February, 2005 Berean Christadelphian Ecclesial News
Signs - As Ye See The Day Approaching
We begin this article with a quote from the apostle, Peter, which stirs us up to remembrance of the high and holy calling with which we are called. "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls." (1Pet 1:3-9)
When we think of just how wonderful that lively hope is, we should be highly motivated to "press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" (Phil 3:14). That lively hope is the hope of Israel! All others are vain. Where is the proud King Nebuchadnezzar? Where is his golden-headed empire, and Babylon, the glory of kingdoms, the beauty of the Chaldees' excellency? Has it not become as Sodom and Gomorrah? Where are the other mighty empires of antiquity, such as the Medo-Persian, Greco-Macedonian and the Roman? One by one, they too, have come and gone, ending in violent overthrow. Where is the Napoleonic Empire? Where are Adolph Hitler and the Third Reich, which was intended to last a thousand years? It lasted a mere twelve years and ended in terrible fiery destruction. The former Soviet Union fell apart after years of oppression, corruption and financial collapse. Saddam Hussein's tyrannical rule of Iraq has come to a sanguinary end in the war that still rages in that part of the world.
We should be so very thankful that we understand what Yahweh has revealed in the Holy Scriptures of His plan and purpose with this earth and man upon it. He has clearly shown to Israel in the past that He rules in the Kingdom of Men and gives it to whomsoever He will. He sets in power the basest of men. "There is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God" (Rom. 13:1). His plan and purpose is right on schedule; though most have no idea that there is any deliberate plan or purpose with the earth. They walk in complete ignorance of the glorious future that shall be to this beautiful orb that revolves upon its polar axis in the star lit heavens. Others, who have some light, imagine that the heavens and earth that now are will be destroyed and new heavens and a new earth created in their place. This is not at all the correct view, as we know. Those believing this also have a whole raft of false ideas and doctrines which originate from either pagan sources or from the pseudo-Christian institution enthroned in Rome. The whole gamut of professing Christendom is destitute of a correct knowledge of the Truth and therefore, is beyond the pale of salvation. Those who are without are a-Theos - atheists and without God in the world.
Yahweh intends to fill this planet with His knowledge and glory. "But as truly as I live, all the earth shall be filled with the glory of the LORD." (Num 14:21) "For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea." (Hab 2:14)
It is written in Jeremiah 30:10-11, "Therefore fear thou not, O my servant Jacob, saith the LORD; neither be dismayed, O Israel: for, lo, I will save thee from afar, and thy seed from the land of their captivity; and Jacob shall return, and shall be in rest, and be quiet, and none shall make him afraid. For I am with thee, saith the LORD, to save thee: though I make a full end of all nations whither I have scattered thee, yet will I not make a full end of thee: but I will correct thee in measure, and will not leave thee altogether unpunished." There is another almost verbatim quotation of this same prophecy in Jeremiah 46:27-28.
The fifty-fourth chapter of Isaiah is a beautiful prophecy of the restoration of Israel. It speaks of the long Diaspora Israel has gone through and of Yahweh's mind and intentions to bless and comfort the preserved and restored tribes. "Enlarge the place of thy tent, and let them stretch forth the curtains of thine habitations: spare not, lengthen thy cords, and strengthen thy stakes; for thou shalt break forth on the right hand and on the left; and thy seed shall inherit the Gentiles, and make the desolate cities to be inhabited. Fear not; for thou shalt not be ashamed: neither be thou confounded; for thou shalt not be put to shame: for thou shalt forget the shame of thy youth, and shalt not remember the reproach of thy widowhood any more. For thy Maker is thine husband; the LORD of hosts is his name; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; The God of the whole earth shall he be called….For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee. In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer. For this is as the waters of Noah unto me: for as I have sworn that the waters of Noah should no more go over the earth; so have I sworn that I would not be wroth with thee, nor rebuke thee. For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the LORD that hath mercy on thee. O thou afflicted, tossed with tempest, and not comforted, behold, I will lay thy stones with fair colours, and lay thy foundations with sapphires. And I will make thy windows of agates, and thy gates of carbuncles, and all thy borders of pleasant stones. And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children. In righteousness shalt thou be established: thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear: and from terror; for it shall not come near thee. Behold, they shall surely gather together, but not by me: whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake….No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD."
As brethren and sisters in Christ Jesus, we must keep these things of our hope clearly in our minds. We see Trouble brewing on the horizon. Surely, we are nearing that time of trouble such as has never been since there was a nation upon Earth. (Dan 12:1) Economic troubles are increasing daily. The U.S. is trillions in debt. It is my understanding that the Saudi Arabians have so much invested in the U.S. economy that they virtually or potentially could control something like seven percent of the economy! Other nations such as China, Japan, England and others have lent and invested tremendous sums in the U.S. All of this means that others are getting a bigger percentage of the pie. Americans are spending vast sums and doing much of it on credit. The debt that individuals are accumulating is staggering! The dollar is slipping against the Euro. The war in Iraq is proving to be astronomical in dollar costs. Many formerly high paying jobs are being outsourced to other nations and business and trade is shifting. Should the U.S. economy stagnate or even worse, collapse, it would throw the world economy into a tailspin. Florida sustained four hurricanes this year. The tremendous cost of rebuilding and repair has got to be a factor in the economy. The cost of rebuilding in Iraq and Afghanistan has got to be a huge factor, also. The situation in the Sudan is horrid.
The Russians are about to deploy a new nuclear missile system which they claim is unlike anything any of the other nations have in their arsenals! North Korea is now a nuclear power. Authorities feel that it now has between four and seven nuclear weapons. Iran now has a missile that can hit any point in Israel. The new range (1200 miles) makes it possible to hit targets even in Europe! If they should develop nuclear capability, this could prove a potential disaster in the making. Keep in mind that the U.S. is working on a Star Wars type nuclear technology and shielding system capability. They (and doubtless the Russians, also) are developing small nuclear weapons and hand held nuclear weapons. High tech weapons are being developed by the wealthier nations of the world. These are highly sophisticated and more and more accurate and deadly. NASA just tested am aircraft that can fly ten times the speed of sound!
Yasser Arafat's death on the 11th of November has drawn all eyes to the Middle East. Time will tell whether the "peace and safety cry will be the result in the outworking of things. With the PLO leader gone, it will be interesting to see what new developments occur in that war weary region. We know that it won't really get much better. For when they say peace and safety, then comes sudden destruction upon them. The world is arming to the teeth. We must be ready for our master's return. Our only offensive weapon is the word of God. It is the sharp, two-edged longsword of the Spirit's providing. May we not be discouraged in whatever might come in the way of trials. If God be for us, who can stand against us? Hold fast! The day is almost upon us! Let us lift up our heads and rejoice. The day of redemption is near! Bro. David VanPelt
November, 2004 Berean Christadelphian Ecclesial News
Signs - As Ye See The Day Approaching
All around us we see signs and conditions indicating that the return of Jesus Christ is imminent. We live in the time of which Daniel tells us that many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased. Knowledge has increased so greatly and rapidly that man cannot even accurately chart the geometrical progression of its advance! The world indeed is moving ever closer to that time of trouble (mentioned in the Scriptures) such as has never been. Men's hearts are failing them for fear and for looking after those things coming upon the earth. Perhaps the greatest fear that man has, is fear of nuclear proliferation and nuclear holocaust. Not only do the larger nations have nuclear weapons, but smaller ones too, are obtaining them. India, Pakistan and Israel have them. Authorities believe that North Korea has from four to seven nuclear bombs. Iran is rapidly acquiring the means to develop a nuclear bomb. Truly, the (formerly) weak are saying: "I am strong."
Terrorism is of grave concern throughout the world. We are all familiar with events since 9/11, though terrorism long predates that event. Nations such as Israel, Spain, Russia and Jordan have suffered recent attacks, as well as other nations around the world. Suicide bombings have become the main mode of attack by Islamic terrorist organizations. Russia has sustained three horribly tragic terrorist attacks within the past month.
Chemical and biological weapons are a very real fear and concern, though none were found in Iraq. They are, none-the-less, a very real and existent threat. Many can be produced relatively easily and can be smuggled into areas more easily than authorities would like to admit. Others are more difficult to develop, but still find their way into the arsenals of both nations and terrorist organizations. Advances have been made to detect them. However, the equipment and technology is expensive and far from thorough. Terrorist organizations, such as Al Qaeda, are believed either to have or to be able to produce or acquire such weapons. Evidence aplenty, was obtained in Afghanistan from the Al Qaeda and Taliban caves and bases. Remember the very close call in Jordan earlier this year? Had those chemicals (20 tons) been unleashed in Jordan and in Israel, the results could have been catastrophic! Perhaps as many as 80,000 could have died in those attacks! There is great concern that nuclear materials (such as dirty nukes) might fall into the hands of terrorists. There is a lot of nuclear material that is "loose" and unaccounted for, since the collapse of the Soviet Union. There are many only too eager to get their hands on these materials.
Staggering sums of money are being spent throughout the world to try to deal with the threat of terrorism and to obtain a sense of security. The situation in the world is one of rising tensions. Economics are the main driving factor in the rising vexation and frustration among the nations. There is a great inequity between the wealthy nations and the poorer ones. War, disease and famine are stalking poorer nations such as Sudan; it is heart-rending to see these deplorable conditions in the Sudan. War rages on in Afghanistan and in Iraq where insurgents are striving to destabilize the interim governments. Greed, covetousness, hatred vice and decline in morality are rapidly bringing that day which will come as a thief upon the unsuspecting world.
How much longer can the planet stand the abuses, excesses and stresses placed upon it? Desertification is spreading through vast sections of Africa. Water shortages are an ever-growing concern as populations increase. Aquifers are being drawn down and are not being replenished fast enough. Septic systems and other pollutants are defiling the water tables in many urban and suburban areas. We hear so much about slash-and-burn farming and of the destruction of the rain forests in South America. Logging companies have cut down a lot of the old-growth forests. There must be something to the theory of global warming. Over the past one hundred years, glaciers have been receding (melting) steadily. Water levels are rising in the world's oceans as a result of glacial and polar icecap melting. Ocean waters are warming, as are atmospheric temperatures. Pollution is a major problem throughout the earth. Some of the wealthier nations are trying to do what they can, environmentally, but the damage has already been done through many years of abuse and neglect, such as in the former Soviet Union. Remember Chernobyl? Cleanup is astronomical in cost, and in many areas funds are simply non-existent. Many species of animals are dying off each year as a result of over-hunting and fishing and through invasion of animals' natural habitats by developers.
In light of all that we see going on in the world around us, what manner of people ought we to be? The Creator and sustainer of heaven and earth and all that in them is, has called us out of the nations that we might be unto Him a holy and peculiar people; a royal priesthood. We are to love, serve and obey Him in thankfulness and reverence. He has offered us so very much! He has given us power to become His adopted sons through Jesus Christ, His only begotten son! Being children of God, we are heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ, if we suffer now with him - through the crucifying of the flesh with all of its vile affections and lusts (Rom. 8:17). We are invited unto the glories of the age of the ages and the beyond! Imagine the Holiness, Blessedness, Peace and Joy forevermore we will experience if found faithful at the return of Jesus. He comes back to take unto himself his Kingdom and to reign upon the restored throne of David. First, however, he must raise the sleeping multitudes who are his at his coming. Judgment begins - must begin - at the house of God. It is written in 1Peter 4:17-18: "For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?"
If we would stand with the approved in that day, yet future, we must do what is prescribed by our master to the best of our ability. We will need all of the mercy we pray might be given us, in light of that passage listed above from 1 Peter. It is so easy for us to be wasters of the time and opportunities given of our heavenly Father. Now is the time for us to take the Spirit's advice - there are many warnings, so that in that day, we will be without excuse. Some of the clearest and best advice comes from the book of wisdom's way - the Book of Proverbs. "The spider taketh hold with her hands, and is in kings' palaces" (Proverbs 30:28). When we think of a lowly creature such as the spider, can we not see our own natural weakness, our mortality? Christ, as the forerunner, has opened the new and living way for us. He has shown us the way. He is the way, the truth and the life! If we are found faithful, having taken hold with our hands, we will (in the time of its establishment) dwell in the King's palaces! Of course, the King's palaces are the glorious house of prayer for all peoples to be built at Jerusalem during the transition period just before the Millennium. Where the King is, there we will be, also! What joy! What a vision! This reminds us of the Scripture that is written: "Where there is no vision, the people perish" (Proverbs 29:18).
Proverbs 6:6-8 is the next passage that comes to mind in regard to what we are to learn in this day of opportunity. "Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest" We see in this passage that the ant does that which is expedient, and necessary without delay. How easily we can forget that our heavenly Father and His son can always see us. We are not to serve with eye service. We are to be about our Father's business. We are not to be pleasers of men or of ourselves. If we do forget (or even worse, reject through negligence or apathy) the fact that we do indeed have a guide, overseer and ruler, we will certainly find this out in the day of inspection. Let us be like the wise ant and provide our meat in the summer and gather our food in the harvest. Let us seek the sincere milk of the Word that we may grow thereby, partaking of the oil, bread and wine of the Spirit's providing, while it is called today. Let us anoint our eyes with the eye salve of the Spirit.
Proverbs 30:26 is next on the list of sound and profitable advice. "The conies are but a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks." Yahweh is our Rock. He is our sure and steadfast confidence! His son, Jesus Christ, is also spoken of as the rock. Remember Peter's name and how he got it? We must remember that Jesus is the anointed of Yahweh. Yahweh has borne witness of him that is indeed the Christ. It is upon this foundation, confession, that the ecclesia stands! What a lively hope we have upon these wonderful facts and things of faith - the things of the kingdom of God and the things of the name of Jesus Christ!
The very next verse in Proverbs chapter 30 is of great importance to each and every one of us. Verse 27 states: "The locusts have no king, yet go they forth all of them by bands." We have a king, though at present invisible. We must keep him ever in view through the eye of faith. The locusts go forth in bands; we are organized into ecclesias, but as a whole, we are the body of the anointed Jesus. We must function as one body. Though comprised of many members, yet are we one body. We should be of the same spirit, of the same mind. We should have the same care one for another. We must love one another as Christ has loved each and every one of us. We should be empathetic one toward another. Each of us should be striving toward the collective goal of being (as much as possible) without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, so that in the day of Judgment, we might stand before the King as the bride of Christ brought to the King in fine white linen of beautiful needlework.
Let us not be like the slothful in the day of inspection. It is recorded for our instruction and admonition upon whom the end of the age has come: "I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; And, lo, it was all grown over with. thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down. Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction. Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth; and thy want as an armed man." (Proverbs 24:30-34).
May we each be busy doing that which our master has commanded, walking and living by faith that works by love? In light of all we see around us, that day must be very near, indeed!
Bro. David VanPelt
October, 2004 Berean Christadelphian Ecclesial News
Signs - As Ye See The Day Approaching
"Put ye in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe: come, get you down; for the press is full, the fats overflow; for their wickedness is great" (Joel 3:13).
Once again Russia has been in the forefront of the UK news media. Most recently the world has been horrified by the hostage situation in a school, which ended in a deadly siege.
(Quote from the BBC) Agony as school death toll rises. Relatives of victims of the school hostage siege in southern Russia are enduring an agonising wait for news as the death toll continues to rise.
More than 320 bodies have been pulled from the rubble of the school so far, officials say, but many of the victims have still to be identified. Local people scoured hospital wards and searched for bodies at the town morgue. Meanwhile, President Putin has called on the Russian people to stand together and confront the threat of terrorism. In a televised address to the nation, he said the country had to stand up to terror, as the alternative meant submitting to blackmail or giving in to panic. Terror, he said, was a challenge not just to the president but to the whole nation. Mr Putin said international terrorists had declared "full-scale war" on Russia and, because of the collapse of the Soviet Union, the nation had been unable to respond effectively. He proposed a new approach to law enforcement and vowed to increase border security. "We stopped giving enough attention to questions of defence and security, and allowed corruption to infect our judicial and law enforcement sphere," he said.
Bodies recovered
Work to clear the school, in the North Ossetian town of Beslan, has been slowed by the presence of mines in the building, where militants demanding Chechen independence held children and adults for three days. A Russian Deputy Prosecutor General Sergei Fridinsky said bodies were still being identified - 322 had been recovered so far, of which 155 were children. The BBC's Jonathan Charles in Beslan says there have been angry scenes, with many relatives accusing the government of denying them information about their loved ones. One woman, who was looking for her nephew, told the BBC what she saw. "I've been to the morgue to look for him," she said. "There were so many bodies - so many small children. I saw one woman sitting there stroking the heads of two children, she didn't even have the strength left to cry."
Children at the school had been celebrating the start of the new school year with parents and staff when they were seized by militants on Wednesday morning. A sombre Mr. Putin, who himself visited some of the injured in Beslan on Saturday morning, said the whole of Russia was grieving with the families. "In recent days every one of us has been deeply suffering and feeling in our hearts what has been happening in the town of Beslan," he said. He paid tribute to the courage of its people. "In Beslan, literally saturated with sorrow and pain, people have been concerned with, and have supported each other," he said. And they have not been afraid to put themselves at risk for the lives and calm of others. Even in the most inhuman conditions, they remained people." He said the ordeals had brought the Russian people closer together. "Today we must be together," he said. "This is the only way for us to defeat the enemy." (End quote)
Such horrific events sometimes serve to pull a nation or many nations closer together. That is obviously President Putin's objective, and one that fits in perfectly with Bible prophecy. One thing is certain, all is in God's hands, and nothing will ever be solved by man's solutions of terrorism or war. One University student was quoted as saying, "Fathers will bury their children, and after 40 days [the Orthodox Christian mourning period]... they will take up weapons and seek revenge."
This will not be the end of violence and blood shed. It gives us a small insight into the chaos and terror that will cover the whole earth in the time of the end. It is a time that the saints long for, when, Yahweh "will roar out of Zion, and utter his voice from Jerusalem; and the heavens and the earth shall shake: but [Yahweh] will be the hope of His people, and the strength of the children of Israel" (Joel 3:16).
One of the comments recently made by a British politician is that it seems as though the Muslims are currently at the heart of worldwide terrorism activity. This is interesting as Bible Prophecy foretells of the time when Catholicism will be at the heart of bitter persecution upon the inhabitants of the world who will not submit to its doctrines and precepts! This, we know, will be at the time of the end when the Pope will work alongside the "Cruel Lord", the one in a bid to rule the world from a political perspective, the other in a bid to rule the ecclesiastical world. So, it would seem that by the time of the end, the up-rise of Muslim activity may be somewhat suppressed by the Gogian force. Will the events we have seen this past week in the school siege, serve to strengthen Russia's resolve to quell the Muslim power in the world? Time will certainly tell!
On a different note, we have seen Russia strengthening alliances with the Mother of Harlots, the Roman Catholic Church.
This report also comes from the BBC: (Quote) Pope returns icon to Russia
The icon of the virgin of Kazan was symbolically handed over by the Pope to a senior cardinal during a rare Vatican performance of the liturgy in Russian. Cardinal Walter Kasper will carry the icon to Moscow where he will present it to Patriarch Alexy II on Saturday. The icon is a copy of one of the most venerated religious images in Russia. The original was stolen 100 years ago from a church in the city of Kazan, 600 km (372 miles) east of Moscow, and may have been destroyed. The BBC's David Willey in Rome says that this particular copy, encrusted with silver and precious stones, has been in the Pope's possession for the past 11 years. It was bought for $1m (£556,000) from a dealer in the United States and presented to the Pope by a group of American Catholics. Until today, the Pope had kept the painting hanging above his desk in his private apartments. The Pope showed it to Russian President, Vladimir Putin, when the Russian leader visited the Vatican last year.
Tense relations
On Thursday, the icon will be displayed for the first - and last - time inside Saint Peter's Basilica for veneration by the faithful. During the ceremony, the Pope said he hoped the "ancient image of the Mother of the Lord" would speak to Patriarch Alexy II and the Orthodox Church of the Pope's affection for them. "May it speak to him of the desire and the firm will of the Pope of Rome to progress together with them on the path of mutual understanding and reconciliation, to speed the day of full unity of the faithful, for which the Lord Jesus ardently prayed," he said. Our correspondent says "relations" between the Catholic and Orthodox churches, which separated 1,000 years ago, have been tense in recent years. The Russian Church leader has consistently opposed a Papal visit to Russia on the grounds that the Catholic Church has pursued an expansionist policy inside Russian territories trying to poach converts - a claim the Vatican denies. (End quote)
Behind the scenes, the Catholic Church is working hard to unite Europe and Russia. She is apocalyptically described as "the great whore that sitteth upon many waters: With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth have been made drunk with the wine of her fornication." "These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful." (Revelation 17: 1,2,14)
May we be of this faithful class that will rule with our Master in the day when "The kingdoms of this world will become the Kingdom of our Lord and His Christ" (Revelation 11:15).
The question as always is, "Are you ready?"
Bro. Stephen Male
September, 2004 Berean Christadelphian Ecclesial News
Signs - As Ye See The Day Approaching
It is recorded in Acts 14:22 that: "We must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God." Called unto holiness, each one must separate himself or herself from the uncleanness that is in the world through lust. "For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world." (I John 2:16) Further, it is written that: "…The friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God." (James 4:4) All flesh has corrupted Yahweh's way upon the earth. We know that the whole world lies in wickedness. This is why we must come out and be separate.
The separateness will bring about misunderstanding and dislike by those in and of the world. We can expect that misunderstanding and dislike. In fact, we can expect persecution and rejection by those who walk in the darkness. Our master said: "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, the servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me." (John 15:18-21)
Think of the awesome privilege of being friends of Christ; of being called his Brethren! We must keep in memory what he said regarding this friendship and brotherhood. "Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you." (John 15:14-15) "For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother." (Matthew 12:50)
The misunderstanding and dislike, persecution and rejection will come, because we are striving to lead a godly lifestyle that is completely different and foreign to the way they of the world live. Peter wrote in his first epistle of how those in the world would view us. "Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you: Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead." (1 Peter 4:1-5)
Jesus, in his Sermon on the Mount address, showed us how we should view and act upon the hatred, persecution and rejection of those in the surrounding darkness. "Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you." (Matthew 5:10-12)
Those in the world around us are: "…aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world." (Ephesians 2:12) In light of these facts, we need to be ever watchful that we do not become puffed up with pride, arrogance and conceit. Our attitude toward those in the surrounding darkness should be: There, but for the grace of God, is me. The Scriptures warn us: "…Thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear…" (Romans 11:20)
We must ever be ready to share with them the glorious Gospel, which is the power of God for salvation to all believing. Our constant practice should be to study to show ourselves approved unto God and able to rightly divide His Holy Word of Truth; being ready always to give a reason for the hope that is in us. We should do all in our power to allow that glorious Gospel light to shine into the surrounding darkness; that those in the darkness may see and be drawn unto it. Our desire should be to do good to all men, as we have opportunity; showing abroad the love of God, as has been shown to us.
We need to constantly remind ourselves that we are in the world, but not of it. We must avoid assimilation. The course of wisdom is to be about the work before us of becoming like our living head. If our eyes are ever upon the goal of attaining a place in that glorious kingdom soon to be set up upon this earth; we will not want anything cleaving to us that would, in the day of inspection, appear to be unseemly or out of place. Of Noah it is written: "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." (Hebrews 11:7)
Anything superfluous, anything incongruous must be put away. The world may taunt and laugh, but we must be as Noah was, ever working toward the goal and doing (to the best of our ability) what is commanded. It is noted that Noah was moved with fear. We also should be moved with fear, knowing that Yahweh has appointed a day in which he will judge the world by that Man whom He has ordained, even the Lord Jesus Christ. And knowing that judgment first must begin at the household of God, we should be seeking to be as prepared as possible, hastening after righteousness. Noah condemned the world by his actions. We should be doing the same.
Are we becoming lukewarm and tiring of the struggle? Are we letting down our guard? Are we losing our ability to perceive the constant danger from without, as well as from within? What we allow into our minds and into our lives is affecting us either positively or negatively. Life and death are literally before us at every moment, as we walk the confined pathway leading to life. We are constantly being bombarded from so many sources around us. We need to maintain our balance - our equilibrium in a spiritual sense.
So much of what is in movies, on the Internet, television and the radio and in books, magazines and newspapers is utterly useless and unprofitable for us. It is deadly dangerous! We must make choices and Holy Scripture is our guide as to what is good for us. Wisdom is profitable to direct. We must not only avoid these things, but speak out vehemently against them. We must make (and keep) the tree and its fruit good. If we don't bear good and wholesome fruit - the fruit of the Spirit - we just simply won't be able to stand in the Day of Judgment. These things bring to mind the first Psalm which instructs us in the right way.
"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish."
Let us avoid this downward progression of the broad way leading to death. Walking, standing and finally sitting, mentioned in that first Psalm, show us just how easily and almost imperceptibly we can go astray down that terrible pathway. This constant struggle or warfare is the real battleground of the called of God in Christ Jesus. Most of us nowadays aren't suffering physical persecution for the Word of God, but we will experience the world's hatred and rejection for our views of right and wrong. They will separate us from their company for our religious beliefs. They will regard us as "self-righteous" and "holier-than-thou". Many of a religious persuasion in the world will perceive us as cultists and weird or strange. This is as it should be.
Remember Jesus' words in Matthew 5. If we prevail in this warfare, we will attain unto the life and joy of the age of the ages and of the beyond. Think of the beauty of holiness and perfect, unbroken fellowship we will have with the Father and the son through all eternity! These struggles and self-denials and trials are but a light affliction which endures but for a moment! We, if faithful, will be the true winners and conquerors. Let us ever remember that we cannot prevail alone. We need the constant help, strength and guidance of our Heavenly Father, of His son (our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ), and of each other. May it be said of us in that day that we have overcome.
Let us fight on, then! "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, 281 nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:35-39)
Bro. David VanPelt
August, 2004 Berean Christadelphian Ecclesial News
Signs - As Ye See The Day Approaching
Friendship with the World
"Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God."
Christendom Astray, Chapter 18: "Be not conformed to this world (Rom. 12:2). There is not much danger of mistaking the meaning of this. The world is the people, as distinguished from the earth which they inhabit. Peter puts this beyond doubt in calling it "the world OF THE UNGODLY" (2 Peter 2:5). Jesus also makes it plain in speaking of the world as a lover and a hater, "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own" (John 15:18). This could only apply to the people. The command is to be not conformed to the world of people upon the earth as it now is. Jesus plainly laid it down that he did not belong to such a world, and commanded his disciples to accept a similar position in relation to it. "The world to come" is the world of their citizenship. Of their position in the present world, Jesus said in prayer, "They are not of the world even as I am not of the world" (John 17:16). By John he commanded them, "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life; is not of the Father, but of the world" (1John 2:15). By Peter, he indicates their position in the world as that of "strangers and pilgrims" (1Peter 2:11), and their life in it as a "time of sojourning" (1:17), to be passed in holiness and fear (v. 14 and 17).
The world that hated Jesus was the Jewish world. Consequently, we are saved from the mistake of supposing that by the world is meant the extremely vile and immoral of mankind. The Jews were far from being such: they were a very religious and ostentatiously professing and ceremonially punctilious people, among whom the standard of respectability was high in a religious sense. All their conversations with Christ shew this. That which led to the complete separation indicated in Christ's words and precepts, is indicated by Jesus himself, in his prayer to the Father, so wonderfully recorded in John xvi: "O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee" (verse 25). It is the world's relation to God that cuts off the friends of God from the world (if the friends of God are faithful). The world neither loves, nor knows, nor considers God. They care for Him in no sense. His expressed will - His declared purpose - His intrinsically sovereign claims, are either expressly rejected or treated with entire indifference. His great and dreadful and eternal reality is ignored. Daniel's indictment against Belshazzar is chargeable against them all. "The God in whose hand thy breath is, and whose are all thy ways, hast thou not glorified" (Dan. 5:23).
This is an all sufficient explanation of the matter we are considering. If the world is God's enemy, how can the friends of God be friends with it? It is not without the profoundest reason in the nature of things, that it is written, "The friendship of the world is enmity with God. Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world, is the enemy of God" (James 4:4). "NO MAN CAN SERVE TWO MASTERS.... YE CANNOT SERVE GOD AND MAMMON" (Matt. 6:24).
The force of this reasoning increases tenfold when we contemplate the present situation in the light of its divine explanation and the divine purpose concerning it. We must seek for this explanation in the beginning of things - the beginning as Mosaically exhibited (an exhibition endorsed by Christ, and therefore to be trusted in the face of all modern theories and speculations). This beginning shows us man in harmony with God, and things "very good." Then it shews us disobedience (the setting aside of the divine will as the rule of human action - alias, sin), and as the result of this, the divine fellowship withdrawn, and men driven off to exile and to death, permitted only, thereafter, to approach in sacrifice, in token of the final way of return. The present world is the continuance and enlargement of the evil state of man, resulting from man's alienation from God in the beginning. It is enlarged and aggravated. "The whole world lieth in wickedness" (1John 5:19), "dead in trespasses and sins . . . by nature children of wrath" (Eph. 2:13), "without Christ, having no hope, and without God." (Eph. 2:12).
The most prominent trial for the majority of the brotherhood nowadays is 'humanism' and its affects. Bro Growcott makes it crystal clear in the Berean Re-Statement that the reason for many Bereans returning to the Central body in the late 1950's lay fair and square on 'worldliness' and brethren's attitude towards it. We are called upon Scripturally to repudiate all kinds and forms of worldliness, in the same way as Christ and the apostles. Noah was a preacher of righteousness to a wicked world; Abraham 'came out' from Ur of the Chaldees (a society of moon worshippers with 'humanistic' views) to a Land of separation; Lot vexed his righteous soul from day to day observing the evil and wickedness that was so prevalent amongst the city life, etc.
The point to this is that the faithful, characterised in the Scriptures, are characterised in a very specific way - they are a separate people, servants of the Most High God, and they stood aside from the attractions and pursuits of what was going on around them. On the other hand, certain are characterised in a different way. Take Solomon as a fore-example; Solomon was directed by Yahweh against multiplying wives and horses, advice given to him for his own good and for the good of the nation. We know that he rebelled and during the middle part of his life forsook Yahweh to indulge in the pleasures of the World (riches, multiplication of wives, power etc). These events have been recorded for our learning and for our instruction in righteousness.
We need to constantly remind ourselves of the dangers that come with having friends in the world. We are directly commanded against having any kind of friendship with the world to any degree, and in any capacity. Scripture language in this area is plain: 'friendship with the world is enmity with God'. It is worthy of special note to say that this counsel is for our good and the good of the brotherhood.
The apostle warns us that in the last days a time shall come when every man shall do that which is right in his own eyes, those who are 'lovers' of everyone and everything that is not of God. The days spoken of, if not already here(?), are fast approaching! "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." (II Timothy 3:1-7).
The question has been raised by many as to how we can preach the truth to those around us if we don't build up a friendship with them, and form a trust-based relationship? Bro. Roberts makes the simple statement in Seasons of Comfort that to mix with the world in this context is 'folly'. We do not need to build up a trust relationship with anyone in the world in order to preach the truth. Our job, as it was Noah's, is to preach the gospel and warn the world of impending furious judgements. We can sow and water (and that is all we can do and is all we are called upon to do) - only God can make the increase.
The sweeping trend in the wrong direction of the friendships Christadelphians are forming with the world is a sign of the times and demonstrates to us that end of all things is nigh at hand! Paul's command to the Corinthians is unmistakable. "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? Or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? For ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people." We must walk in the purity and light of the Truth if we desire to have Yahweh dwelling amongst us.
In 1 John we read, "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For ALL that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world." However, in these last trying days of our probation we can take comfort that as John continues, "The world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever."
Europe and Britain
The recent European elections brought big gains for the UK Independence Party which had campaigned on a "No To Europe" ticket. They won 12 seats and gained 17% of the vote, a huge swing to their party and election platform. This shows the unpopularity of any further integration with Europe and a large swell of opinion in favour of pulling out all together. The Party has pledged to expose the corruptions in Strasburg and block any legislation against British interests. Mr. Nigel Farage of UKIP says the aim is to turn the Party into a mass movement (Times 14-06-04).
Mr. Blair may have gone to Brussels and signed up to the new European Constitution, but on Britian's terms, much to the disapproval of France and others. The British government will still maintain it's tax making powers and also remain unrestricted in areas of defense and foreign policy. The hand of God has decreed a separate role for Britain at the time of the end and present difficulties make it very easy to see how this situation could arise in a very short period of time. She will play her role as a maritime power increasingly antagonistic to the powers of Europe, which will feel chagrined at perfidious Albion floating away in the opposite direction to where they would like to have her - under their domination, tied up with innumerable laws, reduced to an offshore province of a gigantic Popish confederacy, none less than the apocalyptic Beast with seven heads and 10 horns (Rev. 13:17). Let us lift up our heads for our redemption draweth night, and the long expected but stealthy advent of the King of Israel will shortly become a historical fact.
The question, as always, is: "are you ready"?
Bro Stephen Male
July, 2004 Berean Christadelphian Ecclesial News
Signs - As Ye See The Day Approaching
We are living in the very end of the age. How we should be stirred and moved by the signs and events of our times! Truly, these are the most exciting of times in all of history. These are the times just prior to the coming of our Lord in power and great glory to establish the Kingdom of God upon earth. These times are clearly foretold in the pages of the Holy Scriptures; as we know and are firmly persuaded declare the truth that Yahweh has revealed.
Day by day we see headlines in the news of trouble in the Middle East. The trouble is increasing in intensity and in complexity with each passing year. Israel, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Iran and others beside, are all, as it were, a seething caldron. The State of Israel is surrounded by hostile Arab Nations which have waged war against it several times throughout its fifty-six year history as a newly restored nation. The Palestinians are in a state of siege against Israel, having been in open intifada (uprising) for the past three and one half years. Israel has been forced to build a wall of separation between themselves and the Palestinians living in the territory known as the West Bank. That wall is nearing completion and runs roughly along most of the western edge of the West Bank. The wall is an attempt on Israel's part to reduce the number of suicide bombings carried out by Palestinians and Arabs opposed to Israel's presence in the land. They claim that Israel is illegally occupying Arab lands.
What they do not take into account, though, is the fact that the land is Yahweh's! The land has been covenanted to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and to their seed singular and plural. Yahoshua Meshiah, of course, is the seed singular and the seed plural are all in him; whether from among the Jews or from among the Gentiles, after judgment and immortalization. Hundreds and hundreds of people have died in these attacks and in shootings. Many raids and arrests have been made by Israel in attempts to stop the bombings and killings. Over the last two months, two leaders from Hamas, a terrorist organization, have been assassinated by the Israeli government. Hamas has vowed massive vengeance on Israel for these assassinations and Israel prepares and braces for more violent attacks, foiling them whenever and wherever it can. Still, inexorably, incidents occur and more people are shot, maimed or die in the terrible violence. Israel's government has chosen a policy of hitting the terrorists quickly and with deadly force, threatening continued assassination to the upper echelon of Hamas and Hezbollah. They have not ruled out the possibility of taking out Yasser Arafat, as well. Their quick and tough response to any terrorist attacks is fanning even more hatred in the Arab world. The Arabs perceive Israel as an oppressive power. Some are comparing the Jews to the Nazis. From a Jewish standpoint, however, their actions are merely defensive. The war has been long, costly and terrible. It would seem from a natural standpoint that there will be no end. However, we know that there is an end determined! We know the denouement! Israel will learn - as will all of the nations - that true and lasting peace will only come when righteousness fills the earth. Righteousness will only come as a result of the nations learning to do righteousness. They will only learn to do righteousness as a result of Yahweh's judgments being executed in the earth. The see-saw, back and forth, tit for tat exacting of vengeance will never bring righteousness or peace. It is written in Holy Scripture: "Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts." (Zech 4:6)
Al Qaeda has increased its ranks greatly by teaming up with Iraqi guerrillas and insurgents after the toppling of Saddam Hussein's regime. This past month they showed their new muscle in attacks in Amman, Jordan; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Damascus, Syria; and in the Red Sea port of Yanbu, pertaining to Saudi Arabia. Many of those now fighting for el Qaeda are former Special Republican Guards who had served under Saddam. They are highly trained in urban, chemical and biological warfare. These new recruits to this terrorist organization are willing to lay down their lives for the cause of Islam. It is important to keep in mind that these terrorists are extremists of the most radical stamp. The terrorist strikes indicate how easily and how far el Qaeda can reach with deadly force in its horrible attacks. They have quite visibly shown just how close they are in being able to strike directly at Israel and from multiple borders simultaneously. They have shown that they have obviously infiltrated the highest levels of security in Syria, Saudi Arabia and in Jordan. The thrones of these three mentioned kingdoms are very uneasy since these attacks manifested the gaping breaches in their security systems. The foiled chemical attack intended for targets in Jordan also was intended for the Adam Bridge, gateway into Israel! Jordanian authorities seized trucks containing 20 tons of toxic chemicals! They estimated that these chemicals could have taken out 80.000 people.
It is clear that al Qaeda has greatly increased its reach and potential theatre of operations throughout the whole of the Middle East. Syrians, Iraqis and many other nationalities throughout the region are now among the ranks of the terrorist organization. This means they can use local nationals in the nations where they stage their operations. This also means they can mole invisibly into the security systems of the various nations. In the world of espionage transparency is the all-important necessity. It is also quite clear that the potential for non-conventional warfare is much higher now throughout the Middle East, as the foiled attack in Jordan shows. That attack was very narrowly avoided! And as mentioned above, Israel was a direct target! In the attacks in Syria, Iraqis and Syrians were used. Syrians who had gone to Iraq a year earlier to help fight the coalition forces and help Saddam Hussein, joined ranks with al Qaeda after his fall and were part of the attack in Damascus. Islam is one of the fastest growing religions in the earth at present. This indicates the terrible gross darkness that covers the earth and its peoples in these latter days. People will believe anything but the truth. They love darkness rather than light. This is because their deeds are evil. They will not come to the light, even if they perceive in some way that it is the light. The whole earth lieth in wickedness. We know, also, that the heart of man is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked. With the swelling of the Islamic ranks in Europe and elsewhere throughout the earth, comes the potential for increasing the ranks of al Qaeda and other radical Islamic terrorist organizations
We are living in the days just prior to our master's return. We are living during the long period of the outpouring of the Sixth Vial upon the Euphratian powers. That period has been running since 1820-23! Islam is the uniting force of the geo-political system throughout the region. The various radical terrorist organizations are a manifestation of the division and bitter hatred that lies between east and west. Since the Euphratian powers are obnoxious to the Sixth Vial, it would appear that there will be a continued presence on the Arabian Peninsula of United States and British forces; and probably this could include other allied forces such as Canadian and Australian, etc. The very fact that al Qaeda, Hamas, Hezbollah and others are so active throughout the whole area; there seems to be the need for the allied forces to weaken or "tame" these radical elements to some extent to bring the drying effect of the Euphrates to a more perfect fulfillment. Remember that one of the prerequisites for Gog's invasion of the land of Israel is that Israel dwell safely; having neither walls, bars nor gates.
"And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against thee, O Gog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal: And I will turn thee back, and put hooks into thy jaws, and I will bring thee forth, and all thine army, horses and horsemen, all of them clothed with all sorts of armour, even a great company with bucklers and shields, all of them handling swords: Persia, Ethiopia, and Libya with them; all of them with shield and helmet: Gomer, and all his bands; the house of Togarmah of the north quarters, and all his bands: and many people with thee. Be thou prepared, and prepare for thyself, thou, and all thy company that are assembled unto thee, and be thou a guard unto them. After many days thou shalt be visited: in the latter years thou shalt come into the land that is brought back from the sword, and is gathered out of many people, against the mountains of Israel, which have been always waste: but it is brought forth out of the nations, and they shall dwell safely all of them. Thou shalt ascend and come like a storm, thou shalt be like a cloud to cover the land, thou, and all thy bands, and many people with thee. Thus saith the Lord GOD; It shall also come to pass, that at the same time shall things come into thy mind, and thou shalt think an evil thought: and thou shalt say, I will go up to the land of unwalled villages; I will go to them that are at rest, that dwell safely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates, to take a spoil, and to take a prey; to turn thine hand upon the desolate places that are now inhabited, and upon the people that are gathered out of the nations, which have gotten cattle and goods, that dwell in the midst of the land. Sheba, and Dedan, and the merchants of Tarshish, with all the young lions thereof, shall say unto thee, Art thou come to take a spoil? hast thou gathered thy company to take a prey? to carry away silver and gold, to take away cattle and goods, to take a great spoil?" (Ezek 38:3-13)
Israel is far from that scenario at present. She is in constant peril and danger. Every hour she must be vigilant. Qassam 2 rockets, suicide bombers, booby-trapped vehicles, landmines, gunfire and nuclear threats from enemy powers at present bar the fulfillment of this prophecy. We know it shall surely come to pass exactly as is written and has been on record for so many years. May we wait with patience, striving to be prepared for that glorious day of deliverance which awaits the true sons of Deity? Let us each hold fast, knowing that the time is nearly at hand.
Bro. David VanPelt
Berean Ecclesial News - Signs and Events
Signs and Events
Luke 21:10-11 "Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and
kingdom against kingdom: And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and
famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from
heaven."
We are well aware that the above quote relates to the well-known period of
A.D.70., however, lessons can be taken from these prophecies for the future, for
we know that a "time of trouble such as never was" is coming upon the earth.
The following quote demonstrates the trouble that nations may experience prior
to Armageddon: -
Nineteen Injured in Pakistan Earthquake
An earthquake has shaken the south-western Pakistan city of Quetta , injuring 19
people. The 4.7 magnitude tremor was centred in south-western Baluchistan
province where Quetta is situated, said Salim Akhtar , an official at the
Pakistan 's Seismological Centre.
Officials at Quetta 's Civil Hospital reported at least 19 people injured,
including one man who broke his leg as he tried to rush from his home. Others
were hit by glass from shattered windows or suffered bruising. No major damage
was reported in the city.
A 7.5 magnitude earthquake in 1935 flattened Quetta , killing 50,000 people.
The time of Jacob's trouble is coming when the vast majority of the world's
population will be flattened by earthquakes, tidal waves, drought, and war upon
the nations when " they shall go into the holes of the rocks, and into the caves
of the earth, for fear of the LORD, and for the glory of his majesty, when he
ariseth to shake terribly the earth. 20 In that day a man shall cast his idols
of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made each one for himself to
worship, to the moles and to the bats; 21 To go into the clefts of the rocks,
and into the tops of the ragged rocks, for fear of the LORD, and for the glory
of his majesty, when he ariseth to shake terribly the earth. Isaiah 2 v 19-21
Speaking of drought, the following article shows us how totally dependant we are
on God for all His merciful provisions: -
Peru has begun rationing water to its capital, Lima , following one of the worst
droughts in a decade. Millions of people in the coastal city are being left
without water supplies for twelve hours every night between 1700 and 0500.
The restrictions are likely to last through Peru 's winter until December.
Lima is on the edge of the Pacific Ocean , but the coastal strip is desert and
the city's eight million people get their water from the mountains over 160km
(100 miles) away. Sedapal President Jorge Villacorta said water levels in the
high altitude reservoirs had fallen to 165 million cubic metres, 120 million
less than in a normal year.
Mr. Villacorta said people in Lima currently used twice as much as the World
Health Organisation deems necessary for personal use.
But he knows it is not just up to the city's population to reduce the amount of
water they use. Sedapal also needs to reduce its so-called non-revenue water -
the 38% of its supplies that is lost mainly through leakage and illegal use.
"More droughts are forecast for next year" one source was quoted as saying.
The prophet Isaiah tells us that when Christ has returned to the earth to
establish his Kingdom, conditions in the earth will be very different. " The
wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall
rejoice, and blossom as the rose. 2 It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice
even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the
excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the LORD, and the
excellency of our God. 3 Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble
knees. 4 Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold,
your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompence ; he will come and
save you. 5 Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the
deaf shall be unstopped. 6 Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the
tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and
streams in the desert. 7 And the parched ground shall become a pool, and the
thirsty land springs of water: in the habitation of dragons, where each lay,
shall be grass with reeds and rushes. 8 And an highway shall be there, and a
way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over
it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err
therein . Isaiah 35 v 1-8
Secret of Eternal Life Discovered
"But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of
the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased. (Daniel
12 v 4)
In the above verse, Daniel tells us that knowledge shall increase. The
following article is interesting from the point of view of the Bible student.
The Bible student will know that "immortality is a conditional gift to be
bestowed at the resurrection". However, man's knowledge of the human body is
now vast and one wonders just how far scientists will be permitted to go in
their manipulation of the human body We know for sure that man is not able to
make another immortal. No matter how clever scientists become, for every problem
they cure, some other disease evolves that demonstrates that we are just the
clay in the hand of the Almighty Potter.
"Researchers have opened the door to new ways of stopping the ageing process.
A new mechanism by which cells become "immortal'' and multiply indefinitely has
been discovered by scientists in London . And the discovery could help in the
fight against cancer, according to a report in the journal Cell.
The scientists, led by Dr. Madalena Tarsounas , discovered that a molecule
called RAD51D places thimble-like caps on the ends of chromosomes (the genetic
material within cells) that protect DNA from damage and slow the ageing process.
These caps prevent deterioration of the telomeres - repetitive strips of DNA
that act as a cell's "timer''. The telomeres keep cells stable. Each time a
cell divides, the telomeres shorten, until a point is reached when the cell's
DNA becomes so corrupted that it dies. Cancer cells have the ability to reset
or stop the timer, giving them an unlimited lifespan. In many cases, this is
achieved using an enzyme called telomerase, which rebuilds telomeres. But
scientists knew that something else must be involved, since even without
telomerase cancer cells can become immortal.
The new research discovered that RAD51D seems to interfere with the timer
mechanism. When the activity of RAD51D was blocked in experimental cells,
substantial genetic damage resulted, signifying accelerated ageing. RAD51D is
known to play a role in repairing DNA, but the new findings suggest it also
supplies a protective cap to the chromosomes and telomeres.
Dr. Tarsounas , heading the study at Cancer Research UK 's London Research
Institute, said: "Cancer has an amazing ability to shake off the shackles of
ageing and death, which is one of the reasons why it can be so hard to treat . "
Understanding how cancer cells remain eternally young has been a key focus of
research for more than a decade, so it's particularly exciting to have made such
a striking discovery. "We have found evidence of a completely new mechanism
for stopping the clock on a cancer cell's timer and preventing its lifespan from
ticking down. "It raises the possibility of starting the clock again and
making cancer cells susceptible to death once more.''
Scripture evidence on immortality is clear. Paul says in his first writing to
the brethren at Corinth, chapter 15: 51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall
not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 In a moment, in the twinkling of
an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be
raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put
on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.
The Cosmos
"A new planet was discovered orbiting a star in the constellation of Sagitarius
. This star was 1700 million light years distance from the earth, and the
planet orbiting it believed to be a gaseous giant like to Jupiter but half as
big again. New techniques make astronomers think they will be able to detect
smaller rocky planets like the earth before very long" (The Times 16th April
2004 ).
"At the time of the end man's knowledge shall be increased" could apply to no
other age than now, but such knowledge as that concerning the infinite dominions
of the Almighty only serve to show how puny is man in the scheme of things, a
tiny speck of dust, as is even the earth. "Man is like to vanity; his days are
as a shadow that passeth away" (Psalm 144 v 4).
A Perverse Turn of Fate - or the Hand of God
The following article has come to hand on the subject of the new Spanish leader
and the amazing developments of Spain's relationship with European leaders,
which will forge relations with Europe and make dents in relations with Britain
and America.
The dreadful terrorist attack on four separate trains in Madrid has had a
powerful effect on the organisation of the European Union. A few days after the
Madrid massacre, Spain held a general election. The people of Spain voted to
oust their Conservative Prime Minister and replace him with the Spanish
Socialist Party leader, Mr. Jose Zapatero . The immediate result was a
devastating blow for opponents of the proposed European Constitution. On the
wave of anti-war anger unleashed by the Madrid train bombings, the Socialist
Party leader signalled a sharp change of policy that could re-align European
politics and the transatlantic relationship .
Mr. Zapatero threatened to remove Spanish troops from the Iraqi war zone and
break with American policy on Iraq . He also said he would develop a more
pro-European policy, and would seek a magnificent partnership with France and
Germany . He made it very clear that he was not interested in restoring the
stance of Mr. Aznar , the deposed Prime Minister, who stood shoulder to shoulder
with America and Britain . He was determined to move away from Mr. Aznar s
alliance with Britain on several key European issues.
The Daily Telegraph devoted two whole pages to the initial shock caused by Mr.
Zapatero s election. It calculated that Old Europe is back with a vengeance .
Mr. Zapatero s victory boosted the Franco-German axis and signalled a fresh
drive towards a European superstate . The article quoted Mr. Zapatero , who
said, I want to see us again as pro-European. My feeling is that the election
has caused surprise but a lot of satisfaction in Europe .
Under Mr. Aznar , Spain , with support from Poland , blocked approval of the
European Constitution because they feared the loss of their increased voting
status secured in 2000 under the Nice Treaty, giving them almost as much power
as Germany , France , Britain and Italy . Now Spain , and later Poland (see
below), have removed their objections, thus allowing further discussion on the
Constitution. Spain s leader of the Socialist bloc in the European Parliament
said that the political landscape had been transformed overnight. Spain is no
longer blocking the Constitution, it s as simple as that. And we re not at war
with France any more. France is a very important ally and we want to make sure
that the Franco-German axis works again . He criticised Mr. Aznar for pursuing
a semi-detached Eurosceptic policy along British lines , adding that Spain would
now rejoin the drive for European integration .
Mr. John Palmer, head of the European Policy Centre in Brussels , said, Spain
s defection is a coup for Old Europe. The Franco-German axis has been greatly
reinforced, and this won t go unnoticed in Rome . EU diplomats see Spain s new
position as pivotal to its power structure , holding the balance between the
opposing views of Britain and France . Britain s stance concentrates on close
alliance with America , whilst France is all for a European superpower able to
stand up to America .
Just a week after the Spanish turn-around, Poland also gave in after talks in
Warsaw with Chancellor Schroeder of Germany . Although very defiant in the
December 2003 discussions on the Constitution, Poland has seen the ground slip
away from under them following the Spanish election. Faced with isolation,
Poland buckled under pressure from Germany , paving the way for agreement to be
reached by the end of June. All now seems to be set for the Constitution to be
ratified. EU diplomats are confident that nothing serious now stands in the way
of an accord .
This is bad news for Prime Minister Tony Blair, who fears that plans for the
creation of a European superstate could dominate the campaigns for EU elections
to be held on 10 June. If the treaty is ratified, the European Court will have
the legal duty to ensure that states actively and unreservedly support the EU s
common foreign and security policy . The Daily Telegraph sees Europe as being a
major issue in the next general election and is urging the Conservatives to be
more principled and determined in its opposition. It concluded that Britain is
faced with a stark choice: sign up to the superstate, or leave .
William Rees-Mogg, writing in The Times , described the afore-mentioned events
as a perverse turn of fate. He said that the Franco-German alliance, now with
Spanish support, would have just over 40 percent of the enlarged European
population. Under current proposals, that would provide a veto in qualified
majority voting. A Franco-German-Spanish alliance would have a universal veto
because it could meet the requirement of 40 percent of Europe s population. The
Commission and these three powers could dominate the new Europe ; the
Franco-German alliance would be the centre of the big wheel, the Boss".
As we see these exciting developments impact on the building up of the Image
that is soon to stand upon its feet, we feel that soon the Archangel Trump shall
sound to revive and rebuild those who are dead in Christ and that we should all
stand in the presence of the Righteous Judge of all the earth, for the sole
purpose of giving an account of our stewardship.
The question, as always, is: "are you ready" - Bro Stephen Male
United Nations 6 May, 2004 From U.N. Press Release GA/10240
The General Assembly affirmed this afternoon the Palestinians right to
sovereignty over the West Bank , Gaza and East Jerusalem .
By a recorded vote of 140 in favour to 6 against, (Israel, Marshall Islands,
Micronesia, Nauru, Palau and United States), with 11 abstentions, the Assembly
also affirmed that the Palestinian people had the right to self-determination
and to sovereignty over their territory, and that Israel had only the duties and
obligations of an occupying Power.
Although voting for the resolution, the representative of Canada expressed
regret that yet another resolution had been added to an already lengthy list of
resolutions on the Middle East .
Most notably amongst the nations voting for the resolution were the following
list of nations which also included all of the members of the European Union,
Canada, Chile, China, Estonia, India, Ireland, Jamaica, Japan, Kenya, Mexico,
New Zealand, Philippines, Russia, Sweden and the United Kingdom. Most notable
amongst the 11 abstentions was Australia .
This resolution is another opening of the way for the hostile kingdoms to force
their will on the Land.
Bro. Fred J. Higham
April, 2004 Berean Christadelphian Ecclesial News
Signs - As Ye See The Day Approaching
To the angel of the ecclesia of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the
Amen, the Witness faithful and true, the Beginning of the creation of the Deity.
I have known thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot. Would that thou
wert cold or hot! Thus because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I
am about to vomit thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and have
abounded in wealth, and have need of nothing, and has not known that thou art
the wretched, and pitiable, and poor, and blind, and naked one. I counsel thee
to buy from me gold which has been refined by fire that thou mayest be rich; and
white garments that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness
may not be apparent; and anoint thine eyes with salve that thou mayest see.
Whomsoever I love I discipline and admonish; be zealous therefore, and change.
Behold I have stood at the door, and I knock; If any one may hear my voice, and
open the door, I will enter in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
The victor, I will give to him to sit with me in my throne as I also vanquished,
and sat with my Father in his throne. He that hath an ear let him hearken to
what the Spirit saith to the ecclesias. (Rev. 3:14-22 John Thomas
translation)
And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he
that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. (Matthew 24:12-13)
Jesus Christ and the apostles continually warned of the danger and
inevitability of apostasy from the Truth. There would be many who would not hold
to sound doctrine and would, by their actions and works, deny their Lord. We
must ever keep in remembrance that the Truth has only been faithfully kept by a
very few out of any one generation. Many are called, but few compared to the
many called, will finally be chosen. Most, through not realizing the Truth s
priceless value, merely sit on it. They profess to have it and then never
really do anything with it. They neglect it the precious gift of God! They
don t, in the day of opportunity given, seek to put down strong and well
developed root systems into the abundant water supply of Yahweh s Holy Word of
Truth. Because they don t abide in the Father and in the son, they whither and
become as dead branches. We know what will eventually become of those dead
branches, those who have a name to live and are really dead. They will be
rejected in the judgment and cast into outer darkness. That we might be
refreshed by way of remembrance and because we are such leaky vessels, we do
well to take heed to Luke 12:39-48.
And this know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief
would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken
through. Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when
ye think not. Then Peter said unto him, Lord, speakest thou this parable unto
us, or even to all And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise
steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their
portion of meat in due season Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he
cometh shall find so doing. Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him
ruler over all that he hath. But and if that servant say in his heart, My lord
delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to
eat and drink, and to be drunken; The lord of that servant will come in a day
when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut
him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. And that
servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did
according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. But he that knew
not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes.
For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom
men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.
Sin is so exceedingly sinful. We can be so easily deceived and led astray with
the error of the wicked. Many suppose that gain is Godliness. Nothing could
be further from the truth. We are directly commanded: from such withdraw
thyself. (1Timothy 6:5) We are not to labor to be rich. We are not to covet
wealth or opulence, ease or comfort, where our Lord is not. Rather, we are to
endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth ,
entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who
hath chosen him to be a soldier. (2Timothy 2:3-4) Many are they who have
been thrust through with many sorrows, laboring to be rich and to have this
world s goods. Many have equated acceptance with God by the measure of their
prosperity. We know, also, that it is not wisdom to compare ourselves by or
among ourselves. One is our master, even Christ. He is the one we should
follow, as he is the good shepherd. He is the way, the Truth and the life.
He set the supreme example of how we should live and act. No man can come unto
the Father, but by him. How often we get our priorities mixed up. Also, there is
the true proverb found in Proverbs 23:5: Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that
which is not For riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an
eagle toward heaven. In Deuteronomy, chapter 17, it was commanded that the
kings of Israel not multiply horses, wives, nor greatly multiply silver or gold
unto themselves. It is recorded in 1Samuel 2:32 that Eli and his house would see
an enemy in Yahweh s habitation, in all the wealth which Yahweh would give
Israel .
This world s wealth so often can encumber and ensnare us. It is like briars,
thorns and brambles, choking the Word and making us unfruitful. Also, if we
seek this world s wealth to the neglect of the things of the kingdom and name,
we will verily be guilty of hiding the light under the bushel. In trying to
acquire it, we miss the goal set before us. We must remember that we cannot
serve God and mammon. Remember the law of physics that states that we cannot
be going in two directions at once. We either are making progress on the road to
the kingdom or we are losing ground to the enemy, the flesh. We cannot serve
two masters. Usually almost always when wealth increases, they are increased
who would devour it. Much time and energy is spent in trying to secure and
protect it. We must remember that time and distance are very important factors
in the race to life. The athlete tries to concentrate on the goal to be
achieved and will get rid of all unnecessary encumbrances. We must lay aside
every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with
patience the race that is set before us. (Hebrews 12:1)
If it is laziness, sloth, apathy, or boredom that causes us to slack off or quit
altogether our continuance in the confined way to life, we must remember that a
day of reckoning and account is rapidly approaching. Go to the ant, thou
sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or
ruler, Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.
How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard When wilt thou arise out of thy sleep
Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So
shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth , and thy want as an armed man.
(Proverbs 6:6-11)
Let the slothful take the advice of Proverbs 30:28: The spider taketh hold with
her hands, and is in kings' palaces. If we would just follow this simple,
straightforward advice, we would each enter into the kingdom of God .
We have been called to service. We are servants of the only true Deity who is
uncreated and having neither beginning of days nor end of years. He is from
everlasting to everlasting! He is the eternal first cause! What a high and
holy calling! It is the highest privilege a mortal man or woman can possibly
receive! We are invited to eternal and unbroken fellowship with the omnipotent,
omniscient and omnipresent deity whose alone are the heavens and the earth and
all things therein. He created them and sustains all immensity! We are not our
own. We have been bought with a price, even the precious blood of Christ our
Lord and savior; His only begotten and well beloved son. We must learn that
greatness true greatness comes through faithful, loving obedient service to our
God and His anointed. We must learn to serve each other in love, also. How can
we say we love our heavenly Father and not love our brethren We know that
love is the fulfilling of the law. (Romans 10:13) We know that He (Yahweh) first
loved us, giving His only begotten son to be a propitiation for our sins! It
is only reasonable that we should respond to the wonderful invitation given and
draw nigh to Yahweh and love Him with all the heart, soul, strength and mind and
our neighbor as ourselves. We are to have the mind of the Spirit. We are to
speak the same things, holding to that one sure foundation that has been laid in
Christ Jesus our Lord.
If this spirit is in us, imbibed from the living and Holy Word of Deity, we will
not have time for all of the passing interferences and distractions and hobbies
and foolishness that so easily draws away from the real beauties and joys and
happiness for evermore. Let us have this fiery zeal that comes from knowing the
only true God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent. It is freely available to us
through that living word He has magnified above all His Holy name.
Let us be among the white robed sons of deity who will have their name inscribed
(and not at all blotted out) on the scroll of the life of the lamb slain. May we
be constituents of the man that is the angel, the rainbowed angel.
Bro. David VanPelt
March, 2004 Berean Christadelphian Ecclesial News
Signs and Events
FRENCH ATTACK ON RELIGIOUS LIBERTIES: A law banning any public expression of
religious belief has been passed in France . This is said to include wearing
of the headscarf by Moslem women, wearing of yamulkas by Jews and exhibiting of
the crucifix in Catholic schools. Clearly this will be seen as a form of
religious persecution and interference in basic liberties harking back to
medieval times. It seems to be motivated by concerns over the Islamic tidal wave
sweeping Europe . There are now five million in France , and whereas there was
only one mosque in 1970, there are now 1,000. In spite of this, this appears
to represent a serious threat to civil and religious liberties, and basically
amounts to an anti-religious piece of legislation. It could go further and
forbid assemblies or even outlaw religious beliefs, including the Bible. This
has to be an issue to watch, as it may spread to other EU countries and will
almost certainly provoke a backlash in extremist action against French
government institutions.
TZAR PUTIN: This is the description applied by The Times to Vladimir Putin,
declaring that he is "the most popular Russian leader since Peter the Great".
Elections are due in March and Putin is expected to receive a landslide victory
with approval ratings close to 80 per cent. His popularity stems from his
"straight-talking style and KGB background approach to a population yearning for
strong central control." The article commented that the Kremlin's doctrine of
"managed democracy" has given Putin too much power. Western governments are
beginning to worry that Russia is "lurching away from the democratic values it
embraced after the Soviet Union 's collapse and back towards the despotism that
has plagued its history." A Russian scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for
International Peace commented, "I don't even know why people still talk about
managed democracy. They should take out the democracy bit".
CHANGES IN THE MIDDLE EAST: As the year 2003 drew to a close, Britain s Daily
Telegraph published an interesting account of possible movements amongst the
nations of the Middle East consequent upon the fall of Saddam Hussein and the
decision of Colonel Gaddafi to dismantle Libya 's secret nuclear development. A
map detailing all the nations surrounding Israel accompanied the article. The
area is a hotbed of potential warfare with Libya , Egypt , Syria , Iran and
Israel all in possession of ballistic missiles. Chemical and biological weapons
have been developed by Libya , Egypt , Syria and Israel , whilst Iran and Sudan
are reported to possess chemical weaponry capabilities. Both Iran and Israel
have ambitious nuclear programmes .
The war in Iraq seems to have been the catalyst for Libya 's action, as well as
the long-awaited admission by Iran that it is capable of producing weapons-grade
uranium and plutonium. British officials are hopeful that these events "point to
the beginnings of other changes that may transform the region". Three of the
Middle East nations appear to be making moves towards a more co-operative
attitude to the West. Sudan , which was once home to Osama bin Laden, "is close
to concluding a western-mediated peace agreement to end its long-running civil
war". Saudi Arabia is "gently accelerating the painfully slow process of
political reform towards a more democratic society". It is fervently hoped that
Iran may now be encouraged to "step up its co-operation with the West" following
their restoration of diplomatic ties with Egypt after a 24-year break caused by
Egypt 's peace with Israel .
It has been reported that Libya has begun talks with Israel "as a first step
that could lead to a peace agreement with Colonel Gaddafi". If this report were
reliable, the deal would mark a complete change in relations. Colonel Gaddafi
once suggested: "the Jewish State should be dismantled and its citizens
transferred to Alaska . Alaska was suitable for Jews because it was a distant
land, far away from religious wars". He added, " Palestine will be the graveyard
of the Jews ". Israeli officials reacted cautiously to the news of a change in
relations, saying, "It remained to be seen whether the Libyan leader was serious
about normalising ties and renouncing his past anti-Semitic rhetoric".
The report concluded: "the tentative Israel contacts with Libya are another sign
that the Iraq war has transformed the diplomatic landscape".
The Times referred to these events, saying: "the new year has witnessed a
blossoming of peace efforts in the Middle East not seen for more than a decade.
Countries that have been locked in feuds for a quarter of a century have decided
to put the past behind them. Others are offering to mediate longstanding
disputes and for the first time a real debate has opened on banning weapons of
mass destruction throughout the entire heavily militarised region". The Times
was also of the opinion that "the frenzy of activity in the region is largely
credited to the aftermath of the war in Iraq and the effect of the capture of
Saddam Hussein".
IRANIAN EARTHQUAKE: A terrible earthquake hit a historic town in Iran ( Persia
) in the closing days of December. One moment the city was a bustling,
thronging metropolis, then seconds later it was annihilated, every building
collapsing, killing approximately 50,000 people. Here is food for thought when
we consider the forces of nature and geological upheaval that can be triggered
in a moment right under our feet. We enjoy life from day to day, the comfort
of our homes, food on the table and so forth, purely by God s grace, but how
many stop and give Him due thanks and acknowledgement for His daily mercies that
we behold from the rising to the setting of the sun, but which we so easily take
for granted. It raises the question as to whether this disaster was sent from
God We know that God uses natural means to achieve political ends. He rules in
the kingdoms of men. He does whatsoever He pleases to achieve the desired end.
Bro. Thomas shows us that at the time of the 6 th vial of the Apocalypse, will
be a time of natural and political upheaval, prior to the coming of Christ in
power and great glory.
This earthquake could have been triggered by bombs dropped in the Afghan or Gulf
war, and hence, precipitated by man s own folly. What is certain is that this
is a very unstable area in every sense and fomenting with Islamic
fundamentalists fanatically opposed to Israel . This all acts and reacts adding
to the seething cauldron, and reaping its own reward. But the ocean of
suffering is awful to contemplate, touching everyone!
Nation shall rise up against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and great
earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful
sights and great signs shall there be in heaven. And there shall be signs in
the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of
nations with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring. Men s hearts failing
them with fear, and for looking after those things which are coming upon the
earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. (Luke 21 v 11, 12 and 25).
So the exhortation pronounced by the Lord himself to the nation on whom
impending judgements of AD70 were about to be outpoured was TAKE HEED ! Take
heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting,
and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.
For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole
earth. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to
escape all these things.
HUMAN MIND
The following quote has come to my attention in the last few days:
The human mind cannot effectively hold both the word of god and the cares of
the world; one or the other will ultimately be choked out .
Brethren and sisters, the household at large is starting to demonstrate in the
deviation from the principles of truth, that they now occupy the sentiments we
have been warned against by the apostles: where is the promise of his coming
The human mind is capable of wonderful things, but will only survive under one
primary focus; either it will do well in the unchanneled direction of its
natural desire (the easier of the two) or it will do well in the channeled
direction of the Word of God. Let us be warned. If we think we are strong
enough and clever enough to do both then let us think again! Bro. Thomas in
his early years was an exceptionally clever medical doctor, but the records are
clear in reference to how his occupation in that direction suffered on account
of his efforts in the direction of the truth; it was not long before he
abandoned his medical studies altogether and took less demanding jobs so that
his focus was as a ploughman with a plough. Our calling is a high calling and
we live in an age when we have much. The Scriptures are crystal clear on this
point: to whom much is given, much is required . Let us all then use our time
wisely in the meditation of God s word; let us forsake all other interests
however simple and seemingly innocent they may seem; let us be of the few when
Christ returns who will have our lamps well trimmed and brightly burning! For
those who overcome, will Christ bestow the gift of immortality and an
inheritance in his kingdom, having power over the nations of the earth.
The question as always is: are you ready Bro.
Stephen Male
February, 2004 Berean Christadelphian Ecclesial News
Signs As Ye See The Day Approaching
"I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh,
when no man can work." (John 9:4) Jesus spake these words during his ministry
and they have been true for every generation of men and women enlightened with
the Truth ever since. They will doubtless have their literal fulfillment in
this generation, as the day of his coming is, obviously, very near, based upon
all we see going on around us. The sixth vial is still pouring on. The
Euphratian power is still drying up. This we have seen in the fall of Iraq to
the allied forces.
We know he comes under the sixth vial before its exhaustion. Jesus realized the
vital importance of finishing his Father's business and had but three and a half
years to complete the tremendous work before him. He did not waver in unbelief.
He trusted wholly in his Father. Jesus, " in the days of his flesh, when he
had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him
that was able to save him from death...was heard in that he feared; Though he
were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered..."
(Hebrews 5:7-8)
"... when the time was come that he should be received up, he steadfastly set
his face to go to Jerusalem ..." (Luke 9:51 ) During his ministry he rebuked
three who made excuse (and through them, us, as well, if we make excuse). "And
it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him,
Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. And Jesus said unto him,
Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not
where to lay his head. And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord,
suffer me first to go and bury my father. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead
bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God . And another also
said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are
at home at my house. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to
the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God ." (Luke 9:57-62)
In Luke 14, Jesus spake of the importance and responsibilities of the
invitation given and of the consequences for ignoring, neglecting or wrongly
assessing its value . "Then said he unto him, A certain man made a great
supper, and bade many: And sent his servant at supper time to say to them that
were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready. And they all with one consent
began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground,
and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused. And another said,
I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray thee have me
excused. And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.
So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things. Then the master of the
house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes
of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the
blind. And the servant said, Lord, it is done as thou hast commanded, and yet
there is room. And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and
hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. For I say unto
you, That none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper. And
there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them, If any
man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and
brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.
And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.
For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and
counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it Lest haply, after
he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it
begin to mock him, Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.
Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first,
and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh
against him with twenty thousand Or else, while the other is yet a great way
off, he sendeth an ambassage , and desireth conditions of peace. So likewise,
whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my
disciple. Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall
it be seasoned It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; but
men cast it out. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." Luke 14:16-35.
Brethren and Sisters, if we are to avoid falling into the same conditions as
mentioned in the Scriptures above, we must be ever on our guard. We must be
circumspect and actively seeking to live the Truth as it is in Jesus Christ our
lord. We ask ourselves how individuals , such as the ones mentioned above,
could allow the Truth to slip from the highest place of importance in their
lives The answer is this: we simply cannot serve two masters. We either make
up our minds to serve Yahweh and go after the things that He has called us to or
we foolishly drift down the path of least resistance to death. What we have to
do is truly evaluate the gift that has been offered to us. Yahweh has extended
an invitation unto us to receive the gift of eternal life! Imagine for a moment
what that means. Life without end! Not life as we now know it, but life in the
fullest and most wonderful sense possible. Not only will death have no place in
those who are the recipients of this glorious gift, but life will be wholesome,
vibrant, effervescent, joyous and peaceful. There will not be the toil and
labor we now know to earn our daily bread. Life will have boundless purpose and
pleasure in the highest sense in our total dedication and service to Yahweh.
Imagine a glorious body free from all of the suffering and pain, sadness and
sorrow we presently experience! Imagine knowing even as we are known! Can we
even begin to enter into how it would be to see with eyesight as those who are
immortal see How about hearing and smelling
The Scriptures tell us of Elisha in 2 Kings 6:8-20, who was enabled to hear and
see as no mortal would ever naturally be able to. If a mortal prophet like
Elisha could have temporarily granted supernatural seeing and hearing by the
Spirit of God, think of how wonderful those faculties will be in the immortal
state! All of the faculties will be so far superior to anything we presently
experience. Dogs hear sounds or pitches at ranges much higher than we can
hear . Elephants hear sounds that are much lower than anything we can hear.
Some snakes see with a heat-sensing organ. Bats use something very much like
radar to navigate. The sense of smell in dogs is much superior to ours. If
earth groveling creatures of dust--hear today and gone tomorrow--can experience
heightened sensual experiences such as those mentioned here; what will life and
sensation be like in the immortal state What must an immortal's voice sound
like Imagine how a multitude of immortals will sound in songs praising the
Deity of heaven and earth. There will be many changes . "Meats for the belly,
and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them." (1
Corinthians 6:13)
Through this Scripture we can see that there will be a radical change in our
digestive systems. Imagine no more corruption. An immortal being will have a
marvelously efficient body. One in that wonderful state will be able to eat,
but will not have to eat out of necessity or for strength. Remember Jesus in
Luke 24:41-43. Doubtless, anything eaten would be totally consumed in such a
powerful body, sustained in life by the Spirit of Yahweh. "Now this I say,
brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God ..."
(1Corinthians 15:50 )
We know that this means flesh with the blood cannot inherit the kingdom. Flesh
immortalized, minus the blood, can and will inherit the kingdom. Blood is
necessary to sustain a mortal body in life, but an immortal body is sustained in
life by the Spirit of Yahweh which so totally permeates it and has eradicated
all corruption and death in it. In the most holy state of all, one would have
no need of a cardiovascular system. In Luke 20:33-36, Jesus spake of the
children of the resurrection being equal unto the angels who can die no more.
He mentioned that they neither marry nor or given in marriage. This tells us of
bodily changes which will result in our being able to serve Yahweh without
distraction. Imagine having bodies free from all of the proneness to sin and
temptation--free to serve our heavenly Father with true and total mental
capacity. Keep in mind that they who are Born of God--born of the
spirit--cannot sin! If they could, they would obviously not be immortal, but
would die, as the wages of sin is death. (Romans 6:23)
Imagine never being weary or needing sleep. To run and not be weary! Wow! What
joy Remember Elijah in 1 Kings chapter 18 Think of the much more efficient
use of time and the better service those who obtain life eternal will be able to
render to Him who calls us from the dust! Can we get our minds around being
able to potentially flit around the planet by the power of the Spirit, in
accordance with divine will, at lightning velocity to attend to the
administration of affairs in the Kingdom of God . Remember Philip (Acts
8:39-40) These things mentioned above are just a glimpse or sample from the
Scriptures showing us the things that pertain to life eternal.
The invitation we have each received is not for life eternal only, but for an
inheritance in the Kingdom of God ! That kingdom will never be destroyed or
left to others. This means that those who inherit it will have eternal
inheritance therein. Never will they have to worry or be afraid of anyone ever
overthrowing it or toppling its glorious and all-powerful king--the king of
kings and lord of lords-- Jesus Christ. most who have ruled in the kingdom of
men have reigned in tyranny and oppression, being in constant fear and dread of
their overthrow and of their kingdoms being left to others. Think of the fact
that Jesus Christ will be the first, truly enlightened despot this world will
have ever seen. He comes to rule by divine fiat. He comes with the decree of
Heaven, from the Highest Himself. He will rule to earth's utmost bounds. There
will not be a single nation which will successfully disobey his high command.
His word shall be absolutely all-powerful and unquestioned obedience will be
demanded in that day. See Zechariah 14:12-21. The saints will reign with him
as kings and priests over the then enlightened earth. Imagine the earth filled
with the knowledge and glory of Deity! Imagine all knowing Him from the least
unto the greatest! The veil that now is upon the hearts of the peoples of earth
will, in that time, have been taken away. No more gross darkness! Imagine
Jerusalem as the center of world government and worship--the throne of Yahweh
Elohim! "At that time they shall call Jerusalem the throne of the LORD; and all
the nations shall be gathered unto it, to the name of the LORD, to Jerusalem:
neither shall they walk any more after the imagination of their evil heart.
(Jeremiah 3:17) It is clearly indicated in Scripture that Yahweh's holy house
shall be at Jerusalem .
"And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord s
house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted
above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall go
and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of
the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his
paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from
Jerusalem. And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people:
and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning
hooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn
war any more." Isaiah 2:2-4
Imagine one pure language whereby the people of the earth will be able to
worship Yahweh with one consent . This will certainly happen as per Zephaniah
3:9. Building codes and municipal planning will all be according to divine
specifications. All of the filthy squalor of man's cities will be swept away
and clean, efficient well managed cities built after divine approval. And we
can be sure Yahweh will insure long term planning is according to His will, as
He sees and knows the end from the beginning! (Acts 15:18 ) There will be
justice and equity for all before the throne of the merciful and faithful high
priest and king who will truly judge by the word and righteous precepts of
Deity. Iniquity and evil will be dealt with summarily. Wickedness will simply
not be tolerated. The righteous shall be acquitted. The poor and him who has
no helper will find grace and mercy of the one who is all-mighty through Him who
gave him that power. Abraham, Isaac and Jacob will be luminaries of the highest
magnitude in that glorious new order of things upon the earth. The twelve
apostles will shine forth in splendor, each one reigning over a tribe of the
twelve tribes of Israel restored. Enoch, Noah, Job, Daniel, Paul and all of the
prophets will shine in radiant brilliance in those newly established political
heavenlies .
The resurrected and glorified saint community shall shine forth as the stars in
brilliancy and splendor, having differing magnitudes of brightness according as
their rewards in judgment. The saints will have joy and gladness as they reign
with Christ the thousand years. That thousand years will be just the beginning
for them. They will live for the age of the ages and the beyond. The beyond is
all eternity, when Yahweh shall be the all things in all! Imagine a beautiful
and glorious home planet filled with God's glory and Him the all things in all.
There will simply not be a trace of sin and death. Evil, fear and oppression
will be things of the past. They will be as a dream of the night--completely
gone! Think of the advancement of knowledge and science.
Yahweh has intended that all happiness, joy, pleasure and the highest form of
purest love is realized in knowing, loving, obeying and serving Him. He is the
only one who could possibly give all. All is His and He is all. Soon, He will
be manifested in a multitude that no man can number. His plan is to eventually
be the all things in all who live. He alone shall say what is good for us and
what we must do that we may be granted an entrance into that glorious new order
of things to be established upon the earth. It is right and fitting that it
should be His prerogative alone, as it is we who have sinned and transgressed
against Him. He has provided the way of escape from sin and death through His
only begotten and well beloved son, Jesus Christ our lord. He has given the
invitation. It is our duty, having accepted that invitation to answer the
calling with faithfulness and holiness and love and zeal.
These things are our reasonable or logical service. Yahweh has given His very
best, His only begotten son whom He loves. Jesus alone did what no other from
the race of Adam has ever done. Through true faith, trust and love, he
crucified to the uttermost the law of sin and death in his members and thus
opened the way to life--first for himself that it might be for us, also! How
thankful we should be that that way has been opened. The way into the holiest
state of all has been set before us. Do we really want Life or are we guilty of
making senseless excuses like those recorded above One of the simplest facts
in life is that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line. We
can't reach the goal if we are headed in the wrong direction. We must keep our
eyes on that goal, our hands on the plough and go forward. If we find that we
are going in the wrong direction, let us speedily return to the ways of Truth
and walk in the straight and confined way that leads to life.
That we might gain entrance through the door that is about to be opened in the
political heavenlies in the very near future. May we hearken to our elder
brother who is the antitypical door of the ark. He is also the one who shuts
and no man can open. Lest the door shut upon us at unawares, let us take heed
to ourselves and hold fast our most holy profession. Let us not look back or
sell out for a mess of potage, as did Esau. Let us enter in through that open
doorway, provided of Yahweh in His infinite mercy and love.
Bro. David Van Pelt
January, 2004 Berean Christadelphian Ecclesial News
Signs and Events
Have we ever really considered why Yahweh took the decision to flood the earth
in the days of Noah We often think of the words of Scripture at the
introduction in Genesis chapter 6, which say, And Yahweh saw that the
wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the
thoughts of his heart was only evil continually (verse 5).
We wouldn t be wrong to think that these were some of the main attributes
causing the wrath of Almighty God to be poured out upon the Antediluvian world.
However, we are specifically told Elohim said unto Noah, the end of all flesh
is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and,
behold, I will destroy them with the earth. ( verse 13). Violence was the
specific reason pronounced to Noah for the judgements to be poured out.
Brother Thomas says in the first few paragraphs in Elpis Israel , that man, left
to his own impulses is more cruel than the fiercest beasts of prey!
Generations of history have shown that this is true. Unenlightened men thrive
on violence, probably as much today as they did in 2344BC. For the time
being, Yahweh is willing to wink at their doings, but the time is coming when
those who have been watching and waiting will help the King of the World pour
out judgements on the nations as severe as the flood. The Kingdom age promises
a time of peace and blessedness the very antithesis of the conditions
presently in the Kosmos .
The news, in recent months, has been full of terror and violence. Scenes of
injured innocent victims appear in every newspaper. Islamic extremists have
claimed responsibility for most of this horror, and why - because they hate the
Jews and their allies ( America and Britain ). In the past month, Turkey has
also been a target. Why Turkey They have cooperated with coalition forces
in Iraq and even pledged to send in troops. Will this terrorism serve to sever
relations between Tarshish and the Young Lions, and the rest of the world It
will certainly make nations think twice before generously offering their
assistance. Will this cause Britain and America to take Israel under their
empathetic wing driving a wedge between themselves and the rest of the Muslim
world I believe we have already witnessed this to some degree. Will it
separate us from Europe We certainly know the European Union has much
sympathy for the Islamic nations. With the collapse of talks to form a new
European Constitution, Britain is no closer to becoming part of Europe , but in
fact seem to becoming increasingly hostile to the restrictions that would be
imposed upon our justice, farming, transport, energy, defence , social policy,
the environment, and areas of public health. Only time will tell what will
separate the King of the North and King of the South, but we still follow these
accounts as they continue to unfold, with much interest from a Biblical point of
view.
Police Hold Man Suspected of Istanbul Bombing
November29 ,2003
ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkish police on Saturday arrested a man they suspect
helped plan a suicide bomb attack on a synagogue earlier this month, state-run
Anatolian news agency said.
The bombing of the Beth Israel synagogue was one of four attacks on British and
Jewish targets this month that killed more than 50 people and injured hundreds
more.
"The man was arrested as he tried to leave the country," Anatolian quoted deputy
Istanbul police chief Halil Yilmaz as saying. Prosecutors have already charged
several people in connection with the bombings
Police suspect the man ordered the bombing of the Beth Israel synagogue and had
visited the area of the synagogue on several occasions prior to the attack,
Anatolian said.
Turkish prosecutors accompanied an unidentified man to the bomb site earlier on
Saturday and the local NTV television said it was the same man who had been
arrested.
The Turkish courts have now charged more than 20 people they say are linked to
the bombings.
Suicide bombers struck two synagogues on November 15 and the offices of
British-based bank HSBC and the British consulate five days later.
Once again we see threats of nuclear action by North Korea . People in the
world are living in fear, wondering what will happen next, which is certainly an
indication that we live in the latter days. Now we see North Korea s biggest
ally, China , actually defending them against the US . We are also witnessing
the downfall of the six nation talks, which include Russia . While we still
hear reports of war torn Chechnya and the rebel fighting, we can see Russia s
alliances with such nations as China becoming stronger all the time. These are
certainly significant political developments pointing to the time when
Nebuchanezzar s image shall stand upon it s feet (note: see article below on the
image) only to be annihilated by the Stone cut out of the mountain without
hands.
China tells US: Be more flexible and practical on North Korea
December 15, 2003
BEIJING Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing has told US Secretary of State
Colin Powell that Washington needs to be more flexible and practical to keep
alive six-nation talks on North Korea 's nuclear ambitions.
Li made the comment in a phone conversation initiated by Powell late Sunday,
amid reports that the US is insisting that the abolition of Pyongyang's nuclear
weapons be open to international scrutiny.
Japanese press reports Sunday said the US, South Korea and Japan have revised a
Chinese-drafted joint statement for the six-nation talks because it was seen as
ambiguous on the "verifiable and irreversible" manner of dismantling the nuclear
program.
The revised draft statement was sent on Saturday to China , North Korea 's
closest ally.
According to a report from Washington quoting a negotiation source, China was
expected to adjust the content of the statement with North Korea over the
weekend and early next week.
North Korea said last week that it would return to the talks only when the
United States agreed to drop sanctions and resume fuel aid in return for a
nuclear freeze, an offer rejected by US President George Bush.
The world rejoiced to hear the report:
Saddam Hussein is captured December 13, 2003 , in a raid near his hometown of
Tikrit after evading U.S.-led coalition forces in Iraq for months, according to
coalition authorities. He is found in a hidden hole near a farmhouse and taken
into custody without firing a shot.
However we know the reality is the war will continue with or without Sadam
Hussein. We know that there will never be peace on the earth until the Son of
God returns in like manner as he ascended to bring order and justice to a world
in chaos. We see reports of mans failed attempts to rule affectively again and
again.
In our next article, we will deal, God Willing , with the subject concerning God
ordaining war throughout all nations, as one of His weapons in the control He
alone has over the Kingdoms of the world.
Russia s Inclusion in Nebuchadnezzar s Image
It is customary to style Daniel s Fourth Beast the Roman Empire , by which is
meant the dominion exercised by Rome and Constantinople , until the latter city
came to be possessed by the Turks, a.d . 1453, when it fell, or passed away. It
is true, it does symbolize said Roman Empire , but it also symbolizes a vast
deal more. The Roman Empire, of which Gibbon wrote the decline and fall, has
never yet embraced within its jurisdiction the hundred and twenty-seven
provinces of the Medo-Persian Bear, which it is necessary it should have done
that its Leopard-Body might bear rule over all the earth, and that it might
stand upon its Bear-Feet, and with these feet break in pieces and stamp the
residue . John s Sea Monster with the Bear-Feet and Leopard-Body, represents
Daniel s Fourth Beast in its amplest development of the last of the days. It
answers to Nebuchadnezzar s Image at the crisis of its demolition by The Stone .
When John s Beast of the Sea comes, in fact, to stand upon its four
brazen-clawed Bear-Feet, its dominion will consist of the Russian Empire ,
Continental and Mediterranean Europe, Persia, Ethiopia, Libya, Togarmah, Egypt
and Syria. When the throne of the Russian Autocrat is transferred to
Constantinople , the Apocalyptic Bear-Feet, armed with Brazen or Greek Claws,
will also be enthroned there, and be prepared for the work that remains of
stamping the residue . This residue that yet remains to be stamped, are the
many countries to be overthrown, inclusive of Turkey , Egypt and part of the
Glorious Land .
From these premises, then, it will be seen that this Apocalyptic Sea-Monster is
not exclusively the Romano-Gothic Ten-Horn constitution of Papal Mediterranean
Europe, but symbolical likewise of the Byzantine, or Greek Empire, as indicated
by the Leopard-Body and Bear-Feet; for, that the Bear is Greek as well as the
Leopard, Daniel shows by testifying that the Fourth Beast had Nails of Brass (
ch . 7:19); and in his prophecy brass is the symbol of the dominion of the
brazen-coated Greeks. Because, therefore, this Beast of the Sea symbolized the
dominions of the whole eastern and western Mediterranean world, all the
kindreds, and tongues, and nations, styled Apocalyptically the whole earth,
in subjection to them, are said to have wandered after the beast, and to have
worshipped both the Dragon and the Beast Vers . 3, 4. ( Eureka volume 3).
To be continued .
Bro. Stephen Male
December, 2003 Berean Christadelphian Ecclesial News
Signs and Events
Esteem Them Very Highly In Love For Their Works Sake. 1Thes 5:13
Brother Thomas once observed that the truth goes through a four stage cycle,
that starts with its discovery and ends with its collapse.
During my childhood years, I was surrounded in the Ecclesia by brethren who were
constantly stressing the importance of highly esteeming the works of the pioneer
brethren, with advice to read and re-read works such as Eureka and Elpis Israel
. More and more brethren and sisters in Christadelphian circles seem to be
leaning to their own understanding instead of sticking to the old paths .
This lack of reading and respect for the pioneer s knowledge and values has lead
to the near collapse of the brotherhood today. It must be one of the greatest
signs of the times, for the third phase in the cycle of truth from establishment
to falling away is apathy . Apathy can be defined in many different ways and
many different illustrations used, but certainly in the case of the brotherhood,
the lack of study in the pioneer writings is a part of this phase. We are glad
to have this opportunity to quote from bro Growcott and bro Roberts, both for
whom this writer has tremendous respect.
Bro Growcott writes on this subject : - There are two kinds of
Christadelphians: those who recognize and appreciate the value and soundness and
stability afforded by the writings and labours of brethren Thomas and
Roberts-and those who do not. Not much can be done to help the latter kind.
They are on their way back to the old Apostasy. Resuscitations of the Gospel
Truth have run this pattern over and over: a period of soundness; then a
drifting of the majority back to main orthodox stream.
Brother Thomas assembled the total Truth. Admittedly, others had disjointed
parts, some this, some that. He revealed a beautiful, harmonious, living
whole. His critics and scorners owe what knowledge they have of it to him,
squirm as they may under this embarrassing fact. Intelligent men will
recognize their debt and dependency, and will be humbly thankful. Intelligent,
mature believers will not feel they have to devise anti-brother Thomas theories,
to demonstrate their independence, but will be anxious to stand with the sound
Truth as he revealed it-and that includes a true conception of the book of
Revelation.
(GVG, Search Me O God)
We whole-heartedly agree with brother Growcott s sentiments. Many would rather
depend on their own philosophy and reasoning, rather than brother Thomas sound
exposition of the scriptures. The Truth that he rediscovered, through the
vigorous and zealous study of the scriptures, is the apostolic foundation of
what we as Christadelphians believe, and it is the basis of our faith,
ultimately resulting in our salvation. The man was not infallible, but
providentially chosen for this work of re-establishing the Truth in these latter
days.
In many instances bro Roberts exhibited the same opinion of bro. Thomas. We
would like to quote one example from Seasons of Comfort Vol. 2, pg. 347:
If we have attained to the enviable position of understanding the most
wonderful and most precious book under the sun, it is the result of
circumstances with the ordering of which we had nothing to do. If God had not
raised up in this century such a man as Dr. Thomas, our generation would have
been stumbling on in the inherited fogs, which have entirely hidden the teaching
of the Bible from view, while glorifying the Bible itself in a certain
sentimental way. It does not appear that the understanding of the Bible has been
attained in any other channel. There is a deal of writing about the Bible, and a
deal of smattering in connection with separate and scattered points involved in
Bible things; but where, outside of his work in our day, is to be found that
complete mastery of the whole Scriptures, from Genesis to Revelation, which
renders the work of God through Israel from the beginning a consistent,
connected, and progressive thing, which not only does not require the help of
human philosophy, but which cannot endure the admixture of it without being
spoiled We know not its like in any current system or movement, or in any
library treasures, ancient or modem, or in the hands of any teacher or
institution of modem life anywhere. { end of quote}
I have personally witnessed some Christadelphians who have rejected the pioneers
and as a result have completely fallen away from the Truth. We know that there
will be few who are found faithful at Christ s return. Let us make sure we
make up part of that small number of Christ s beloved friends and brethren, who
will be found studying the Scriptures with the aids that Yahweh has mercifully
provided for us, in the writings of the Pioneers. Let us read and re-read and
re-read them. To fall short in this study and reading is to put our own
salvation at risk!
For the powers of heaven shall be shaken. Lk 21:26
Once again the European Constitution is dominating the news headlines in the UK
. Prime Minister Tony Blair continues to contend that no referendum (direct
decision by general vote of the public) is needed, while the conservatives
demand the public be allowed to take a vote. Also, we have seen a new
Conservative leader put in place, Michael Howard, who is out rightly against the
UK joining the EU (he is also reportedly a Jew). How quickly things could
change in the political heavens if the Conservatives were to be voted in next
election!
We would like to quote from a recent correspondent who has written to us on this
subject: -
EUROPE
As we write, European leaders are gathered in Rome to discuss the new European
Constitution. This will remove the right of veto for any nation, abolish
majority voting (i.e. no one can opt out of a policy agreed by the (un-elected)
commissioners and their President), and assert the primacy of European law over
national law. Also it will allow taxation to be set by Europe ( Brussels ) and
bring national armies under European control. This would mean that any
independent action in international affairs (such as British forces going to
Iraq ) would be impossible. All foreign policy would also be decided at
European level. The British judiciary would become instruments of European
law (which they are now to a large extent) and the once proud and independent
state of Great Britain would be reduced to a vassal province of a greater Europe
(which is not a position which prophecy predicts). It is significant that the
current talks are being held in buildings constructed by Mussolini as part of
his fascist Empire. He also had dreams of a fascist Empire of Europe.
Every attempt is made by the Labour government to play down the true intent of
the European Union. Since there is no mechanism for withdrawal, for a member
state to secede would be interpreted as an act of rebellion to be suppressed by
armed force to bring compliance.
The latest news, which is also being played down, is that the Queen is concerned
about the constitutional implications of Britain signing up, since it would
reduce her to a vassal status under European law, no longer constitutio