It can be based on the same things as those in politics. But religious reasons come into play: the size of church buildings and the number of members, ancestry, tradition, theology, etc. Included in this segregation process is the idea of staying away from “sinners.” Sinners can include people of other denominations and families. Religious people can feel ‘just a little bit more superior” because they don’t do certain things: smoke, drink, do drugs, watch TV, movies, pornography, dance, have music in their church, worship on the “right” day, etc., etc., etc. But sadly, religious superiority can destroy families.
To the delight of the enemy, all of these divisions cripple the work God gave His followers to do in these last days before His return:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you;..” Matthew 28:19-20
This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached into the entire world, then shall the end come.
Matthew 24:14.
God is a merciful God who doesn’t want any to perish! Dying forever is serious business! That is why the proclamation of the good news of Jesus must be given by every church and to every person on the earth. That is our primary objective!
Instead of reaching outward confidently in the Lord, we turn inward and begin to focus on the weak sheep within our congregation. Not a bad thing, but after a while, progression in outreach can be diminished in its effectiveness due to the seed sown on the shallow ground!
By not making new members disciples through patient teaching on how to lead people to become disciples, we bring even more division. Our usual process to fertilize division starts with a powerful emotional sermon followed by an appeal/ alter call and a few denominational bible studies so the new convert can learn the denomination’s view of scripture. it is followed by baptism so they can become members of the denomination and become good “church-going” members. Then we indoctrinate them on the weekly church service order and routine, being careful not to introduce anything different. Our work is done! Or is it?
While this process can be beneficial in some ways, the Church service can become formal, prohibiting progress toward discipleship. Discipleship (as commanded by Jesus) should be dynamic and through progressive patient teaching of personal service and evangelism led by mature born-again teachers.
The addition of people to church membership is a weak objective. Multiplication is a better goal, where new disciples create new disciples. The new convert must learn to grow daily in the body of Christ, which has no denominational name on the front door of the church. The new Christian is often left to figure this out on their own. Sometimes, Jesus is left in the dust, and religious humdrum and ceremony set in.
Jesus prayed for unity. The question is this: Was His prayer answered? I believe it was, but not in the way you would think. For more on this, please see this article. “Was Jesus’ Prayer For Unity Answered.” Let’s continue with the superiority problem among us…
Are We Repeating Israel’s Mistakes?
God recorded their journey and their failed mission so that we would learn from it. But have we? It would appear that we haven’t. There is still segregation in modern Christian churches. Our denominations feel superior to the others. The idea is that we have it right theologically, but others do not. We are more concerned with political and theological correctness than letting our light shine to a world in deep darkness and dying on our watch!
Jesus prayed that we might be one even as Jesus and the Father are one! Wow! What an objective and prayer of Jesus!
“…that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.” John 17:21
But the key is being “in” the Father and “in” Jesus! This is such an intimate relationship! It is not a surface or casual experience but “in” the follower of Christ! Wow!
Did you catch the other vital part of the prayer? The world “may believe” that God the Father sent Jesus if we are one! If we are unified via being “in” Him!
But many will rightly say, “Unity can’t come at the sacrifice of modifying or watering down the word of God. ” If we do this, we become just like the world and politics who want us to be politically correct. Where we can, we need to ensure we don’t rebuild those walls of perdition over elitism or segregation ideas just because someone is not at the same level of theological education or in their journey with Jesus. We must love people where they are and make adjustments! Paul hinted at this when he said,
“…to the weak, I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might, by all means, save some. Now, this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I may be partaker of it with you. 1
Corinthians 9: 22-23
There must be some flexibility in reaching people without the stiffness of religious ceremonies and even beliefs. The opposite of superiority is humbleness. This is what God calls us to be: humble.
The Lord taught us to put others before ourselves. This is the first step in humbleness;
Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind, let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests but also for the interests of others.
Philippians 2:3-4
Can you keep this commandment? Only through Jesus!
It can be said with confidence and certainty that God’s people are in every denomination. Their theology may not be the best, or they may even believe differently on certain doctrines, but what puts them in the body of Christ is that they are “in” Christ.” Because of this, they are members of God’s one true church with no label on its marque. They love and follow the lamb wherever He leads them. Some are still in Babylon but are called out!
For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ and individually members of one another.
Romans 12: 3-5
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
Galatians 3:28
There is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all.
Colossians 3:11
These passages above are all written to the followers of Christ! The point is: The differences are all united for those “in” Christ! These are those who are truly born again and not just religious!
If only we could find our common ground in love for one another and stop this feeling of superiority! This love towards one another is the great litmus test given to us by the word of God concerning true discipleship! It separates the true follower of Christ from the false.
By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”
John 13:35
Are you the disciple of Christ or the Church Lady?
Three Last-Day Messages of Final Warning
The focus in these last days is to warn people of the coming destruction associated with the second coming of Christ. We should be unified in proclaiming the gospel to the entire world, which includes the rescue of God’s people when Jesus returns and takes us to where He is now.
Please read these three angels’ messages in Revelation. This is the last warning for planet earth: Revelation 14: 6:11. It is not limited to one denomination. It is the message of Christ’s followers!
Sadly, more division is to come, but it will be just one split in the end: The sheep and the goats. Also, a split between those who keep the commandments of God and those who will accept the mark of the beast. there will be no other divisions by denomination. It will be only two groups: The group that belongs to Jesus and those who belong to the counterfeit, i.e., the beast of Revelation 13. The enemy of God.
The confirmation of unity, in the last days, centers on loving obedience and love for each other through the heartfelt keeping of God’s royal law of liberty (James 1:25), The Ten Commandments. It comes at the next verse of the three angels’ messages:
Here is the patience of the saints; hereare those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.
Revelation 14:12
Conclusion
There is no separation, no superiority, in the body of Christ, although there are differences. That is why we can trust people who are “in” Christ regardless of their denominational name. You can see it in their faces and in their actions. They follow the lamb wherever He goes.
These are the ones who were not defiled with women (denominational churches?), for they are virgins. These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These were redeemed from among men, being firstfruits to God and to the Lamb.” Revelation 14:4
No one will have reason to feel superior. All those who love Jesus will understand their unworthiness, and within their hearts will be placed a desire to reveal Jesus so He can save the lost who are headed to eternal death. This desire is where common ground is found.
But the final message to earth will be one of warning, and it will be loud and with the power of God’s Spirit. It is found in the three angels’ messages in Revelation. These messages are not limited to one denomination. It is the cry of all Christians who know Jesus. In the end, it is not what you know that matters as much as who you know. But knowing Him will cause you to want to know more and more. This itch will not go away for those who are “in” Christ!
And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.
John 17:3
And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29:13
In these last days, It is the second coming message that will unify God’s people as it did with the sincere seekers of Christ at His first coming. it has been said that the ground at the foot of the cross is level. No one is taller or better than the other there. No one is “just a little more superior” than the other. We can learn from each other wherever we may choose to congregate.
Jeremiah said it best:
all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags
But now, O Lord, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; And all we are the work of Your hand.; Isiah 64:6,8
Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.
Ephesians 2: 19-22
For context, Paul is talking to Gentiles (v.11).
Therefore remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh.
Ephesians 2:11
Paul tells them that they (Gentiles) were once “strangers” and “foreigners.” The Unchosen, as I call them. But a change has occurred. They are now “members of the household of God.” How did that happen?
This “household” was built on the foundation of two groups of God-inspired people: “apostles and prophets.: The 12 New Testament apostles and the many Old Testament prophets are co-contributors to the foundation household of God.
Jesus is the chief cornerstone. He is what anchors and fits the building together. Paul continues…the building grows into a holy temple and states “you” (Gentiles) become a “dwelling place of God in the Spirit.”Paul points out that this temple of people “fitted together” and becomes a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.
Paul told the Gentile believers (See verse 2:11) something that caused great joy. They were now “members of thehousehold of God.” This is a complete turnaround for them! Because, at one time, they were “aliens from the Commonwealth of Israel and strangers.” What made this change from strangers to members? It was Jesus! The great unifier! They believed Him! Sadly, a good part of the people of promise did not!
But now in Christ Jesus, you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
Ephesian 2: 13
In Old Testament times, the Jews separated themselves from the Gentiles. But Jesus did something very radical. He broke down the wall of separation between Jews and Gentiles.
For He, Himself is our peace, who has made both one and has broken down the middle wall of separation.
Ephesians 2:14
Many have speculated about the identity of this “middle wall of separation.” Some say it was the Mosiac law. These laws made Israel unique., but that was a good thing. Why? Because God gave them to Moses to instruct His people in the ways of salvation and the coming character and purpose of the Messiah.
They were to obey them for their own good, but not to be saved. It was to lead them to the source of Salvation…the “Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world. ” But, they made their way of life a wall to keep out the undesirables i.e. the Gentiles or anyone that was not of Israel.
Paul calls the laws regarding sacrifice and ceremonies a “Schoolmaster” that taught them about the coming Messiah and His method of Salvation (Sacrifice). As the children of Israel participated in the ceremonies, they learned about God, the Messiah’s nature, and His great solution to the sin problem (i.e. sacrifice of God and justification through faith).
Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.”
Galatians 3: 24
It is faith in Christ, the Messiah, that unites both the believers of the Old Testament and those of the New Testament. This brings them into the “household of God.”
“…since there is one God who will justify the circumcised (Jew) by faith and the uncircumcised (Gentile) throughfaith.
Romans 3:30
Without this faith, it is impossible to please God (See Hebrews 11:6). God was teaching, by the people of God in the Old Testament and the New Testament, the great lessons on faith (or trust in Him as their God.). Many of the Old Testament Characters who lived by faith are listed in Hebrews 11.
The point is this: Jesus’ church (believers) now has no walls or boundaries that separate Jews and Gentiles. We are all one in Christ.
There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
Galatians 3:28
Therefore, the church is the fellowship of believers from the Garden of Eden to the last church before Jesus comes. Metaphorically speaking, the believers are the building. The building is not brick and mortar or a denominational name. His temple is made of redeemed flesh and spirit. This is where God wants to dwell…in our hearts and minds. Therefore, our bodies and minds is the temple of the Holy Spirit.
Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body AND in your spirit, which are God’s.
1 Corinthians 6: 19-20
God has always had His people. Although the word “church” is not used in the Old Testament, it is used 177 times In the New Testament. The Greek word is ekklēsia. The primary translation, according to Strong’s Greek Concordance, is “a gathering of citizens called out from their homes into some public place, an assembly. It can also meanthe assembly of the Israelites.
In Old Testament times, the church is referred to as an assembly of the congregation. The Hebrew word for this group isqāhēland is used 123 times.
So the terms church and assembly are universal in nature. It is a simple term for the coming together of God’s people, but the building (people) is what Jesus loved, similar to a husband in love with His wife. He lived and died because of this great love for His people, whether in ages past or modern times.
“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church and gave himself for it.“
Jesus gave Himself for the church (assembly) of those who accepted the sacrifice of Jesus by faith, regardless of the time period they lived. The sacrificial system taught sacrifice and faith. It pointed forward to Jesus. It was the shadow of “things to come.”
“… the shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ.
Colossians 2:17
2.) Jesus built the church on Peter
“…having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone,”
Ephesians 2:20
As mentioned at the start, the “building” of believers was built on the “apostles and prophets.” and they are unified or stabilized by Christ the cornerstone. The prophets mentioned here are a direct reference to the many prophets of the Old Testament.
So, it is not Peter alone who participates in the building; it is all the other eleven apostles as well. Included in these numbers are Old Testament believers such as Moses, Isaiah, Ezekiel, David, and many others. Each had a particular purpose in building a body of faithful believers.
Nevertheless, Peter’s confession or statement of faith is the bedrock of Christ’s church.
“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Matthew 16:16
Here is the starting point for all believers, both Old and New Testament people. To be people of faith, the believer must acknowledge and trust that Jesus is the promised Messiah, but also the Son of God, to be true members of the household of God i.e. the church.
Jesus reminded Peter that he was a stone even though his God-inspired statement was a rock; it is the foundation for all believers who make up the church.
Jesus stated He would build “His church” on Peter’s inspired confession. It is the transition from the shadows of the Old Testament….the faith of the loyal who looked forward to the day the Apostles were living the reality of their experience of “God with Us.”
Jesus gave Peter (petros) his name, which means a pebble or stone:
Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter).
John 1:42
Compared to the mighty power of the bedrock belief in Jesus as both the Messiah and His deity, Peter is just a stone. While Simon Peter is referred to as a stone, Jesus is often called the Rock (Petra). Peter had nothing to do with the work of Jesus in Old Testament times, but Jesus did! Here are just a few examples:
“…all drank the same spiritual drink, for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ. “
1 Corinthians 10:4
“No one is holy like the Lord, For there is none besides You, Nor is there any rock like our God.
1 Samuel 2:2
“The Lord lives! Blessed be my Rock! Let God be exalted, The Rock of my salvation!
1 Samuel 22:47
For who is God, except the Lord? And who is a rock, except our God?
Psalm 18:31
The only head of the church is Christ. No man, no prophet, no pope , no man or womand can claim that title: He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come. And He put all things under His feet and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all. Ephesians 1: 20-23
There is no other name (including Peter, John, Paul, Pope Francis, etc.) that is responsible for our salvation.
Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
Acts 4:12
Jesus is to be given “preeminence” (first place) above all others:
And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.
Colossians 1:18
Preeminence in Greek is Prōteuō. It means to be first or hold first place. He is in first place before Peter, Paul, Mary, John, and any other. Is there any doubt as to who is the head of the church? Who should be first in our lives, and where we go to seek answers?
I like Paul, but Jesus is better. I like John, Isaiah, and Moses, but Jesus is better. He is number 1! He must have preeminence in our lives. He is number 1 ahead of our pastor or priest. No one is entitled to come between us.
A pastor priest is no longer needed in the process of salvation. God has made a way for us to go directly to the throne of grace for confession, forgiveness, and help:
Let us, therefore, come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Hebrews 4:16
Only Jesus can forgive sins. He doesn’t assign silly things to do or recite to be forgiven. If sin is confessed to God, He freely forgives and provides what no earthly priest can give…power over the sin.
Only Jesus can forgive sins. He doesn’t assign silly things to do or recite in order to be forgiven. If sin is confessed to God, He freely forgives and provides what no earthly priest can give…power over the sin.
“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me, you can do nothing.
John 15:5
3.) God commands us to go to church
Going to church is sometimes used as a test of whether a person is in Christ or not. When asked if Jesus is Lord and Savior, the response might be, “Yes, I go to church.”
Someone once said, “Going to church doesn’t make me a Christian any more than going to a garage makes me a mechanic.”
Can it be shown from the Bible any commandment to “go to church?” How about the 4th commandment?
“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. For in six days, the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
Exodus 20: 8-11
Many people say that the 4th commandment is obeyed by going to church. But the commandment says nothing about remembering to go to church. The direction from God is to “Remember.” It gives the believer the right to rest by ceasing from the labor of the previous six days and by keeping it holy. Why? Because God blessed the Sabbath (Seventh-Day) and made it holy. Keeping it holy is confusing to many believers because the experience of being holy or sanctified is foreign in a materialistic secular world. This is a study for another time.
Most of Christendom does not remember the seventh day to cease labor and keep it holy because it is not convenient. It is often rationalized away as being for Jews only or changed by Jesus (both unbiblical).
God is not just giving another rule to follow or showing that He is God. He is giving His creation the gift of rest from their labors, both physical and spiritual.
Obviously, missing from the commandment is the idea of going to church. Going to church on the Sabbath is not prohibited. It is no doubt part of keeping the day holy. But neither is attending church on any other day of the week prohibited. Either way, the blessing of the seventh day still stands as a day that God blessed and made holy.
We can not make anything holy, but God can. Any other day of the week is not blessed and made holy as with the seventh day.
Jesus said,
The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.
Mark 2:27
From Jesus’ words, we understand that God made the Sabbath for you and me (mankind), but, too often, restrictions were made by the religious leaders so that people felt like they were serving the Sabbath. The only things God asked us to do is to remember that He blessed the day and made it holy and to cease our labors. If you do, you now have time to be with God, whether in worship, with family, or hiking along a trail. The Sabbath is to be a delight:
if you call the Sabbath a delight and the Lord’s holy day honorable,…then you will find your joy in the Lord, Isaiah 58 13b-14a
Unfortunately, the religious leaders in Christ’s time put a burden of a multitude of rules and regulations on the Sabbath and turned it into a day of restrictions rather than allowing people to find their joy in the Lord. In many ways, these restrictions continue today. On a Jewish website, I found a few of these restrictions customized to modern times:
No writing, erasing, or tearing;
No business transactions:
No driving or riding in cars or other vehicles;
No shopping;
No using the telephone:
No turning on or off anything which uses electricity, including lights, radios, television, computer, air-conditioners, and alarm clocks;
Fortunately, God did not give lists of “no-nos”. He gave guidance using the words: “Remember,” “holy,” and “joy“. The only restriction was to cease our labor. Of course, religionists felt a need to help God out by making lists related to what labor or work meant. It seems that “not working” is the emphasis of the commandment rather than a day of joy in the Lord with family, friends, and fellow believers.
The only encouragement I can find in scripture about assembling together is here:
“…not forsaking the assembling (episynagōgē) of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Hebrews 10:25
This passage in words or context does not specify the day of assembling (church-going). At every opportunity, we should gather with other Christians, especially as we see the signs of Christ’s return.
After Christ ascended and the Day of Pentecost had come, Jesus’ followers did not limit coming together to just one day. It was daily! And they met in each other’s houses! Small groups! They were so excited about Jesus!
“…continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, Acts 2:46
Oh, that Christ meant that much to us today, and we greatly anticipated His return!
4.) Going to church will save me
The assembling of God’s people in a building of brick and mortar is for at least seven good reasons that I can think of: In no particular order, it is to…
1.) Worship the Creator;
2.) Encourage others;
3.) Encourage self;
4.) Learn about God;
5.) Serve others in the congregation (particularly those in need)
6.) Disciple the lost;
7.) Serve the community
Not one of these seven reasons saves a person as good as the reasons may be. Salvation is through Christ alone.
Going to Jesus saves you. Going to church should encourage you, but it won’t save you. It doesn’t help gain any favor with God. Faith or trust in God please Him.
Going to Jesus saves a person, not going to church. But, participating in these activities builds up strength in the Lord and thereby helps keep them from the sinful pull of the world. Involvement in the church, with good leaders, will build up (edify) the body of Christ and encourage each individual to go and make disciples of the lost. The church, or assembly of believers, has one main purpose: To equip the saints and take the gospel to the world.
And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying (building up) of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;
Ephesian 4: 11-13
And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. Mark 16: 15
Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Matthew 28:19
5.) My church is the only true church
There is a true church. It is the body of Christ. The church is not a building, not a name above the doors or on the sign out front. It is a body of believers wherever they may be. His church transcends time and space.
There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. 1 Corinthians 12:12-14
Of the 2.5 billion Christians in the world today, there are over 34,000 denominations to choose from Catholic, Protestant, Methodist, Church of Christ, Baptist, and Non-denominational, plus many others.
But Jesus says there is only one body, one Spirit, one faith, and one baptism.
Jesus prayed for unity among us.
“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” John 17: 20-21
Was this prayer answered? It would appear that God the Father ignored this prayer. But, I propose to you it was answered. The great Unifier, Jesus, brings us all into one body identified in a particular way.
If a person is in this one body, they are “in Christ.” The phrase “in Christ” appears some 85 times in the New Testament. Here are just a few:
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6:23
There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, Romans 8:1
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
2 Corinthians 5:17
For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
Galatians 3: 26-27
A summary of these few verses states clearly, “in Christ” we :
Have eternal life “in Christ.”
There is no condemnation “in Christ.”
The old past is passed away, and all things are now new…
You are sons of God “in Christ.” We have “put on Christ” if we are baptized “into Christ.”
So the true church is not one of the massive numbers of denominations. It is the Cornerstone, the Unifier, and Stabilizer of Christ alone.
My wife and I have enjoyed this truth. It gives us the joy to seek out our brothers and sisters who are “in Christ” at the different churches or denominations. It is by our love towards each other (not fear, suspicion, or judgment) that demonstrates to the world we are part of the body of Christ and are His disciples:
By this, all will know that you are My disciples if you have love for one another.”
John 13:35
Let us be careful not to make snap judgments about a person’s relationship with Christ based on the name of their church.
Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another;
Romans 12:10
“There will be people in heaven whose theology may not be totally correct, but they have the right spirit of Jesus, but there will not be a person there who has right theology, but the wrong spirit.”
Pastor Ignacio Silverio
A Quick Summary:
1.) The church (God’s People) has been the “apple of His eye” since the beginning of time. His love for the church transcends time and space.
2.) Jesus built His church (His people) on the truth that He is the Christ and the Son of God. The church is not built on anyone else. He is in First Place above all other names.
3.) Just going to church does not save us…Only Jesus. The church’s purpose is to edify its members and prepare them for ministry to the community and seek out the lost.
4.) Jesus doesn’t command us to go to church. The 4th Commandment invites us to have a date with Jesus, whether in church or not. He invites us to rest in Him. The Sabbath is to be called a delight. Not a day of dos or don’ts to gain favor with God. We go to church because Jesus saved us or we are looking for him, but the act of attendance does not save us.
5.) You are the true church only if you are “in Christ“. A set of beliefs, traditions, lineage, and theology does not make a true Church. His people are those “in Him” regardless of where they have their membership. Love for each fellow Christian proves that we are truly His disciples—no love…no discipleship.
‘These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. 2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God. 3 Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you. 4 You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. 5 He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life, but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.
6 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” ’
Revelation 3:1-6
Message Structure To All Churches:
Each message to the church has these seven components:
1.) Greeting – God’s knowledge of the church and their works
2.) Descriptionof Jesus – Identification of Jesus in terms relevant to the condition of this Church
3.) Condition – Condition of the Church.
4.) Problem – What is good and what is not.
5.) Counsel – The solution and consequences of rejection
6.) ConditionalPromise – If the counsel is followed
7.) Closing – Universal Council to all readers. Listen to what the Spirit says to the seven churches!
Greeting and Problems
The greetings are always short. God goes straight to the heart of their problem. This would indicate that God is eager to help His church. Only He and His instructions will ensure the shortfalls of the people will be corrected. So if we are listening to what the Spirit says to the churches, we will find the solutions to the problems of our local congregations.
The description of the Sardis church revolves around their reputation as being alive. But they are actually dead spiritually. They have many “works” or what we would call community outreach programs, but it lacks Jesus and the gifts of the Spirit. This fact will always cause a church to die spiritually. Just as faith without works is dead, works without Jesus and the Spirit are ineffective and dead despite a great reputation. Their reputation might be real in the community, or it might be self-deception by this body of believers.
Sadly, many of today’s churches might fit into this category where their concern is more about a good reputation and good works, But the power of God’s spirit to bring souls to a knowledge of Christ is cutoff or dead in this church. Never forget that Jesus is the resurrection and the life. He can resurrect a dead church.
Jesus’ Description and His Resources
Jesus’ description of Himself is relevant to this dead church.
Jesus is described as having “seven Spirits of God and the seven stars.”. A casual reading of this snippet might lead one to think this is a new doctrine of seven Holy Spirits. But, when read in the context of others things written in Scripture about the Holy Spirit, it is most likely a description of the complete works of the Spirit even though there are multiple gifts of the Spirit. Jesus “has” access to these gifts, which are given to those who ask for it (Luke 11:13 b). Paul helps clarify this point when he wrote to the once renegade Corinthian church.
There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: 1 Corinthians 12: 4-7
Council to the Church
Be watchful– Watchful of what? That would be my first question if I am a member of the Sardis church. God often tells his people to watch and pray. These two usually go together. Jesus told his disciples,
“Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Matthew 26:41
In the case of Sardis, they are weak, as indicated in the next council. Therefore we, like the people of Sardis, must be on our guard and observant of the things around us so that we aren’t tempted away from the side of the Lord.
Strengthen the things that remain. What remains can be found by remembering when they were once strong. There was a spark of life in them because they had, at one time, been living a life of watchfulness and victory over sin.
Remember how you received How did they receive the Lord? It was by faith or trust in God. As time goes by in our spiritual life, we can start up habits, create forgetfulness, and lose sight of the Lord. They had drifted from God and were weak. What remained was only a spark of life. They were on life-support! Their eyes needed to be on Jesus, who started their journey.
“looking unto Jesus, the author, and finisher of our faith,
Hebrews 12:2
keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
Jude 1:21
When we realize we are weak, God asks us to remember how strong God made us when we first began our lives in Him. Remember how God we merciful towards you even though your sins were like smelly sewage. He tells us to hang on and “keep in the love of God.”
Hold Fast– To hold fast takes determination and strength that only God can give you. Many followers of Christ do not realize an enemy is seeking to take away their crown. Even to the Philadelphia church, which received no negative assessments like the other churches, God told them to hang on so that no one would take their crown.
Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.
Revelation 3:11
The enemy has many arrows in his quiver, many tricks, and programs to tempt the believer away. When a person asks Jesus into their life, they enter a spiritual war. It requires “suiting up” for the battle each day. An honest Christian will know what “weights” and “sins” prevent them from putting on the whole armor of God to ensure victory in the fight with self and the enemy.
“let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, ” Hebrews 12:1
“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.“
Ephesians 6:11
Repent – It is interesting that repentance is one of the last councils. But it is in the correct order of things. When a person becomes aware of God counseling them, conviction comes upon them, and they are faced with admitting their need for Christ. They repent and turn from their deadly path. Likewise, If this church doesn’t repent, they will not follow the council Jesus gives this church.
Repentance includes sorrow for sin and a turning away from it. We shall not renounce sin unless we see its sinfulness; until we turn away from it in heart, there will be no real change in the life.”
Steps to Christ-White
When Peter preached his powerful sermon in the second chapter of Acts, the people were under great conviction and asked,
“What shall we do?”
The very first words of Peter were, “
Repent.”Acts 2: 37-38
Consequences for Rejecting the Council
If the people of Sardis refuse to watch, the remainder of the council cannot be met. They can’t take their condition casually. They are in trouble even though they can point to their great reputation.
Consequently, Jesus sadly says,
I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.
This doesn’t sound good. This verbiage is similar to another passage of scripture with the same warning:
But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up.
2 Peter 3:10
For those not “watching” for the enemy’s temptations or not “watching” for the return of Christ, the event will come as a surprise. Connected with His coming as a thief is destruction. But those who know the Lord, have repented, and are watching for His return are not overtaken as a thief:
“But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief.”
1 Thess 5:4
Good works alone are of no value unless they result from God working through the born-again believer who knows Jesus personally. This is explained by another group of people, like Sardis, who point to their reputation in the community for doing works of religion, even in the name of Christ, but their results are useless:
Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’
Mathew 7:22
Conditional Promise
Many of God’s promises have a condition. Here is just one example:
Delight yourself also in the Lord, And He shall give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4
What is the condition? “Delight yourself in the Lord.” Will a person get their heart’s desires if they take no delight in the Lord? No! Will being good, moral, and religious give the desires of your heart? No! It is when you know God enough to take delight in Him!
Sadly, when converted, many people become religious instead of a disciple of Christ. Life in Him by faith is foreign. Consequently, the benefits of being in Christ are not realized. No peace. No Joy, No victory over sins.
This church has a condition to meet if they want the promise, as do we, if met, the promise is sweet!
“He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.
Overcoming is a vital part of the Christian experience. But never think that you can do it in your own strength. If we overcome alcohol, drug abuse, infidelity, sexual sins, depression, unbelief, or any other sin that so does so easily beset us, it will be through our connection with Jesus. Otherwise, we can do nothing!
“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.
John 15:5
The righteous sap of Christ, the vine, feeds the branches and will produce fruit. This means you must be grafted “in Christ.” Being “in Him” was Christ’s prayer for you and me. Will you allow his prayer to be answered in your life?
“I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us,
Jesus (John 17: 20-21)
Despite all this warning and council, there were
“a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy.“ (Verse 4)
Even in the dead church of Sardis, a few who, like Philadelphia, have no warning given them, only praise from a Holy God. They have the white robes of Christ’s righteousness, and they walk with Him! God always has His people, even in the worst of churches. So this message is not for them except as it relates to giving CPR to a lifeless body. Hopefully, this church will be revived and listen to what the Lord says. That brings us to the last council. It is for you and me in 2022:
Closing Council
“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”
Verse 23
Did you hear what Jesus said to this church? Does it apply to you and me? The council and life support are for us today. We can be resurrected from the dead.
And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins,
Ephesians 2:1
If you hear and react to Christ…welcome to life in Jesus! Don’t leave Sardis; help them!
Notes on a church known for its love and faithfulness.
“To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write:
These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. 8 I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. 9 I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they are not, but are liars—I will make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you. 10 Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth.
11 I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. 12 The one who is victorious I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will they leave it. I will write on them the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on them my new name. 13 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”
Revelation 3: 7-13
The American City
Most Americans know the meaning of the name Philadelphia. This fact is especially true if you live in that great city of Pennsylvania located in the Northeast section of the United States. Over 1.6 million people call Philidelphia home. It is known for its contribution to founding the American dream of freedom, free from the tyranny of Great Brittan and the powerful papacy of the Roman Catholic Church in Europe. But also the personal right of every human to “… to Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.” (United State Declaration of Independence)
Both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed here. The authors of our famous documents desired a country without a king and a church without a pope. America’s pursuit of freedom and equality for every citizen has its roots in this famous city.
William Penn, a Quaker, founded Philidelphia in 1862, which became the capital of the Pennsylvania colony. The name means “brotherly love” in the Greek language. Interestingly, the Greek word for Philadelphia appears only twice in the Bible. Both references appear in the book of Revelation (Revelation 1:11 and 3:7). John was inspired to write to this city after receiving a vision from God.
The City of Revelation
“Asia Minor, situated near the eastern base of Mount Tmolus, (was founded and named by the Pergamene king Attalus II, Philadelphus. After the death of king Attalus III. Philometor, B. C. 133, it together with his entire kingdom came by his will under the jurisdiction of the Romans” (Ref: Blue Bible)
King Attalus II reigned for approximately 21 years 159-138 BC), whose “love for his brother Eumenes II gave him the epithet Philadelphus; after him, Philidelphia (brotherly love) was named. This prosperous city lay on the imperial post road. From its inception, Philadelphia was intended to serve as a missionary city for the promotion of the Greek language and culture to the area of Lydia and Phrygia. Its geographical location, however, made it subject to occasional earthquakes; in particular, the severe earthquake of A.D. 17 devastated Philadelphia together with Sardis and other surrounding cities.” (Revelation of Jesus Christ, Stefanovic, p.143)
The Church In Philadelphia
Jesus introduces Himself to this church with these characteristics:
The Holy One
the True One
The One who has the key of David who opens and no one shuts and shuts, and no one opens.
The first two attributes of Christ are significant for this church and all “who have an ear.” Christ is holy (set apart above the world’s sins) and the only One who is genuine and faithful. All others are false. Exclusive statements about Christ are inclusive of everyone, whether they believe it or not. Jesus and His promises are precise for each and every person. Therefore, exclusive comments about Jesus like this are not threatening if they are true. Jesus has proven to be true.
Exclusive statements about God and Jesus often appear in the Bible. For example, Jesus said something very similar, as recorded by John:
“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”
John 14: 6
In a similar point, Paul asks a question to the Roman church to clarify that unfaithful people do not affect the truth of God.
What if some were unfaithful? Will their unfaithfulness nullify God’s faithfulness? Not at all! Let God be true, and every human being a liar. Romans 3: 3-4
So, Jesus is the untouched and unsoiled source of truth. But, he also declares He has keys to a door that none of us possess. He can let people in or people out. What does this mean? In or out of what?
An Open Door
Some might surmise that the door represents an entrance or exit into heaven. This has logical meaning to the western mind. However, in the context of the literal setting of Philadelphia, the purpose of this church, and other Bible references, it is likely a metaphor for an open door of opportunity that Jesus opens. When He does, no one can stop His purpose.
“The city’s strategic location made it the gateway to the East. From its very beginning, Philadelphia was deliberately built to be “the missionary city” for spreading the Greek culture and language among the barbarian tribes throughout the regions of Asia. Being on the imperial post road, Philadelphia was indeed given an open door for the spreading Greek ideas throughout the region.”
Revelation of Jesus Christ, Stefanovic, p. 144
The Philadelphia church also became an effective highway for spreading the gospel. This poses the question to the modern church. As we located where we can spread the gospel, or do we locate ourselves away from the highways and byways of the lost or to protect ourselves? Do we go inward or outward?
This was the purpose of all the churches and it continues to this day. Instead, we find ourselves more like a club for the comfort of the saints and we stay “in.” To go “out” is symbolic of proactiveness. Going “in” is more for the fearful and introverted. Paul spoke about the open door and going out in the world of opportunity for the sake of the kingdom. Going out means facing adversaries and the difficulties of being a worker for the kingdom of God.
For a great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries. 1 Corinthians 16:9
Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ’s gospel, and a door was opened to me by the Lord, 2 Corinthians 2:12
…praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, tospeak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, Col 4:3
If God opens a door, the church should go through. Sometimes we find ourselves timid and excuse ourselves to tarry and pray. But often, the prayers have already been prayed, we just are too timid because of the challenges we anticipate. The road is not aways smooth anyway.
“Now when they had come and gathered the church together, they reported all that God had done with them, and that He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.”
The work of spreading the gospel is God’s work,. We are just encouraged to be willing to follow and go out as He gives the opportunity. Has God opened the door for your church?
A Trial on the Earth
I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth.I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. 12 The one who is victorious I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will they leave it. Verses 11:12
Ah! many will say after seeing the phrase “from the hour of trial”, “See, God’s church has been raptured away, so they are not on the earth to witness this trial” (a.k.a time of trouble.).
This teaching hangs on one word “from.” But look at the exhortation and context of the reward in the next verse.
Jesus tells us to “hold on to what we have so that no one will take your crown.” Can someone take your crown if you are already in paradise? Of course not. In the next breathe, Jesus talks about individual victory that leads to being a strong “pillar” in heaven. Strength comes from the patient endurance found in verse 10.
Jesus prayed,
I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one.
John 17:15
Will God the Father answer Jesus’ prayer? I think so. Don’t you. We are to stay in this world to the end as a witness or testimony to the power of Jesus in our hearts regardless of the circumstances. Again, the western mind thinks only of the convenience and comfort of being snatched away. This is dangerous because this teaching minimizes spiritual preparation.
Philadelphia – A Historical Symbol
This church could easily be a symbol of the church during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. In America and around the world, the Bible was being more understood as predicted by the prophet Daniel and encouraged by John when he said,
Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.
Revelation 1:3
“With ‘little strength’ (3:8), the church of this period was indeed a missionary church driven by a strong desire to bring the gospel to the entire world. This period was a time of great advancement of the gospel, such as had not been experienced ever before in Chrisitan history.” Revelation of Jesus Christ, Stefanovic, p. 146
As the world has gotten larger, the tools to communicate have increased. Doors are open behind walled and discriminatory countries.
The church of Philadelphia encourages us to walk through the door of opportunity while it is day and light is available to everyone. Let us be quick to walk through the door and shake off the comfort of familiarity while it daytime. One day, darkeness will attempt to cover the whole earth.
I must work the works of Him who sent me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work. John 9:4
‘These things says He whohas the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect beforeGod.Remember, therefore, how you have received and heard; hold fast andrepent.Therefore, if you will not watch, I will come upon youas a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.You havea few nameseven in Sardis who have notdefiled their garments, and they shall walk with Mein white, for they are worthy.He who overcomesshall be clothed in white garments, and I will notblot out his name from theBook of Life, butI will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.
“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”
Revelation 3: 1-6
Each message to the seven churches ends with these words: “let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Each church has personalized council from Christ Himself. But also, every person who “has an ear” has the same direction. No one is excluded. However, there is something in the message that many fail to understand. It is this: the message is primarily to His church! Those who profess His leadership.
God’s desire for the body of Christ to prosper spiritually is found in each letter. If each member heeded the words, the church would go forth in the power of the Holy Spirit to be co-workers with the Godhead.
Today, I was studying the challenges of the Sardis church with an “ear to hear” what that ancient city of Sardis has in common with me personally. Here are a few of my notes:
The City and the Church
There are five application levels when reading to understand Christ’s messages to the church. First, it was a literal message to an early historical church. In this case, it is to the church in Sardis. It was for them.
But there is a second level. It is a message to all churches throughout history in similar situations.
The third level is a customized message to local churches with similar challenges.
The fourth level is highly applicable to the different stages of church history. The message describes the church’s struggles from the book of Acts to our day in the 21st century. To understand this part, a study of church history is necessary.
But, lastly and most importantly, it is the message to the individual who makes up the church. The person who “has an ear.” The council is very personal and understandable to anyone brought under the conviction of the message.
The message to the historical church at Sardis is highly appropriate when considering its location and condition:
” Sardis was built on a hill so steep that it was considered a natural citadel, and its defenses seemed secure. The location of the city made the citizens overconfident; as a result, the city walls were carelessly guarded. The city was captured twice by surprise, first by Cyrus the Persian (549 B.C.) and later by Antiochus (218 B.C.) On both occasions, enemy troops climbed the precipice by night and found that the Sardians had set no guard. The city was captured and destroyed because of the overconfidence of the citizens and the failure of the guards to watch. It seemed that this carelessness had crept into the church, hence the warning: “Keep watching.” Revelation of Jesus Christ, Stefanovic p. 138
So, the highest application level for this church and today’s church is to “keep watching.” Watching for what? This is undoubtedly a spiritual application of being aware of our surroundings and attack threats. Can you see the attacks on the churches today? Can you see the attacks on you personally?
For the churches and individuals of our day, we are directed to watch and be prepared for the second return of Christ. If not, He will come unexpectedly, and therefore, the person is unprepared.
Therefore, if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.
Revelation 3:3
Jesus warned in His sermon on the mount:
But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore, you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.
Matthew 24:43-44
Notice the admonition to “watch” and “be ready.” The follower of Christ must be watchful and understanding of their surroundings but must go further and prepare their hearts, so they know they are ready.
Paul compares the return of Christ with a thief who comes at night. The key concept here is the surprise element.
“For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night.”
1 Thessalonians 5:2
A couple of verses later, Paul clarifies that the followers of Christ are not in darkness (uninformed), and they are not overtaken by the experience of an unexpected visit of a thief.
But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief.
1 Thessalonians 5:4
Sadly, many churches today try to compare the thief’s experience with quietness to support the secret rapture theory. But, Peter leaves no doubt that the second coming and the church rising to meet the Lord in the air is loud and destructive:
But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise (loud), and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up (destructive).
2 Peter 3:10
So, when He comes, there are no second chances. Therefore, the individual must watch and be prepared. This is the primary message to the church at Sardis and all those lazy in their experience with Christ.
This leads to Christ’s counsel to “repent.” If not, then those who think they are of the body of Christ and written in the book of life will be surprised, as are those who do not know Christ and therefore lost.
Book of Life
“He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life, but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Revelation 3: 5-6
Whether the book of life is a literal book or not, it has life-and-death significance to those professing Christ. The once-saved, always-saved doctrine doesn’t line up with the message here. The follower can have their name blotted out of the book of life. Therefore, overcoming is minimized in this passage to those who hold on to the dangerous doctrine. Overcoming in Christ is the key here. No amount of self-will or exercise is enough. The will and the doing come only through Jesus. Any self-actions, whether grit, determination, morning devotions, memorizing Bible texts, diet, you name it, are ropes of sand. Why? It is because we can do nothing without Jesus. He gives us the will (desire) and performs His will through us.
Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
Philippians 2: 12-13
This is righteousness by faith in Christ alone. We are legalists if we don’t seek righteousness through Him alone. Our choice is to repent and seek to be “in Him” at all times.
“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.
John 15: 5
Other writers confirm Jesus’ statement of warning about the book of life.
Moses:
“Yet now, if You will forgive their sin—but if not, I pray, blot me out of Your book which You have written.” And the Lord said to Moses, “Whoever has sinned against Me, I will blot him out of My book.”
Exodus 32: 32-33
David:
Let them be blotted out of the book of the living,
And not be written with the righteous.
Psalm 69:28
Only those who remain in the book of life will be spared destruction in the lake of file.
: And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.”
Revelation 20:15
Conclusion
I ask the question after reading Christ’s message to Sardis: Why does Jesus give these warnings and council to all the churches and individuals if there was no possibility of having their names blotted from the book of life? The answer is obvious.
It is God’s purpose to correct our journey with Him. It is not a one-time trip down the aisle of the church. It is a daily choice to live “in Jesus” or live in our own power. We often are tempted and pulled away from Him. Our best course is found in the council to Sardis to “watch.” Be aware of the workings of Satan and our sinful flesh. Repent if we know we are not in line with God’s will. Turn over the steering wheel of life to the only One who can save us from our sins and give us the power to be victorious. Otherwise, we deceive ourselves and are in danger of thinking we are religious enough to be saved.
The Sardis church was lazy and comfortable. It would lead to defeat. But those few who had an ear listened and followed Jesus’ words were given the gift of eternal life. They are made worthy by the white robe of Christ’s righteousness.
You havea few nameseven in Sardis who have notdefiled their garments, and they shall walk with Mein white, for they are worthy.
Last time, we reviewed from the Bible how the church today was given examples and warnings so that we don’t make the same mistakes. The entire chapter of 1 Corinthians 10 is dedicated to warnings to the early church and these certainly apply to us in modern times:
Now, these things became our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things as they also lusted. And do not become idolaters as were some of them. As it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” Nor let us commit sexual immorality, as some of them did, and in one day twenty-three thousand fell; nor let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed by serpents; nor complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer.
Nowall these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition (instruction or warning), upon whom the ends of the ages have come. 1 Corinthians 10: 6-11
Paul also adds that the things written in the scriptures that gives us reasons to endure and be encouraged we can have hope. If we are not students of the Old Testament stories of Israel, we are missing the opportunity to learn from their mistakes and the things they did right.
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. Romans 15:4
Conclusion: The Old Testament experience of Israel and how God dealt with their weaknesses is highly relevant to those who take the name of Christ and are part of the body of Christ…His church.
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This time, we will explore a prophecy that gives Israel a period of time to repent and accept the Messiah. If not, their mission will end. We will also understand when and how it ended. Jesus confirms the end of their mission in several parables. We looked briefly at three last time. Of particular impact is the parable of the wicked Vinedresser in Matthew 21, Jesus ends the message with this prophecy:
“Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken from you and given to a nation bearing the fruits of it. And whoever falls on this stone will be broken; but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder.” Matthew 21: 43-44
Embed in this statement is the desire of God and points out the failure of Israel….”bearing the fruits.” God desires the mission to produce results. If our church is not effective, then we are no better than the centuries God worked with Israel. We are repeating the same mistake. We have become religious….form without substance…a facade hidden behind grand buildings, suites, and shining white teeth. Programs that do not have Jesus in it anywhere.
In this study, we will look at an amazing prophecy found Daniel and the core message which is primarily a warning to Israel to prepare for the first coming of Jesus. This is a wonderful study that gives historically accurate times lines for the coming and mission of Jesus. But, most of all, it gives us a warning.
As we read the prophecy in Daniel 9:24-27 and compare it with actual history and Biblically documented historical dates. We will discover the power of this prophecy written almost 500 years before Jesus and we will understand more about Israel and even end-time events!
Please follow closely. When we are finished, I recommend you verify the dates at your local library or other resources. Beware of the confusion of the internet. Also, I have included a chart at the end in the “Appendix” to make these dates easier to see and follow. There are also other helpful references included.
“Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.
Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks (7), and threescore (60) and two weeks (2): the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.
And after threescore (60) and two weeks (2) shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.
And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week (1): and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.”
Daniel 9: 24-27
If you count up the number in parenthesis, you will have the 70 years mentioned at the start. There is a reason why they are split up that way. I will not go into those historical reasons in this writing.
The setting for these verses is important in understanding the prophecy. Daniel and his people (The Jews) had been taken captive by Babylon and the city of Jerusalem was destroyed and lay desolate as prophesied by Jeremiah. It was predicted by Jeremiah that they would be in captivity for 70 years!
“In the first year of his reign I Daniel understood by books the number of the years, whereof the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah the prophet, that he would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem.”
Daniel 9:2
As the 70 years drew near to the end, Daniel began to pray and confess his sins and the sins of the people (Verses 4-20). Then Gabriel (an angel) came and informed Daniel that he had come to
“give thee skill and understanding.”
Daniel 9:22
This statement by the angel refers back to the previous chapter’s vision of the Ram, Goat, and the 2,300 days of the sanctuary being cleansed. As stated by Daniel himself in the last verse of Chapter 8, the dream was not completely understood.
And I, Daniel, fainted and was sick for days; afterward I arose and went about the king’s business. I was astonished by the vision, but no one understood it. Daniel 8: 27
Then Gabriel gives the explanation of the time element not understood in the previous Chapter (as stated in Verses 24-27 above.) This is the skill and understanding Daniel needed other than simply knowing the Jews would soon be freed after 70 years of captivity.
70 weeks was given to Daniels people (Israelites) and the city of Jerusalem to:
Finish the transgression
Make an end of sins
Make reconciliation for iniquity
Bring in everlasting righteousness
Seal up the vision and prophecy
Anoint the most Holy
So God was giving the Jewish people 70 weeks or 490 days to do all those things; ending with anointing the most Holy. We shall see that the anointing of the most Holy is not in regards to the apartment in the sanctuary necessarily, but the Holy One of God-Jesus The 70 weeks given to the Jews are calculated in the verses in sections: threescore (60) and two weeks (2) 7 weeks (7) and 1 week (1) Quick addition shows this is 70 weeks or 490 days (7 X 70). But in Bible prophecy, the day = year principle should be used to unlock the timelines for history. The verses that support this principle can be found in the passages below:
“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 14:34 “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 4:6
God gave the Jewish people 490 years for their assignment. During this time, he sent prophets and others to inspire and help keep them close to him. But as one reads their story, it is quickly seen that they often went after other gods and forsook the God of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob…the one and only true Creator God!
“Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city…”Daniel 9: 24
If we can determine where the 490 years began (with certainty) we can understand the other parts of the prophecy. The timelines start here:
“….from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem”Daniel 9: 25
This chart should help in the understanding of the prophecy lines.
The glorious temple of Solomon had been leveled by the Babylonians when they conquered Israel. King Nebuchadnezzar’s army took captives to Babylon including young Daniel and his friends. But, at the end of the literal 70 years, a command would be given to restore and build Jerusalem. The actual command is found in Ezra Chapter 7 when Artaxerxes gave the commandment in 457 BC (See the **notes at the end). So, now that we have a starting date, let’s see where it takes us:
The first stop is the coming of the Messiah the Prince “Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince…Daniel 9: 25
The Messiah the Prince can refer only to Jesus himself. He is both the Messiah and a Prince
He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ.John 1:41
Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.John 1:45
“For unto us a child is born, unto us, a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”Isaiah 9:6
So we know that from the commandment to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until Jesus would be a certain length of time. How long?
Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks (7), and threescore (60) and two weeks (2): the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.
From 457 to Jesus is 69 weeks or 483 days or 483 prophetical years. Let’s do some math: Starting at 457 BC and moving through history 483 years brings us to the fall of 27 AD This is the date Jesus was baptized by John (anointed) and he began his ministry as the prophecy predicted. Here is an important verse in connection with Jesus’ baptism:
“When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:”Matthew 3:16
A dove represents anointing. Another interesting passage that makes sense in the light of Jesus beginning his ministry exactly on time according to Daniel’s prophecy some 500 years before Jesus is this one:
“But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son…”Galatians 4:4
The time was “full.” In other words, Jesus came to this earth and began his ministry right on time. It may be possible that this quote is in reference to this particular prophecy. Whatever the case, we know that God knows the future and will not do anything unless he reveals it by his prophets:
“Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.”Amos 3:7
69 weeks or 483 years of the 70 weeks or 490 years has been explained. Isn’t it comforting to know that God, through the prophet Daniel let the world know when Jesus would come on the scene? Now let’s look at the last week or 7 years. This is where Hal Lindsey and his followers use the 7 years as a period of tribulation. They disconnect it from this timeline and attempt to run it down to the end of time after Jesus “raptures the church.” But we are going to let the verses speak for themselves. We will keep the last week on the timeline as intended. If we do, we learn the most interesting part of this prophecy.
Daniel tells us after Jesus began his ministry that Jesus would be cut off:
“Messiah be cut off, but not for himself:….”Daniel 9: 26
But before He is cut off he would do the following:
“And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease,Daniel 9:27”
Jesus was to “confirm the covenant with many for 1 week or 7 days which is 7 years in prophecy. But He is “cut off” in the middle of the week or 3 1/2 days or 3 1/2 years Jesus ministry was exactly that long (3 1/2 years) before He was “cut off” or crucified on a Roman cross in 31 AD. He ministered from 27 AD to 31 AD. As Daniel 9:27 stated, the sacrifices and oblations also ended at the time of Jesus’ death. The law of ceremonies had served their purpose of teaching the Jewish nation about the price of sin, the sacrifice for it, and the plan of salvation. Those ceremonial laws were the School Master to bring people to Jesus and help them understand the lesson of sin, forgiveness, and grace. The School Master died forever the day Jesus died on the cross as the true Lamb of God.
Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
Galatians 3:24, 25
All the festivals, drink and meat offerings, and special Sabbath days (Not the weekly Sabbath) were shadows pointing to the body of Jesus. All those had served their purpose and were fulfilled in Christ:
“Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.”
Colossians 2:17
On the other side of the cross, the people looked forward in faith to Jesus (the Messiah) and what He would do for them. All of us on this side of the cross look back in faith at what Jesus has done for us. Something extraordinary occurred at the crucifixion of Christ to demonstrate the truthfulness of the two verses above:
Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent;Matthew 27: 50, 51
Thus ended the rounds of ceremonies and the laws put in place by Moses to teach about Jesus. Please note: These laws did not include the 10 commandments as some would assert. A study for another time. Jesus told His disciples this:
But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”Matthew 15: 24
Jesus was “confirming the covenant” with the children of Israel during His ministry. With them, he spent most of His time. His plea of the coming Kingdom of God was a message primarily to the Jews. He also told His disciples to do the same:
“These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not:
But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
Matthew 10: 5, 6
This the disciples did for 3 1/2 more years after Jesus was “cut off” or crucified in 31 AD.
This takes us 3 1/2 years forward to the end of the 70 weeks or 490 years.
In the year 34 AD some interesting things happen to mark the end of the 490 years “determined” or given unto the Jewish nation:
In this year Stephen was martyred and Paul was converted to be the teacher to the Gentiles
“I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.”
2 Timothy 1:11
A very interesting passage of scripture also marks the end of 70 weeks given to the Jews to do all those things of the covenant listed in Daniel 9. It is a point where the burden of carrying the gospel to the entire world is taken off the shoulders of the Jews and given to the Gentiles. It is the point where God determines who is a real Jew or seed of Abraham.
Paul and Barnabas were preaching to a large group but were interrupted by the Jews because of the large following of the two disciples. Those religious leaders who were interrupting contradicted Paul and Barnabas and actually blasphemed God! But it is what Paul and Barnabas say that marks the transition from Jew to Gentile or Spiritual Jew:
“But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming.
Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.
Acts 13: 45, 46
The appointed people of God had failed to keep the covenant (agreement) and God turned to the Gentiles and made them heir to the promises of God:
“And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”
Galatians 3:29
No longer was there a distinction between literal Jew and the God’s chosen people simply identified as belonging to Christ:
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”
Galatians 3:28
For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:
But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.
Romans 2:28, 29
For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation,15 having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace,
Ephesians 2: 14-15
Thus the 70-week prophecy came to an end! There is no room or context in the prophecy for 7 years of tribulation or the Anti Christ. It is simply not there. To try to force it takes away from a beautiful and important part of the ministry of Christ.
While Hal Lindsey has everyone looking at Jerusalem for the rebuilding of the temple to mark the soon return of Jesus, the Anti Christ is at work elsewhere in the world. this we will see in future studies. This is so deceptive that almost the whole world is taken in. What a great diversion by the enemy of mankind!
In conclusion, the 70-week prophecy of Daniel 9 a prophecy to support Jesus as the Messiah, his crucifixion, the spread of the gospel, and God’s long-suffering with the lost sheep of the house of Israel!
God has a stopping point when we harden our hearts and refuse to believe His word and follow Him. When our only interest is in ourselves, our heritage, our traditions, and ceremonies instead of being the light on the hill, we become nothing more than a sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.
Will the church make the same mistake as Israel and assume God will ignore our continued failures to follow Him and His Word seriously. Will the uselessness of rounds of self-serving religions acts become our savior rather than the One who created us? Will the sinner die for eternity because we did not “Go …, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you:” Matthew 28: 19-20
Below is information if you want more detail otherwise I hope this prophecy helped you see how God is in control.
*Notes about the dates described above:
Ezra has three decrees with different dates that could be used. Nehemiah has a date also. But the decision as to which one to use, you must keep in mind the key words of the prophecy: “the command to restore and rebuild Jerusalem.” The four decrees are : The decree of Cyrus (Ezra 1:1-4) The decree of Darius I (Ezra 6:1-12) The decree of Artaxerxes I (Longimanuus) (Ezra 7: 12-26) The decree of Artaxerxes (Nehemiah Chapters 1 and 2) Let’s eliminate some of the dates based on the guiding verse of Daniel 9:25 Ezra 1-gave instruction only for the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. Said nothing about the whole city. We can eliminate this date. Ezra 6-simply the endorsement by Darius of the decree of Cyrus. Only mentions the building of the “house of God.” We can eliminate this date. Ezra 7 makes provision for complete restoration of the Jewish state, including the right to appoint magistrates and judges, hold trials, and pass and execute sentence upon violators of the own national laws. This is the date that fits the idea of “restoring and rebuilding Jerusalem.” Nehemiah 2-Wording has not been preserved, but was simply a reinstatement of Artaxerxes original authorization to Ezra recorded in Ezra chapter 7. Determination of the date of the decree: It was in the seventh year of Artaxerxes’ reign (Ezra 7:7,8) Biblical evidence for the 457 BC start date: The dates for Artaxerxes reign are well documented in the ancient sources: Greek historians, Ptolemy’s Canon The Babylonian business tablets Elephantine papyri from Egypt From the above documents, we know that Xerxes was killed in late December of 465 B.C. and the reign of Artaxerxes began at the time.
Artaxerxes Reign
Fall to Fall
First year
464/463 B.C.
Second year
463/462 B.C.
Third year
462/461 B.C.
Fourth year
461/460 B.C.
Fifth year
460/459 B.C.
Sixth year
459/458 B.C.
Seventh year
458/457 B.C.
Therefore, the seventh year of Artaxerxes, according to Jewish reckoning, extended from the fall of 458 to the fall of 457 B. C.
Note: the references in this prophecy to the destruction of the city and temple and desolations:
“….the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined… for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate”
Daniel 9:27
This is not referenced to a small historical character called Antiochus or a future Anti-Christ, but to the total destruction of Jerusalem and the temple in 70 AD as predicted by Jesus himself when he told the disciples. There has never been a temple since then and never will be!
“Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down.”
Matthew 24:2
“Therefore when you see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place” (whoever reads, let him understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains,. Let him who is on the housetop not go down to take anything out of his house. And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes. But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! And pray that your flight may not be in the winter or on the Sabbath. For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.”
Matthew 24: 15-22
The total destruction of Jerusalem by the Roman soldiers was horrible. Many who tried to escape were crucified outside the city. At one time, the number of crosses outside the city almost made it look like a forest of trees. Those who heeded the advice of Jesus escaped the city and remained alive.
“The person who fails to learn from history is destined to repeat it.”
This thought or phrase is thought to have originated from the writer-philosopher George Santayana. However, this is the exact warning given to the church by Paul regarding the failures and consequences of Israel’s story:
“Now, these things became our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things as they also lusted. And do not become idolaters as were some of them…These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us…” 1 Corinthians 10:6, 11
Other writers have said similar things,
“We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past history.” EG White
“The farther backward you can look, the farther forward you are likely to see.” – Winston Churchill
As I write these, there is rebellion in the land and the unlearned are destroying American history. History is a teacher. They are killing the teacher and attempting to purge the land of the mistakes this country has made. But, they don’t understand if the mind were to be wiped clean of all the bad history, we would be destined to repeat it.
The Bible student or local church who seeks God and His will must look at the story of Israel’s faults to become more Biblically grounded in Christ so that the same mistakes are not by Christ’s church.
Despite the mistakes and failures of Israel, God was long-suffering towards them. He desired them to listen and obey, but they chose to trust in their own heritage, traditions, and lusts. In our study next time, we will see that God gave them a period of time to repent, but they did not. For now, let’s look at a few warnings from the New Testament delivered by Jesus to religious leaders in a parable and then from a couple of short sermons by Peter and Paul.
Jesus’ Instructions to the Disciples
Jesus said something that is confusing until it is understood in the light of a prophecy in Daniel. We will study that next time. Jesus told his Apostles:
“These twelve Jesus sent out and commanded them, saying: “Do not go into the way of the Gentiles, and do not enter a city of the Samaritans.”But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel ” Matthew 10: 5, 6
Why would Jesus tell the Apostles to NOT go to the Gentiles? Here is another similar statement by Jesus as recorded later in Mathew:
But He answered and said, “I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” Matthew 15: 24
If you continue to read the story in Matthew 15, you see that a woman from Cannan (Gentile) who was pleading with Jesus to cast a demon that was in her daughter. Jesus said something to her that would be considered racist or at least disrespectful in today’s sensitive world:
“It is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the little dogs.” V. 26
The woman was very cleaver in her answer:
“Yes, Lord, yet even the little dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table.” V. 27
Jesus eventually complimented her on her faith and healed her daughter. Even though Jesus had a priority i.e. the lost sheep of the house of Israel, he did not neglect those in need regardless of their nationality, race, or otherwise. God is no respecter of persons as Peter stated after learning through a vision that God does not call the Gentile unclean those whom he has cleaned:
God has shown me that I should not call any man common or unclean…Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth, I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: Acts 10:28, 34
Jesus’ Teaching on Israel
To the Religious leaders, Jesus was much more firm. They had no cleaver answer nor did they understand the mission of Jesus. But he sent a strong message that the end for them was in sight and the mission of God would be turned over to the Gentiles. Let’s look at the proof of that from a parable Jesus delivered to them. It is found in Matthew 22: 1-14
You can read the entire parable, but here is a summary:
1.) The King (God the Father) arranges a marriage for His son (Jesus). Jesus is often referred to as the bridegroom and the church is His bride. (See Isaiah 61:10, Matthew 9:15, Matthew 25:1, Rev. 21:2
2.) Those who were supposed to be His friends and close to Him were invited by His servants (The prophets). They either ignored the invitation and went back to work (V. 4, 5) or they killed the servants (The prophets)
3.) The King was furious and sent His armies to burn and destroy the “murderers” and “burn up their city” (V. 7)
4.) God counted those who were invited as “not worthy” “The wedding is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy.” (V. 8)
5.) At this point, The King (God the Father) tells the servants (Prophets) to invite all those who were not invited, “both good and bad.” They gladly came and “filled the wedding hall.” (V. 10)
It is clear from this parable and the two preceding it in Chapter 21 (Parable of the Two Sons and the parable of the Wicked Vinedressers) that…
“the kingdom of God will be taken from you (Israel) and given to a nation (Gentiles) bearing the fruits of it.” Matthew 21: 43
Again, the King in the Parable of the Wedding Feast said,
“…those who were invited were not worthy.” Matt 22: 8,
This became to theme of Paul and Barnabas when Paul said the same message of unworthiness in Acts 13: 46:
“It was necessary that the word of God should be spoken to you first; but since you reject it, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, behold, we turn to the Gentiles.“
What makes the difference between the people of promise (Israel) and the Gentiles? It is one thing alone. It is not different promises or covenants, it is Jesus:
And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise. Galatians 3:29
Did you catch that? If we belong to Christ and have a saving relationship with him through faith resulting in obedience, all the promises given to Abraham belong to you. That would mean the literal nation of Israel does not receive the promises since they rejected their Messiah as a nation. But as shown in the parable of the Two Sons (Matthew 21). Repentance is necessary for an individual Jewish person just like it is for anyone else. The leaders, on the whole, didn’t like the story of a sacrificial Savior and rewrote the story according to how they wanted it to end.
Does the modern church do the same thing as Israel when they hold to traditions and how they would prefer the story to end?
Paul goes on to tell us this truth:
For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God. Romans 2:28, 29
Does the Christian church signify they belong to Christ? What is that signification? Is it a lot of words, beautiful music, seminars, and endless rounds of ceremonies? How do we become lights to the world?
The Jews had turned to righteousness by works. They sought to make themselves acceptable to God by their works. This was never the desire of God. He desired works to come from righteousness by faith in Jesus and by a changed heart of trust rather than righteousness by their own efforts.
Paul and Peter’s Sermons
Both Peter and Paul began to understand that the gospel burden would go from a nation that rejected the Son of the King (Israel) and then go to a people appreciative of the history of Israel who understood that Jesus was the promised Messiah.
In a vision given to Peter, he exclaimed the meaning of the vision of the sheet of unclean animals in these words:
Then he said to them, “You know how unlawful it is for a Jewish man to keep company with or go to one of another nation. But God has shown me that I should not call any man common or unclean Acts 10:28
Peter was breaking from tradition and accepting all who would come into the fold of God’s people..
The separation between Israel and “another nation” was meant originally to keep the relationship between Israel and God healthy, safe. and a light to the world (See Isaiah 61). They were to be the teachers and priests of God. God’s desire was to bring every nation to an understanding of the true God through Israel who was led by God Himself. The sanctuary and the sacrificial systems were their training ground for understanding sin and its forgiveness by the “lamb of God which takes away the sin of the word.” John 1:20. The sanctuary covered it all, including the ministry of Jesus in heaven for us now…even the day of judgment and the end of sin.
But one day, God would do something that should have provoked Israel to jealousy (Romans 10:19). Instead, it made them more stiff-necked.
Then I will say to those who were not My people, ‘You are My people!’ And they shall say, ‘You are my God!’ Hosea 2:23
God’s people would be the people of other nations. Paul picked up on this when he quoted from Hosea:
As He says also in Hosea: “I will call them My people, who were not My people, And her beloved, who was not beloved.” Romans 9:25
This brings us to the sermon of Paul in Acts 13:. This will help us understand why Jesus told the Apostles to not go to other nations, but to “the lost sheep of the House of Israel.” Matt 10:6 and Matt 15:14:”
Paul’s Sermon-Israel’s Unworthiness
Paul and Barnabas were at Antioch in Pisidia. This was a gentile city and the home of a gentile Christian church, but there was also a Jewish Synagogue. Paul and Barnabas go in and sit down. But after the reading of the Prophets and the Law (a tradition of the Jews. V.27), they were invited to talk.
Paul directs his sermon to “Men of Israel, and you who fear God.” There were two groups there: Jews and Gentile believers. He then begins to review the history of God’s people Israel:
The God of this people Israel chose our fathers and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an uplifted arm He brought them out of it. V. 17
Here he signifies that the nation of Israel was favored and their fathers were “chosen and exalted when God performed miracles to keep His promise to rescue them out of Egypt after 450 years of slavery. He talks about their 40 years in the wilderness and the destruction of seven nations in Cannan in order to give the land He had promised hundreds of years earlier.
Next he goes through some of the highlights of their history:
1.) The appointment of a King at their request through a reluctant Samuel
2.) From the seed of David, “according to the promise, God raised up for Israel a Savior—Jesus V. 23. Notice that the Savior was “for Israel.”
3.) Next Paul moves quickly to John the Baptist who preached “the baptism of repentance TO ALL THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL
4.) Then Paul ties Jesus into the Prophets and the law and particularly things they thought referred to their highly honored King David. Example:
Therefore He also says in another Psalm: ‘You will not allow Your Holy One to see corruption.’ “For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell asleep, was buried with his fathers, and saw corruption; V. 35, 36
Paul quotes this to show that Jesus was resurrected, David was not.
5.) Paul warns that what is written in the prophets may come upon them
Next the “Jews went out of the synagogue.” V. 42. Then “the Gentiles begged that these words might be preached to them the next Sabbath. Also V. 42
An interesting point here. This was in the year 48 AD or about 18 years after the ascension of Jesus. If the disciples of Jesus were meeting on the first day of the week (aka Sunday), Paul had the perfect opportunity to to preach to the Gentiles the next day. But he didn’t. The reason? The day to remember in the 4th Commandment had not been forgotten or changed. It is not a Jewish commandment, but a commandment for everyone that has been changed by tradition and force alone. Sunday observance would not start until about 300 years later when there was a combining of pagan and Christian practices. Another topic for another time.
What happens next leads us into the topic next time. Here are the exact words:
On the next Sabbath almost the whole city came together to hear the word of God. But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy; and contradicting and blaspheming, they opposed the things spoken by Paul. Then Paul and Barnabas grew bold and said, “It was necessary that the word of God should be spoken to you first; but since you reject it, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, behold, we turn to the Gentiles. For so the Lord has commanded us:
‘I have set you as a light to the Gentiles, That you should be for salvation to the ends of the earth.’ ” Acts 13: 44-47
Almost the exact wording of Jesus parable about the Wedding Feast. The nation of Israel on the whole “counted themselves unworthy… “since they rejected the word of God.” Consequently, the gospel burden and to be a light to the world passed to the Gentiles who became the heir of the promises to Israel.
Their opportunity to repent as a nation and to embrace the promised Messiah had come and ended. Did you know there is a time-line prophecy predicting these things including the coming of Jesus, his crucifixion, and His directions to “go only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel,” which they did until Paul’s sermon above?
Is Christ’s bride making the same mistakes as Israel prompted by disobedience and writing a story of how they want it to be rather that how it will be. We will see next time. Blessings as you consider these things.
Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition (counsel or warning), upon whom the ends of the ages have come. 1 Corinthians 10:11
Review of Part 1-What is Church?
Biblically, we determined:
1.) Jesus loves the church. We know this because He gave Himself for her. The relationship is so protective that He compares Himself to a loving husband.
Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;Ephesians 5:25.
In another place He calls Himself the Bridegroom in Luke 5: 34, 35
And he said unto them, Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them?
But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days. Luke 5: 34-35
He is so much a part of the church that it is considered part of his body.
And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. Colossians 1:18
Jesus also compares himself as the most important part of a building: The Cornerstone.
*The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone: Mark 12:10
*The “scripture” He refers to is both Psalm 118:22 and Isaiah 28:16
We also saw clearly that the church is not built on, nor belongs to Peter. In fact, His church is built on the Apostles, the Prophets,and His believers:
Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been BUILT ON THE FOUNDATION OF THE APOSTLES AND PROPHETS, Jesus Christ Himself being the CHIEF CORNERSTONE,in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, n whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.
Ephesians 2: 19-22
We looked at the words in the Bible for literal buildings like Temple, House of God, Synagogue, Sanctuary. etc. These were places the children of Israel learned about the coming Messiah and received forgiveness of sins by faith in the coming of the “lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world.” Sinners on this side of the cross receive forgiveness by faith also in what Jesus did at the cross. The cross is the focal point for both Old and New Testament believers.
Purpose of Israel-God’s People
The Mission of Israel
What advantage then has the Jew, or what is the profit of circumcision? Much in every way! Chiefly because to them were committed theoracles (scriptures) of God. Romans 3:1
There was a purpose for the buildings and services in the Old Testament. It was to be a Schoolmaster or Shadowy examples of the purpose and the coming Messiah (Galatians 3, Hebrews 10). The School Teacher showed them in literal ceremonies the nature of Christ’s mission. He was to be a sacrifice like the lamb of God. But, because of the tough lesson of trusting in God and also the blood sacrifices, they came to dislike what the teacher was illustrating and looked for a different story…a conquering king on a large white horse who comes to rescue them from their enemies. They changed the story. We must learn from them. If we don’t like the story, we shouldn’t try to change it. Embrace the truth and it will make you free.
The Schoolmaster also helped the people understand about sin, its penalty (death, and even the eventual Day of Judgment and the end of the story of sin (Atonement and cleansing of the Sanctuary)
So the literal buildings and its laws of sacrifice and ceremony had a purpose to prepare the people of God to know the truth. Some did and some didn’t. As a whole, they rejected the truth, failed to follow, and obey God. When their Messiah came, they didn’t like Him because they didn’t like the story.
But the purpose of Israel was to do the same as Jesus commanded his disciples. They were to be a special people who followed God and were blessed for it.
Arise, shine; For your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, And deep darkness the people; But the Lord will arise over you, And His glory will be seen upon you. The Gentiles shall come to your light, And kings to the brightness of your rising. Isaiah 60: 1-3
If they obeyed God, not for the purpose of eternal salvation, but out of love and respect for Him and his laws, they would be blessed, educated, healthy, and happy. They would have been a contrast to the world and the knowledge of God would show the world the truth as it is in Him. People would be drawn to them by their love and blessings then bestowed upon them. This is how God worked (and I might say still works) to get the people’s attention: He draws them to Himself.
“Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you.” Jeremiah 31:13
When a person sees and understands God’s love for them and his eagerness to forgive and help, they will be convicted of their sins, repent, and turn to Jesus. Out of a grateful heart will come to a following and obedience to His will. This has always been God’s method to draw people to him. The Cross is the ultimate illustration of God’s capacity to love and forgive sinful men.
“And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will DRAW all peoples to Myself.” This He said, signifying by what death He would die.” John 12: 32-33
This gospel was also part of the Old Testament and the children of Israel.
Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine: Exodus 19:5
The same for the people of the New Testament. 1 Peter refers back to the Old Testament verbiage to call us to be lights to the world.
But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 1 Peter 2:9
Who is this referring to? Verse 5 tells us:
you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 2:5
These “lively stones” are the Christian believers who were sojourners in various cities. They too are part of the “spiritual house.” This is the church! This would include those today that are followers of Jesus. They are not a denomination, they are a congregation of believers everywhere!
Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture,
“Behold, I lay in Zion A chief cornerstone, elect, precious, And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.”Verse 6
Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,Verse 7
Did you notice that Jesus is precious to those who believe in Him, but those who are disobedient, they “disallow” Him. Is it not clear that the children of Israel were disobedient and that they did not glorify God nor the lamb that takes away the sins of God.”
“A stone of stumbling And a rock of offense.”
They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed.
Jesus became a stumbling block to them (and it happens today). Why did Jesus become a stumbling block? Because they stumbled at the word. They did not want to believe and follow God’s plan word. Therefore they made their excuses and became disobedient. They don’t like the story.
Purpose of the Church
Trust and Obey
The purpose of the church of Jesus Christ is to do the opposite, they are to not stumble at God’s word and become obedient. Please don’t fall for the false teaching that obedience is not required for the New Testament believer. While obedience alone can not save you from eternal death, obedience is proof that you truly love and respect Jesus and desire to follow Him. The first act of conversion is an act of obedience i.e. baptism. Jesus confirms that we are to follow Him and the words that God the Father gave Him.
In fact, we can’t call Jesus Lord if we don’t follow his commands:
But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say? Luke 6:46
He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 1 John 2:4
Individuals who make up the church who do not obey are building a house on sand and will not stand.
“But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: Matthew 7:26
I want to end here with two verses. The first one points to the last-day people of Jesus’ church. They are identified by three things; 1.) Satan (the dragon) is enraged at them because 2.) they are obedient to God’s commandments and 3.) they have a personal testimony about Jesus. Remember, the church of Jesus Christ is redeemed believers everywhere in different denominations who follow Jesus. It is not a denomination it is a universal Jesus’ congregation.
And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. Revelation 12:17
There are no differences for those who are “In Christ.”
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28
The next verse was troubling for the Jew and encouraging for the Gentile in the time of the early church.. This we will discuss over the next couple of studies as we begin to understand the mission of the church…particularly in the last days.
Paul was talking to the Jews when he said,
“It was necessary that the word of God should be spoken to you first; but since you reject it, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, behold, we turn to the Gentiles. For so the Lord has commanded us:
‘I have set you as a light to the Gentiles, That you should be for salvation to the ends of the earth.’ ”
Now when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and glorified the word of the Lord. And as many as had been appointed to eternal life believed Acts 13: 46-48
Something prophetical happens here. A new sense of urgency in the mission and the identification of God’s people and His church.
Next time we will learn from the mistakes of Israel, as the scripture encourages us to do so.
Now these things became our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things as they also lusted. 1 Corinthians 10:6
Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition (counsel or warning), upon whom the ends of the ages have come. 1 Corinthians 10:11
The things about Israel are meant to be council and warning for the church living in the end of time.
“Nevertheless they were disobedient And rebelled against You, Cast Your law behind their backs And killed Your prophets, who testified against them To turn them to Yourself; Nehemiah 9:26
May I ask a few questions about your understanding of Church? When you think of Church; what comes to mind? Here are a few of the typical answers I would anticipate. I am sure there are more.
A majority would probably think of a building they attend weekly to worship, sing, learn, and socialize with people of like faith. It is a place you go to be fed spiritually. Maybe your thoughts about the church are less endearing. Do you think of a building only? Do you think it is a place of hypocrites? Do you believe a church is not a true church if it’s not your denomination? Perhaps your thoughts are very negative. When you think of church, you think of hurt and disappointment. Maybe you were forced to go to church as a child and now have no desire to be part of “organized religion.”
These are all real and legitimate feelings, but from a Biblical perspective, what did its Creator design it to be? What is the purpose of the Church? When did “church” begin.? Is it only a New Testament experience.? Are His people only in one church/denomination or are they in many places? What is meant by phrases such as “the body of believers?” These are the questions we will examine over the next few weeks.
Hopefully, with study and prayer, we can come to some new conclusions about the church that will give us hope and focus on the mission or intentions of God to build up “His church.” His desire is that :
He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.Ephesians 5:27
Along the way, in the study, we will begin to see the hand of God in working with “His people” throughout scripture. The Bible is filled with stories of how God works with “His people” and a rebellious planet. Who are “His people” anyway? Why so much division and denominations? Was Jesus’ prayer for unity unanswered? It seems to the casual observer it was never answered. People will point at the two large main divisions between Catholics and Protestants. Then there are about 200 different Protestant denominations in America alone, not to mention the many different sects and schisms within Catholicism!
In this Biblical study, we will see God pulling back the curtain to reveal the conflict between His church and the church of the Beast in Revelation 13.
Jesus’ Thoughts about the Church
Love
To start, let’s examine some important statements about the Church from Jesus and His Apostles. The most important statement Jesus gave us is mixed in with a command about how a husband should treat his wife:
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her…” Eph. 5:25
There is no doubt that Christ’s love for the church is sacrificial…He “gave Himself for her.” It is important to understand, also, that the church is referred to as a “her.” This will become important in understanding symbols later which will give us a more detailed view of the church and its relationship to Christ.
Peter and the Church
Matthew recorded a conversation between Jesus and Peter in the 16th chapter that illustrates something very important about the church. But the misunderstanding of the words of Christ, taken without reference to other Bible scriptures, created a very false understanding about His church. Let’s unpack this a little here, but it will be examined in detail later.
Starting in the 13th verse, Jesus ask his disciples,
“Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?”
They gave him the answers…all wrong! People said He was John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or one of the other prophets. Then Jesus made His question personal:
“But who do you say that I am?”
As a follower, ever person must settle this personal question in their own mind. Peter gave an answer that brought joy to the Savior:
“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
This answer was correct…but the mission of Jesus’ life would not be completely understood by Peter anytime soon resulting in his denial of Christ three times (Matt. 26: 69-75) and Paul’s criticism for his hypocritical actions (Gal 2: 11-13). For now, however, one can feel the excitement and encouragement from Jesus in His response to Peter.
…“Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.” Verse 17
Jesus tells Peter how blessed he is to have a revealing from God The Father which cannot come from human beings. There is no record of Peter having a dream or a vision to reveal this to him. Peter understood the answer because he had been living with Jesus! The truth about Jesus always comes from God through His word and being with Jesus. We all need to learn how to be with Jesus even though physically He is not here (John 20:29).
Jesus continues to direct His words to Peter in the hearing of the other disciples:
“And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.” Verse 18
Wow! At first glance it sounds like the church is going to be built around and on Peter. But notice that Jesus says He will build “My church.” The church does not belong to Peter nor can he be the basis for it along. Also, consider this: Why would Jesus state the obvious in this conversation by saying, “you are Peter…“? The answer is found in the contrast between the Greek word for Peter and the phrase “this rock” The word for Peter (Petros) means a stone or a piece of rock. “This rock” is a different word. It is Petra, which means a massive or large rock.
Indeed Peter would become a piece of the rock. But, the basis for the church is the fact revealed to Peter by the Father:
“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
All of Apostles Are Part of the Foundation for the Church.
Paul provides a pivotal understanding of the foundation of the church and its relationship between ALL of the disciples, prophets, the Gentile believers, and even you and me regarding His church in one powerful statement to the Ephesians:
Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners (that us Gentile believers), but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been BUILT ON THE FOUNDATION OF THE APOSTLES AND PROPHETS, JESUS CHRIST HIMSELF BEING THE CHIEF CORNERSTONE, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom ALSO ARE BEING BUILT TOGETHER FOR A DWELLING PLACE OF GOD IN THE SPIRIT..Ephesians 2: 19-22
Notice that the Household of God (the church) has been built on ALL of the apostles and prophets! Jesus is the firm large rock of the Cornerstone. Peter is a piece of the rock foundation along with the apostles and (don’t miss this) the prophets. The old testament Prophets also contributed to the church or “Household of God.”
Then, here comes the personal part: “you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.”
You and I are part of God’s dwelling place in the Spirit if we belong to Christ the Son of the living God!
“Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?” 1 Corinthians 6:19
Please note the command just before this verse.
“Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body.” Verse 18
This is an important message, particularly TO “His people” and secondarily to a world that thinks there is no such thing as “sexual immorality.”
The Real Rock
Peter is never referred to as The Rock (Petra) in the Bible, but God the Father and Jesus are referred to as the rock several times in Scripture. Here are a few:
There is none holy as the LORD: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God. 1 Samuel 2:2
The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. Psalm 18:2
And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. 1 Corinthians 10:4
As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. Romans 9:3 (KJV)
God’s House-The Building
When you think of places of worship, several words from the Bible will come to mind depending on who you are and your upbringing. Let’s look at some of those words and a summary of its usage (in alpha order):
Word
# times in Old Testament
# times in New Testament
Notes
Church
0
86
Mostly Acts (20)
God’s House
1
0
Gen. 28:22
House of God
81
6
Sanctuary
150
5
Hebrews Only in NT
Synagogue
0
41
Mostly Acts (17)
Temple
245
111
Congregation
331
1
Acts 13:43 (NT)
*King James used in research
A few observations about the words used above:
“Church” was a new word for the believer at that time. Jesus uses the word for the first time as recorded in the writings of the gospels, but He probably spoke it in Aramaic. The Greek translation is ekklēsia. It means a gathering or those called out. It does not reference a building. The other words in the chart above mostly signify a physical building, but can also refer to almost any place where God shows up! (See Genesis 28:22 and Jacob’s dream).
“Congregation” almost always refers to the congregation of the children of Israel.
“House of God” and “Sanctuary” are often used interchangeably and are the same. The Sanctuary was built upon the pattern given Moses on Mt. Sinai as shown below:
And let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them. According to all that I show you, that is, the pattern of the tabernacle and the pattern of all its furnishings, just so you shall make it. Exodus 25: 8-9
A pattern insinuates an original. Paul confirms this with these words:
…who serve the copy and shadow of the heavenly things, as Moses was divinely instructed when he was about to make the tabernacle. For He said, “See that you make all things according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.” Hebrews 8:5
Note that the purpose of the earthly sanctuary was so God could “dwell among them.” It was a physical place for a spiritual God.. The spiritual application of our bodies being the temple of God is also for the reason that God would “dwell among” us.
…do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit…
1 Corinthians 6:19
The temple is the same as Sanctuary. We are a temple or sanctuary for God. A place for Him to dwell and to be made known (glorified). But how does God dwell in a person?
Let the word of Christ DWELL in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. Colossians 3: 16
Let this mind BE IN YOU which was also in Christ Jesus, Philippians 2:5
Here is where so many fail at understanding how to be part of the church for the purpose of the mission. God must dwell in us, but not for us only. It must be for others (particularly the lost) When it becomes all about ourselves and following denominational dogma, ministers, preachers, teachers regardless of how much we might like them or respect them, we become cultic in our nature instead dwelling in Him as a part of the body of Christ. Jesus’ last words were Go!
Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. Matthew 28: 19-20
Here is the purpose of the church. If it has any other purpose (no matter how good and needed) it has missed the mark.
Christ Prayer For Unity-Answered
Finally consider this, Jesus’ prayer for unity WAS answered. We are one as individuals who are IN CHRIST. Being IN CHRIST is not about going to church or a denomination, it is dwelling in Him and following Him:
so we, being many, are ONE BODY IN CHRIST, and individually members of one another. Romans 12:5
If we are IN CHRIST, we are one body possessing different gifts as Paul goes on to explain in this chapter. Jesus told his disciples:
And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd. John 10: 16
Another time, John wanted to stop the ministry of someone who was not part of the disciples, but Jesus told him to not stop him, thereby illustrating that God’s people are not all in one little fold.
“Now John answered and said, “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow with us.”But Jesus said to him, “Do not forbid him, for he who is not against us is on our side.”Luke 9: 49,50
These two verses alone illustrate that God’s people are working for Him in most if not all denominations who lift up Jesus and His word.
Next time, we will study God’s People (the Church) and their mission. Who are they? Were they before Jesus walked the earth or only in the New Testament?
