How to be happy

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Perhaps you have said, “I will surely be happy when….” Or “I will be glad when….” We spend a lot of our lives looking forward to some event or the completion of some project that is to make us happier than we have ever been before. In doing so, however, we miss a tremendous amount of joy that the Lord has for us each day.

The Apostle Paul reminded us in Philippians (which was written while Paul was in prison, not the type of prison we have now, but a dungeon) that we should “Rejoice in the Lord always.” He also said, “In everything, give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) Have you ever thought that being unthankful for everything is to be out of the will of God?

Perhaps you are going through an experience right now that is not of your liking. The natural tendency is to say, “I will surely be happy when this trial is over!” But the right Christian attitude is the attitude of gratitude! Job could say, in the midst of it all, “But He knoweth the way that I take: when He hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.” (Job 23:10) While Job was not comfortable in his trial, he was content that God knew what was happening and that He had a purpose for the trial.

Since “we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28), we can give thanks for the current good thing that is happening in our lives. As Habakkkuk said, “Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls: Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The LORD God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds’ feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places. (Habakkuk 3:17-19)

Some of the most spiritual persons I have met have been those who are going through great trials, and should have ample reason to complain. They have chosen, however, to let the Lord be manifest in their lives through their suffering. The joy of the Lord has become their strength. (Nehemiah 8:10)

For more about handling Trials see: 0101 Trials and Temptations

What rewards or honors are there in Heaven for Christians?

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While salvation is free and available to all without cost, rewards in Heaven are promised in various places in the Bible and for various reasons. In Revelation 14:12, we read, “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. 13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.” Their works do follow them. Not their words, not their reputations, but their works follow them. Some Christians talk a good game, but do not play the game by the rules.

First Corinthians 9:24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. Notice the word “strive”. That word means working hard, energetically, for a goal, a prize, a crown. The athlete in the Olympics gives his very best to earn a prize that will someday fade away. Paul says that we should work even harder as Christians, since our reward is one that will last throughout eternity, a crown that is incorruptible. Jesus put it this way in the Sermon on the Mount, “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Matthew 6:19-21.

Again, in that same sermon, our Savior talked about rewards in Heaven. Matthew 5:11 “Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” The Apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians about a reward for good service for the Lord. First Corinthians 3: 8 “Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.” Note that good deeds done by family members, other church members, missionaries or pastors will not count for rewards for you as a Christian. It is the work of each individual Christian that will count toward that Christian’s reward – “according to his own labour”

In the last book of the Bible, the last chapter, we are again reminded of the existence of rewards for Christians. Revelation 22:12 “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” Notice that every one will receive a reward, not just the “stars” of the Christian community or family. So many times we only hear of the great things that have been done by those who are the famous among the Christians. Some missionary is martyred for his or her faith, and we are sure that they will receive the “Martyr’s crown.” Or some evangelist has one hundred or more come to Christ through his ministry, and we say that his reward will be great in Heaven. Yes, the Bible says in Daniel 12:2,3 “And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.” However, the evangelist may have to take a back seat to some saint who prayed for God’s power to be manifest in that preacher.

Jesus put it this way in Matthew 10:40-42 “He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me. He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward. And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.” Ephesians 6:8 says, “Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.”

2Timothy 2:12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:Let’s look at several of the rewards or crowns that are to be given to Christians, and what the standard is for their award. Second Timothy 4:7 & 8 “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” Paul states that a crown of righteousness is to be given to each one who fights the good fight, finishes his own course, looking for the Savior’s appearing. That means that the Christian does what God gives him to do, accepts what God has given or withheld from him, and still looks for the return of our Lord.

We read about a faithful follower of our Lord in Hebrews 11:24-27 “By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.” He accepted the reproach rather than the riches looking forward to the reward! A crown of righteousness would be the reward for this king of life.

Another reward is promised for a faithful saint who endures great trials and temptations without falling or losing confidence in God. James 1:12 “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.” While the Christian may not understand the trial and may feel that it is undeserved, he nonetheless accepts it from the Lord and endures it. To the church at Ephesus, God said in Revelation. 2:10 “Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”

To Pastors and others who shepherd and lead God’s people, a special reward is promised. First Peter 5:1-4 “The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock and when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.” The under-shepherd is told to exercise the oversight of his flock, willingly, not for gain of money, and by setting a good example for his flock. For faithfully doing that, he is promised a crown of glory in Heaven.

The under-shepherds will also receive some kind of reward, based on the actions and attitudes of those they lead, First Thessalonians 2:19 & 20: “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? For ye are our glory and joy.” The flock will also receive a crown of rejoicing for following the under-shepherd faithfully. Second Corinthians 1:14 “As also ye have acknowledged us in part, that we are your rejoicing, even as ye also are ours in the day of the Lord Jesus.” Wouldn’t this lessen the number of church fights and conflicts if church members could realize that a reward awaits the Christian that willing follows faithfully the pastor who follows the Lord faithfully? It is not a competition between Pastor and flock, but a team effort shared by both!

Yes, there are rewards to be given in eternity, but remember they will be based on what we have done for the Lord here and now. Perhaps you have never thought of this concept of the Christian life. Obviously many are ignorant of this truth, or Christian lives would be different. Some who now live for the here and now, the self-gratification of this age, would live in the light of eternity. Remember, the rewards or crowns are often spoken of as not fading away! Will you have any eternal rewards?
For more about this topic see:  040203 Rewards for believers

What is meant by justification by faith?

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What does it mean to be justified? Jesus gave a parable of two men to demonstrate justification by faith. Luke 18:10 “Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. 11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. 12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. 13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. 14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.”

Justification and Regeneration are closely related doctrines. Regeneration is that work that takes place within the person, Justification deals with the difference in his standing before God. Regeneration deals with the impartation of life to the sinner, while Jusification deals with his acceptance as righteous in the eyes of God.

Man is a sinner while God is holy. The publican admitted that he was a sinner. There can be no fellowship between the two until the matter of sin is dealt with effectively. There is a great gulf fixed between the two. Justification is the bridge God builds between Himself and the sinner. He declares the sinner righteous by a legal decree, based on the sin payment by His Son. No human effort to build that bridge can succeed. Romans 3:21 “But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; 22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: 23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. 27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. 28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.”

Justification is a legal act by God, whereby He declares a sinner righteous because He imputs the righteousness of Jesus Christ to the sinners account. Romans 4:24 “But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; 25 Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.”

Romans 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. 12 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: 13 (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law.) 14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam’s transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come 15 But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. 16 And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification.”

By the act of justification, God can declare the worst sinner a saint. Paul wrote to the church at Corinth about their standing before God: First Corinthians 6:9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” The Corinthians still looked outwardly like sinners in many ways, but had been declared righteous by the divine decree called justification.

Since justification does not transform a sinner, but declares him to be righteous, what effect does it have on the person? At lease six results are evident:

Assurance of salvation. A calm assurance of the acceptance of the person by God produces the certainty of salvation. Isaiah 32: 17 “And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever.” Romans 14: 17 “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.”
Peace with God. Romans 5: 1 “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:” God, Who put the wall between the sinner and His God, has declared the sinner to be a saint, and removed that wall of separation. The war has been declared over by God and peace is declared.
Freedom from condemnation. Romans 8: 33 “Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. 34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.”
Sonship. Titus 3: 7 “That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” Think of it, by the divine decree, God has made the former enemy of His, His child and heir! That is justification by faith!
Blessings untold. Romans 5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. 6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.”
Assurance of glorification. Romans 8: 29 “For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.”
Have you been justified by faith in Jesus Christ as your personal Savior? Remember, it is not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saves us, and justifies us.
For more on this topic see: BBN Bible Institute course # 32100 Ephesians

What happens when a Christian sins?

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We have here a doctrine that has caused some confusion among Christians. Some believe that sins prior to the new birth are forgiven, but sins following that are another matter. Others believe that all sin is forgiven at the time a person receives Christ as personal Savior and there is “therefore no condemnation to them who are in Christ Jesus,” therefore there is no penalty for sins that a Christian commits. Neither of these opposing views is correct.

While it is true that a Christian is a forgiven sinner, and the blood of Christ has paid for his sins, there are still consequences for sins that a Christian commits. First, there are consequences in this present life. If a Christian should get angry at a driver who cuts him off on the highway and try to get his pound of flesh by catching that car, maybe passing it and yelling at the driver, and crash, he or she could have permanent scars or disabilities as a result. God would forgive the sin, and the eternal penalty of that sin would have been paid on Calvary by the death of Christ, but God does not erase the scars or correct the infirmities.

Years ago I heard this illustration, and it has stuck with me every since. A young farm boy was having trouble behaving, as he should. His father gave him the project of putting a nail in the barn door every time he did something bad. He gave him a bag of nails and a hammer. For several weeks, the path from the house to the barn stayed well worn, as the boy obediently pounded a nail in the barn door each time he disobeyed. Soon he came to his father and said, “Dad, I am all out of nails! Now what do I do?” His father then told him to pull out one of the nails each time he obeyed. Some time later, he again came to his father and said, “Dad, I have pulled all the nails, but…” “But what?” his dad asked. “Dad, the nails are gone, but there are holes all over the door, and it is ugly!”

God pulls the nails through His forgiveness, but many times the holes are left as scars of the evil deeds and thoughts. King David got forgiveness for his sin of adultery with Bathsheba, but he watched his young son die, his family ruined, and his fellowship with God break. Here is his prayer following his being exposed by Nathan.

Psalm 51: Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions 2 Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. 4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest. 5 Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me. 6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom. 7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. 8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice. 9 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. 11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me 12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. 13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee. 14 Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness. 15 O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.

The results of David’s sin was a feeling of filthiness. A Christian is a lamb, not a pig. A lamb is uncomfortable in dirt and filth. He cries out for a cleansing. If you can wallow in the mud of sin and feel comfortable, you may not be His lamb. It also left David with a guilty conscience because he has sinned against God, and he knew it. By the way, a conscience is only a safe guide if the conscience has been tuned to God’s Word. David knew better, but sinned any way.

He had a feeling of disappointment, knowing that he had disappointed God. My dad did not discipline me physically very often. His worst form of discipline, as far as I was concerned, was for him to tell me that I had disappointed him. That hurt me far more than any spanking would have done. God allows the Christian to know that he has let God down. God’s love is still just as strong and meaningful, but the Christian knows a guilt from falling short of what God expects of us.

David also lost his joy. He mentions that in verses 8 and12. So many Christians are living below their privilege because they have unconfessed sin and a guilty conscience. Perhaps you are thinking of a sin right now that you need to confess to God, and perhaps confess to the person that was the victim of your sin. You need the joy of your salvation back, and sin is hindering that. You, like David, have lost the song in your heart. He asked God in verse 14 to deliver him that he might once again sing God’s praises. He also lost the respect of the world. Let me ask you, when was the last time you witnessed successfully for God? Sin can be like a sign hung around your neck that tells the sinner, “Don’t listen to me, I am a sinner like you.” Ask God to cleanse you and you like the forgiven, cleansed David, will teach transgressors God’s way! What do you suppose would be the result in your community of several Christians just got a good bath in God’s forgiveness tub?

Perhaps one of the most devastating consequences of unconfessed sin in a Christian’s life is not being able to conduct an effective prayer life. The Bible says, “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:” Psalm 66:18. This can translated literally, “If I view and tolerate sin with pleasure, God will shut his ear to my prayer.” There will come a time when your prayer, not the prayer of your Pastor, a deacon, the listeners to Family Altar on this radio station, or anyone else, will be the one that will make the difference. It would be tragic if God stopped his ears from hearing you because you had refused to own up to your sin, confess it, and get God’s cleansing. He has promised, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” First John 1:9.

Paul warned the Corinthians of further consequences of unconfessed sin. He gave the teaching on partaking in the fellowship of communion or the Lord’s Supper. First Corinthians 11: 28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. 29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. 30 For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. 31 For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.” Notice that some Corinthians were sick and some had died because they refused to confess sin and judge themselves. No, a Christian cannot live a life of sin without bad effects, even sickness and death. While some sickness is not directly related to sin in a Christian’s life, much is. David’s baby with Bathsheba became sick and died because of David’s sin!

There are also results of that sin at the Judgement Seat of Christ, where every Christian will give an account of the deeds done in the flesh. Although Christ has purchased the Christian’s place in Heaven, there are still consequences of sin in the Christian’s life. There is such a thing as the Judgement Seat of Christ! Paul describes that event this way; “Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” First Corinthians 5:9 & 10. Now I am not sure what this will be like. I am concerned because the very next thing the Apostle told the Corinthians was, “Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.” Verse 11. Remember, unconfessed sin robs you of the opportunity to serve the Lord as you should. Isn’t it time to confess that sin to Him and claim his forgiveness and cleansing?
For more information about having your sins forgiven please see: What the Bible Teaches about Sin or visit BBN Bible Institute and study course # 12100 Doctrine of Repentence

What does the Bible teach about the rapture?

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The Bible teaches a “snatching away” of believers to Heaven, a special departure that does not involve the death of the Christian. Some will not study the teaching on the rapture because they say the word “rapture” is never found in the Bible. This is true, but neither is the word, “trinity” or “choir” or “offertory”, etc. Many words that are commonly used by Christians are not in the Bible. That does not mean that the teaching about these things is not there, just the particular word is not found.

There are at least four main views of the rapture. The first view would be that there would be no rapture or special rescuing of a group of Christians. This is primarily believed by those have not found the word in the Bible and thus deny the teaching. They believe that all will die to get to Heaven.

Among those who believe in a rapture, there are those who believe in a pre-tribulation rapture, a mid tribulation rapture, and a post tribulation rapture. I personally believe that there is more scripture that points to the pre-millenial rapture.

The age in which we live is considered to be the church age or the age of grace. Both of these terms are a little misleading, but they have been assigned to this period of time. I say misleading because God has always dealt with man by grace. By grace, He overlooked the sins of the believing in the Old Testament, waiting for the death of Christ to pay for those sins. Anyone who makes it to Heaven will do so by the grace of God. The church age is also a little misleading, since it implies that all that God is doing is in and through the local church. However, these are the most commonly used names for the age in which we live.

At the end of this present age, a time of tribulation will come upon the earth. It is described in various places in the Bible and is defined as a period of seven years. This is primarily taught in Daniel, chapter 9. Daniel has been confessing his sin and the sin of God’s people. He had been making supplication to God for His people. The angel Gabriel arrives to give Daniel understanding about what God will do. He lays out the time that God will deal with Israel into 70 weeks. Daniel 9:24 “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.” Then he goes on to divide those seventy weeks into several parts. First, a period of time described as 7 weeks, then 62 weeks is described: Daniel 9:25 “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, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.” At the end of the 62 weeks, the Christ of God shall be put to death. Daniel 9:26 “And after threescore and two weeks 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.” In the seventieth week, something disastrous happens. “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, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.” We learn from the New Testament that this will be during the Tribulation. Jesus prophesied: ” But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judea flee to the mountains:” Mark 13:14 and Matthew 24:15.

Since we know that a time of great trouble is coming in the future, we go to the question of what will happen to Christians with regard to that time. Either God will rapture or snatch them up out of the way prior to that time, or during that time, or after that time. Those are the three options regarding the rapture of Christians. Let’s look at the Bible to see if God has given a pattern of His actions under similar circumstances.

First, we have the account of the great flood that was to cover the world. God warned Noah to make an ark for the saving of Noah and his family. Hebrews 11:7 “By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.” Prior to the destruction of Jericho, God provided a safe refuge for Rahab. Joshua 6:17 “And the city shall be accursed, even it, and all that are therein, to the LORD: only Rahab the harlot shall live, she and all that are with her in the house, because she hid the messengers that we sent.”

The Old Testament is replete with references to the rapture of believers. The New Testament is no less a witness. The most often quoted passage is First Thessalonians 4:13-17. “But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent (or precede) them which are asleep. 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 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.” Now, notice that some Christians will be alive at this moment, and some will have died. Both living and dead will meet together with the Lord in the air. He will not have returned to the earth at this point, but the meeting will be somewhere in the air!

The book of Revelation gives a further clue to the timing of this event. In the first chapter, we have an introduction to the book. In chapters two and three, we have the history and prophecy of the church age, or the age of grace. Chapter four begins with these words, “After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter. And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne.” Revelation 4:1&2. It is interesting that the word “church” never occurs after chapter 3 of Revelation. The wrath of God is poured out on the earth in chapters 5-21 of Revelation, after the saints celebrate the greatness and worthiness of our God in chapter 4.

To be sure, God will have his witnesses during the tribulation, but these will be converted Jews, as the Lord renews His covenant with Israel. The wild olive branches of Romans 11:17 will have been taken out of the way, so that God may deal with His people, Israel. The 144,000 witnesses mentioned in Revelation 7:4 and following are from Israel. “And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel.” They are again mentioned in Revelation 14:1.

At the end of this time of great tribulation, Jesus Christ returns to earth, arriving on the Mount of Olives with a dramatic touch. Zechariah 14:1-4 “Behold, the day of the LORD cometh, and thy spoil shall be divided in the midst of thee. For I will gather all nations against Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken, and the houses rifled, and the women ravished; and half of the city shall go forth into captivity, and the residue of the people shall not be cut off from the city. Then shall the LORD go forth, and fight against those nations, as when he fought in the day of battle.

And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, and there shall be a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south.” I have been to that spot in Israel. Scientists tell us there is a fault under that Mount that runs due East and West. When Jesus touches the ground, that fault will open a valley directly aimed at the Eastern Gate, now sealed by both Arabs and Jews. That shock wave created by Christ’s landing will break that seal and He shall enter triumphantly, with ten thousands of His saints following Him. (Jude 14 and 15) Even so, come quickly, Lord Jesus!

For more about this topic see: Rewards For Believers or visit the BBN Bible Institute and study course # 11500 Five Future Events

Sanctification or the road to holiness

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Sanctification at the New Birth

The act of becoming a Christian is described by our Savior as the New Birth. That often confuses some who are not serious Bible students. If you ask some people when they became a Christian, they may say that they have always been one, or they are trying to become one, or they have asked Jesus into their hearts many times. If it is a birth, then it occurs one time. If I were to ask you when you were born, and you gave me three or more dates, I would wonder if you understood the question! You have one birthday, many anniversaries of that day, perhaps, but one day on which you were born! It may be that the exact date has escaped you, but you remember the place and the time of your life when you met Jesus!

At that time, you became a new creature, old things passed away and all things became new. Let me give you a few of these new things. You probably acquired a new interest in the Bible. God’s Holy Spirit came to live within you, and became your Teacher in the Bible. It began to open up to you and you found yourself interested in what it said. Prayer became a part of your life, not just the “Now I lay me down to sleep” prayers, but conversational times with God. You had a story to share with others about being lifted out of the clay and put on the rock. You had begun a new life!

Now, remember that at this point, you were a baby Christian! Just like a baby, you had certain characteristics that marked you as a baby. You could not walk yet, so you may have just laid down most of the time. You could not feed yourself, so, hopefully, someone fed you from the Word. (Personally, I thank God for a godly Pastor who nurtured me and fed me from the Bible.) You had received the initial dose of Sanctification. Maybe you were like I was. I was so overwhelmed by this initial dose that I felt it was all that I needed and I wanted to go into full time ministry right away! I felt that the Pablum and milk diet I was enjoying would see me through my Christian life. Peter describes the diet of the new Christian: 1Peter 2:2 “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:” Paul told the Corinthians, “I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.” (First Corinthians 3:2)

There are those who teach that sanctification is a “second work of grace”, that is an act that occurs whereby God imparts holiness to a Christian all in one dose. Some suggest that Christians tarry somewhere for some period of time to gain holiness. However, the Bible teaches that there are great similarities between the normal physical growth and the normal spiritual growth. Peter, Paul, and many others went through growth pangs, failures, victories, and finally spiritual maturity. Study their lives and you will see the progress in their sanctification.

We sin against newborn Christian babes by not giving them the proper diet and expecting too much from them too soon. They need the care and nurture that a baby needs. We have been stunned to hear of mothers and fathers leaving babies and small children alone for periods of time, whether in hot vehicles or in some other place. We have even criminalized some of these acts! Do you suppose our Heavenly Father looks on our carelessness with new Christians with any less contempt?

The writer of the Book of Hebrews speaks of those who have not been nurtured and thus have not grown to maturity or made progress on their sanctification. “For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.” (Hebrews 5:12) If you want an awakening experience, just give a quiz to average Christians who have been saved for ten or more years, and watch their answers. Use questions that would fit the description of the “first principles of Christian doctrine.” That is what has led me to bring this series on Your Sunday School Lesson on Major Bible Doctrines.

Sanctification along the way

As the babe begins to grow, there are further growth spurts that occur. The baby begins to crawl, then walk, perhaps run, ride a bike, etc. The method of locomotion change with the maturity of the being. The language changes from the initial sounds of babyhood to the more advanced vocabulary and thoughts of the maturing person. The adolescent gives way to the adult who advances to the mature adult.

So in the Christian life, the spiritual babe grows into a child, then an adolescent, an adult, and finally a mature adult. John writes about these stages of the Christian life. First John 2:8 “Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth. 9 He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. 10 He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him. 11 But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes.” This is the new born stage. The person has just passed from darkness to light and has begun to love the brethren. (Wouldn’t if be nice if we could keep that going into adulthood)

12 “I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for His name’s sake.” Here is the child stage. The person really grasps forgiveness and the fact that he or she has been set free from the penalty of sin. The child experiences the liberty that release from guilt brings, but is not ready to act responsibly yet. There is still growth and maturity ahead.

13 “I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father.” Here we have three of the stages of Christian maturity in reverse order. The fathers (mature Christians) are addressed as knowing Him who is from the beginning. The Greek word for “knowing” here is ginosko which means knowledge that is gain through experience. It is used of a man’s knowledge of his wife by experiencing intimacy with her. The mature Christian knows the Lord in a way that pure study will not reveal, it takes experience to bring the knowledge of God in this way.

The young men are mentioned as overcoming the wicked one. The young adult is still battling the devil in his life as a primary effort, and does not have the wisdom that is needed for spiritual leadership yet. The little children are commended because the have come to know the Lord, although it is not suggested that they have experienced him for a long period of time (as from the beginning) Henry Blackaby wrote the study, “Experiencing God.” That is what is being spoken to in First John.

14 I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one. One of the problems we face in Christianity is expecting a newborn to behave as a mature adult or putting a spiritual child in a place of authority that demands the wisdom of a mature adult.

What is the spiritual diet and exercise that develops the child into an adolescent, and on to an adult and mature adult? First, reading and studying the Bible. This should involve several types of Bible study. Most Christians merely ready straight through the Bible, or books of the Bible. This is good to gain an understanding of the events and stories of the Bible, but a subject study will help you develop your doctrinal understanding of the Bible. Biographical Bible study will help a person learn what God has done through people in the past, and what He wants to do through you.

Prayer is another part of the Christian’s diet if he would grow spiritually. Perhaps nothing is neglected more than prayer, “O what peace we often forfeit, O, what needless pain we bear, all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.” Prayer is time with God and helps us to become more godly.

Witnessing and church attendance are two more ingredients in the sanctification diet.

Sanctification complete in Heaven

One day, sanctification will be complete, not in this lifetime, but in Heaven. “Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.” First John 3:2, NKJV. No one prior to glorification (which is the graduation of the course called sanctification) has experienced complete sanctification. One day, though, we will have totally sanctified minds and bodies and will be free from sin. Hallelujah! Even so, come quickly, Lord Jesus.

For more on this topic see: New Lifestyle In Christ

What does the Bible say about hell?

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We do not hear too much about the future of unsaved people. Probably it is not considered politically correct or kind to talk of eternal retribution. The word Hell is heard a thousand times more on the street as a slang word than in the pulpits of our churches. However, its neglect does not diminish the truth or the awfulness of it.

Some do not think about Hell because they believe that a loving God would not condemn people to a place like Hell. God condemned the angels that sinned against him to a place of torment. Some are reserved right now in a place similar to Hell. Second Peter 2:4 “For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;” Verse 9 “9 The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished:” The place of torment for the angels that sinned is called Hell in the King James Version, but it is a different Greek word. It is “tartaroo”, meaning the lowest part of Hades.

Some hold false views about Hell. There are those who believe that God is far too gracious and loving to condemn the unsaved to a place of everlasting punishment. Instead, they believe that He blots them out forever. This is called annihilationism. They believe that the unsaved cease to exist in any form, material or spiritual. The story that our Savior taught about the rich man and Lazarus leaves no room for this theory. Luke 16:19-24 ¶ There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day: And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.”

Others believe in restorationism. Their view of God is that He is so loving and kind, that no matter how long it might take, He will restore all creation, including mankind, to Himself. A branch of this theory would include those who believe in reincarnation and various karma. The Bible does not teach this, however. Hebrews 9:27 “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:”

Another view is presentism. This view teaches that whatever Heaven or Hell a person is to receive is experienced in this life only, that reward or retribution is meted out here and now on earth. Jesus taught otherwise: In the Sermon on the Mount, our Savior taught: “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Matthew 6:19-21. Now, if all of the rewards we are to receive are in this lifetime, why would He teach otherwise? So, rewards and retribution are still in the future for living persons.

There is a place called Hell. Matthew 25:41 “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:” It is a prepared place which will endure forever. Matthew 25:46 “And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.” Revelation 20:10 “And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.”

Hell is a place of extreme suffering. Matthew 10:28 “And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” That suffering involves burning forever in a lake of fire. Revelation 20:15 “And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” Revelation 14:10 speaks of unbelievers that die during the tribulation, having worshipped the false god that is the beast. “The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.”

Who all will be in that place of torment called Hell? The first two occupants will be the beast and the false prophet. Revelation 19:20 “And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.” This comes as the Savior returns to earth to put an end to the Battle of Armageddon. Not long after these first two are cast alive into Hell, God demonstrates His power over Satan by casting him into Hell. Revelation 20:10 “And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.” Just remember, if someone should tell you to go to that place, tell them it is not open for business as of yet! There is a temporary holding cell for those who die without accepting Christ. It is called Hades in the Greek and Sheol in the Hebrew. But the eternal lake of fire has not been opened or occupied to this point.

The fallen angels will be there. We have already looked at Second Peter 2:4. In addition, all of the wicked that have ever lived will be in Hell. Psalm 9:16 & 17 “The LORD is known by the judgment which he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God.” Can you imagine living forever in the same place with every foul and evil person that has ever lived? To be suffering in eternal darkness and fire must be the absolute worst fate possible. Someone said there should be a sign over the door to Hell that reads, “All who enter here, abandon all hope.”

Hell is the exact opposite of Heaven. In Heaven there will be no sickness or crying. In Hell eternal suffering and crying are without end or relief. All occupants of Heaven enjoy eternal bliss and joy, but in Hell every occupant will be unhappy and discontented. No sin will enter Heaven, but in Hell sin abounds and the evil ideas of mankind will have nothing to hinder their fulfillment, except the suffering of the person having the thoughts. Memory will also plague the occupants of Hell. The rich man in Hades, “But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.” It may be that someone listening to this lesson has had opportunities to accept Christ. You will remember every one of those opportunities in Hell and gnash your teeth about rejecting the Savior. Someone in Hell will hear “Just as I Am” over and over in their mind, realizing that had they come to the Savior just as they were, He would have saved them from this punishment, but now it is too late!

There are but two places to spend all of eternity. Heaven is reserved for those who have trusted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. God said that when you make His suffering on the cross the payment for your sin, He would be satisfied. Otherwise, Hell is your only other option. There is no middle ground. If you have not received Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, right now, where you are, admit you are a sinner deserving to be sent to Hell for your sins. Ask God to allow the death of Jesus Christ to be the payment for your sins. He suffered, the Just for the unjust, that you might be saved. Pray this prayer, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner, and save me for Jesus’ sake. Forgive all my sins and give me eternal life as You have promised in the Bible. I right now receive Jesus Christ as my personal Savior and Lord.”

If you prayed that prayer please see the following to get you started in your walk with God: About Being Saved

What does the Bible say about Heaven?

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A little boy was busy drawing a picture with crayons. His mother asked him what he was drawing. He looked up and said that he was drawing a picture of God. His mother smiled and said, “But, honey, no one knows what God looks like!” He said, “I know, but they will as soon as I finish my picture.” Describing Heaven is a lot like trying to draw a picture of God, virtually impossible. I do not expect that I will be able to draw a picture that will make Heaven understandable to you, but let’s look together at what the Bible teaches about that wonderful place.

The apostle Paul, who had no difficulty describing such things as predestination, foreordination, and other such things hard to be understood, said, “It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord. I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. {lawful: or, possible} Second Corinthians 12:1-4.

Two things to notice in this passage are that (1) describing Heaven is not possible, and (2) there are three heavens. The first heaven is comprised of the sky, the realm of mists and vapors. When our Lord ascended into a cloud, the angel said to the disciples, “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.” Acts 1:9-11. The second heaven is the vast universe, the realm of the sun, moon and stars. “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so. And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.” Genesis 1:1,7,8.

The third Heaven is the sphere where God preeminently dwells. “The LORD is in His holy temple, the LORD’S throne is in heaven: his eyes behold, his eyelids try, the children of men.” Psalm 11:4. Our Savior was asked to teach His disciples to pray, and He said, “After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.” Matthew 6:9. Heaven, the third Heaven is a place, just as the first two heavens are defined by a location. Jesus told His disciples, “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.” John 14:2 It is sometimes called by other names, like “Kingdom” (Mathew 18:1) with its King, a city (Hebrews 11:10) with its citizens, a country (Hebrews 11:16) with its laws and customs, a home (John 14:2) with its family and bliss, and an inheritance (Colossians 1:12 and First Peter 1:4) with its possessions.

What makes Heaven so desirable? First, God is there. God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Heaven is His home, and He has invited us to live with Him. Second, the angels of God are there. (Matthew 22:30 and Matthew 18:10). They are called to minister to the saints of God, Hebrews 1:13 & 14 “But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?” In this lifetime, we try to live in a neighborhood that is safe, where good people can surround us. In Heaven, we will be in the presence of God, the angels, and the redeemed of all ages.

Believers will be spiritually perfect in Heaven. We may yearn for holiness in this life, but it will be a reality in Heaven. Paul said, “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.” Romans 7:28-20. In Heaven, there will be no struggle within the believer, no sin nature to do battle with the new nature. “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” First John 3:2

We will recognize our loved ones in Heaven, and not only our loved ones, but everyone who is there. On the Mount of Transfiguration, Peter, James, and John recognized Moses and Elijah. “And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart and was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.” Matthew 17:1-4. Now, keep in mind that Peter, James, and John had never met Moses or Elijah, nor had they seen photographs of them, but they recognized them.

Paul also addresses this in First Corinthians 13:12 “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” Does Jesus know me now? Sure thing! And I will know all of Heaven’s occupants, just like He knows me today, except that there will be no sin in anyone then, so we will only know each other by the righteousness that Christ has bestowed on us. In the story of the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16, the rich man knew Abraham and he knew Lazarus. Remember that these were only in the spirit realm. They did not have glorified bodies at this point, and yet, beyond the grave there was recognition by name!

Some have asked if we will know what is happening on earth when we get to Heaven. On the Mount of Transfiguration, Moses and Elijah spoke of the soon coming death of Christ on Calvary. They were apparently aware of current events on earth. Assuming that we were aware of what was occurring on earth, or that our loved ones who are in Heaven are able to know what earth’s occupants are doing, with all of the bliss and joy in Heaven, would they or we be inquiring into current events on earth? I think not. Psalm 16:11 “Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.”

That brings us to the subject of what we will do in Heaven, and will we really enjoy it. I have heard well-meaning saints say, “If you do not enjoy going to church all the time, you will be miserable in Heaven.” I am sorry to say, that is not a good description of Heaven. First, not everyone in church is saved, and some that are Christians are not good examples of the believers. In Heaven, no one will sing off key, or in a monotone. There will be no crying babies, or uncomfortable pews, and we will not have bodies that will get tired or sore from sitting so long. However, the most important thing is that we will not have carnal natures that rebel against being in the presence of the Lord and His people for long periods of time. I have met a few folks with whom I could spend long periods of time and never look at my watch, but I have never met anyone close to the incomparable Jesus Christ. I cannot imagine what it will be like to enjoy Him forever in a glorified body, free from sin!

Some have wondered if Heaven will just be years of floating on clouds, having nothing to do but sing and relax. It will be a time of rest, for sure. However, when God created Man, He gave him work that he would enjoy doing. While Heaven will be different than earth, the same God governs both and He will have pleasures and joy that will be involved in activities that He has in store for us. Have you ever met someone that was so interesting that you felt that you could spend a lot of time with that person, just listening and visiting. God is so much more interesting and knowledgeable than any human we might know, and eternity will not be boring in His presence.

Several things will not occupy our time in Heaven. There will be no hospitals or doctors’ waiting rooms, for there will be no sickness in Heaven. No one will walk with a limp or need canes or crutches. When Jesus walked this earth, He healed some to give us a glimpse of His power. Every glorified body will be perfect and will never deteriorate or get old. There will be no death, sorrow, poverty, or any of the many things that plague us on earth. “O, that will be glory for me, when by His grace I shall look on His face, that will be glory for me!”

You can make sure of your place in Heaven by trusting Jesus Christ as your personal Savior. If you want to have someone lead you in that prayer right now, click here: BBN Chat Live

Should a Christian make New Years resolutions?

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Some feel that this is a secular idea, and so Christians should not get involved. Others point to the fact that most resolutions are never kept, so they should not be made. Still others feel it is a good thing for Christians to do some soul searching and resolve to do some things differently.

While the idea may have secular origins, it may have some merit for the Christian. And it is probably true that many resolutions are short lived, but still the idea can be used for good in a Christian’s life. It is good, at times, to look honestly at our lives and determine to change some of the things that need changing. There is nothing mystical about doing this on New Year’s Eve, but it does provide such an opportunity.

It may be a good time to start daily Bible reading. It may be true that you have tried that before with little success. That should give you more determination to finish the job this year. It could be a time to rid yourself of a harmful habit that has been a part of your life for some time. It may be a time to resolve to be the loving Christian that you have often wished you were. Perhaps it could be a time for a family to get together and make some goals for the New Year.

There are some instances in the Bible of people taking stock of their lives and determining or resolving to do better. Paul told the Corinthians, in 2 Corinthians 8:10, that they should be “resolved or purposed” to be ahead of where they were a year before. This would involve measuring where they were last year at this time, and be sure that they have made progress during the ensuing twelve months. There is no indication that Paul told them to do that at the beginning of a new calendar year, but he at least referred to the year as a unit.

In Genesis 28:20, Jacob made a resolution or a vow to give consistently and routinely to the Lord, specifying ten percent as his commitment. It may be that you ought to start giving to God regularly in the New Year.

There are some who fear making any kind of commitment to Christian living, considering such to be a vow to the Lord. They cite Ecclesiastes 5:4,5: “When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed. Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay.” Perhaps the advice given by our Lord in James 4:13-15 would be wise to follow. Ask God to guide you in setting your goals and help you keep the resolutions you make.

Yes, it is possible that you will not keep the commitment throughout the entire year, but if you do not make a resolution, how much less will you accomplish? Pray about it and ask God what He would have you do and ask His help in both making the resolution and keeping it.

Should a Christian have a Christmas tree?

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This question comes up each year around Christmas time, and the reason for the question is a passage in Jeremiah 10:2-5. The prophet says:

“Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not. They are upright as the palm tree, but speak not: they must needs be borne, because they cannot go. Be not afraid of them; for they cannot do evil, neither also is it in them to do good. Forasmuch as there is none like unto thee, O LORD; thou art great, and thy name is great in might.”

At first reading, the passage would seem to condemn the practice of cutting down a tree and decorating it. This would also apply to the Easter trees that have become popular, with eggs tied to it for decorations. It would also cover trees decorated for any other purpose.

But is that what the passage is saying? Hardly, for it goes on to say that the tree is not a god, since it cannot move. It is not a rival for our God, since it has no power to do good or evil. The real thrust of the passage is a condemnation of idolatry. The heathen in the land were worshipping false gods, among them a tree god that was worshipped by decorating a tree that had been cut from the forest and brought into the house. The Israelites had adopted the custom and were worshipping the tree god instead of giving God His rightful place in their lives.

We can do the same thing, with or without a Christmas tree. The Christ of Christmas may be replaced by the gifts, the parties, the celebration, whether a Christmas tree is present or not. It is imperative that we do not let anything, good thing, evil thing, or something with neither good nor bad characteristics, come between our God and us. Make sure that your worship is reserved for the Lord alone. For some, this may mean doing away with some things that others do not feel interfere with their relationship to the Lord. As Paul said in Romans 14:5 “One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.”