Knowing God’s Will For Our Life October 29, 2022

 

Knowing God’s Will For Our Life 

 October 29, 2022 

When I was a young man, I seemed to continually wrestle with, meditate on and discussing with others, wanting to know God’s will for my life. When I first was called, I wanted more than anything to follow His plan and Way of Life that Jesus taught by words and example. 

I was extremely excited when I first was baptized, then reality sets in, after telling friends and family, no one was interested in what I have discovered.

Now I understand the words of Jesus.  This is nothing new, just a review.   

Matthew 22:14 because many are invited {or called}, but few are chosen." 

Then I realize this will be a lifetime commitment to follow the Way of Life that Jesus offered us.  It is a lifetime of overcoming.  To endure until the end. 

Matthew 24:13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved. 

·      I’m “old” now (currently 77 years old)

·      still wrestle with doing His will in my life

·      learn not just for that a young person, a lifelong pursuit, endurance,

·      We need to stay in the exact center of His plan for our life. 

May I ask, how can we know God’s plan for our lives? 

Ephesians 2:10 For we are God's masterpiece, created in the Messiah Jesus to perform good actions that God prepared long ago to be our Way of Life. 

Proverbs 10:17 He who keeps instruction is in the Way of Life, But he who refuses correction goes astray. 

Jeremiah 21:8 "Now you shall say to this people, 'Thus says the LORD: "Behold, I set before you the Way of Life and the Way of Death.

This verse tells me that God has something He wants me to do and it tells us, because we are Christians, that there is something that God wants all of us to do as well. 

First, the Father’ wants each of us to be saved, which is important to each of us. 

John 3:16 "For this is how God loved the world: He gave his unique Son so that everyone who believes in him might not be lost but have eternal life. 

The Father wants us to live as a model for the world to see.

 

1 Peter 2:15 For it is God's will that by doing right you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people.

 

Over the past years that we have been in, Jesus’ ministry, we have seen there are some vital keys to knowing God’s will. Let’s looks at a few of them.

 

1. We need to walk with God.

 

If we are truly interested in knowing God’s plan for our lives, then we must learn to walk with Lord Jesus. We need to develop a relationship with Jesus. Christianity is all about relationship rather than just religion.

 

So we must work on our relationship with Lord Jesus. We must seek to know Him and not just seek to know about Him.  We need to listen to the Scriptures and share things, align with His will and walk in His Way of Life and our focus should be on Him.

 

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not depend on your own understanding. (6) In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

 

Micah 6:8 He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?

Deuteronomy 8:6 Observe the commands of the LORD your God by walking in his ways and by fearing him,

 

We can build that relationship best by spending time in His Word, taking time for mediation and prayer, and taking every opportunity to be in service to others.

 

John 4:34 Jesus told them, "My food is doing the will of the one who sent me and completing his work.

 

1 John 2:6 The one who says that he abides in him must live the same way he himself lived.

 

When we walk with the Lord, we draw closer to the Lord with all our heart. He becomes our focus. Our desire to have fellowship with Christ and be like Him will grow while our worldly desires will decrease. 

 

2. Our will needs to match God’s will.

 

Many times, when we say we are seeking God’s will, what we are really wanting to say to God is this: “OK, God, here’s what I’m planning to do.

 

Now I need you to rubber stamp this, all right?” I must tell you that this is not really effective in finding His true will.

 

Before God will begin to reveal His will to you, you must be committed to doing whatever it is that He desires for you to do. God will likely be slow to show you His plan if He knows you will likely not do that plan anyway.

 

Romans 12:1-2 I therefore urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercies, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices that are holy and pleasing to God, for this is the reasonable way for you to worship. (2) Do not be conformed to this world, but continually be transformed by the renewing of your minds so that you may be able to determine what God's will is; what is proper, pleasing, and perfect.

 

Jesus was willing to die for us, so shouldn’t we be willing to live for Him? When we surrender to Him, that is when He really begins to direct our steps.

 

3. Obey what you already know to be God’s Will.

 

Most Christians would like to know what God’s plan is for their lives, but they overlook the fact that 98% of His will is already shown in the Scriptures if we read and study His Word. Jesus is very clear about many, many aspects of His will.

 

A Life Pleasing to God

 

1 Thessalonians 4:1-3 Now then, brothers, you learned from us how you ought to live and to please God, as in fact you are doing. We ask and encourage you in the Lord to do so even more. (2) You know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus. (3) For it is God's will that you be sanctified: You must abstain from sexual immorality.

 

1 Thessalonians 4:4-5 Each of you must know how to control his own body in a holy and honorable manner, (5) not with passion and lust like the gentiles who do not know God.

 

This has happen to us in the past.

 

1 Thessalonians 4:6-7 Furthermore, you must never take advantage of or exploit a brother in this regard, because the Lord avenges all these things, just as we already told you and warned you. (7) For God did not call us to be impure, but to be holy.

 

1 Thessalonians 4:8-9 Therefore, whoever rejects this instruction is not rejecting human authority but God, who gives you his Holy Spirit. (9) Now you do not need anyone to write to you about brotherly love, since you have been taught by God to love each other.

 

If we do not obey the things that God has shown us clearly to be His will, why would we think He would reveal any further information regarding His plan for our lives? Obedience is an important first step.

 

4. We need advice from God.

 

One key component to finding God’s will is to seek the input of righteous advisors in your life.

 

Proverbs 19:20 Listen to advice and accept discipline, and you'll be wise for the rest of your life.

 

Isaiah 55:6-7 "Seek the LORD while he may be found, call upon him while he is near. (7) Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous person his thoughts. Let him return to the LORD, So he'll have mercy upon him, and to our God, for he'll pardon abundantly.

 

Think of it this way: we should understand that, if you choose to surround yourself with God fearing advisors, they will be instrumental in helping us to discern God’s plan for our life. But if we surround yourself with people who are far from God, your hope of finding His best for our life will be greatly hurt.

 

Proverbs 11:14 Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.

 

The church body is designed to help us greatly with this.

 

Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us continue to consider how to motivate one another to love and good deeds, (25) not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another even more as you see the day of the Lord coming nearer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5. What type of personality did God give us.

 

God has created you to fulfill a specific role in this world. There is no one else who can achieve completely what God has purposely created you to do.

 

James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.

 

The Apostle Peter gives us this instruction:

 

1 Peter 4:10 As good servant managers of God's grace in its various forms, serve one another with the gift each of you has received.

 

God has gifted every one of us to perform a special mission for which we alone were created. How amazing is that? Wow!

 

So, when we seek to discover God’s will for our life, pay attention to how He has gifted you. His plan for you will always be directly related to the gifts that He has bestowed upon you.

 

The great news is that you will become good at whatever it is that He has called you to do!

 

1 Corinthians 12:4-6 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit, (5) and there are varieties of ministries, but the same Lord. (6) There are varieties of results, but it is the same God who produces all the results in everyone.

 

1 Corinthians 12:7-8 To each person has been given the ability to manifest the Spirit for the common good. (8) To one has been given a message of wisdom by the Spirit; to another the ability to speak with knowledge according to the same Spirit;

 

 

1 Corinthians 12:9-11 (9) to another faith by the same Spirit; to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit; (10) to another working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another the ability to distinguish between spirits; to another various kinds of languages; and to another the interpretation of languages. (11) But one and the same Spirit produces all these results and gives what he wants to each person.

 

{Holy Spirit know what gift is best for our personality for each of us}

 

What is the greatest gift the Father, can give us?  The Holy Spirit.

 

Luke 11:13 So if you who are evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who keep asking him!"

 

6. God’s Holy Spirit will let us know.

 

God wants to speak to us.  How, by prayer and by reading the Scriptures.  Prayer is a two-way conversation, a fellowship with the Father and is how we have access to God’s very presence. 

 

Hebrews 10:19-20 Therefore, my brothers, since we have confidence to enter the sanctuary by the blood of Jesus, (20) the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain (that is, through his flesh)

 

Jesus tells us:

 

John 10:27 My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Apostle Paul tells us:

 

Romans 8:14-15 For all who are led by God's Spirit are God's children. (15) For you have not received a spirit of slavery that leads you into fear again. Instead, you have received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, "Abba! Father!"

 

God speaks to us through Scriptures which is why we should read it daily.

 

2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, (17) so that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good action.

 

7. What does our heart say.

 

In addition to listening to the Spirit, I also recommend listening to your heart. To understand this, let’s look at:

 

Psalms 37:4-5 Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart. (5) Commit your way to the LORD; Trust him, and he will act.

 

When I am close to Jesus, He lets me do many really cool things that I actually love to do!

 

When we are close to Him, He actually begins to shape my desire so that I desire the things that He has already called me to do.

 

I have fun in life, mainly peace when I am doing God’s will.

 

Colossians 3:15 Let the peace of the Messiah also rule in your hearts, to which you were called in one body, and be thankful.

 

Philippians 4:7 Then God's peace, which goes far beyond anything we can imagine, will guard your hearts and minds in union with the Messiah Jesus.

John 14:27 I am leaving you at peace. I am giving you my own peace. I am not giving it to you as the world gives. So don't let your hearts be troubled, and don't be afraid.

 

8. What are our circumstances like.

 

·      God often clearly demonstrates His plan for our lives by lining up circumstances in obvious ways.

·      We know God is pretty good at opening and closing doors.

·      We are to be content with where we are today.

 

Matthew 6:25 "That's why I'm telling you to stop worrying about your life; what you will eat or what you will drink; or about your body; what you will wear. Life is more than food, isn't it, and the body more than clothing?

 

Matthew 6:26 Look at the birds in the sky. They don't plant or harvest or gather food into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. You are more valuable than they are, aren't you?

 

Hebrews 13:5 Keep your lives free from the love of money, and be content with what you have, for God has said, "I will never leave you or abandon you."     {Be content}

 

The Father wants us to live grateful lives focused on God’s blessings. We shouldn’t be known as complainers.

 

1 Thessalonians 5:18 In everything be thankful, because this is God's will for you in the Messiah Jesus.

 

God often uses closed doors to show us clearly what He does NOT want us to do. And He also uses open doors at times to show us what He DOES want us to do.

 

Of course, this does not mean that every open door is definitely God’s plan, but it does help to give us some basic direction.

 

A Closing Thought:

 

Science says that we need at least 4 basic elements to survive. Water, Air, Food, Light

 

What does the Scriptures tells us. 

 

1.   Water: Jesus said:  I am the Living Water {John 7:37-39, John 4:10}

2.   Air: Jesus said:  I am the Breath of Life {Genesis 2:7; Revelation 11:11}

3.   Food: Jesus said:  I am the Bread of Life {John 6:35}

4.   Light: Jesus said:  I am the light of the World {John 8:12}

 

Yes, science was right, we do need these 4 items to Live

 

The next time we begin to ponder God’s plan for our life, I would encourage us to mediate on what we just covered by reading our Bible, prayer, in other words, soak God’s thinking into your mind.

 

Let’s use these principles to help us to understand the Father’s plan for each of us. Remember, God will work at His pace, not ours. 

 

We need to be satisfied to just “wait” on God and His timing.  And when we seek His will earnestly, we will find it!  It is a lifetime of overcoming.

 

Sin, what is it, really: October 22, 2022

 

Sin, what is it really                  October 22, 2022 

Are All sins the same, apply the same to all people and what is the process or what do we look for in developing sin in our lives 

How often does the word sin show up.  120 matches New Testament using NKJV.   Matthew 7 verses, Mark 3 verses, John 13 verses, James 3 verses, Peter 3 verses, 1 JOHN 10 verses, Paul 60 verses and once in Acts.  What missing, Luke did not use sin once in his book.  Interesting. 

If you’ve been in the church for very long you’ve probably heard, “All sins are the same!” Well, Yes and no, if we are comparing one sin to another, then the Scriptures makes it clear that not all sins are considered equal by Jesus, but there are some ways they’re equal: 

Jesus said in His own words there are greater sins {then lesser sins}. 

Talking to Pilate: 

John 19:11 Jesus answered, "You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin." 

Jesus also tells us there is one, greatest sin 

Matthew 12:31-32 And so I tell you, every kind of sin and slander can be forgiven, but blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven.  (32)  Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come. 

The Greek word for sin is hamartano which is an archery term meaning “to miss the mark.” All sins are the same in that they’re examples of “missing the mark,” or missing the standard set by God’s Holy, Perfect Law. 

That’s why 

1 John 3:4 Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness. 

They’re equal terms of being destructive, an offense to God, and demanding death as a punishment. 

Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. 

Most importantly: they’re the same in that they condemn us to 2^nd death and can only be forgiven through repentance and faith in Jesus. 

Aside from these ways they’re equal, there are problems associated with making this well-known statement.  Some say all sins are the same and other say all sins are not the same or is it somewhere in between.  

Matthew 23:23 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.

 

1 John 1:8-10 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.  (9)  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.  (10)  If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us.

 

John kind of puts a new twist into sin.

 

1 John 5:16-17 If you see any brother or sister commit a sin that does not lead to death, you should pray and God will give them life. I refer to those whose sin does not lead to death. There is a sin that leads to death. I am not saying that you should pray about that.  (17)  All wrongdoing {or unrighteousness} is sin, and there is sin that does not lead to death.

 

1 John 5:18 We know that the person who has been born from God does not go on sinning. Rather, the Son of God protects them, and the evil one cannot harm them.   {Way of Life, following Lord Jesus “Way of Life”}

 

John tells us from verses 19-21, we, you and me, know we are children of God, and we know the whole world is under the control of the evil one. 

We understand from the Father that His Son Jesus, Messiah is the true God and eternal life.  John final remarks are to keep ourselves from idols.

 

James tells us:

 

James 4:17 Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.

 

Basically, there are three different kinds of sin.

 

1.   Inherited sin: We received a passed-on spirit in man from Adam, which we commonly call our “sin nature.” Or human nature, spirit in man.

 

2.   Imputed sin: Even though men were sinners because of their sin natures before the Moses Law was given, sin wasn’t imputed.

 

Romans 5:12 Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this why, death came to all people, because all sinned

 

Because Adam sin, so all of us will die once.

 

Romans 5:13 For until the law sin was in the world, but sin is not charged against anyone's account when there is no law.

 

After the Law was given, sins committed in violation of the Law are accounted (imputed or charged).

 

3.   Personal sin: This is the most common type of sin. We commit this type of sin every day.  This is why we need to recognize our sin and repent of the sin

 

There are Differences in sin, some examples from Book of Exodus

 

Some merit worse punishments than others:

 

Death Penalty for kidnapping:  Exodus 21:16-18

 

Steal something, restitution, restore 4 or 5 times, slave: Exodus 22:1 

 

Death Penalty for sacrifice to any false god:  Exodus 22:20

 

Bitterness has “a root” and can negatively affect many others:

 

Hebrews 12:15 looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled;

 

Murder is described as a sin that pollutes the land, and the blood of the victim calls out for vengeance:

 

Numbers 35:33 So you shall not pollute the land where you are; for blood defiles the land, and no atonement can be made for the land, for the blood that is shed on it, except by the blood of him who shed it.

 

We know there are seven sins God hates:

 

Proverbs 6:16-17 These six things the LORD hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: (17) {1} A proud look, {2} A lying tongue, {3} Hands that shed innocent blood,

 

Proverbs 6:18-19 {4} A heart that devises wicked plans, {5} Feet that are swift in running to evil, (19) {6} A false witness who speaks lies, {7} And one who sows discord among brethren.

 

While all sin is offensive to God, the fact that the above sins are listed reveals they’re different from those not listed.

 

Paul tells us about Works of the flesh is serious sins

 

Galatians 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are evident {or obvious}, which are: adultery, fornication, {physically or morally} uncleanness, {filthy} lewdness,

 

Galatians 5:20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred {or strife}, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions {seditions}, factions {heresies}

 

Galatians 5:21 and envy; {murders}, drunkenness, orgies {rioting}, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

 

Paul said those who live like this….Remember, God can forgive these types of sins, upon repentance.

 

Grace and Mercy, Jesus came to save us from our sins

 

Hebrews 4:16 Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.   {we all need this}

 

Grace and mercy. Mercy and grace. Two terms that are often used interchangeably. They go hand-in-hand, but there is indeed a difference.

 

Mercy is not getting what you do deserve. Showing compassion.

 

Grace, is getting something you don’t deserve.  Given favor or gift.

 

Jesus through His death, His blood and resurrection, did this for all mankind.  No matter what we do in our own power and effort, we cannot change that fact we deserve death because of our sins.  

 

Is this one of the mystery that our Lord Jesus told us about

Mark 4:11 And He said to them, "To you it has been given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God; but to those who are outside, all things come in parables, 

 

Very Important:  Remember there is a difference and judgment between someone who has the spirit in man {unbeliever} and someone who has the Holy Spirit {believer} living in them. 

 

2 Corinthians 6:15 And what accord has Christ with Belial {Satan}? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever?   {Holy Spirit and Spirit in man}

 

We who has the Holy Spirit has already been judge and been given grace and mercy.  We are now being judge for our future rewards.  Bema Seat.

 

1 Corinthians 3:10-11 By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care.  (11)  For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.  {Paul talking to Saints}

 

1 Corinthians 3:12-13 If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, or straw, (13) their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person's work.  {things we do in life _ some examples}

 

1 Corinthians 3:14-15 If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward.  (15)  If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved; even though only as one escaping through the flames.

 

So what are our lives really like.  So what do we do to build on gold, silver or stone.  A kind word to someone, family or stranger.  Is watching TV building with wood, hay or straw?  How do we build character while driving a car.

 

The 2^nd judgment is of unbelievers, people that have the spirit in man, will be judged at the great White Throne Judgment. 

 

Have you thought about how we come to sin

 

James 1:13 Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone.

 

Notice the Father or Lord Jesus does not tempt anyone with evil, they allows trials on us in order not to make us worse, but to make us better.

 

James 1:14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires {or lusts} and enticed {entrapped}. 

 

Sin does not force itself on the unwilling, but is chosen because of its attractions

 

James 1:15 Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.  {1^st physical death}

 

Conceived suggests the image of a person’s will bending toward and finally seizing or falling for the evil.

 

Full-grown suggests bringing a goal to completion. The idea here is that sin has reached its maturity and has possessed the very character of the individual

 

Basically, the person admits and receives it, and cherishes it in their mind; they dally and plays with it and dwells upon it in their thoughts, and hides it under their tongue, and in their heart, as a sweet morsel, and do not forsake, but contrives ways and means how to bring it about; and this is lust's conceiving.

 

James 1:16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren.

 

James is telling the Saints not to be deceived by this, about the Father and Lord Jesus tempting anyone.

 

Overall, James is telling us when desires {or lusts} has conceived. The course of sin is described as that of a birth.

 

Notice there is 4 parts to how sin comes about.

 

1.   Desire.  2. Deception.   3. Disobedience.  4. Death

 

Where did James learn this but probably from the book of Proverbs 7

 

Desire, verses 6-20

 

Proverbs 7:6-7 For at the window of my house I looked through my lattice,  (7)  And saw among the simple, I perceived among the youths, A young man devoid of understanding,  {young man, no wisdom}

 

Proverbs 7:8-9 Passing along the street near her corner; And he took the path to her house (9)  In the twilight, in the evening, In the black and dark night.  {he knew what he was looking for and she was waiting for him}

 

Proverbs 7:10-11 And there a woman met him, With the attire of a harlot, and a crafty heart. (11) She was loud and rebellious, Her feet would not stay at home. {something is common with her}

 

Proverbs 7:12-13 At times she was outside, at times in the open square, Lurking at every corner. (13) So she caught him and kissed him; With an impudent face she said to him:  {she was looking all over for him}

 

Proverbs 7:14-15 "I have peace offerings with me; Today I have paid my vows. (15) So I came out to meet you, Diligently to seek your face, And I have found you.  {he is caught by her, like a bird in a snare}

 

Proverbs 7:16-17 I have spread my bed with tapestry, Colored coverings of Egyptian linen.  (17)  I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.  {she has her bedroom ready for the young man}

 

Proverbs 7:18-19 Come, let us take our fill of love until morning; Let us delight ourselves with love.  (19)  For my husband is not at home; He has gone on a long journey;  {she married, husband is gone}

 

 

Proverbs 7:20 He has taken a bag of money with him, and will come home on the appointed day."

 

Deception vs 21

 

Proverbs 7:21 With her enticing speech she caused him to yield, With her flattering lips she seduced him. {young man had no chance against her}

Disobedience vs 22-23.

 

Proverbs 7:22-23 Immediately he went after her, as an ox goes to the slaughter, Or as a fool to the correction of the stocks {fit for a trap}, (23) Till an arrow struck his liver. As a bird hastens to the snare, He did not know it would cost his life.  {Notice young man is unaware of his fate}

 

Death vs 24-27

 

Proverbs 7:24-25 Now therefore, listen to me, my children; Pay attention to the words of my mouth: (25) Do not let your heart turn aside to her ways, Do not stray into her paths; {Proverbs tells the man not to do it}

 

Proverbs 7:26-27 For she has cast down many wounded, And all who were slain by her were strong men.  (27)  Her house is the way to hell, Descending to the chambers of death. {men do not think it will affect them}

 

To counter this procedure or action of sin, we are told by the Apostle Paul, what?

 

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy; meditate on these things.

 

We are told this is what we need to do, especially in prayer.

Last Great Day – 2022, 100 year period October 17, 2022

 Last Great Day – 2022, 100 year period      October 17, 2022    

The 8^th Day of the Feast of Tabernacles, even though it is a separate High Day, but is considered part of the Feast of Tabernacles.  

Joel 2:11 The LORD will shout in the presence of his forces, because his encampment is very great; for powerful is he who carries out his message. Truly the Day of the LORD is great, and very terrifying. Who will be able to survive it?"

 

When we read about the Great Day of the Lord is before Satan and the demons are put away for a 1000 years.  Then they are released so they can complete their time period of rule of 6000 years because it was cut short for the sake of the elect.

 

The 2^nd judgment is of unbelievers, people that have the spirit in man, will be judged at the great White Throne Judgment.  Will they at this time be given their opportunity to repent and live a period of time on the earth, 100 years, before being changed to spirit being.  We know all people, will be brought back to life except for the Saints.

 

Important, remember, Satan and his demons are locked up and removed forever, not again going to affect anyone.  No more, influencing people.

 

What about all those who have lived and died without ever being called of God, who never had an opportunity to know and really understand God’s purpose and plan for mankind.  Are they lost forever?  Blinded by Satan.

 

Rivers of Living Water, the Last Great Day

 

John 7:37-38 On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.

 (38) He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water."   (if anyone - All people)

 

Living Water, what is this.  The Holy Spirit

 

John 7:39 But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

Jesus was not talking about physical thirst here. He was revealing that if any man have spiritual thirst, and believes on Him, he can come to Jesus and drink in the Holy Spirit.  Living waters, rivers of living water.

 

On the 8th day; the Great Day of the Feast; the special High Sabbath, is when Jesus made His first announcement to the people of the coming of the Holy Spirit.  There is a water ceremony done on this day by the Priests.  The Jewish leadership looked at the Feast of 8 days.

 

 “keep a festival for eight days” Josephus in Antiquities of the Jews (iii. 10, § 6) 

 

8^th Day: A day for assembly—or pause

 

Spiritually, 8^th Day can also be seen to "guard the seven days of Sukkot" and is characterized as a day when the Jewish people "tarries" to spend an additional day with God at the end of Sukkot.

 

Therefore, Shemini Atzeret is considered "a feast day and the end of the Feast of Tabernacles and during this time is the last readings of the Scriptures for the past year in the Temple.

 

God's Master Plan will be completed celebrating this Feast Day, the 8^th Day

 

8^th Day pictures the judgment when the vast majority of humanity will be resurrected to mortal life and given their opportunity for salvation.

 

What about all those who have lived and died without ever being called of God (including, perhaps, most of our loved ones today); Good people, who never had an opportunity to know and really understand God's purpose and plan for them? Because Satan blinded them. Are they lost forever?  No.

 

Can we really imagine a merciful and just God condemning innocent little children; some who died before they could either walk or talk; to remain dead for all eternity without the knowledge of God's way of life and without being given the opportunity to live forever?

 

God has planned for everyone who has ever lived to receive an opportunity for salvation and Sonship in His Family, just as the already spiritually called and begotten children of God have been given their opportunity.

 

Simply the dead; those billions who are not Christ's and have never been called of God, most of whom have never even heard the name of Jesus Christ.  God wants all to be saved.  Those who has the spirit in man.

 

2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some people understand slowness, but is being patient with you. He does not want anyone to perish, but wants everyone to repent.

 

1 Timothy 2:3-4 This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, (4) who wants all people to be saved and to come to know the truth fully.

 

Will everyone be saved at the same time, or is there a definite time-order

 

1 Corinthians 15:22-24 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive. (23) But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterward those who are Christ's at His coming. (24) Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power.

 

Romans 10:9 If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.   {We have at some hints about the White Throne Judgement}

 

Then in the future, the dead will be given their opportunity to become members of God's Family. Remember, Satan is gone forever.

 

The individuals will be given enough time to learn to obey God, just as Spirit-begotten Christians have opportunity to do today. Those who continue to live God's way of life, developing the character of God, will be changed to Spiritual Beings at the end of this period of judgment, which apparently will last 100 years. {is this a hint at the mystery time}

 

How long will their period of judgment last, 100 years for all

 

Isaiah 65:20 "And there will no longer be in it a young boy who lives only a few days, or an old person who does not live out his days; for one who dies at a hundred years will be thought a mere youth, and one who falls short of a hundred years will be considered accursed.

 

100 years, time period for all people to live.

All people will be resurrected later to a physical soul, brought back to life with a body and with their spirit in man and then be given the Holy Spirit.  Lord Jesus does not want anyone to die.

 

This verse in Isaiah apparently refers to this judgment period, suggesting that those resurrected then will live for 100 years, regardless of how old they were when they died.

 

Isaiah 65:21 People will build houses and live in them; They'll plant vineyards and eat their fruit.

 

Isaiah 65:22 They won't build for others to inhabit; they won't plant for others to eat--for like the lifetime of a tree, so will the lifetime of my people be, and my chosen ones will long enjoy the work of their hands.

 

God has, in His fairness, planned for everyone who has ever lived to receive the very same opportunity for salvation that we are being given!

 

Just as the week is not complete without the Sabbath Day, so God's Master Plan is not complete without the Father’ 8^th Day, High Sabbath

 

Revelation 20:4 I saw thrones on which were seated those who had been given authority to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of their testimony about Jesus and because of the word of God. They had not worshiped the beast or its image and had not received its mark on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ a thousand years.

 

Revelation 20:5-6 (The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended.) This is the first resurrection.  (6)  Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years.

 

Revelation 20:7 When the thousand years are over, Satan will be freed from his prison.

 

John just told us

 

Insert:  These are not the dead in Christ, but simply; the dead; those millions who are not Christ; who have not been converted, who may never have heard the gospel or the name of Jesus.  Only have spirit in man and not the Holy Spirit.  Unbelievers vs believers.

 

What happens to the dead.  These are Gentiles and Israelites. {Hint}

 

The prophet Ezekiel describe a resurrection of dead Israelites back to mortal life.

 

This is a resurrect to physical life; with bodies of flesh, skin and bones and require air to live.

 

Ezekiel 37:5 Thus says the Lord GOD to these bones: "Surely I will cause breath to enter into you, and you shall live.

 

Ezekiel 37:6-7 I'm going to grow tendons on you, regenerate your flesh, cover you with skin, and make you breathe again so that you can come back to life and learn that I am the LORD.'" (7) So I prophesied, just as I had been ordered to do so. Immediately there was a noise and a rattling; and then all of a sudden the bones came together by themselves! Each bone came together, all of them attached together!

 

Ezekiel 37:8-9 As I continued to watch, I saw tendons growing on the bones, and muscles growing and covering them, and then skin covered the flesh from above. But the bodies weren't breathing. (9) Then he ordered me, "Prophesy to the Spirit, Son of Man. Tell the Spirit, 'This is what the Lord GOD says: "Come from the four winds, you Spirit, and breathe into these people who have been killed, so they will live."'"  Spirit in man?

 

 

 

Ezekiel 37:11-12 "These bones represent the entire house of Israel," the LORD explained to me. "Look how they keep saying, 'Our bones are dried up, and our future is lost. We've been completely eliminated!' (12) "Therefore prophesy to them, and tell them, 'Watch me! I'm going to open your graves, lift you out of those graves, and bring my people back into the land of Israel.

 

Ezekiel 37:13 Then you'll learn that I am the LORD, when I've opened your graves and caused you to come up out of them, my people.   {during the White Throne Judgement}

 

God will then give His Holy Spirit to the millions and millions of peoples. 

 

Ezekiel 37:14 I'm going to place my Spirit in you all, and you will live. I'll place you all into your land, and you'll learn that I, the LORD, have been speaking and doing this,' declares the LORD."

 

Place physical people back into their land, for a period of time?

 

Even Gentiles will also be resurrected to physical life and return to how they were before.  Exciting this will happen

 

Ezekiel 16:55 And your sisters, Sodom with her daughters and Samaria with her daughters, will return to what they were before; and you and your daughters will return to what you were before. {a physical resurrection}

 

John makes clear, "the rest of the dead"; those who never had a chance to understand God's truth-would not come up in a resurrection "until the thousand years were finished." This resurrection, which occurs after the 1,000 years are finished and last great battle, is the second resurrection.

 

God will remove Satan and demons; completely powerless; the dead will be resurrected to have their opportunity to understand God's Master Plan.

 

Revelation 20:1-2 Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding the key to the bottomless pit, with a large chain in his hand. (2) He captured the dragon, that ancient serpent, also known as the devil and Satan, and tied him up for a thousand years. {happen again}

Revelation 20:3 He threw him into the bottomless pit, locked it, and sealed it over him to keep him from deceiving the nations anymore until the thousand years were over. After that he must be set free for a little while.  {Will be one final battle of the armies of the world with Lord Jesus.}

 

So what about this 8^th day, it is known as the great Day of Judgment.  It is a day of judgment for angels and men.  {Day of judgment}

 

Jude 1:6 He has also held in eternal chains those angels who did not keep their own position but abandoned their assigned place. They are held in deepest darkness for judgment on the great day.

 

2 Peter 2:4 For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but threw them into the lowest hell and imprisoned them in chains of deepest darkness, holding them for judgment;  {angel were spirit} 

 

Judgment Before the Great White Throne

 

Revelation 20:11 Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. The earth and the heavens fled from his presence, and there was no place for them.  {Lord Jesus seated on the great white throne}

 

All, spirit in man, people standing before Lord Jesus, souls or physical.  How long is this time.  Could time period be 100 years or so when judging is done before fire destroy the earth and heaven. We only have hints of the time period.

 

Can we really judge someone, an unbeliever, who has been blinded by Satan.  Can they live a life overcoming their human nature without Satan influence and build righteous character.

 

2 Corinthians 4:4 The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.  {Satan is removed forever}

 

It takes time to grow in righteous character, we are given 70 years or so, they might need 100 years. 

 

Something to think about, the angels were created instantly, without time to develop the right character. What happen, some rebelled.

Revelation 20:12 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books.

 

Revelation 20:13 The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what they had done.

 

Revelation 20:14-15 Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death.  (15)  Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.

 

Even after 100 year period, if someone will not repent and accept Jesus as Lord and King.  Their fate set.  What about those who believe that Lord Jesus is our King and High Priest today.

 

The dead who stand before God will not include the, Saints, today, because they will appear before Christ and receive their rewards at the first resurrection, when Christ returns.  We are being judge now for our rewards.  This is you and me, Saints.

 

The dead; time of salvation; will then occur!

 

Those resurrected after the Millennium will be judged the same way.

 

1 Corinthians 11:32 Now, while we are being judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined so we won't be condemned along with the world.

 

They, like Spirit-begotten Christians today, will be given enough time to prove they are willing to live God's Way of Life through a life of overcoming and obedience to God.  How much time does that take.

 

The judgment of the Great Day, - The final judgment, when both angels and men shall receive their judgment at this time.

 

How long is this day of judgment?  Do you think the time it is only when all mankind is brought back to physical life, then straight to judgment to life or death without any time to overcome. 

Think of the hundreds of millions of people that has not been given a chance for salvation and not given the Holy Spirit to lead and direct them in life.  What about babies, children that died.

 

The Scriptures shows that the vast majority of those who ever lived will finally be born into God's Family at the end of this coming period of judgment, pictured by the Last Great Day, 8^th Day.

 

God's Master Plan of salvation for mankind will then be complete.

Then the Spirit Members of God's Family can look forward to new heavens and a new earth; and to new and wonderful opportunities in ruling the universe under God our Father and Jesus Christ our elder brother!

 

New Heavens and a New Earth

 

Isaiah 65:17 Take notice! I'm about to create new heavens and a new earth; the former things won't be remembered, nor will they come to mind.

 

Time when Jesus renews the heaven and earth, Said He will do it, in the future?  Is this the start of the White Throne Judgment? 

 

Isaiah 65:18 But be glad and rejoice forever in what I am creating, for I am about to create Jerusalem as a joy, and its people as a delight.

 

Isaiah 65:19 I'll rejoice over Jerusalem, and take delight in my people; no longer will the sound of weeping be heard in it, nor the cry of distress.

 

These individuals has the spirit in man and will be given enough time to learn to obey God just as Saints have opportunity to do today, without any influence from Satan.  They will be given the Holy Spirit.

 

Those who continue to live God’s Way of Life, developing the character of God, will be changed from physical to spiritual at the end of this period of judgment, which will, might last 100 years and will be given access to the Holy Spirit.  Are we also not given time to overcome and grow.

 

 

Christ will make salvation available to everyone who ever lived, but never heard or under-stood the truth, in the last great step in God's plan; the 8^th   Day, picturing the last judgment period. Completion of God's Master Plan; the Great White Throne Judgment period after the Millennium.

 

Which is easier to overcome, Satan broadcasting daily to people today or with Satan removed for good and not broadcasting.  The rewards to each.

 

Who will teach these thousands of millions? That is what we will be doing. Millions of teachers who will have been born into God's Family in the first resurrection.

 

We will be the teachers and what is Very Inspiring, we will teach our family member who were not called during this time or age.  Yes, we will be the teachers to our parents, brothers, sister, uncles, aunts, grandparents.  We will help them to become like us, born Spirit Beings in the Kingdom of God. 

 

Unlearning all the falsehoods learned in their first life and learning God's true ways will take time. And building character will take time, because character can be developed only through time and experience.

 

The Scriptures shows that the vast majority of those who have ever lived will finally be born into God's Family at the end of their coming period of judgment. God's Master Plan of salvation for all mankind will then be complete.

 

Revelation 22:12 "See! I am coming soon! My reward is with me to repay everyone according to his action.

 

Revelation 22:20 The one who is testifying to these things says, "Yes,

 I am coming soon!" Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!  {Faith and Hope.}

 

Lord Jesus has Grace and Mercy for the people and in complete control of everything.