THE RESURRECTION

Searching on resurrections “plural” I found reference to none. On resurrection “singular”
'resurrection' (40 found)

There is significance to the fact of singular word used to refer to a future event: THE RESURRECTION. Please study the following texts on this vital subject.

The Sadducees say there is no R. that is why they are sad you see.
MT 22:23 The same day came to him the Sadducees, which say that there is no RESURRECTION, and asked him,
MT 22:28 Therefore in the RESURRECTION whose wife shall she be of the seven? for they all had her.
MT 22:30 For in the RESURRECTION they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven.
MT 22:31 But as touching the RESURRECTION of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying,
MR 12:18 Then come unto him the Sadducees, which say there is no RESURRECTION; and they asked him, saying,
MR 12:23 In the RESURRECTION therefore, when they shall rise, whose wife shall she be of them? for the seven had her to wife.
LU 20:27 Then came to him certain of the Sadducees, which deny that there is any RESURRECTION; and they asked him,
LU 20:33 Therefore in the RESURRECTION whose wife of them is she? for seven had her to wife.
LU 20:35 But they which shall be accounted worthy to obtain that world, and the RESURRECTION from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage:
*LU 20:36 Neither can they die any more: for they are equal unto the angels; and are the children of God, being the children of the RESURRECTION.

Now you see men who die are not gone away. They are just separated from their bodies until a future time when they will be resurrected. As Jesus taught about Abraham,
Mt 22:32 “I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.”
It could be that he referred to Abraham as living because he would some day call him forth in the resurrection. Or it could be that Abraham’s soul was still alive awaiting the resurrection. Since we have revelation that informs us about this we take the position that Abraham is still spiritually alive. We find this truth in Luke 16 about Lazarus in the place called Hades. So from this we see that men that die are separated from their body but are not annihilated and continue to exist beyond the grave. Death is defined as separation: James 2:26 “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.” That also is the reason the lake of fire is called second death as it is eternal separation from God.

There was resurrection that occurred when Jesus was raised.
MT 27:53 And came out of the graves after his RESURRECTION, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many.

The future resurrection is the time promised for recompense of the just.
LU 14:14 And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the RESURRECTION of the just.


JOHN 5:29 And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the RESURRECTION of life; and they that have done evil, unto the RESURRECTION of damnation.

When all that are in the grave hear his voice they shall be resurrected. Some say this is at different times, but the text indicates one event then the separation.
See Matt 25:31-46. Also the judgment of those that reject the words of Christ will happen on the last day (John 12:48) the same last day that Jesus promised to raise believers. (John 6:39-54).

JOHN 11:24 Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the RESURRECTION at the last day.

JOHN 11:25 Jesus said unto her, I am the RESURRECTION, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:

Notice what Jesus said, I am the resurrection and the life... Notice also that he did not correct Martha by saying the resurrection will be phased over 1007 years, but he left it as she said it “…at the last day” just as he promised in John 6.

From the first preaching of the gospel it is recorded in Acts that the resurrection is the heart of faith in Christ.

ACTS 1:22 Beginning from the baptism of John , unto that same day that he was taken up
from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his RESURRECTION.

Here the apostles select a witness of the resurrection of Jesus to replace Judas.

ACTS 2:31 He seeing this before spake of the RESURRECTION of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.

The first gospel sermon spoke of the resurrection of Christ which is the heart of the message of salvation I Cor 15.

ACTS 4:2 Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the RESURRECTION from the dead.

The apostle John and Peter are arrested for preaching the resurrection from the dead.
This produced results of their preaching which became more bold and powerful.

ACTS 4:33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the RESURRECTION of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.

ACTS 17:18 Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some said, What will this babbler say? other some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Jesus, and the RESURRECTION.
ACTS 17:32 And when they heard of the RESURRECTION of the dead, some mocked: and others said, We will hear thee again of this matter.

ACTS 23:6 But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and RESURRECTION of the dead I am called in question.
ACTS 23:8 For the Sadducees say that there is no RESURRECTION, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.

ACTS 24:15 And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a RESURRECTION of the dead, both of the just and unjust.
Here Paul affirms one singular resurrection of both just and unjust.

ACTS 24:21 “Except it be for this one voice, that I cried standing among them, Touching the RESURRECTION of the dead I am called in question by you this day.”

Romans 1:4 “…And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the RESURRECTION from the dead.“
The resurrection declares the power of God over death. The gospel is the power of God unto salvation. Rom 1:16.

Romans 6:5 “For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his RESURRECTION”

We are baptized into his death when we submit to immersion for remission of sins. What a grand picture of the hope that is found only in Christ. As many of you as have been baptized into Christ. 6:3

1CO 15:12 “Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no RESURRECTION of the dead?
1CO 15:13 But if there be no RESURRECTION of the dead, then is Christ not risen:
1CO 15:21 For since by man came death, by man came also the RESURRECTION of the dead.
1CO 15:42 So also is the RESURRECTION of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption:

We who believe in the resurrection are most miserable among men if there is no resurrection. This is the gospel.

I Cor 15:21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.
23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming.

Notice the timing. First Christ, they that belong to Christ at his coming, then comes the end. When is his coming? I Thes 4:13-17; I Cor 15:51-54. at the last trump, he shall descend with a shout, the dead shall be raised at the last day not phased in over 1007 years, but in a moment at the twinkling of an eye.
Very Quickly!!

Phillipians 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his RESURRECTION, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; 3:11 If by any means I might attain unto the RESURRECTION of the dead.

Paul says it is worth whatever price to attain the resurrection of the dead.

2 Tim 2:18 Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the RESURRECTION is past
already; and overthrow the faith of some.

Paul warned of those who confuse the timing of the resurrection in his day. There will be those who err from the truth until the last day.

HEB 6:2 Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of RESURRECTION of the dead, and of eternal judgment.

The fundamentals of the faith include baptism and resurrection of the dead.

HEB 11:35 Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better RESURRECTION:

Faith is what carries us forward until the last day.

1PE 1:3 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,

Herein is hope; To be born again looking for the promise of mercy at the last day.

1PE 3:21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the RESURRECTION of Jesus Christ:

The proper response to the preaching of the gospel is with repentance and faith; submit to the command of immersion for remission of sins.
Acts 2:38; Mark 16:15-16.

Rev 20: 4 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. 20:5 But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first RESURRECTION. 20:6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first RESURRECTION: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.

The literal language here states that the first resurrection is the elevation of the souls of those who were slain for the gospel. In Rev 6:9 they are seen under the altar crying ‘How Long till our blood is avenged” and here in Rev 20 they are on thrones reigning with Christ. The raising of these souls to the position of honor with Christ on thrones indicates the importance of standing firm unto death for the purity of the gospel message. All who would have part first resurrection are willing to die before changing or denying the message of the Cross. On these are promised deliverance from the second death which is described as casting into the eternal lake of fire in verse 14.
The one thing that delivers a sinner from the punishment of wrath is the new birth.
(John 3:5: Titus 3:5-6). I Peter 1: 19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, 21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God. 22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: 23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

We know that the language in Revelation is figurative because it was signified by the Lord to John . Rev. 1:1. Those who insist on literal interpretation of the symbols of the Revelation ignore the plain words of the Lord. The literal words of Jesus about the last day in John 6 and John 12 provide the truth that we must accept about the resurrection. The symbolic words of Revelation 20 represent truth in images that describe Satan as a Dragon that can be held by a chain. It is plain to see that the words “first resurrection” are not literal because what is described is not literally the “first” resurrection. Therefore we accept the figurative language to understand the truth of the message that victory over death is only through Jesus Christ and by faith we shall overcome what ever is to be faced in this life while we prepare for eternal life with Jesus Christ as king called new heaven and new earth.

HEAR the promises that Christ makes to the churches:
2:7 To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.
2:11 He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.
2:17 To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.
2: 26 And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: 27 And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father.
28 And I will give him the morning star.
3:5 He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
3:12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.
3: 21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.

Believe God. Believe Jesus Christ. Believe the word of God.
Complied by Donald Raby 20090113

He shall appear the second time

When He comes: The second coming of Christ is a crucial and critical event in the future for those who look for him. It will also be nonetheless critical to those who have not accepted Him as Lord. It is a day full of significance as seen in this study of that day.

Heb 9: 28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
John 14: 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
**No mention of multiple comings. We look for one event. This obviously refers to the future..

Acts 1: 11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.

Phil 2:9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Rev 1: 7 Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.

Matt 24: 27 For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
29 Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken:
30 And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
31 And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.

Rom 14:10 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.
11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.
12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.

2 Cor 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

Acts 24:15 And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust.

Jude 14 Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints,
15 To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him.
Note: Here saints are holy angels. We learn this from the original language and the fact that other translations so indicate. Also parallel passages that speak of the same event describe angels. See Mat 24:31; Mat 25:31; 2 Thes 1:6-11; Mark 13:39-49.

Matt 13:39 The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels. 40 As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world.
49 So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just,


Matt 25: 31 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:
32 And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:
33 And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.


I Cor 15: 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.
23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. 24 Then cometh the end…
**Two resurrections described: Christ and they that are Christ’s.
Please note: First Corinthians was written by Paul who included himself (we) in this event. Thereby it is clear that this description of the resurrection to come is the same resurrection Paul describes in I Thessalonians 4 where he includes himself also. We know he will be raised and it will be at HIS coming. (I Cor 15:23 and I Thes 4:15).
I Cor 15:50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.
51 Behold, I show 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.
54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.
** Important here is the fact that when the resurrection occurs there shall be no more death. (A major problem in the Rapture doctrine.)

John 5:
25 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.
26 For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself; 27 And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. 28 Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice,
29 And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.
30 I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.
**This is only one event, one resurrection of all that are in the graves. There are two places seen after the resurrection: life or damnation.

John 6: 39 And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day.
40 And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.
44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.
53 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you.
54 Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.

John 11: 23 Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again.
24 Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.
25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:
26 And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?
27 She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.

John 12: 47 And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.
48 He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.
**Both the raising of believers and judgment of rejecters occur the last day.
No mention of multiple resurrections nor judgments in John 6 or 12 or elsewhere.
When he raises believers that are his (I Cor 15:23) it is followed by “the end.”

I Thes 4:16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
**This passage does not describe the unrighteous, only those in Christ. Both those outside of Christ and the saved are described in the following verses still his coming on the last day. (II Thess 1)

II Thes 1: 7 And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,
8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:
9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;
10 When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.

I Thes 5: 2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night

II Pet 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,
12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?
13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.
**It is beyond comprehension why someone would think this passage does not describe details that occur the same time as Rev 20:11-15, the last day.

Rom 2: 1 Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things.
2 But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things.
3 And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?
4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?
5 But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;
6 Who will render to every man according to his deeds:
7 To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:
8 But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath,
9 Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;
**This day describes both the reward of the righteous and punishment of wicked.
16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.

Rom 14:
9 For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living.
10 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.
11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.
12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.

2 Cor 5: 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
**There is only one judgment seat, called the great white throne in Rev 20 also describe in symbols of sheep and goats in Matt 25:31. Addition of a second is without support in the word of God.

This is in perfect harmony with Rev 20 wherein it says the rest of the dead live not again until the 1000 years is finished and the dead stand before the throne.
It is problematic to say the dead do not include the saved and lost at the resurrection. The word is singular one event at one point in time called the end.
I Cor 15:23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. 24 Then cometh the end…
There is good reason why the Spirit call this the end. It is the end of death. It is the end of Satan. It is the end of the world. It is the end of suffering. IT IS THE END of the LAST ENEMY.

The events described in the above all are said to occur on the last day:
The coming of the Lord Jesus Christ
The last trumpet shall sound
The appearing of the Lord that every eye shall see and every knee shall bow
The Lord shall descend with a shout
The resurrection of the dead of all that are in the graves
The change from mortal to immortal bodies
The righteous judgment of God by the gospel word of truth
The gathering of saints together for eternity with Jesus
The destruction of the present earth
The eternal punishment of Satan, Death and Sin in the lake of fire
The revealing of the new heaven and new earth

Any understanding given for the events of the end times or last days plural must consider the singular description of the coming, the resurrection, the judgment all literally spoken as events of the last day singular. The doctrine of Rapture, Tribulation and 1000 yrs has just such multiple comings, resurrections and judgments that conflict with the teaching of Jesus. If we look at one book like The Revelation we must recognize the symbols are given representing the truth that in Jesus victory is the promise and we cannot overcome outside of Him. To say something is symbolic or figurative language does not diminish it in any way. Truth is still conveyed to him that has ears to hear. I say Revelation is factual. Symbols represent facts. Thank You
Donald Raby 2007 0903

SALVATION: CONDITIONAL AND ETERNAL

SALVATION:ETERNAL AND CONDITIONAL

In response to a discussion about salvation in Christ and the possibility of falling from grace this article is written to show what the Bible teaches concerning the destiny of man and the promise of eternal life to those who are cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ.

How do we know of our need for salvation and the provision which God has given in His
bountiful grace? Titus 2:11; Rom 3:23; 6:23

Romans 1:16 “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first and also to the Greek.”

II Thessalonian 2: 14 “...salvation in sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:
where unto he called you through our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Mark 16:15-16 Go ye into all the world, and preach to gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.”

From these we see that the gospel is and essential and initial part of the hope offered to a lost and dying mankind. Not just any message but a specific unaltered message is necessary. “I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. BUT THOUGH WE, OR AN ANGEL FROM HEAVEN, PREACH ANY OTHER GOSPEL UNTO YOU THAN THAT WHICH WE HAVE PREACHED UNTO YOU, LET HIM BE ACCURSED.” Repeated for emphasis Galatians 1:6-9.

Paul also confirms this necessary message in Romans 10:14-16. It must be heard and obeyed from the heart. From these few verses we learn that the gospel must be preached, heard, believed and obeyed. Without any further evidence it is clear that there are conditions required by God for the salvation of men. Is this all there is?? If we only consult certain favorite verses offered by men we will be left without the whole truth a revealed in the Bible. Paul preached the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27). This is what we must accept to truly be a disciple and saved in Christ.

“And he said unto them, This it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things.” Luke 24:46-47

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” Mt 28:18-20.

These verses with Mark 16 record the last words of Jesus before He ascended from the Mount of Olives to sit on the right hand of the Father. They are marching orders, instructions for preaching the message of salvation to all mankind until the end of the world. Often men with good intentions tell of a message that excludes some of what Jesus said. We must be careful to follow Jesus and not the ideas of men. In addition to hearing the gospel men must believe that Jesus is the Son of God, repent of their sins and be immersed in water before having hope of eternal life. This is not merely my opinion nor is it some church's human guidelines, but it is the word of God which you can read for yourself. Many deny these conditions as being works of merit by which we earn salvation. First they are commands of God. They are not works of merit but are commands we obey from the heart by faith accepting the revealed will of God. Romans 6:16-18
“So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.” Luke 17:10. it is possible to perform certain tasks with the wrong intent but you cannot obey from the heart and claim merit.

The question remains, Do the scriptures teach that salvation is conditional or unconditional upon man's part. Some would say that justification is by faith only without any works of obedience. Such error results from a misreading of Paul to the Romans particularly in Chapter four. Paul surely condemned those who tried to bind the law of Moses on those who sought Christ in the new Covenant. Paul also declared that there is a law of faith Rom 3:27. The law of faith is not without obedience, including repentance and baptism. Faith without works is dead. James 2:26 “Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and NOT BY FAITH ONLY.” James 2:24.

At this point rejection of conditions results from following the unbiblical human wisdom often called reformation theology. Augustine, Luther and Calvin formulated a system of doctrine which has plagued the true faith of followers of Christ for many centuries. The heart of that theology is expressed in the doctrines called TOTAL Depravity, Unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace and perseverance of the saints. If any one of the presuppositions are true they all are true and also if any are false, all are false.

The first, total depravity falls in the face of truth spoken to Ezekiel (18:20) “The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.”

The last, perseverance of the saints or “once saved always saved” likewise will not stand the test of truth. “For is AFTER they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, that after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them' II Peter 2:20-21.

As set out from the start, I have shown simply how salvation is eternal and conditional. The eternal salvation is promised to whosoever will come to Christ. (Rev 22:17) If salvation is unconditional then it is also universal (none lost). It is the will of God that all men be saved and that none perish. (II Pet 3:9). If it depends only on the will of God, all will be saved. It is dependent upon the will of men to chose or reject salvation. (Acts 17:30-31; John 7:17). Grace has been offered to all mankind (Titus 2:11) on the condition that they will diligently seek Him (Heb 11:1-6) by faith, believing and obeying. It is human wisdom that rejects these plain words revealed in Scripture.

Repentance from sins is essential to remission Luke 13:3-5; 24:47.
Immersion in water in the name of the Lord is essential for remission of sins. Acts 2:38.
Please search these passage and see obedience of faith is more that just believing.
Matt 28:18-20; Mark 16:16; Acts 8:32-38; Romans 6:1-4; 16-18; into Christ Galatians 3:26-27; Ephesians 4:1-6 one baptism; Colosian 2:11-12; John 3:5; Titus 3:5 water and spirit; I Peter 3:21 and others.

It is possible to fall from grace: John 15:9-10 (v.2) Luke 8:11-15; Matt 7:21-23; I Tim 1:19; I Tim 4:1 fall away; I Tim 5:8 deny faith; I Tim 5:11-12; I Tim 6:20-21; Hebrews 3:12; II Peter 3:17; I Corinthians 10:12 take heed lest ye fall.
Please consider what is written in the Bible and be pleasing to Him.
Thanks for reading. I will assist you any way possible with questions or study.
Donald Raby deraby at att.net

Gospel : One Hope of your Calling

The Lord gave me a word today. I was moved by a friend who was dismayed that I say, “Man has a part in his Salvation…” I understand why he says that. I know it is foreign among most churches to recognize the responsibility of sinners in their response to the gospel. In fact it is in conflict with doctrines that are based on original sin or hereditary depravity. So it is important that you clearly understand what I am saying and what I am NOT saying.

I am not saying that man can save himself. I am saying that the Lord requires men to respond to the call of the gospel. The word given me by the Lord today as I ponder our discussions is from Jeremiah 10:
23 “O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.
24 O LORD, correct me, but with judgment; not in thine anger, lest thou bring me to nothing.”

If we will be saved it is not from within ourselves. It is from the Lord to direct our steps. The question before us is, how does God direct our steps? I personally came to Christ in response to the call of the gospel.

This is the means be which God has chosen to bring us to salvation. II Thes 2:
14 “Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
This is not unique as God has called all men to repent. Acts 17:31

Since we know God wants all men to be saved and most mankind is not interested in salvation the question comes to fore: What is the gospel that brings salvation to lost sinners?

We are saved by Grace, Faith, Hope, His Life, Repentance, God, Jesus Christ, Gospel, Obedience, et al. All these clearly stated in the Bible as effectual in our salvation.
We are justified by Faith Rom 5:1, Blood Rom 5:9, Words Mt 12:37, Christ Acts 13:39, Grace Rom 3:24; Titus 3:7, Works James 2:24.
We are NOT justified by works of the law Romans 3:20; Gal 2:16; 5:4.
We are NOT justified by faith only. James 2:24
We are NOT saved by works of righteous we have done in merit. Tit 3:5.
We are saved when we submit by faith to the terms of the gospel. Rom 6:17.
It is clear from these texts that there is not one singular item that is alone for salvation. Paul taught clearly that the law of Moses could not justify nor save. The law was given for a different purpose. It condemned sin by making men aware of sin. It was a school master to bring Christ in the fullness of time. Gal 3:24; Col 2:14-15.

Rom 1: 16 “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.”
I Cor 15: 1 “Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;
2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.
3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:”

We are saved by Christ alone as there is none other by whom we can be saved. Acts 4:12. This however does not mean we have no responsibility in our salvation. Hebrews 11: 6 “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Faith is a necessary response by the sinner. Diligently seeking God through Jesus Christ is a response of faith.

Where does faith come from? Rom 10:17 “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Faith does not come through some direct operation of spirit."

God has granted all men faith to believe. John 3:16; II Peter 3:9. That is the meaning of “whosoever.” Rev 22: 17 “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.”

Rom 12:3 "For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith."

Romans 10: 14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

UNIVERSAL NEED Rom 3:22 “Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:
23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:”

Just as the need for remission of sin is universal also is the grace of God given universally to men through faith. God has not withheld his love. Titus 2:11-13
“11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,
12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;
13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;
14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.”

Now here is the point I would emphasize: If a sinner cannot repent without faith and he cannot have faith unless God operates on his heart, then those who do not believe are lost because Jesus did not love them enough to give them faith.
It is not true that God must operated on a sinner's heart before he can be saved.
This would make God a respecter of persons which we know he is not because he wants all men to come to Him in repentance. Acts 10:34. God is not a respecter of persons. This is why I reject unconditional election. This is why the doctrine of unconditional election is false, for it denies the mercy and love of Christ who died that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

You see there is a point of turning when the blood of Christ cleanses sin. That point is not according to man, or prayer, or some invented system of theology. That point of change from servant of sin to servant of righteousness is according to the word of truth give by inspiration of the Holy Spirit. II Tim 3:16. That point of turning is when sins are forgiven and no longer separating the sinner from grace.

Jesus is the author of salvation: Heb 5: 8 “Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; 9 And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;”
He is author of salvation to them that obey him.

The point of change is stated by Paul to the Romans 6:17-18 “But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. 18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.” (before obedience = servant of sin; after obedience = servant of righteousness.) Yes, obedience to the gospel is essential for salvation.

Will you obey the gospel? What will you do about Jesus? Will you follow him, or those who say he does not love some enough to give them faith? He is calling all to repent and call upon his name. He is calling for all men to hear the gospel.
Mark 16:15-16 “15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” Do you believe? Will you confess his name before men. Mt 10:32-33. Will you obey? “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” Paul did not tarry, why do you? “And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”

Perhaps you have heard some say "baptism is the Holy Spirit." Holy Spirit baptism is subject of another study but we know Holy Spirit baptism was limited to two events: apostles on Pentecost and Cornelius the first Gentile to receive the gospel.

Does this negate immersion in water for remission of sins? No. We know that water baptism is commanded of all disciples Matt 28:18-20. We know God that man cannot baptize in the spirit. We know God commands what we can obey. Therefore baptism in the spirit is not commanded. Baptism in water by the authority of Jesus is what we are to obey to make disciples and it is stated that the purpose of submission to immersion is remission of sins. Acts 2:38. Do not be misled by those who claim baptism in spirit as they cannot do that nor do the speak in unlearned language. Follow the simple gospel of Jesus and receive the hope of eternal life. If you care not for Christ nor salvation you need not believe, but if you want to walk in the light as he is in the light you will obey from the heart the gospel. The gift of the Holy Spirit is given after one is baptized for remission of sins. You may claim a spirit indwelling but it is not holy unless God is obeyed by faith.

I pray that you will not neglect the call of the gospel and the love of Jesus for all mankind. I pray that you will before you pass the opportunity obey the gospel for those who do not obey will suffer eternal punishment. II Thes 1:7-9.

Please consider this prayerfully and seriously as today is the day. II Cor 6: (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)” Do not Tarry!!

Thank you, Donald Raby 20070630

Second Coming is not the Rapture: Last Day Study

Second coming not again and again....
This is a study of the second coming and promised resurrection. It is my position that the Bible teaches that Jesus Christ will come again on the last day and at that day he will raise the dead from the grave. On that same day he will judge the eternal destiny of all souls of men either to eternal damnation in Hell for unforgiven sinners or eternal life in Heaven for the forgiven who have accepted his grace and received his cleansing blood.

There is a serious issue in the study of last days as many are misled by a popular doctrine commonly known as rapture, tribulation and 1000 year reign.
As we look at the Scriptures and consider the prophecy revealed about the future
and the last days we must consider the truth or error of various interpretations.

This is a serious and urgent study as many are being led away from Christ as a result of misinterpretations of the Scriptures. I urge you who read this to carefully study the text of the Bible and see if what you hear is in accordance with what the word of God says. If the rapture doctrine is false it poses serious doubts on other interpretations of prophecy about the last days and the coming of Christ to accept the redeemed and punish the wicked.

First of all the Bible clearly states that Jesus will come again. Heb 9:28"So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many;
and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time
without sin unto salvation."Subject: Christ offered once for sin shall appear second time.
This clear statement is a promise of hope for all who know him and desire his coming. What is also important is to recognize that there is no promise of multiple comings or phases of comings over 1007 years. If there are to be multiple comings of Christ in the future we should read of them in Scripture. If there are no statements of multiple comings it is dangerous to add word or ideas to the Bible. Rev 22:18Not in Bible: promise of his coming more than second time. When we consider the coming of Christ we need to examine all the passages that the apostles taught and recorded in the Scriptures. These are all in agreement and should not be interpreted so that they contradict. Correct interpretation must consider the immediate context and not contradict any other statements in scripture.

Peter wrote to answer a problem of unbelieving scoffers who said in his day and still say today, " Since he has not come,.... He is not coming...."

II Pet 3:4"...and saying, Where is the promise of his coming?"The subject of the question is a future event that is promised: HIS COMING

Peter replied that there would always be unbelievers who refuse God's warning.
He uses the example of Noah and the flood and assures the readers that there will be a judgment day and that is a day that we (faithful Christians) await." the subject of the answer is: the day of judgment v.7the day of the Lord v.10 the coming of the day of God v.12we, ... look for new heavens and a new earth v.13
Each of these four items describe a specific aspect of the second coming. No one passage give all the details but must all be taken in context of preparing for that day. Here are four descriptions of one day for which we are looking.What is the Promise of HIS coming? John 14:3 Jesus said, "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also."
Here is a plain statement of hope by Jesus that his followers find comfort and joy to consider his return. It is a promise that he will come and deliver us from the death and judgment that is waiting the lost. Even though we may die physically we have this hope that some day he will raise us from the dead. II Thes 1:7-10"...when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, 8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; 10 When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day."Subject: Lord Jesus revealed from heavenEvent: 1 When he shall come 2 to be glorified in his saints.3 to be admired in all them that believe4 in that day.Here Paul describes the judgment in agreement with Peter's statement that we await that day. II Thes 2:1-31 "Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, 2 That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit,nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. 3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day......"Subject: 1 the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ 2 and our gathering together unto him.3 the day of Christ, ... 4 that day
The focus of this study is about the second coming. Other subjects in the context of these statements are for another study. The Thessalonians were disturbed by some false teachers claiming they had missed the coming of the Lord, and Paul corrects this by telling them details about that day.
II Thes 2:9-10"...Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming."Subject: Destroy Wicked (that man of sin, the son of perdition)Event: Brightness of his coming I Thes 3:13"To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints."Event Subject: the coming Who: OUR Lord Jesus Christwhat: your hearts unblameable in holiness before GodWho else present: all his saints ( who are these "saints"?) Jude 1414 "And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, "Subject: Coming of Lord with 10,000 saints Who are these saints?: Paul revealed in II Thes 1:7 that these saints are his mighty angels. The term "saints" is also used for "holy ones" or "mighty angels." I Thes 4:13-1713 "But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. "Event Subject: the coming of the Lord and our gathering together unto him Action Resurrection: the dead in Christ shall rise firstWho Appears: the Lord himself shall descend from heaven What is heard: with a shout,
with the voice of the archangel,
and with the trump of GodWhat else happens: we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. I Cor 15:26 "The last enemy that shall be abolished is death" Subject: LAST ENEMY When Death is abolished there are no more enemies v.54 "But when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where is thy victory? O death, where is thy sting?" Consequence: Mortal put on immortality; corruption put on incorruption DEATH SHALL BE NO MORE. It is important to recognize here that when the resurrection of the dead occurs there will be no more death. If a doctrine teaches that death will continue it is in conflict with this statement. The rapture doctrine teaches that death will continue 1007 years after the resurrection of the dead in Christ. Therefore, the rapture doctrine is false doctrine.
When is the last enemy death abolished? I Cor 15:51 "...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." Subject: Resurrection What is Heard? sound of a trumpet: THE LAST TRUMP Herein is stated an immutable chronological sequence of events: Exactly described in detail the same event as described in I Thes 4:13-17 The Lord descends (His Coming) We shall ALL be changed (Resurrection)We meet him in the air (incorruptible) Death, the last enemy is abolished.
Paul includes himself, "we all shall be changed" in I Cor 15 and I Thes 4:17 "shall we ever be with the Lord."I Cor 15:23"But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; then they that are Christ`s, at his coming. 24 Then [cometh] the end, when he shall deliver up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have abolished all rule and all authority and power." Subject: Resurrection of they that are Christ's (Believers who belong to Him)Event: at His Coming (singular event) Time: Then the end. This describes the resurrection. Jesus shall descend with a shout:John 5:28 "Marvel not at this: for the hour cometh, in which all that are in the tombs shall hear his voice, 29 and shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of judgment." Subject: Resurrection of life and Resurrection of judgmentEvent: HEAR HIS VOICE and COME FORTH: Who: ALL that are in the tombs shall hear his voice (Descend with a SHOUT I Thes 4:13)TIME: the hour (singular indicates one point in time)These are words of Jesus, do not neglect or mishandle them.
The word ALL here and in I Cor 15:54 are inclusive, meaning none will be left in the grave. If All are raised at his coming then there is no place for multiple resurrections.
John 6:40 (44,54)40 "For this is the will of my Father, that every one that beholdeth the Son, and believeth on him, should have eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day." Subject: Resurrection of Believers (every one that believes on Jesus)time: LAST DAY (singular) John 12:48 He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken,
the same shall judge him in the last day. Subject: Judgment of rejecters of his words Time: LAST DAY (singular) only one last day THE HOUR = THE LAST DAY without controversy these words affirm that when one believer is raised in the resurrection ALL believers will be raised. These words affirm without controversy that when the resurrection of life occurs the resurrection of judgment occurs simultaneously same day same hour. These are indisputable words of prophecy about which we cannot deny. COMING > Revealed > Appearing > Last Day >Last Trumpet >RESURRECTION > Judgment of Wicked > END > New Heaven and New Earth
Rev 20:11-15 says every man will be judged by their works and this is followed by the new heaven and new earth. It is now time to prepare for that day.
There is very little agreement among those who believe in a rapture tribulation and 1000 year reign of Christ on earth. I know for I have studied all sides of the issues. Who is the man of sin?, Will the church go through tribulation?, When will the rapture be? These and other questions have several differing answers by rapture teachers, but the Scriptures are clear that the dead will be raised on the last day and the last enemy will be abolished on the last day at His coming.
Until the last day evil men wax worse and worse and I do not expect otherwise.
II Thes 3:14 "And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. 15 Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother."Paul says, "I Thes 5:23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ."I Thes 3:13"To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints."Peter says, "II Peter 3:11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. 14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless."
We have seen very clear and singular words that all point to the last trump on the last day when the Lord Jesus Christ makes His appearing as he promised. To add to these words or twist them out of their plain meaning is very dangerous way to handle the Scriptures. We must interpret the prophetic and symbolic language of the Bible in harmony with the clear literal statement of Jesus and his apostles. Whatever we say the meaning of visions like John's recorded in Revelation they must not contradict these plain words that Jesus will return on the last day to raise the dead and bring an end to the last enemy death. These clear words tell us that there will be a resurrection on the last day at the coming of Christ. To say that this will occur over 1007 years is in direct conflict with the words of Jesus (John 6: 39,40,44,54; 12:48) as well as the teachings of Paul and Peter. Therefore we should accept the promise of the last day and reject other teachings as false ideas of men.

Donald Raby 06 10 2006

Ephesians 4 THE BIBLE TEACHES

The Bible teaches: by this I mean "..it is taught in the Scriptures." The Scriptures are the final inspired word of God to man.
There is only one authority because there is one body, and one Spirit, even as you were called in one hope of your calling: one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all, and through all, and in all. Herein lies the hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ. He prayed that all believers would be one. John 17:21. To the extent that believers are not one is the extent that unbeliever can say "...confusion reigns among religion therefore I reject it" You know it is true and you have seen it.
Thanks for visiting. Donald Raby