The Bible was written during an estimated period of 1600 years and consists of 66 separate books. The Old Testament has a total of 39 books and the New Testament, a total of 27 books. It was written in three languages, namely Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek by about 40 different authors. All scripture is inspired (God breathed) meaning the authors were "moved" by the Holy Spirit at the time of writing. Most of the authors never met, however all scriptures align and are in perfect agreement (See Psalms 12:6-7; 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21).
How do we know the Bible is God's word?
God is outside our dimensionality of time and He authenticates His Word by declaring the end from the beginning {which is something man cannot do}. When prophecy is fulfilled, one simply has to acknowledge that the bible is true and is indeed the word of God (See Isaiah 42:9, 46:9-10, 48:2-8; 1 John 3:20).
The Holy Bible | King James Authorized Version
With an estimated 200+ "revised" English bible translations, it is hardly surprising that they would differ here and there but this alone should be cause for concern. Some versions add words and some remove words. Many remove entire verses, and unfortunately even go as far as to deliberately attack key parts of doctrine (Ephesians 6:11-12). It is important to understand that not all bibles are translated from the same original manuscripts. Modern translations are based on manuscripts discovered in Egypt: ALL modern translations {with exception of only a few} are based upon the "1881 Revised Version" which derives from the 'Minority Text' (also known as the "Critical Text" (CT) or "Alexandrian Text" discovered in Egypt). These Minority Texts were severely corrupted and subsequently rejected by early Christians and church Reformers due to their doctrinal omissions and errors. The King James is based on manuscripts originating in Antioch: The Old Testament derived from the 'Masoretic Text' (MT) and is the authoritative Hebrew and Aramaic text of the Tanakh. The King James New Testament is based on the 'Majority Text' (over 5000 supporting manuscripts), also known as the Greek "Textus Receptus" or "Received Text" (RT) originating in Antioch. The King James is the seventh translation of the Bible in English. Formerly known as the Authorized Version, it was a massive undertaking by the authority of King James and is well regarded as the most faithful and scholarly translation to date. The King James Bible was commissioned in 1604 and was published seven years later in 1611 (See 1 Kings 6:37-38; Deuteronomy 16:11; Ecclesiastes 8:4; Ephesians 6:17; Hebrews 4:12).
In summary, the King James (Authorized Version) retains a pure undegraded form of English; it has the largest volume of supporting manuscripts; there are no missing verses with no missing text; it is Word-for-Word and without error; was used in early church revivals and has stood the test of time. To this day it remains our most faithful and trustworthy Bible translation {purified seven times as quoted by scripture}. Many Christians will testify that this book is perfect; needs no revision; and is the inspired and preserved word of God - Perfectly translated from the original manuscripts (the Textus Receptus and Masoretic Text), available in a universally accepted language for mankind in the last days (See Job 19:23-24; Psalms 12:6-7, 138:2; Proverbs 30:5-6).
2.1 There is only one God (Monotheism). God has always been God {He is Eternal} and there are no Gods before or after God. Psalms 90:1-2; Isaiah 43:10, 44:6-8, 45:5-22; Revelation 4:8
2.2 There is only one God who exists simultaneously in three distinct persons. They are coequal, copowerful, coeternal, and of the same nature (one in essence). The Godhead is mentioned in scripture and is commonly referred to as "the Trinity":
There are three that bear record in heaven and these three are one. 1 John 5:7 (See also John 10:30)
The Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost. Matthew 3:16-17, 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Ephesians 4:5-6; 1 Thessalonians 1:3-6; 1 Peter 1:2; 1 John 5:7
"For in him {Jesus} dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily." Colossians 2:9
To explain this in a way we can understand, God is able to somehow separate Himself as three: the Father (Soul), the Word (Body), and the Holy Ghost (Spirit). God said, "Let US make man in OUR image, after OUR likeness". Likewise, we as human beings are made up of 3 parts: Spirit, Soul and body. Genesis 1:26, 2:7, 11:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:23
2.3 God the Father is in Heaven upon His throne. Matthew 5:34, 23:22; Revelation 7:15, 14:5, 22:1-3
2.4 God is all powerful (Omnipotent) and nothing is too hard for Him. Psalms 115:3; Jeremiah 32:17-27
2.5 God is everywhere (Omnipresent). He actively exists in the past, present and future (He resides in eternity, and is outside our dimensionality of time). Isaiah 48:2-7, 57:15; Jeremiah 23:23-24; Psalms 139:7-12
2.6 God knows all things (Omniscient). Isaiah 42:9, 46:9-10, 48:2-8; 1 John 3:20
2.7 God owns all things. Genesis 1:1; Psalms 24:1
2.8 God is uncreated (John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:15-17) and has absolute authority to rule over His creation {He is sovereign}. Isaiah 45:7-9; Proverbs 16:33; Ephesians 1:11; Colossians 1:16; 1 Timothy 6:15-16
2.9 God is light, love and truth. 1 John 1:5, 3:16, 4:8-16; Psalms 117:2
2.10 God is spirit {does not have a body of flesh and bones}. Luke 24:39; John 4:24
2.11 He is to be worshipped (Genesis 24:26; Exodus 4:31; 1 Corinthians 14:25; Revelation 7:11), served (Matthew 4:10; 1 Thessalonians 1:9; Hebrews 9:13-14) and proclaimed (Matthew 28:19; Acts 1:8).
2.12 He sent His Son and the Holy Spirit to administer His salvation to us. John 3:16, 16:7-8
Jesus is the Saviour of the World
2.13 Jesus existed before creation as the Word. John 1:1 (See also Isaiah 11:10; Colossians 1:15-18)
2.14 He is the only begotten Son of God the Father. Matthew 3:16-17; John 1:14, 1:18, 3:16-18; Romans 1:4; 1 John 4:9
2.15 He came to save us from our sin: "And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin." 1 John 3:5 (See also Acts 5:30-31; Titus 2:13; 1 John 4:14)
2.16 He was conceived of the Holy Ghost. Matthew 1:18-20; Luke 1:34-35
2.17 He was born of the virgin Mary. Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:30-35 (See also Philippians 2:5-8)
2.18 He lived a sinless human life. 2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 4:15; 1 Peter 2:21-22; 1 John 3:5
2.19 He was crucified and buried in a tomb. Matthew 27:32-66; Mark 15:21-47; Luke 23:26-56; John 19:28-42
2.20 He rose from the dead on the third day. Matthew 28:1-8; Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-12; John 2:19-22, 20:25-29; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Revelation 1:18
2.21 He appeared to many witnesses. Matthew 28:9-20; Mark 16:9-18; Luke 24:13-49; Acts 10:39-41
2.22 He ascended into heaven. Mark 16:19-20; Luke 24:50-53; John 3:13; Acts 1:6-11; Ephesians 4:8-10
2.23 Jesus now sits at the right hand of God the Father {in heaven}. Mark 16:19; Luke 22:69; Acts 2:33, 5:31, 7:55-56; Romans 8:34; Colossians 3:1; Hebrews 10:12, 12:2; 1 Peter 3:22
2.24 He makes intercession for us as our Great High Priest and Advocate. Hebrews 4:14
2.25 He has been given all power in Heaven and on earth and all that is under the earth. Philippians 2:10; Revelation 5:1-14
2.26 Jesus is the ONLY way to God the Father. Matthew 11:27; John 3:36, 10:1-16, 14:6; Acts 4:10-12; 1 Timothy 2:5 (See also John 8:23-24)
2.27 Death in Adam, Life in Christ: "For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous." Romans 5:19 (See also Romans 5:12-21)
2.28 Jesus will personally return in power and great glory. Zechariah 14:1-5; Matthew 24:27-31; Mark 13:26; Luke 21:25-28
Jesus is the physical manifestation of God (in Flesh)
2.29 Jesus (the Word) is God manifest in flesh. John 1:1, 1:14; Philippians 2:5-8; Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16; 1 Peter 1:19-20 (Compare John 8:24 with Isaiah 43:10)
2.30 Jesus is one with God the Father. John 5:23, 10:30-33
2.31 Jesus is the image of God. John 14:9; Colossians 1:15
2.32 Jesus created all things. John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:15-18; Hebrews 1:1-10 (Compare with Genesis 1:1; Job 33:4; Psalms 33:6; Isaiah 40:28, 44:24, 45:18)
2.33 Jesus is uncreated. John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:15-17
2.34 The Messiah is called the mighty God:
"For unto us a child is born {signifies His "Humanity"}, unto us a son is given {as God can not be born this signifies that "God" can only be 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; / "Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us." Matthew 1:23 (See also John 20:28; Titus 2:13)
2.35 The Father addresses the Son as God {"Thy throne, O God"}. Hebrews 1:8 (See also Psalms 45:6)
2.36 Jesus claimed to be God and was eventually crucified by the religious masses because of this {Jesus claimed the divine title "I AM"}. John 8:57-59, 10:30-33, 13:19 (Compare John 8:57-59 with Exodus 3:14)
2.37 God said that He was "pierced" (Zechariah 12:10; John 19:34; Revelation 1:7) and that He purchased the church with His own blood. Acts 20:28 (Compare with Psalms 78:54)
2.38 John testified that Jesus is God. John 1:1, 1:14
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." - John 1:1
2.39 Jesus forgave sins (and only God can forgive sins). Matthew 9:1-8; Mark 2:3-12; Luke 5:20, 7:48
2.40 Jesus raises the dead (John 2:19-21, 5:21-29, 6:38-54), and only God can raise the dead. 2 Corinthians 1:9; Galatians 1:1; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10 (See also Romans 8:11)
2.41 Jesus is our saviour (John 4:42; Titus 1:4, 2:13; 2 Peter 1:11, 3:18; 1 John 4:14), and there is no saviour besides God. Isaiah 43:3-11, 45:15-22; 1 Timothy 1:1-2, 4:10 (Also Compare Hosea 13:4 with Philippians 3:20-21)
2.42 Jesus is "the the good shepherd." John 10:11-14; Hebrews 13:20 (Compare with Psalms 23:1-6)
2.43 Jesus is "the light of the world." John 8:12, 9:4-5 (Compare with Psalms 27:1; 1 John 1:5)
2.44 Jesus is "the first and the last." Revelation 1:17, 2:8, 22:13 (Compare with Isaiah 41:4, 44:6, 48:12)
2.45 Jesus is King. Matthew 2:2; Luke 23:3 (Compare with Psalms 47:1-9; Isaiah 44:6-8; Jeremiah 10:10)
2.46 Jesus is Judge: Standing in the synagogue, Jesus read from the book of Isaiah. His time had not yet come to judge, and therefore deliberately never mentioned the day of vengeance (Compare Luke 4:16-20 with Isaiah 61:1-2). See also Joel 3:12; Acts 17:30-31; Romans 14:10; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 2 Timothy 4:1; Revelation 6:10, 19:11
2.47 Jesus is worshipped. Matthew 2:2, 2:11, 14:33, 28:9; John 9:35-38; Hebrews 1:6
2.48 Jesus is prayed to. John 14:14; Acts 7:55-60; Romans 10:13
2.49 To deny Jesus is God in flesh, is of the spirit of Antichrist. 1 John 4:1-3 (See also John 8:24)
Jesus is both God and man (Hypostatic Union)
2.50 Jesus has two natures in that He is both God and man. As God {Deity}, Jesus must be able to offer a sacrifice of value greater than that of a mere man - He had to die for the sins of the world (See 1 John 2:2; Philippians 2:5-8; Colossians 2:9). As man {Humanity}, Jesus is able to be the perfect sacrifice for man, because as a man He can be the mediator between God and man. 1 Timothy 2:5
2.51 Jesus is the exact representation of the nature of God. The Son is the radiance of His glory, the representation of His essence, and He sustains all things. John 14:14; Hebrews 1:3
2.52 When reading Luke, we discover that in the book of Psalms, David spoke on the prophecy of the Messiah: "And he said unto them, How say they that Christ is David's son? And David himself saith in the book of Psalms, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, Till I make thine enemies thy footstool. David therefore calleth him Lord {Deity}, how is he then his son? {Humanity}". This is a time-sequence problem which can only be explained by the Hypostatic Union (Compare Psalms 110:1 with Luke 20:41-44).
2.53 Jesus appeared to Old Testament saints (The Pre-incarnate manifestation of God, through the Son): No one has seen God {The Father} (See John 1:18; 1 John 4:12) because a sinner can not survive in the presence of God (See Exodus 20:19, 33:20; Leviticus 16:2; Judges 13:22). Yet in Genesis 15:1-6 Abraham meets God? This is not a contradiction. It indicates that there is more than one person in the Godhead. Abraham saw Jesus. John 8:56; / In Genesis 16:9-16 "angel of the LORD" can mean either "messenger" or the Lord Himself. The angel said He would multiply Hagar's offspring as her reward for being submissive. Created angels do not have the power over life, to multiply offspring, or to determine the future. Hagar saw Jesus.
Jesus performed miraculous Signs and Wonders
2.54 Jesus performed divine miracles: Changing water into wine (John 2:1-11); Healing (John 4:46-54, 5:1-15, 9:1-7); Feeding the 5000 (John 6:5-14); Walking on water (John 6:16-21); Raising the dead (John 11:1-45); Raising Himself from the dead (John 2:19-21).
2.55 Jesus Prophesied about future events that came true: One of His disciples would betray Him (Matthew 26:21-25); His disciples would leave Him (Matthew 26:31-32); Peter would deny Him three times (Matthew 26:33-34); He would die in Jerusalem (Matthew 16:21); He would die by crucifixion (Matthew 26:2); He would die during the Passover (Matthew 26:2); He would be resurrected from the dead on the third day (John 2:18-22); The Jewish temple would be destroyed (Matthew 24:1-2); The Holy land would be trodden down by the Gentiles (Luke 21:24).
2.56 The Holy Spirit is God. Acts 5:3-4
2.57 The Holy Spirit is alive and He can be grieved. John 14:26, 15:26; Acts 13:2; Ephesians 4:30
2.58 The Bible is the inspired Word of God. 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21
2.59 The Holy Spirit arrives with the ascension of Christ. John 14:26; Acts 2:1-38 (See also Matthew 3:16; Mark 1:10; John 1:32)
2.60 The Holy Spirit was sent by God to convince the world of sin, righteousness and the coming judgment. John 16:7-15
2.61 The Holy Spirit will indwell the believer, revealing to them the things of God. John 14:17; Romans 8:11; 1 Corinthians 2:10-13, 3:16; 2 Timothy 1:14; 1 John 2:27, 3:24
2.62 The Holy Spirit will continue to work in them to bring about sanctification {the on-going process of being made holy or perfect}. Romans 15:16; 1 Corinthians 6:11; Philippians 1:6
2.63 He speaks and has a will. Acts 13:2; 1 Corinthians 12:11; Hebrews 3:7
2.64 He baptises, guides and testifies of Jesus. John 15:26, 16:13; 1 Corinthians 12:13
2.65 The Holy Spirit glorifies Jesus. John 16:13-14
2.66 The Holy Spirit intercedes for the Church (He prays for us). Romans 8:26
2.67 He creates. Genesis 1:2; Job 33:4
2.68 He teaches. John 14:26; 1 Corinthians 2:12-13, 12:8-11; 1 John 2:27
2.69 He shows you things to come. John 16:13
2.70 He gives gifts, encourages and empowers. Acts 9:31; 1 Corinthians 12:8-11; Micah 3:8
2.71 He loves and gives joy. He is our Comforter. John 14:16-26; Romans 14:17, 15:30
3.1 Adam and Eve were real people. Genesis 1:26-27, 2:21-23, 3:20, 5:1-2; 1 Timothy 2:13
3.2 The duty of mankind is to trust and obey God. Psalms 118:8; Ecclesiastes 12:13-14; Acts 5:29; 1 Timothy 4:10; 2 Timothy 2:15
3.3 Death entered the world because of Adam's sin (disobedience/offence). Romans 5:12-21
3.4 All people have inherited a sinful nature and have sinned. Romans 3:23, 5:12
3.5 Sin separates us from a Holy God and is best described as man's rebellion against the Creator. Isaiah 59:2
3.6 There is no one righteous in God's sight {We have all broken His law's and have not lived life in accordance to His righteous standards}. We are all unclean and our righteous deeds are as filthy rags. Isaiah 64:6
3.7 The consequence of sin is death. Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 15:22
3.8 Sinners will face judgment (Hebrews 9:27; John 3:18, 5:28-29) and the penalty will be eternal separation from God in a place called "the lake of fire." Matthew 25:41; Revelation 21:8, 20:11-15
4.1 Originally, hell was a place prepared for Satan and his angels, a place of fiery punishment. Matthew 25:41
4.2 There is a "bottomless pit". Luke 8:28-31; Revelation 9:1-11, 20:1-3
4.3 In 2 Peter 2:4 we read about Fallen angels which were delivered into chains of darkness. The {Greek} word "Hell" referenced here is "Tartaros" (The Deepest abyss of Hades).
4.4 Hell is now also a place of eternal damnation for human sinners. Those who reject Jesus are condemned and destined for Hell. Isaiah 14:9-10; Matthew 23:33; John 3:18, 5:28-29; 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10; Revelation 20:11-15, 21:8
4.5 Hell is currently, physically and literally deep beneath the Earth. Numbers 16:30-33; Psalms 63:9, 86:13; Proverbs 15:24; Isaiah 14:9-15; Ezekiel 26:20, 31:15-17, 32:27; Amos 9:2; Matthew 12:40; Ephesians 4:8-10; Revelation 5:3 (See also Luke 16:19-31, Acts 2:31)
4.6 Hell has gates and bars. Job 17:16, 38:17; Isaiah 38:10; Jonah 2:6; Matthew 16:18; Revelation 1:18
4.7 All good things are from God {love; light; peace; joy; hope; comfort; kindness; relationships; rest; food; water; etc} (James 1:17). The bible seems to indicate that hell is void of ALL good things.
4.8 Both Soul and Body are destroyed in Hell. Matthew 10:28
4.9 Death is not the end of existence {A person can not be annihilated after death}, their spirit lives on. Ecclesiastes 12:7; 2 Corinthians 5:5-8; Philippians 1:21-23 (See also Numbers 16:30-33)
4.10 At the end of the age the unsaved will be resurrected, judged and will go away into everlasting punishment {eternal damnation} which is referred to as the second death. Matthew 25:46; Revelation 21:7-8
4.11 After the Great White Throne judgment, hell along with all its inhabitants {those not found written in the book of life} will be cast into "the lake of fire" (Gehenna) which is the eternal hell. Matthew 5:29-30, 18:8-9, 25:46; Revelation 20:10-15
4.12 The lake of fire is a place of everlasting fiery punishment described as a "furnace of fire". It is a place of torment and destruction, where there is wailing and gnashing of teeth. Matthew 5:22, 13:40-42, 13:49-50; Revelation 14:9-11, 20:10 (Compare Revelation 19:20 with 20:1-10 where the beast and the false prophet still remain in fiery torment after one thousand years have passed)
4.13 The fire is unquenchable and burns forever. Matthew 3:11-12, 25:41; Mark 9:42-50; Luke 3:16-17; Jude 1:7
4.14 The wrath of God remains continuously on the unbeliever. John 3:36; Revelation 14:9-11
4.15 Those who do not believe God's plan of salvation and reject Jesus' sacrifice on the cross are destined to this eternity in hell. In the end, God will give sinners what they want (an eternity without Him). This is a serious issue and is the reason for spreading God's plan of salvation {the Gospel} - to save people from going to this place! Salvation is a free gift of God and it is by Grace through Faith alone that we are saved by believing that Jesus Christ died for our sins. Trusting in Jesus and His shed blood to pay for your sins is what saves you from hell. Leviticus 17:1-11; Luke 24:47; John 1:12; Acts 2:21, 3:19; Romans 4:1-5, 6:14, 6:23, 10:9-13; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Ephesians 1:6-7, 2:8-9; 1 Timothy 3:16
4.16 If anybody preaches a false gospel, they are to be accursed. 1 Corinthians 16:22; Galatians 1:8-9
5.1 Jesus was crucified upon a cross and buried in a tomb. Matthew 27:32-66; Mark 15:21-47; Luke 23:26-56; John 19:28-42
5.2 He bore our sins in His own body {even though He never sinned}. 1 Peter 2:21-24
5.3 Jesus died for ALL our sins (Past, present and future), including the sins of the whole world. 2 Corinthians 5:14-15; Hebrews 10:12; 1 John 2:2
5.4 He rose from the dead in His physical body on the third day. Matthew 28:1-8; Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-12, 24:39; John 2:19-22, 20:25-29; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Revelation 1:18
5.5 He appeared to many witnesses. Matthew 28:9-20; Mark 16:9-18; Luke 24:13-49; Acts 1:3, 10:39-41
5.6 He ascended into heaven. Mark 16:19-20; Luke 24:50-53; John 3:13; Acts 1:6-11; Ephesians 4:8-10
5.7 Each member of the Godhead was involved in the resurrection: God the Father (2 Corinthians 1:9; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; Galatians 1:1); the Son (John 2:19-21); and the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:11).
5.8 Salvation is received by confession and believing in the resurrection. Romans 10:9-10
5.9 To deny the physical resurrection is to deny Jesus' work, sacrifice, and our resurrection. If someone says that Jesus did not rise from the dead, then their faith is useless and they are still in their sins. 1 Corinthians 15:12-17
God's plan of Salvation: The Righteous shall Live by Faith
6.1 Salvation is the free gift of God to all who believe on His son, Jesus Christ. Romans 4:5, 5:15-18, 6:23; Ephesians 2:8-9; 1 John 5:10-13
6.2 A person is saved by (God's) Grace through (our) Faith in believing that Jesus Christ died for our sins. Romans 3:21-26; Ephesians 2:8-9
6.3 Without faith it is impossible to please God. Hebrews 11:6
6.4 Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith. Hebrews 12:2
6.5 We have peace with God through faith. Romans 5:1-11; Colossians 1:20
6.6 Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Romans 10:17
6.7 With the heart one believes, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. Romans 10:9-10
6.8 Receiving Jesus and calling on His name saves you. John 1:12; Acts 2:21, 3:19
6.9 His sacrifice was a substitution for us {bearing God's full wrath on our behalf} so that we wouldn't have to suffer an eternity in hell. Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:14, 5:21; 1 Peter 2:24; Hebrews 9:28, 10:12; 1 John 2:2
6.10 Christ paid the penalty for sin and redeemed us from the curse of the law. Deuteronomy 27:26; John 19:30; Galatians 3:13; Hebrews 10:14-18
6.11 There is no remission of sins without the shedding of blood (Leviticus 17:1-11; Matthew 26:28; Hebrews 9:22). Jesus' sacrifice was the perfect atonement for sin and believers have been reconciled back to God {His blood redeems us}. Romans 3:23-26, 5:9-18; Ephesians 1:6-7, 1:13-14; Colossians 1:14, 1:20-21; 1 Peter 3:18
6.12 Even though we are all sinners, anyone that puts their trust and faith in the Lord Jesus will be counted as righteous before God. If you believe in your heart that He died on the cross as an atonement for your sin; that He was buried; and on the third day God raised Him to life again, you will be forgiven. This is the good news (the Gospel). 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
6.13 This results in you being born again and becoming a member of the body of Christ {the Church}. John 3:3-6; 1 Corinthians 12:12-27; Ephesians 4:1-16; 1 Peter 1:19-23
6.14 The Holy Spirit will indwell you (John 14:17; Romans 8:11; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 2 Timothy 1:14) and will lead and guide you until the day of redemption. Romans 15:16; 1 Corinthians 2:12-13, 6:11; Ephesians 1:7, 1:13-14; Philippians 1:6
By Faith, or by Works of the Law?
6.15 It is important to understand that salvation is NOT of works. We cannot earn our way into Heaven by being a "Good" person or by following the law:
"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life." Titus 3:5-7 (See also Isaiah 64:6; Galatians 2:21; Ephesians 2:8-9)
6.16 No one will be justified by works of the law {a salvation attempt based on our good behaviour}. Romans 3:20, 4:1-5; Galatians 2:16, 3:21, 5:4 (Read Galatians 3:1-29)
6.17 God requires perfect obedience to His law. His word has made it clear that if we are guilty of breaking just one point of the law, then we are guilty of breaking ALL of the law (No matter how hard we try, we always fail to perfectly keep God's commandments). Galatians 3:10-14; James 2:10
6.18 As we are all born with a sinful nature, by default the penalty is death, judgment and eternal separation from God. Therefore it is God alone who has the power to save us. John 1:12; Acts 13:48; Ephesians 2:8-9
6.19 The purpose of the law then is not to justify us, but rather to reveal our sinful nature {and our desperate need for a saviour}. Romans 3:20; Galatians 3:21-23
6.20 By dying in our place, the sins of His people were judged and forgotten. Romans 3:23-26; Hebrews 8:12
6.21 His act of righteousness is eternal life to those who believe in Him. Romans 5:18; 1 Peter 2:24, 3:18-20
6.22 Our righteousness can only be found in Jesus Christ (who fulfilled the law completely). Matthew 5:17-20; John 8:29; Galatians 4:4
6.23 All that BELIEVE are justified {made righteous in the sight of God}. Acts 13:38-39; Romans 3:22-24, 4:5; 2 Corinthians 4:13-15; Galatians 3:22
6.24 If you believe that you are saved by works {or even faith plus works} then you are not saved at all. Believers are not under the law, they are under grace. Romans 6:14, 11:5-6; Galatians 2:21, 5:4; Ephesians 2:8-9
7.1 Once saved, the Holy Spirit will convict a person of their sin, leading them to a natural inner desire of wanting to live a life free from sin. John 16:8-13; Romans 6:18-22
7.2 Even though a Christian can {and still does} commit sin, their spirit is saved. A person who is truly saved will feel convicted and ashamed of their sin. The believer's works will be "revealed by fire" but they themselves will be saved. 1 Corinthians 3:10-15, 5:1-5
7.3 Believers can know they are saved. 1 John 5:10-13
7.4 A believer is promised not to come into condemnation (Christ will keep and present them faultless). John 5:24; Romans 8:1; 1 Corinthians 1:7-8; 1 Peter 1:3-5; Jude 1:24-25
7.5 A saved person is "led by the Spirit". Romans 8:14
7.6 A saved person is "born again" and their spirit is of incorruptible seed. 1 Peter 1:4-5, 1:22-23
7.7 The Holy Spirit indwells the believer. John 14:17; Romans 8:11; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 2 Timothy 1:14; 1 John 3:24
7.8 Believers are sanctified by the Holy Spirit (the on-going process of being made holy or perfect). Acts 26:18; Romans 15:16; 1 Corinthians 2:12-13, 6:11; Philippians 1:6; 1 John 2:27
7.9 Salvation is not based on works. A believer cannot work to get salvation, therefore a believer cannot work to keep salvation. Romans 3:28, 4:5, 11:6; Galatians 2:16; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 1:5
7.10 Sin can no longer affect a believer's salvation because they have been freed from it (the believer is dead to Sin). Romans 6:1-14, 6:22; 1 Peter 2:24
7.11 Believers are washed, sanctified and justified. 1 Corinthians 6:11
7.12 The Lord Jesus died for ALL our sins (past, present and future). Acts 13:39; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15; Hebrews 10:12; 1 John 2:2
7.13 Believers have been "purchased" and are "sealed" by the spirit until the day of redemption:
"That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory." Ephesians 1:10-14 (See also 2 Corinthians 1:21-22; Ephesians 4:30; Philippians 1:6)
7.14 No one is able to pluck those who are saved out of the Father's hand. John 10:28-29; Romans 8:38-39
7.15 A believer cannot lose their salvation. Saved or unsaved, everyone is guilty of sin. Trusting in Jesus and His shed blood on the cross to pay for your sins, is what saves you from hell. Matthew 26:28; Romans 3:23-26, 5:8-18; Ephesians 1:6-7, 1:13-14; Colossians 1:20-21; Hebrews 9:22; 1 Peter 2:24, 3:18-20
8.1 God knows all things and has declared the end from the beginning. When He speaks, His word is accomplished. Isaiah 42:9, 46:9-10, 48:2-3, 55:11; 1 John 3:20 (See also 2 Peter 1:20-21)
"Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure." Isaiah 46:9-10; "So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it." Isaiah 55:11
8.2 The Lord God reveals His plans to believers. Amos 3:7; John 16:13
"Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets." Amos 3:7
8.3 All scripture is given by inspiration of God {including prophecy} and we are told to study, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15, 3:16 (See also Acts 17:10-11; 2 Peter 3:1-13)
Prophecy Models
8.4 If an important prophecy is mentioned in the New Testament, there will be a "Model" for it {hidden in plain sight} in the Old Testament. These relate to a typology; a parallel; a pattern; or even a "dress-rehearsal" if you will, that point to significant future events. Colossians 2:16-17
The Lord's "Feast Days" are a Model of God's appointed times: The most obvious models can be found in the book of Leviticus concerning the Lord's feast days. Only once the "Spring Feasts" were fulfilled, were they understood to be prophetic. Leviticus 23:1-44
"These are the feasts of the LORD, even holy convocations, which ye shall proclaim in their seasons." Leviticus 23:4
Spring Feasts: 1. Feast of Passover (Represented the crucifixion); 2. Feast of Unleavened bread (Represented the burial of Jesus); 3. Feast of First fruits (Represented the resurrection of Jesus); 4. Feast of Pentecost (Represented the coming of the Holy Spirit and the start of the church age).
Fall {Autumn} Feasts: 5. Feast of Trumpets (The Rapture/Resurrection of believers); 6. Feast of Atonement (The Second Advent); 7. Feast of Tabernacles (The Messianic Kingdom).
"Pre-tribulation Rapture" Models can be found in the Old Testament: Righteous Lot was removed before God poured out His wrath over Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18:22-33, 19:1-29). Enoch walked with God and was removed before the wrathful destruction of the flood (Genesis 5:21-24, 6:17). Both the pre-tribulation rapture and 7-year tribulation are mentioned in Isaiah 26:19-21 (Compare with John 14:1-3).
"Thy dead men shall live, together with my dead body shall they arise. Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust: for thy dew is as the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead. Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast. For, behold, the LORD cometh out of his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain." Isaiah 26:19-21; "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:1-3
The "third day" is a Model of the restoration of Israel: The Creation week is a model for 7000 years of human history. The Old Testament is exactly 4000 years, and the Millennial Kingdom is exactly 1000 years. It stands to reason the church age will most likely be 2000 years {this includes the 7-year tribulation}. Furthermore, each 1000-year period has a parallel connection to each 24-hour day in order of Creation. Genesis 1:1-2:3; 2 Peter 3:8; Revelation 20:4-6
"But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day." 2 Peter 3:8
In Hosea 6:2 we read: "After two days will he revive us: in the third day he will raise us up, and we shall live in his sight." This prophecy concerning Israel, supports the age of Grace being only 2000 years (two prophetic days). In John 4:40-43 we read that Jesus abode with the gentiles for two days, and on the third day went back to the Jews in Galilee. Again, in the Gospels (Matthew 16:21, 27:64; Mark 9:31; Luke 24:1-12; John 2:19-22) we read that Jesus was resurrected from the dead on the third day. In the book of Ezekiel 37:1-28 we read about the valley of dry bones.. These are just four "Model examples" of the restoration / resurrection / redemption of Israel at the second advent.
Eschatology (The study of end times)
8.5 Literal Hermeneutics (the interpretation of scripture) is the best way to study the bible. This explains the original sense, recognizing poetic, parable, allegory and apocalyptic language as it applies to its biblical context. When literal Hermeneutics is used, {as opposed to allegorizing passages} it will lead to a "Premillennial" standpoint. This view of eschatology simply states that Jesus will return in the last days (the second advent) prior to establishing His millennial reign on earth.
Before this advent takes place however, there is an event called "the Rapture". The word Rapture means to be "caught up". In Hebrew the word is "naphal", and in Greek the word "harpazo" is used which is to seize, catch (away, up), pluck, pull, take (by force). During this event, Jesus will personally return to fetch His bride {the body of Christ}. The dead in Christ are resurrected and all living believers are "caught up" to meet the Lord in the air and return with Him to Heaven. Chaos will ensue on earth in the form of a 7-year tribulation, after which Jesus will return to earth {with His saints}, feet touching the mount of Olives. The wicked are then destroyed and the Lord proceeds to set up His millennial kingdom.
But in order to fully understand bible prophecy, it is important to know there are two groups of people mentioned in the bible: They are the nation of Israel, and the church. And God has a plan for each of them..
8.6 The Bible teaches a clear distinction between Israel {God's chosen people} and the Church {body of believers/the bride of Christ}. The nation of Israel is temporarily cast off as a partial hardening had come upon them because they rejected their Messiah, and this will continue "until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled" (this simply means that there is a waiting period until a divinely set number of Gentiles are saved before God redeems Israel). Luke 21:24; Romans 11:25-27; Colossians 1:26-27; Revelation 21:9
"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15
8.7 Israel's rejection of Jesus was a huge blessing for the Gentiles (See Romans 11:11), however the restoration of Israel will be even more so: "all Israel shall be saved." Isaiah 45:17; Ezekiel 37:21-23; Daniel 12:1; Acts 5:31; Romans 11:26-32
8.8 God will show mercy on Israel {even though they were unfaithful to Him}. Jeremiah 3:6-23, Ezekiel 39:25-29; Zechariah 10:6
8.9 God is a husband to Israel (See Isaiah 54:5; Jeremiah 31:32) and will remain faithful to her for His holy names sake. Isaiah 48:8-11; Ezekiel 20:33-44, 36:16-25
8.10 God will NEVER abandon Israel: He would sooner change His laws that govern night and day, earth and sky before rejecting His people. Isaiah 45:17; Jeremiah 31:35-37, 33:24-26
8.11 Israel will be restored: There remain four 'Unconditional Covenants' God made with Israel which must still be fulfilled. These can best be described as agreements made by God that require no effort on their part {His oath is final for confirmation}. This means God will uphold His end of the deal and will keep His promises (See Hebrews 6:13-20). These covenants will ultimately be fulfilled in the future Messianic Kingdom. See also Deuteronomy 4:29-31; Jeremiah 30:1-9; Joel 3:17-21; Ezekiel 20:33-44, 36:24-25; Zechariah 12:10; Luke 13:34-35
The Abrahamic covenant: Abraham was given a promise that his descendants would one day become a great nation and eventually possess a promised land. Genesis 12:1-3, 15:1-21, 17:1-14; Acts 3:25
The Land covenant: There would one day be a regathering of Jews from all corners of the world and they will return to take re-possession of their land. Deuteronomy 30:1-10; Jeremiah 32:37; Ezekiel 36:22-28
The Davidic covenant: Promised a place of their own to dwell in forever, namely: An eternal house, eternal throne, eternal kingdom and an eternal Messiah. Jesus must still be seated on the future throne of David to rule over the Kingdom of Israel. 2 Samuel 7:1-17; Psalms 89:3-4; Isaiah 9:6-7; Mark 10:47
The Everlasting covenant: One day God will put His law in the minds of Israel and will write it on their hearts. They will be His people, and He will be their God. This includes a promise of fruitfulness, blessing and a peaceful existence in the promised land. The covenant will see its ultimate fulfilment during the Messianic Kingdom and in Heaven for all eternity. Jeremiah 32:36-44; Hebrews 8:10-13
The gentiles are brought into the blessing of a New covenant as they now have the opportunity to receive salvation as a free gift, by grace through faith. They will be given a new heart and a new spirit {the Holy Spirit will indwell them}. This is good news because now we are no longer under the curse of the law! Jesus fulfilled the law completely by removing the need for daily sacrifices through His own perfect sacrifice on the cross (See Galatians 3:10-29). Jesus is the mediator of the New covenant which DOES NOT do away with any of the 'unconditional covenants' given to Israel. Rather it establishes a better covenant with better promises (See Hebrews 8:6-13). See also Jeremiah 31:31-40; Ezekiel 36:24-28; Acts 10:34-48; Romans 11:25-27; Ephesians 2:8-22, 3:1-13; Hebrews 9:15, 10:16-18, 12:24, 13:20
8.12 Saved Gentiles are Grafted In: Those who believe the Gospel of Salvation {both Jew and Gentile} (1 Corinthians 12:13) will be adopted into the family of Israel to be fellow heirs in God's Kingdom (Israel is described as an Olive tree, whereas the Church is compared to a "wild olive tree" branch that has been "graffed" in). Zechariah 4:11-14; Romans 11:11-24; Ephesians 1:6-7, 2:8-22, 3:1-13; Galatians 3:29; Revelation 11:4
8.13 One in Christ: "Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ." Ephesians 2:11-13
8.14 Jesus is the "head" of the church (Ephesians 5:23). The church as an organization represents the visible "body" of Christ to their local community, however the church as a body is a unique organism. John 14:16-17; Acts 2:1-4, 15:13-18; 1 Corinthians 12:12-31; Ephesians 1:17-23, 5:21-23; Colossians 1:18
8.15 The church is the Bride of Christ. Matthew 25:1-13; Revelation 19:6-10, 21:9, 22:16-17
8.16 In the last days there will be "scoffers" (2 Peter 3:3) and a great departure from the truth where many people will abandon God's ways. God therefore hands them over to a reprobate mind. Matthew 24:12; Romans 1:18-32; 2 Thessalonians 2:3, 2:11
8.17 It will be as in the days of Noah and the days of Lot (Matthew 24:37-39; Luke 17:26-30; Romans 1:21-27). Iniquity will abound {lawlessness/wickedness} and there will be perilous times described as birth pangs, increasing in intensity, "as travail upon a woman with child." Isaiah 13:6-13, 26:17-21; Matthew 24:1-51; Mark 13:1-37; Luke 21:5-36; 1 Thessalonians 5:3
8.18 When these things "begin" to converge, we are told to look up because our redemption draws near. Luke 21:28
8.19 Jesus will return to gather His bride {the body of Christ}. John 14:1-3; Acts 1:9-11
8.20 While we do not know the day or the hour, the Lord comes "as a thief in the night" and we are told to watch and be ready. Matthew 24:36-51, 25:13; Mark 13:32-37; Luke 21:28, 21:34-36; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11; Hebrews 9:28; 1 Peter 1:13-16, 4:7; 2 Peter 3:10; Revelation 3:3, 16:15
8.21 Those who watch and are eager for the Lord's appearing ("Looking for that blessed hope"), will receive a "crown of righteousness" as reward. 2 Timothy 4:7-8; Titus 2:13; Revelation 3:11
8.22 The Rapture event:
"For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up {raptured} together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words." 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 (See also Isaiah 26:19-21; Matthew 24:37-42; John 14:1-3; 1 Corinthians 15:50-54; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)
8.23 Believers and those who have died in Christ receive glorified bodies (they become immortal and incorruptible). Romans 8:22-23; 1 Corinthians 15:42, 15:50-54; Philippians 3:20-21; Colossians 3:4; 1 John 3:2
8.24 Believers are rewarded at the Judgment Seat of Christ {bema judgment}. 2 Timothy 4:7-8; 1 Corinthians 3:10-15; 2 Corinthians 5:10
8.25 The Marriage supper of the Lamb takes place. Matthew 25:1-13; Revelation 19:6-10
8.26 Raptured believers return with the Lord Jesus to earth at the end of the 7-year tribulation. Zechariah 14:4; 1 Thessalonians 3:13; Revelation 1:7, 19:11-16
Rapture events in the Bible
8.27 There are many Rapture events in the Bible. Here are a few references..
The Rapture is a Pre-Tribulation Event
8.28 Redeemed saints {the 24 elders} are already in Heaven before the Great Tribulation begins. Revelation 4:4-5:10
8.29 The Tribulation is a time of wrath: "Behold, the day of the LORD cometh, cruel both with wrath and fierce anger, to lay the land desolate: and he shall destroy the sinners thereof out of it." Isaiah 13:9, 26:20-21 (See also Ezekiel 7:1-27; Matthew 24:15-21; Luke 21:23; Revelation 6:17)
8.30 Jesus delivered us from the wrath to come (The Church is not appointed unto wrath because it's sins are forgiven). Luke 21:28, 21:36; 1 Thessalonians 1:10, 5:9-11; Revelation 3:10
8.31 The church in Thessalonica were unsettled: They thought the day of Christ was at hand and that they were heading into the tribulation {they thought they had missed the Rapture}. See 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12
8.32 John never links the Church with the tribulation:
Out of the 4 Gospels, the tribulation is NEVER mentioned by John {who specifically addresses the church}. John further excludes any mention of the church in Revelation chapters 6-19 which deal specifically with the tribulation and God's judgment upon the world.
8.33 The age of Grace ends at the rapture which has to take place BEFORE the tribulation begins. Placing the rapture at the end of the tribulation causes many doctrinal issues and complications:
If believers are raptured at the second advent and the wicked are destroyed, who will populate the millennial kingdom? At the end of the thousand years Satan is released to deceive the nations once more. Zechariah 14:1-21; Revelation 20:7-8
Jesus establishes His millennial kingdom on earth. If the rapture takes place at the second advent then how can believers be with Jesus in Heaven where He is preparing a place for us? We are told that Jesus will come back for His church and they will return with Him to where He is right now. John 14:1-3
The tribulation will be a time of martyrdom and great distress. If we as believers have to go through the tribulation, how can we "comfort one another with these words"? 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18
If believers are saved by Grace through Faith alone, then "not getting" the mark of the beast becomes a salvation based on works. The Bible makes it clear that those who receive this mark will be cast into the lake of fire. Believers will have to work very hard in order not to receive this mark and in the end, they will have to be martyred in order to remain saved. Revelation 13:15-18, 14:9-11
The Rapture -versus- the Second Advent {Day of the Lord/Judgment Day}
8.34 The rapture is a "Blessed Hope", eagerly anticipated (Titus 2:13); whereas the second coming is an earthly despair, feared and dreaded (Isaiah 13:9; Ezekiel 30:3; Amos 5:18).
8.35 At the rapture believers meet the Lord in the air and return with Him to Heaven (John 14:1-3; Acts 1:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18); whereas at the second coming, Jesus' feet touch the mount of Olives (Zechariah 14:4).
8.36 At the rapture, Jesus comes "for" His Saints {Peacefully} (Acts 1:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18; 2 Thessalonians 2:1); whereas at the second coming, He comes "with" His Saints {Not peaceful} (1 Thessalonians 3:13; Revelation 19:11-15).
8.37 Jesus personally gathers His Saints at the rapture (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18); but at the second coming, angels gather the tribulation elect and bring them to the mountains of Israel (Ezekiel 34:12-13, 37:21-23; Matthew 24:27-31).
8.38 As the rest of the world are not saved, the clouds protect them from seeing the Lord {hence we meet the Lord in the air}. Only His own will see Him (Acts 1:9-11); whereas at the second coming, "every eye shall see" (Revelation 1:7).
8.39 Unbelievers remain on earth, Believers will be "taken" {In the Greek: paralambano} (Matthew 24:38-42; Luke 17:34-37); whereas at the end of the tribulation, believers remain on earth {Angels remove the wicked and cast them into the furnace of fire} (Matthew 13:38-50, Revelation 14:9-10).
8.40 When Jesus comes for His bride, He comes to reward {bema seat judgment} (1 Corinthians 3:10-15; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 2 Timothy 4:8); At the second coming, He comes with wrath (Isaiah 13:6-13; Ezekiel 30:3; Obadiah 1:15; Zephaniah 1:14-18).
8.41 The dead in Christ are resurrected and those alive are caught up, receiving Glorified bodies (1 Corinthians 15:50-54; Philippians 3:20-21; Colossians 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 1 John 3:2); at the second coming, people on earth still have the same body (Not Translated).
8.42 Earth is not judged at the rapture {no kingdom on earth}; whereas at the second coming the earth is judged, Satan is bound, and the Millennial Kingdom is established (Zechariah 14:16; Revelation 20:1-6).
8.43 The rapture is imminent {no great signs and wonders} (Matthew 25:13; 1 Corinthians 1:6-8; 1 Thessalonians 5:2; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; 1 Peter 1:13); whereas the second advent is immediately after the Great Tribulation {many great signs and wonders} (Joel 2:28-32; Matthew 24:29-30; Acts 2:16-21; 2 Peter 3:10-12).
8.44 The 7-year tribulation will commence shortly after the rapture of the church during which time God will deal primarily with His ancient people Israel, to bring them to repentance. This prophecy is also known as Daniel's 70th week, and "the time of Jacob's trouble". "70 weeks" (490 years) were determined for Israel, where each prophetic week represented seven years. So far only 69 weeks of this prophecy have been fulfilled - The prophecy began with the decree to restore and re-build Jerusalem, however the prophecy ended abruptly 483 years later at the crucifixion. The final week {7 years} is a future event that will ONLY commence after the rapture, once "the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled." Jeremiah 30:1-24; Daniel 9:24-27, 12:1-13; Luke 21:24; Revelation 6:1-19:21
"Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people {Israel} and upon thy holy city {Jerusalem}, to finish the transgression {the single act of rejecting their Messiah}, 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." Daniel 9:24
8.45 The Beast from the Sea (the Antichrist): The world will re-organize into ten-regional powers {This global system is biblically known as "The Beast"}. Out of the ten regional governments, three will be overthrown and one man ("the Antichrist") rises to power. Many followers {those not written in the Book of Life} will worship the Antichrist. He confirms a 7-year covenant under a false pretence of "Peace and safety", however this treaty is broken mid-way through the tribulation (The covenant between the Antichrist and "many" begins the tribulation). Daniel 7:1-28, 8:1-27, 9:27; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3; Revelation 13:1-10
8.46 The Beast from the Earth (the False Prophet): He creates an image of the Antichrist to be worshipped and will perform signs and wonders. He causes all people to receive a mark in their right hand or in their forehead in order that they may buy or sell. Those who refuse are beheaded, and those who take the mark are eternally doomed ("a great multitude" become believers during the great tribulation and will be martyred). Matthew 24:20-22; Revelation 7:9-17, 13:11-18, 14:9-13, 20:4
8.47 The Dragon (Satan himself): He gives the Antichrist and the False Prophet power and authority to perform signs and wonders to deceive the world. Revelation 12:1-17, 13:2, 16:12-16
8.48 The "Two Witnesses" also arrive during this time and are given supernatural power by God. They preach from Jerusalem and cannot be killed until their 1,260 days are completed (3 1/2 years). Revelation 11:1-14
8.49 There will be much distress and wickedness in the hearts of people with catastrophic events, the likes of which the world has never seen (Matthew 24:20-21; Mark 13:19). See also Isaiah 13:6-13, 26:17-21; Ezekiel 7:1-27; Matthew 24:1-51; Mark 13:1-37; Luke 21:5-36; Romans 1:18-32; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3; 2 Thessalonians 2:3
8.50 Ultimately the tribulation will be a time of God's wrath upon an unbelieving world (See Isaiah 26:21). The book of Revelation details these events, where 21 divine judgments are unleashed upon the earth:
The 7 Seals (Revelation chapters 6:1-8:1)
The 7 Trumpets of "Redemptive" Wrath (Revelation chapters 8:2-11:19)
The 7 Vials of God's "Destructive" Wrath (Revelation chapters 15:1-16:21)
8.51 The Battle of Armageddon: The Tribulation will culminate in the Battle of Armageddon. The Beast's armies, along with the kings of the east, gather in the Megiddo Valley in Israel in an attempt to plunder and destroy what remains of the Jewish people. Ezekiel 38:1-39:2; Joel 3:1-15; Zechariah 14:1-2; Revelation 16:12-16
8.52 The Second Advent (The Day of the Lord): The skies are rolled back and Christ returns in power and great glory, followed by the Armies of Heaven {His saints and Holy Angels}. His feet touch down on the mount of Olives, and every eye shall see Him. The Lord will make war against the Anti-Christ and the ungodly nations. The Beast and the False prophet are cast alive into the lake of fire, and the remnant wicked are slain. Isaiah 2:6-22, 13:9-12, 66:15-17; Ezekiel 39:3-6; Joel 2:1-11; Zechariah 14:3-5; Matthew 25:31-46; Revelation 6:12-17, 19:11-21
8.53 By the end of the seven years, Israel will realise that Jesus {who they rejected in 30AD} was indeed their Messiah. They will finally accept Him as Lord and Saviour and be redeemed. Deuteronomy 4:29-31; Ezekiel 20:33-44, 39:7-24; Joel 2:28-32; Zechariah 12:10-14; Matthew 23:37-39; Luke 13:34-35; Revelation 1:7
8.54 The Millennial Kingdom: Jesus establishes His Messianic Kingdom and Israel is restored. During this dispensation He will reign for a literal one thousand year period. Living waters go out from Jerusalem and it will be a time of peace and righteousness. Isaiah 2:1-5, 11:1-16, 60:14-22, 65:18-25; 66:18-24; Ezekiel 39:25-29; Joel 3:16-21; Zechariah 8:1-23, 14:6-21; Revelation 20:4-6
8.55 Satan is be bound during these thousand years and will be loosed afterwards. He deceives the nations once more to gather them together to battle {"the number of whom is as the sand of the sea"}. They encompass the camp of the saints and the city {Jerusalem}, however this period of rebellious deception will be short lived and the wicked are destroyed with fire from Heaven. Revelation 20:1-10
9.1 There will be a final "great white throne" judgment. Daniel 12:1-3; Matthew 25:31-46; Hebrews 9:27; 2 Peter 3:7; Revelation 20:11
9.2 The dead are judged according to their works. Revelation 20:12
9.3 This involves a final resurrection of both the saved and the lost (Acts 24:15). Saved believers will enter into eternal life in God's Kingdom. Satan, along with his angels and all the dead whose names are not found written in the book of life, will be cast into "the lake of fire": Gehenna (Hell) to suffer eternal damnation. Revelation 19:20, 20:10-15
9.4 The heavens and the earth will be destroyed by Fire. Zephaniah 3:8; 2 Peter 3:5-12
9.5 There will be a new heaven and a new earth where creation returns to an original perfect state, and there will be no more death, sorrow or pain. Isaiah 65:17, 66:22; Luke 20:35-36; 2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:1-4
All have sinned, which separates us from a Holy God, and the penalty for sin is death and judgment.
There is no remission of sins without the shedding of blood. Christ shed His blood for all our sins {Past, Present and Future}, was buried and rose again on the third day according to the scriptures. By dying for our sins, He gave His life as an atoning sacrifice and delivered us from the wrath to come. As death and judgment is a result of sin and Jesus lived a sinless life, death could not hold Him. By confessing and believing in His resurrection, we understand the debt for sin has been paid (we are reconciled back to God because we have been justified by His blood).
Now it is only by God's grace through our faith in Christ alone that we are saved. Not of ourselves, not of works lest any man should boast. It is the free gift of God - It is by grace {something we did not earn or deserve} that God gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever shall believe in Him will not perish, but have everlasting life. If you admit that you are a sinner and are in need of God's forgiveness - the moment you put your faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ as your saviour, you will be saved.
The Holy Spirit will indwell you, lead and guide you, saved and sealed until the day of redemption.
1. Accept That You Are Guilty Of Sin
"But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness. None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth: they trust in vanity, and speak lies; they conceive mischief, and bring forth iniquity." Isaiah 59:2-4; "As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:" Romans 3:10; "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;" Romans 3:23; "Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:" Romans 5:12; "If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us." 1 John 1:8
2. Realize: The Penalty For Sin Is Death, Judgment And Hell
"And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:" Hebrews 9:27; "Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:" Matthew 25:41; "But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers,and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death." Revelation 21:8
3. Understand That Jesus Died To Pay For Your Sins
"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8; "Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed." 1 Peter 2:24; "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16; "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6:23
4. Believe For Salvation
"And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." 1 Timothy 3:16; "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed." Romans 10:9-11; "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." Romans 10:13
5. Saved By Grace Through Faith
"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." Ephesians 2:8-9
Accept that you are a sinner and are in need of God's forgiveness (Romans 3:10, 3:23).
Believe for salvation that God sent His only Son to pay for your sins (John 3:16; Romans 5:8, 6:23).
Call upon the name of the Lord (Romans 10:9-13; Ephesians 2:8-9).What Should I Pray?
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for creating me. I know that I have sinned against you and the penalty for sin is death, judgment and hell. Please forgive me and save me. I believe Jesus died on the cross at Calvary and through His blood paid the penalty for my sins, was buried and rose again. I repent and accept Jesus Christ as my personal Lord and saviour. I put my faith and trust in Him to give me eternal life. Thank you Father for your merciful grace, in Jesus name I pray. Amen.
