THIEME’S

BIBLE DOCTRINE
DICTIONARY

R. B. THIEME, JR.

R. B. THIEME, JR., BIBLE MINISTRIES

HOUSTON, TEXAS
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R. B. Thieme, Jr., Bible Ministries is a grace ministry and operates entirely on
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This book is edited from the lectures and unpublished notes of R. B. Thieme, Jr.

A Doctrinal Bible Studies Catalogue will be provided upon request.

R. B. Thieme, Jr., Bible Ministries

P. O. Box 460829, Houston, Texas 77056-8829
www.rbthieme.org

© 2022 by R. B. Thieme, Jr. All rights reserved.

First edition published 2022.

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Scripture taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971,
1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.

Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. Copyright
© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan
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Printed in the United States of America

ISBN 978-1-55764-212-7
T HE WORD OF GOD is alive and powerful,
sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to
the dividing asunder of the soul and the spirit, and of the
joints and the marrow, and is a critic of thoughts and intents
of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)
All Scripture is God-breathed, and is profitable for doctrine,
for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness;
that the man of God might be mature, thoroughly furnished
unto all good works. (2 Timothy 3:16–17)
Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that
needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
(2 Timothy 2:15)
Before you begin your Bible study...

If you are a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, be sure you have named
your sins privately to God the Father.
If we confess our [known] sins, He is faithful and righteous
to forgive us our [known] sins and to cleanse us from all
unrighteousness [unknown or forgotten sins]. (1 John 1:9)
You will then be in fellowship with God, filled with the Holy Spirit, and
ready to learn Bible doctrine from the Word of God.
“God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in
[the filling of the] spirit and [biblical] truth.” (John 4:24)
If you have never personally believed in the Lord Jesus Christ as your
Savior, the issue is not naming your sins. The issue is faith alone in
Christ alone.
“He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does
not obey [the command to believe in] the Son shall not see
life, but the wrath of God abides on him.” (John 3:36)
Introduction
Words are the tools of thought. Whether learning music or medicine, cooking or chemistry,
architecture or art, you will find a specialized vocabulary for every field. Biblical theology and
the spiritual life are no exceptions.
God set the precedent for coining words in Genesis 1:5: “God called the light day, and the
darkness He called night.” As revelation of God progressed, the Holy Spirit introduced new
terminology in the Scriptures. Often, common everyday words were invested with the weight of
eternity as they defined the grace and majesty of salvation. At other times, the writers of the Old
and New Testaments, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, created new terms to convey the
wisdom of God. The development of theological terminology continued in the centuries after
Christ: Common Greek words like hupostasis acquired doctrinal significance. New words like
Trinity, Millennium, Rapture were formed to communicate scriptural concepts. Theologians
from Anselm to John Calvin to L. S. Chafer modified, enhanced, and originated words and
phrases that entered the mainstream of Christian discourse. With the same dedication to
truth, pastor-teacher Robert B. Thieme, Jr., developed a system of vocabulary, categories, and
illustrations to clarify God’s Word for his congregation.
Thieme served the Lord as pastor of Berachah Church for fifty-three years. To study and
teach the Word of God, day in and day out, was his unwavering objective, and his dynamic
and biblically sound messages reached positive believers around the globe. What began in
the mid-twentieth century as a small, reel-to-reel tape ministry for locals grew to become
R. B. Thieme, Jr., Bible Ministries, a grace organization dedicated to distributing his books and
sermons to individuals in every corner of the world. Thieme’s love for the Lord and his passion
to communicate Bible doctrine will never be forgotten. Shortly before retiring from the pulpit,
he penned the following message in salute to his faithful congregation:

I leave you a legacy of Bible doctrine in tapes and in books as the full expression
of my love for you. Bible doctrine made real through the mentorship of the Holy
Spirit is far greater than the accumulation of my human achievements. Only
doctrine in the soul and God’s grace in my life is what counts.

Bible doctrine is the absolute truth from God that reveals His character, His standards,
and His infinitely superior wisdom. For Christians to know God and fulfill His purpose,
these eternal principles must become spiritual thinking in the soul. This explains why, over
the years, Pastor Thieme concentrated on teaching (and re teaching) the fundamentals
of doctrine using relatable terms and organized categories. While many of his terms do
not appear as such in the Bible, they all have biblical significance. For instance, the word
“rebound,” which draws on the idea of “bouncing back,” describes the believer’s recovery
 viii

from sin taught in 1 John 1:9, and “grace pipeline” visually depicts the way God supplies all of
our needs, as promised in Philippians 4:19. Added to this word treasury are Thieme’s practical
explanations of standard theological terms—like reconciliation, impeccability, Trinity—so that
through rich vocabulary the believer can comprehend the details of God’s plan. Explanations of
Greek and Hebrew words, as well as biblical metaphors, also bring the Scriptures to life.
Thieme’s Bible Doctrine Dictionary delineates over eight hundred terms and related doctrines
that teach the Godhead, angelic and human history, salvation, and the Christian way of
life. Entries have been formed from personal notes, transcripts, and recordings of over
eleven thousand hours of Thieme’s teaching from the pulpit. Following the Thieme maxim,
Repetition! Repetition! Repetition!, doctrinal concepts are variously restated, reemphasized, and
reexplained, while duplications are minimized by a system of cross-references. Such references
also coordinate the doctrines and emphasize the cohesiveness of God’s Word. Most importantly,
Thieme’s Bible Doctrine Dictionary serves as a valuable companion to his extensive teaching
ministry. Entries therefore include references to relevant lessons and publications, all available
free of charge from R. B. Thieme, Jr., Bible Ministries.

I have given you vocabulary because one word will sometimes cover a tremendous
system of doctrine by which you are going to spend eternity in the presence of God.
“Hypostatic union,” for example—that is vocabulary! That is Jesus Christ as the
God-man, becoming true humanity so that He could go to the cross and be judged for
our sins. As you build vocabulary upon vocabulary, you develop categories of doctrine
and begin to think with divine viewpoint. The byproducts are inner peace, inner
happiness, inner power and blessing.

–R. B. Thieme, Jr.

Using the Dictionary
Thieme’s Bible Doctrine Dictionary provides a ready reference guide for the study of God’s
Word. Definitions encapsulate Pastor Thieme’s teaching on each subject, allowing the reader
to comprehend the essence of the term. Since the entries are not intended to be exhaustive,
recommendations for further studies are shown throughout the book. Readers are encouraged
to consult these additional materials for greater context and understanding.

Word etymologies and original Greek or Hebrew words are given in brackets next to the term
when pertinent. Cross-references to other dictionary terms are printed in small capitals within
or at the end of an entry. Scripture, unless otherwise noted, is quoted from the New American
Standard Bible 1995 (NASB). For simplicity, the text uses generic masculine pronouns (he, him,
his) in statements that apply equally to male and female.

Reference paragraphs, which follow most entries, are explained in the example below:

See also grace; imputations; integrity of God. Additional dictionary entries that expand
For further reference, Christian Integrity. upon and clarify the subject.
Lessons 631:199–201; 412:1238.

Titles of Thieme publications with

teaching on the subject. Publications are
available from R. B. Thieme, Jr., Bible
Ministries. See book list on page x.

Series number: lesson number(s)

Indicates specific lessons taught on the subject. Lesson recordings are available from
R. B. Thieme, Jr., Bible Ministries.
In this example, lessons 199 through 201 of the David series and lesson 1238 of the
Ephesians series are referenced. Series titles and their series numbers are listed on
page xiii.
Thieme Books Referenced in Dictionary
For the full list of available publications, visit www.rbthieme.org

The Angelic Conflict details the ongoing invisible warfare between God and Satan, including why
it began and when it will end. 163 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio/eBook.
Anti-Semitism is the historical, biblical perspective on the Satan-inspired antagonism toward
God’s elect people, the Jews. 140 pages, English, print/audio.
Apostasy in the Land: An Essay on Historical Trends. English, print leaflet.
Armageddon presents history’s final campaign of war, when Jesus Christ defeats Israel’s enemies
and deposes Satan as ruler of this world. 40 pages, English, print/audio.
The Barrier describes the insurmountable separation between God and man, removed by
Christ’s saving work on the cross. 45 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio/eBook.
The Blood of Christ clarifies the true meaning of this familiar phrase and delineates the doctrine
of Christ’s substitutionary work on the cross. 37 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio.
Canonicity describes the divine origin of the Bible and how God’s Word has been preserved
throughout the centuries. 66 pages, English, print.
Christian, at Ease! commands the believer to claim the promises of God, mix them with faith,
and enter into God’s rest. 24-page booklet, English/Spanish, print/audio.
Christian Integrity details the inner strength and virtue derived from living by the Word of God,
the same soul integrity that sustained Jesus Christ on earth. 222 pages, English/Spanish, print.
Christian Suffering assures believers that every distress in life has a reason and solution related
to the plan of God. 208 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio.
Creation, Chaos, & Restoration presents the divine account of the origin and order of the
universe and life within it. 47 pages, English, print/audio.
Daniel Chapters One through Six tells of the faithfulness and dependence on the Lord that made
an ordinary man an extraordinary influence on history. 216 pages, English, print/audio.
Divine Guidance resolves the dilemma of how we determine God’s will for our lives—how we
think, what we do, and where we live according to His desires. 28 pages, English/Spanish, print/
audio/eBook.
The Divine Outline of History: Dispensations and the Church reveals the unfolding of God’s plan
across time, emphasizing the current age and its uniqueness among the other periods of
human history. 142 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio.
Dying Grace presents the glorious experience designed by God for the believer’s final walk on
earth. 44 pages, English, print/audio.
The Faith-Rest Life promises moment-by-moment peace—despite pressure and adversity—to the
believer who continually trusts in God. 61 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio/eBook.
 xi

Follow the Colors beckons the believer to press forward to the objective of spiritual maturity.
83 pages, English, print.
Freedom through Military Victory focuses attention on the means of national liberty and
protection and gives the biblical perspective on war. 101 pages, English, print/audio.
Giving: Gimmick or Grace? clarifies the correct motivation when offering money or service in
God’s name. 40 pages, English, print/audio.
God the Holy Spirit vs. The Sin Nature brings to light the ceaseless conflict inside every believer.
38 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio/eBook.
God’s Perfect Gift presents the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the Christmastime context.
23-page booklet, English/Spanish, print.
Heathenism clearly identifies the unsaved and answers questions about those who have not
heard the Gospel. 30 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio.
In Harm’s Way is an edited Bible class transcript dedicated to men and women on active
military duty. 26-page booklet, English, print/audio.
The Integrity of God delineates how God’s perfect character operates in behalf of each Christian,
from salvation to the spiritual life to rewards in heaven. 327 pages, English/Spanish, print.
In Whom Do You Trust? addresses the only hope for reaching and maintaining a virtuous human
existence: faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. 14 pages, English, print.
Isolation of Sin teaches the technique for breaking the chain of carnality and moving forward in
the spiritual life. 31 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio/eBook.
King of Kings and Lord of Lords is a tribute to the impeccable God-man Jesus Christ, who despite
agonizing injustice and torture remained true to His purpose of sacrificing Himself for sinful
humanity. 95 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio.
Levitical Offerings describes the rituals assigned to Old Testament Israel and draws doctrinal
analogies for Church Age application. 104 pages, English, print.
A Matter of Life & Death presents the message of salvation for the unbeliever. 17-page booklet,
English/Spanish, print/audio/eBook.
Mental Attitude Dynamics emphasizes the fact that we are what we think, and that God
mandates believers in Jesus Christ to think with a perspective of life based on His Word.
59 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio/eBook.
The Origin of Human Life uses pertinent yet easily misunderstood Bible verses to resolve
controversies over when human life begins. 48 pages, English, print.
The Plan of God reveals the three stages of God’s plan for Christians: salvation, life on earth, and
eternity. 33 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio/eBook.
Prayer is a study of God’s provision for believers to communicate with Him, defining protocol
for approaching the throne of grace and principles for understanding God’s response. 36 pages,
English/Spanish, print/audio/eBook.
The Prodigal Son uses the famous biblical parable to teach the doctrines of sin, the sin nature,
and divine forgiveness. 48 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio/eBook.
 xii

Psalm Twenty-Three delves into David’s famous song of hope to demonstrate how a mature
believer endures suffering and triumphs over his enemies. 20-page booklet, English, print.
The Pursuit of Happiness confirms that only by having the Word of God in the soul can the
believer attain true contentment. 55 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio.
Rebound & Keep Moving! proclaims the key to the Christian way of life: utilizing God’s resources
to overcome the power of the sin nature and to advance in His plan. 45 pages, English/Spanish,
print/audio/eBook.
Rebound Revisited uses an event in the life of Paul to further explore God’s directive for
addressing postsalvation sins and regaining momentum in the spiritual life. 39 pages, English,
print/audio.
Reversionism clarifies why believers can act like unbelievers, how the eternally saved can revert
to spiritual decadence, and how God in grace provides the way of escape. 162 pages, English/
Spanish, print/audio.
Satan and Demonism reveals the covert operation of fallen angels aimed at humanity and
answers questions of who can be enticed, influenced, or even possessed. 85 pages, English,
print/audio.
Slave Market of Sin explains the inescapable bondage into which we all are born and reveals
God’s gracious plan for purchasing our freedom. 43 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio/eBook.
Tongues presents the biblical perspective on the spectacular gift designed for first-century
evangelism and clarifies confusion surrounding present-day erroneous practices.
87 pages, English, print/audio.
The Trinity confirms the uniqueness of Christianity among all other religions—one God in three
coequal divine persons, a critical doctrine that illuminates the believer’s destiny in time and
eternity. 39 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio/eBook.
The Unfailing Love of God reveals the supreme concept behind God’s plan for humanity, the
divine attribute that provides salvation, motivates spiritual growth, and secures the believer’s
eternal future with Him. 115 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio.
Victorious Proclamation focuses on the announcement of triumph made by the resurrected
Christ to imprisoned fallen angels, confirming His eternal victory over their evil master.
36 pages, English, print/audio.
Witnessing guides the believer through his most critical role on earth—to represent by word and
action the person of Jesus Christ. 49 pages, English/Spanish, print/audio/eBook.
Thieme Lessons Referenced in Dictionary
For the full catalogue of lessons, visit www.rbthieme.org

Series Title Series Title

101 Basics (1961) 536 Isaiah (1962)

102 Basics (1969) 540 Jeremiah (1970)
201 Dispensations (1963) 554 Joshua (1962)
212 Ephesians (1972) 584 Proverbs (1966)
215 Christology (1960) 585 Proverbs 1 (1966)
361 James 4 (1989) 586 Psalms (1966)
366 Psalm 37 (1980) 594 Song of Solomon (1970)
373 Sands of Time: Ecclesiastes 3, 12 (1973) 596 Zechariah (1967)
376 Spiritual Dynamics (1992) 600 Abraham (1976)
402 Acts (1965) 601 Adam's Rib (1972)
405 Colossians (1972) 608 Anti-Semitism (1989)
408 1 Corinthians (1964) 624 Civilizations: Genesis 9—10 (1971)
410 2 Corinthians (1968) 631 David (1972)
412 Ephesians (1985) 637 Elijah & Pivot Politics (1979)
416 Galatians (1961) 640 Evil (1975)
419 Hebrews (1972) 643 Faith-Rest for the Crisis (1979)
422 James (1971) 658 Giving (1971)
424 John (1967) 665 Great Chapters (1977)
429 1 John (1981) 689 Moses (1963)
431 2 John (1980) 696 Marriage (1964)
438 Matthew (1965) 728 Protocol Plan of God (1984)
443 1 Peter (1970) 744 Right Man/Right Woman (1970)
445 2 Peter (1972) 748 Satan & the Angelic Conflict (1967)
454 Philippians (1976) 776 Teens (1965)
457 Revelation (1981) 795 Woman (1976)
458 Romans (1977) 809 Assyrian Crisis (1976)
461 1 Thessalonians (1961) 835 Higher Purpose of Freedom (1995)
467 1 Timothy (1975) 840 Israel in Conflict (1991)
469 2 Timothy (1975) 845 Adversity vs. Stress (1991)
508 Daniel (1970) 870 Prophecy—Middle East (1991)
526 Genesis 1:1—2:6 (1972) 877 Strong Delusion (1979)
527 Genesis 2:7—6:22 (1975)
Illustrations, Timelines,& Tables
Page
Figure 1 Tribulational Antichrists ....................................................................................................... 8
Figure 2 Phases of the Appeal Trial of Satan ..................................................................................... 12
Figure 3 Ark of the Covenant .............................................................................................................. 13
Figure 4 Armor of God ........................................................................................................................ 15
Figure 5 The Insurmountable Barrier ................................................................................................ 22
Figure 6 Church Age/Dispensation of the Church ............................................................................. 38
Figure 7 Crucifixion Prophecy ............................................................................................................ 49
Figure 8 Dispensations of Human History ......................................................................................... 64
Figure 9 Age of Gentiles ...................................................................................................................... 65
Figure 10 Age of Hypostatic Union ....................................................................................................... 66
Figure 11 Age of Israel .......................................................................................................................... 67
Figure 12 Gates of the Divine Dynasphere ........................................................................................... 70
Figure 13 Edification Complex of the Soul .......................................................................................... 80
Figure 14 Essence of God .......................................................................................................................... 87
Figure 15 Grace Pipeline ...................................................................................................................... 116
Figure 16 Gratitude Gauge ................................................................................................................... 117
Figure 17 Categories of Hope ............................................................................................................... 127
Figure 18 Impersonal vs. Personal Love .............................................................................................. 136
Figure 19 Chronology of End Times ..................................................................................................... 172
Figure 20 Operation Z for Learning God’s Word .................................................................................. 186
Figure 21 Operation Z at Gospel Hearing ............................................................................................ 187
Figure 22 Personal vs. Impersonal Love .............................................................................................. 194
Figure 23 Problem-Solving Devices ..................................................................................................... 205
Figure 24 Road to Ruin ......................................................................................................................... 226
Figure 25 Simultaneous Advance in the Believer’s Soul ..................................................................... 241
Figure 26 Sin Nature ............................................................................................................................. 242
Figure 27 Essence of the Human Soul ................................................................................................. 244
Figure 28 Imputation of Soul Life ........................................................................................................ 245
Figure 29 Stages of Spiritual Adulthood .............................................................................................. 247
Figure 30 Stream of Consciousness ..................................................................................................... 256
Figure 31 Stages of Suffering for Blessing ........................................................................................... 259
Figure 32 Top and Bottom Circles ........................................................................................................ 268
Figure 33 Tribulation ............................................................................................................................ 272
Figure 34 Trinity .................................................................................................................................... 274
Figure 35 XYZ Equation of Hope .......................................................................................................... 297
Abbreviations
General
ca. circa, about, approximately Isa. Isaiah
cf. confer, compare Jer. Jeremiah
e.g. exempli gratia, for example Lam. Lamentations
Fr. French Ezek. Ezekiel
Gk. Greek Dan. Daniel
Heb. Hebrew Hosea Hosea
ibid. ibidem, in the same place Joel Joel
(as in previous note) Amos Amos
i.e. id est, that is Obad. Obadiah
KJV King James Version Jonah Jonah
Lat. Latin Micah Micah
lit. literal; literally Nah. Nahum
LXX Septuagint Hab. Habakkuk
n. noun Zeph. Zephaniah
NASB New American Standard Bible (1995 ed.) Hag. Haggai
NIV New International Version (1984 ed.) Zech. Zechariah
NT New Testament Mal. Malachi
OT Old Testament
pl. plural Bible Books, New Testament
s.v. sub verba, under the word Matt. Matthew
trans. translated by; translation Mark Mark
v. verb Luke Luke
John John
Bible Books, Old Testament Acts Acts
Gen. Genesis Rom. Romans
Ex. Exodus 1 Cor. 1 Corinthians
Lev. Leviticus 2 Cor. 2 Corinthians
Num. Numbers Gal. Galatians
Deut. Deuteronomy Eph. Ephesians
Joshua Joshua Phil. Philippians
Judg. Judges Col. Colossians
Ruth Ruth 1 Thess. 1 Thessalonians
1 Sam. 1 Samuel 2 Thess. 2 Thessalonians
2 Sam. 2 Samuel 1 Tim. 1 Timothy
1 Kings 1 Kings 2 Tim. 2 Timothy
2 Kings 2 Kings Titus Titus
1 Chron. 1 Chronicles Philem. Philemon
2 Chron. 2 Chronicles Heb. Hebrews
Ezra Ezra James James
Neh. Nehemiah 1 Pet. 1 Peter
Esther Esther 2 Pet. 2 Peter
Job Job 1 John 1 John
Ps. Psalms 2 John 2 John
Prov. Proverbs 3 John 3 John
Eccl. Ecclesiastes Jude Jude
Song of Sol. Song of Solomon Rev. Revelation
 Aa
Abaddon [Heb. abaddon, destruction] Satan’s Temple will be rebuilt and ancient rituals re-
second in command of the demon legions. This instated (Rev. 11:1–2). But after an evil alliance
demon ruler, presently incarcerated with other is formed between the Jewish dictator (the false
fallen angels in the Abyss, will be released to lead prophet) and the Roman dictator (the beast), the
the first demon assault wave of the Tribulation Temple sacrifices will be banned, a statue of the
(Rev. 9:1–12). Also called “angel of the abyss” and beast placed in the Holy of Holies, and worship of
in the Greek “Apollyon” (verse 11). the image forced upon the residents of the Jewish
See also Tribulation. state (Rev. 13:14–15; cf. Dan. 9:27; 2 Thess. 2:4).
Worshiping the idol will represent conversion to
abide [Gk. meno, to reside, stay, remain] A term the beast’s satanic religion, designed to captivate
used figuratively to mandate and describe the and control the Jews and ultimately the world
Church Age believer’s fellowship with God and (Rev. 13:3b–6). The “abomination of desolation,”
the detestable idol in the Temple, will fulfill
persistence in the spiritual life.
the prophetic warning for tribulational believers
In John 15:4–8, “abide in Me” is not a command
in Judea to take refuge from impending cataclys-
for salvation but rather a command to reside in
mic judgments (Matt. 24:15–22; Mark 13:14).
the same system of divine power that sustained
the humanity of Jesus Christ. This is a mandate
for believers to remain filled with the Spirit and ABOMINATION FORESHADOWED
subordinated to the Father’s plan and resources. The tribulational sacrilege was foreshadowed in 167
Jesus’ additional instruction, “I [abide] in you,” re- B.C. when Antiochus Epiphanes, Seleucid ruler over
iterated as “My words abide in you,” emphasizes Palestine, placed a statue of the pagan god Zeus in the
that His very thinking must reside in the believer’s Temple and replaced the Levitical sacrifices with the
soul. Jesus stresses that the believer must persis- slaughter of pigs (Dan. 8:9–14; 11:31).
tently learn and apply God’s Word under the
ministry of the Holy Spirit, so that the thoughts See also beast; ecumenical religion; false
of Christ become the believer’s viewpoint toward prophet; Tribulation.
everything in life. By obeying the commands to For further reference, Anti-Semitism; Armageddon.
Lessons 438:65; 457:354, 500–501, 580.
“abide,” the believer can then produce the fruits
of divine good and “walk in the same manner as
Abrahamic Covenant
He walked” (1 John 2:6; cf. Col. 1:10).
See covenants to Israel.
See also walking, doctrine of.
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Rebound &
Keep Moving! Abyss
Lessons 361:37–39; 412:333–34. See Hades.

abomination of desolation The statue of the activism

beast, the Gentile dictator of the Revived Roman See Christian activism.
Empire, placed in the Jerusalem Temple at the
midpoint of the Tribulation (Dan. 12:11). Adam’s original sin The initial act of willful,
As prophesied for Israel in the Tribulation, the cognitive disobedience to God committed by the
Adam’s original sin 2

first man, Adam, when he violated God’s mandate demands of the Father’s righteousness; therefore,
to not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good when any person believes in Christ as Savior, God
and evil in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 2:17; 3:6). graciously imputes His own righteousness to
The initial human sin resulted in Adam’s im- that person (Rom. 5:9). The believer is instantly
mediate spiritual death, the formation of the sin made acceptable to God’s perfect standard, and
nature, and loss of his relationship with God the justice of God is free to bless him with eternal
(Gen. 3:7; Rom. 6:23). Since Adam is the physical salvation. As for those who reject salvation ad-
and representative head of the human race, justment, the justice of God can only condemn
his corrupt sin nature is genetically passed them for eternity in the lake of fire (John 3:18,
on through procreation to all his descendants 36; Rev. 20:12–15). See also salvation.
(Rom. 5:12). At each person’s physical birth, God (2) Rebound adjustment. The believer’s ac-
imputes Adam’s original sin to the sin nature, knowledgment of personal sins privately to God
resulting in the condemnation of spiritual death the Father. Rebound is the grace procedure to
(Rom. 5:19; 1 Cor. 15:21–22). The only exception is recover from carnality and resume the spiritual
the humanity of Jesus Christ, who was conceived life (1 John 1:9). Because of Christ’s finished work
by means of the Holy Spirit, born without the sin on the cross, the believer who utilizes rebound
nature, and thus did not receive the imputation (acknowledges what has already been judged)
of Adam’s original sin. is restored to fellowship with God and divine
Adam’s spiritual death at the moment of his discipline is avoided. See also rebound.
original sin is often referred to in theology as (3) Maturity adjustment. The believer’s spiri-
“Adam’s fall.” Since the entire human race fell tual growth and advance to maturity. Maturity
when Adam fell, the term “fall of man” is also adjustment is a gradual process, requiring consis-
commonly used. tent utilization of the filling of the Spirit, daily
See also death (spiritual); imputations; seminally intake of God’s Word, and an ever-increasing
in Adam; sin nature. application of doctrine to life. Through this
For further reference, The Barrier; The Integrity of God;
The Origin of Human Life.
process the believer gains capacity of soul, which
Lessons 665:28–38, 41–42. frees the justice of God to bless him with tem-
poral and eternal blessings (Prov. 10:6; 2 Tim. 4:7–
adjustment to the justice of God Man’s 8). For the believer who rejects doctrinal teaching,
conformity to the righteous demands of God’s divine justice must administer divine discipline.
holiness (Deut. 32:4b; Rom. 2:11). Adjustment to See also capacity, spiritual.
the justice of God means God is free to provide The precedence of divine justice. In the pristine
blessing without compromise to His perfection. environment of Eden, God was free to bless Adam
Maladjustment, or failure to adjust, means God and the woman strictly from His personal love.
must judge, punish, discipline. They were the perfect work of perfect God, and
In all divine action related to fallen mankind, nothing in them presented a challenge to His
God’s justice works in coordination with His righteous standards. After the Fall, however, the
righteousness: what righteousness approves, jus- new, sinful condition of the human race meant
tice blesses, and what righteousness condemns, that God’s justice had to take precedence. Divine
justice judges (Ps. 9:8). If we as imperfect crea- justice, supported by divine righteousness,
tures are to be blessed by God, His justice is the stands guard over all the other attributes of God,
attribute to which we must adjust. Our adjustment ensuring that God’s every action toward mankind
cannot be made on the basis of our own merit or remains fair, consistent, and incorruptible. The
works, but God makes it possible for us to adjust precedence of justice was proven at the cross:
on the basis of His merit. Mankind can adjust to in order to demonstrate His love toward fallen
the justice of God as follows: creatures without compromising His character,
(1) Salvation adjustment. The unbeliever’s per- the Father had to execute judgment on His
sonal, nonmeritorious faith alone in Christ alone. perfect Son (John 3:16). Only on the basis of the
The work of Christ on the cross satisfied the substitutionary sacrifice of Christ can we adjust
 3 agape / agapao

to the justice of God, meet God on His terms, and Adversity refers to the outside pressures of life—
receive His blessings. including unpleasant circumstances, physical and
See also essence of God (righteousness, justice, love). mental suffering, national and personal disasters,
For further reference, The Integrity of God; Reversionism. and injustice or persecution (Job 14:1; 1 Cor. 4:11–
Lessons 458:1, 19–20, 128–29.
13). Stress develops from sinful reaction to these
adverse conditions. When believers react to the
Adonai Hebrew word meaning “Lord.” Tradi- strain of adversity with fear, panic, guilt, anger,
tionally, the Jews considered the proper name
hatred, worry, bitterness, or any other sin, they
for God, the Tetragrammaton YHWH (Yahweh
allow the external pressures to penetrate the soul
or Jehovah), too sacred to pronounce and would
and create internal stress. And once adversity
substitute the word Adonai when reciting the Old
invades the soul, the sin nature dominates and
Testament text.
stress is intensified.
See also Tetragrammaton.
Adversity is inevitable, but stress is optional.
If a believer’s thinking is steeped in divine view-
adoption [Gk. huiothesia, from huios, adult
point, he will not surrender to fear, worry, or
son + tithemi, to place] The legal acceptance and
bitterness when confronted with difficulties (John
appointment by God the Father of all Church
16:33; 2 Cor. 4:8–9). He will use the ten problem-
Age believers into His family. Regardless of
any natural human factor, all Christians are solving devices, formed from consistent intake
“sons of God” and “fellow heirs with Christ” of Bible doctrine, as his spiritual line of defense.
(Rom. 8:14–17, 21, 23). These doctrinal resources (e.g., rebound, faith-
God’s bestowal of sonship and heirship upon rest, impersonal love) guard the soul against the
believers is a grace gift at the moment of salva- external pressures of life, preventing adversity
tion (John 1:12–13; Gal. 4:5–7; Eph. 1:5). Through from being converted to stress.
union with Christ, every Church Age believer, See also flot line; problem-solving devices;
male or female, is adopted into God’s royal family suffering.
and granted joint heirship with God the Son, who For further reference, Christian Suffering; Freedom
through Military Victory.
is the “heir of all things” (Heb. 1:2). Even though Lessons 845:1–69; 376:13.
the new believer is a spiritual infant, adoption
recognizes his position not as nepios, a young
child, but as huios, an adult son (Gal. 4:1–7). This
a fortiori [Lat., from a stronger reason, with
stronger reason] A logical argument that reasons
royal son of God receives the full privileges and
responsibilities of spiritual aristocracy, along from an accepted greater truth to conclude the
with an eternal inheritance (Rom. 8:23; Eph. 1:14; veracity of a lesser truth.
Col. 3:24; Rev. 21:7). The logic of a fortiori states that if God can do
something that is extremely difficult, He cer-
See also church; position in Christ; protocol
plan of God; royal family of God. tainly can do something that requires less degree
For further reference, Christian Suffering; The Divine of effort. For example, since God has solved
Outline of History; The Integrity of God.
mankind’s greatest problem, condemnation and
Lessons 416:11; 458:306; 412:90, 281, 311.
spiritual death, through the divine provision of
adulterous marriage salvation, it follows a fortiori that He can solve
See marriage (divorce and remarriage). any problem in the believer’s life (Matt. 6:28–30;
Rom. 8:32). If God has already done the greater, it
advent follows a fortiori that He can do the lesser.
See First Advent; Second Advent. For further reference, The Integrity of God.
Lessons 458:177, 330; 637:60–62; 412:398.
adversity vs. stress Describes the two alterna-
tives when circumstances threaten to affect the agape / agapao
believer’s thinking. See love.
agathos 4

agathos The Greek noun translated “good” in aggressive and responding love The two
Scripture, used specifically to denote good of categories of the believer’s expression of personal
intrinsic value. See good of intrinsic value. love for God. Aggressive love is characterized by
enduring loyalty and devotion to God, manifested
as a persistent, vigorous pursuit of Bible doctrine
age of accountability The point in life when an
and the total commitment to accomplish God’s
individual is capable of recognizing the existence
will. Such intensive love makes His Word first
of a Supreme Being, capable of understanding
on the believer’s scale of values. Responding love
the Gospel, and responsible for his own decision
is characterized by respect for God: the believer’s
toward a relationship with God. This is also called
response to the grace of God in worship; his def-
the point of God-consciousness.
erence, or submission, to the mandates of God;
Scripture is clear that God makes His exis-
and his honor toward God’s absolute authority
tence evident within the world (Rom. 1:19–20).
(1 Pet. 1:8).
Accountability is reached when, through simple
See also personal love for God the Father.
thought and reasoning, a person can consider For further reference, The Unfailing Love of God.
that existence and draw conclusions. The specific
age at which this occurs varies among individuals Alpha and Omega A title for Jesus Christ that
and depends on several factors, including geo- emphasizes the scope of His person, work, and
graphical location, social conditions, education, place in human history (Rev. 1:8).
and individual mental capacity. Generally, the Alpha and omega, the first and last letters of
point of accountability falls sometime after the the Greek alphabet, proclaim Jesus Christ to be
age of four. “the beginning and the end” (Rev. 21:6a; 22:13).
Individuals who die before reaching account- As Alpha, He is the eternal, preexistent God
ability, including infants and the severely men- and creator of the world. As Omega, He is the
tally handicapped, are taken directly into the impeccable God-man, the unique person of the
presence of the Lord (2 Sam. 12:22–23). In grace, universe who provided salvation and will return
God automatically saves anyone who lacks the to rule the final earthly kingdom.
mental ability to reach God-consciousness and See also Jesus Christ controls history; Trinity.
make a responsible decision about Christ.
See also God-consciousness. ambassador for Christ God’s commission of
every Church Age believer to represent Jesus
Age of Christ before angels and the human race (1 Cor.
the Church 4:9; Eph. 3:8–10). The commission is granted at
See Church Age. the moment of salvation but becomes ever more
functional with spiritual growth.
the Gentiles The ambassador for Christ is a citizen of
See Dispensation of the Gentiles. heaven appointed to serve in the devil’s world. He
the Hypostatic Union is charged with presenting the message of salva-
See Dispensation of the Hypostatic Union. tion and demonstrating the virtues of Christ to
that fallen world (Acts 1:8; Rom. 1:14–16; 2 Cor.
Israel
5:18–20; Eph. 2:19). Each spiritual ambassador
See Dispensation of Israel.
fulfills his responsibility by witnessing (Rom.
the Jewish Patriarchs 1:14–16), performing Christian service (Eph. 2:10),
See Dispensation of the Gentiles. functioning under his individual spiritual gift
(Rom. 12:6–8; Eph. 4:8, 11b), and applying virtue
Negative Volition
love in whatever walk of life he finds himself
See Dispensation of the Gentiles.
(Rom. 12:6–13). He is supported by logistical grace
Positive Volition from the hand of God, relies on the completed
See Dispensation of the Gentiles. canon of Scripture as his written instructions
 5 angels

(Heb. 4:12), leaves retaliation and judgment in 1 Pet. 5:8). His intense though futile struggle will
the Lord’s hands (Rom. 12:19; Heb. 10:30), and conclude after the Millennium, when he is finally
anticipates his recall to heaven at the Rapture cast into the lake of fire (Rev. 20:10).
(1 Thess. 4:13–17). See also appeal trial of Satan; cosmic system;
Spiritual ambassadorship, the visible aspect Satan.
of the Christian life, must first be motivated by For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Christian
Suffering; Satan and Demonism.
the believer’s invisible, private relationship with Lessons 748:1–18; 412:1272–80.
God Successful spiritual ambassadorship is
inevitably related to confidence in Bible doc-
angel of Jehovah/Yahweh
trine (Eph. 6:20). The more doctrine the believer
See angel of the Lord.
knows, the more steadfastly he can fulfill his
role as emissary of the King of kings and declare
angel of the Lord A messenger sent by God to
God’s plan in both word and deed.
provide revelation, guidance, protection, and
See also Christian service; divine good; royal deliverance, or to act as an agent handing down
family honor code.
For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Integrity destruction and judgment. “Angel of the Lord”
of God; Witnessing. has two distinct identities in Scripture:
Lessons 458:361–62; 429:203; 412:104–5. (1) In Old Testament usage, the phrase “the
angel of the Lord [Yahweh]” identifies a theoph-
angelic conflict The invisible spiritual warfare any of the preincarnate Second Person of the
between the cosmic forces of Satan and the Trinity, Jesus Christ (Gen. 16:7–13; Ex. 3:1–2; Judg.
heavenly forces of God. 6:12–21; 13:3–23; 2 Kings 1:3; Ps. 34:7; 35:5–8; Isa.
The conflict began in eternity past when 37:36; Zech. 12:8). Once Christ arrived in the flesh,
the preeminent angel Lucifer—to be renamed He would no longer appear as a visible angel.
Satan—acted independently of God (Isa. 14:13– Synonyms: angel of Jehovah; angel of Yahweh.
14), recruited one-third of the angels, and ignited (2) In New Testament usage, the phrase “an
this prehistoric revolt in heaven. God judged angel of the Lord [kurios]” refers to a high-ranking,
Satan and the fallen angels for their rebellion angelic messenger from God (Matt. 1:20–24; 2:13;
against Him and condemned them to the lake Luke 2:8–12; Acts 5:19; 12:6–10, 23), sometimes
of fire for all eternity (Matt. 25:41). Since Satan identified as the angel Gabriel.
is still “roaming about on the earth” (Job 1:7; See also theophany; Yahweh.
2:2), it can be accurately inferred that he chal- For further reference, God the Holy Spirit vs. The Sin Nature.
lenged the judgment, likely insisting that a fair
and loving God could not eternally condemn His angels [Heb. malak, messenger; Gk. angelos,
own creatures. God responded by postponing messenger, communicator] Rational, powerful,
the punishment and creating the human race— immaterial beings created by God in eternity past,
creatures inferior to the angels yet with the same before the universe existed. The Bible describes
freewill capacity to honor or reject God. their number as “myriads of myriads, and thou-
The prehistoric conflict was extended into the sands of thousands” (Rev. 5:11).
human realm, so that man’s freewill decisions Angels were created with free will and capacity
could demonstrate God’s perfect justice, right- to understand their Creator, to “praise Him” and
eousness, and love and prove that Satan and his “serve Him, doing His will” (Ps. 103:21; 148:2).
demons are responsible for their condemnation. When the preeminent angel Lucifer abused his
On planet Earth, human volition is the focal privilege by revolting against God (Ezek. 28:14–16),
point of the spiritual firestorm in which Satan the other angelic creatures had equal opportunity
now seeks to outmaneuver God. Disguised as “an to decide whether to continue serving God or to
angel of light” (2 Cor. 11:14), the devil uses every rebel against Him. This prehistoric conflict per-
ruse at his command to obscure the Gospel for manently divided the supercreatures into two
unbelievers and to distract and disgrace those opposing forces:
who are saved by faith in Christ (2 Cor. 4:3–4; (1) Elect, or holy, angels. Those who in spite of
angels 6

Lucifer’s rebellion remained obedient to God. To the power of the Holy Spirit, makes prayers in-
carry out God’s purpose for human history, these effective, and violates the Christian honor code
angels perform various duties in heaven and on (Eph. 4:30–31; Col. 3:8; 1 Tim. 2:8). Believers are
earth (some functions are exclusive to certain dis- instructed to “cease from anger and forsake wrath”
pensations): heralding and issuing divine plans (Ps. 37:8). The command, “do not let the sun go
and policy (Deut. 33:2; Luke 1:11–19, 26–27; 1 Thess. down on your anger,” directs believers to deal with
4:16–17); executing divine judgments (2 Sam. their sinful mood immediately, before it leads to
22:11; Rev. 8—10; 15—16); evangelizing the fallen other sins (Eph. 4:26). Recovery from anger is ac-
world (Rev. 14:6–7); battling the demonic hordes complished by rebound (acknowledging the sin
as combatants in God’s heavenly army (Rev. 12:7; cf. to God the Father, 1 John 1:9) and then by leaving
Dan. 12:1). See also cherub; seraph. the source of the anger in the Lord’s capable
(2) Fallen angels. Those who chose to follow hands (Ps. 76:7–10).
Lucifer in his revolt against God; amounts to one- See also personal sin; relaxed mental attitude.
third of the original angelic creation (Rev. 12:4a). For further reference, Christian Suffering; Reversionism.
The operational fallen angels, called “demons,” Lessons 527:32–33; 809:56, 61; 412:1009–11.
“deceitful spirits,” or “unclean spirits” in the New
Testament (Matt. 10:1; 1 Cor. 10:20–21; 1 Tim. 4:1), antecedent grace [from Lat. antecedere, to go
presently serve and assist Satan as ruler of this before] God’s initiation of a plan and provision
world (Eph. 6:11–12). Other fallen angels are non- for man’s relationship with Him.
operational, since they are currently incarcerated Antecedent grace, also referred to as preve-
in Tartarus and the Abyss (Luke 8:31; 2 Pet. 2:4; nient grace, emphasizes the fact that grace starts
Rev. 9). Along with Satan, all fallen angels are with God, not with man. Grace precedes and
condemned to eternal judgment in the lake of supersedes man. Everything necessary for salva-
fire (Matt. 25:41). See also angelic conflict; tion and beyond begins with God, is freely given
demon; demonism. by God, and exists apart from any human merit,
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Creation,
resource, or endeavor. Man simply responds to
Chaos, & Restoration; Satan and Demonism. all that originates with God.
Lessons 748:7; 457:203–17; 412:1270–71; 376:1221. Antecedent grace particularly describes God’s
initiative in eternity past to provide life and bless-
anger A mental attitude sin ranging from strong ing to what would be a fallen human race. Prior
displeasure to overwhelming rage, usually in to the onset of history, God knew all the know-
reaction to something deemed wrong or unjust. able and made provision for every situation that
Whether it smolders quietly or erupts in a fit would occur throughout time. He established a
of passion, anger is a sin that is both emotional plan that for every human being begins at birth,
and irrational. No person can think properly with the imputation of soul life, and carries on
when intense feelings of exasperation, irritation, with maintenance of the universe for daily, basic
or antagonism intrude upon the soul. If allowed life support. For those who accept God’s grace
to continue, anger kindles additional mental solution to spiritual death—the sacrifice of His
attitude sins including jealousy, bitterness, Son—God provides eternal life, along with special
implacability, resentment, hatred. Unchecked blessings for time and eternity that God initiated
anger often leads to vindictiveness—the lust to and put on reserve in eternity past. It is only by the
hurt, to make someone pay for an alleged wrong. love, will, and perfect provision of God, decreed
But two wrongs do not make a right, and an in eternity past and poured out through time
angry response merely adds sin to sin. Inflamed and eternity future, that undeserving man can
thoughts of revenge can lead to verbal sins, like be the beneficiary of “every spiritual blessing in
lying, slander, and maligning, and may culmi- the heavenly places” and “the surpassing riches of
nate in the overt sins of violence, even murder His grace” (Eph. 1:3b; 2:7; cf. 2 Tim. 4:8; James 1:12).
(Gen. 4:5–8; Prov. 29:22; Eccl. 7:9). See also grace.
With regard to the spiritual life, anger cuts off Lessons 376:216–18.
 7 antichrist

antediluvian civilization following are examples of anthropopathisms

See civilizations, biblical. used in Scripture:
Anger, wrath, vengeance. References to God’s
anthropocentric academic speculation anger or wrath simply explain His judgment and
See cosmic system (hatred complex); intel- discipline against the reversionistic believer or
lectual arrogance. apostate nation (Deut. 29:23; Isa. 5:25; Rev. 19:15).
God is perfect righteousness and “all His ways are
anthropomorphism [from Gk. anthropos, just” (Deut. 32:4). His judgments, therefore, come
man + morphe, form] Language of accommoda- not from sinful or emotional desire but from His
tion that assigns physical characteristics to God in divine integrity.
order to reveal His infinite character and policies Jealousy. As attributed to God, jealousy
to finite man. While God does not actually possess expresses the fact that He possesses believers.
these physical characteristics, they are used as Because of His perfect character and the fact
figures of speech to communicate aspects of God’s that believers belong to Him, He demands their
perfect nature and express His works in terms worship, attention, and concentration. If instead
of our limited, human frame of reference. The they follow after false gods, God is described as
following are examples of anthropomorphisms jealous (Ex. 34:14; Deut. 32:21) because believers
used in Scripture: are to live in fellowship with Him.
Eyes, ears, face of God. In Hebrews 4:13, “all Repentance. Throughout Scripture the Lord is
things are laid bare to the eyes of Him” illustrates said to repent, to change His mind, or to have
God’s omniscience and omnipresence, the fact a change of attitude about His people or His
that God sees everything, that no creature is hid- decisions concerning them (e.g., Gen. 6:6a; 1 Sam.
den from His sight because God occupies every bit 15:11; 2 Sam. 24:16; Ps. 106:45; Jer. 26:13; Heb.
of space in the entire universe. In Psalm 34:15–16, 7:21b, kjv). God is omniscient and immutable.
“His ears are open to their cry” but the “face of Furthermore, He is perfectly objective, impartial,
the Lord is against evildoers” expresses the fact and just in all His decisions. There is never a cir-
that God answers the prayers of the faithful but cumstance, personal or historical, that surprises
His divine policy stands against the apostate. Him or requires Him to reconsider His actions.
Hands and arms of God. Attributing hands to Repentance ascribed to God, therefore, simply
God, as in the command for believers to humble explains from a human frame of reference God’s
themselves under His “mighty hand” (1 Pet. 5:6), divine policy of judgment as called for by changes
emphasizes God’s absolute authority and limit- in man and history.
less ability. Reference to His “everlasting arms” See also anthropomorphism; essence of God.
(Deut. 33:27) is a reminder that the believer can- For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Integrity
not be removed from this life apart from God’s of God; The Trinity.
sovereign decision.
See also anthropopathism; essence of God.
antichrist [Gk. anti, against, instead of + christos,
For further reference, The Integrity of God; The Trinity. Christ]
Lessons 376:1070. (1) A title that describes both major opponents
of Jesus Christ during the Tribulation—the Gen-
anthropopathism [Gk. anthropos, man + pathos, tile dictator of the Revived Roman Empire, the
feeling] Language of accommodation that as- “beast” (1 John 2:18a; Rev. 13:2–4; 17:13), and the
signs human emotions and attitudes to God in Jewish dictator of Israel, the “false prophet” (Matt.
order to reveal His infinite character and policies 24:24; Rev. 16:13; cf. 13:11–13). As the top two
to finite man. While God does not actually pos- agents in Satan’s war against Christ and Israel,
sess these mental attitudes, they are used as the beast and false prophet will be forever linked
figures of speech to communicate aspects of God’s as the worst unbelievers of history. They are
perfect nature and express His works in terms hell’s first human occupants, to be thrown alive
of our limited, human frame of reference. The together into the lake of fire at the Second Advent
antichrist 8

(Rev. 19:20; 20:10). antinomianism [from Gk. anti, against + nomos,

(2) A title used in the Johannine epistles to de- law] (a) Rejection of established morality; (b) the
scribe Church Age believers in reversionism, trend of the sin nature toward lasciviousness,
opposing the will and plan of the Lord and resid- immorality, and lawlessness, antithetical to the
ing inside the cosmic system (1 John 2:18b, 22; 4:3; trend toward legalism. Synonym: licentiousness.
2 John 1:7). By comparing apostate Christians to The believer who is antinomian distorts the
the evil dictator of the future, the Apostle John grace policy of God into an unbridled license to
issues a dramatic warning against the acceptance sin, pursues a hedonistic search for happiness,
of false doctrine and satanic influence. and is often indistinguishable from his unbeliev-
ing counterpart (Rom. 6:12–14). Persistent anti-
TRIBULATIONAL ANTICHRISTS nomianism translates to immoral degeneracy,
which may take the form of sexual promiscuity
Beast False Prophet
and perversion, chemical abuse, antiestablish-
Antichrist—against Christ Antichrist—instead of Christ ment revolution, or criminality (Mark 7:21–23).
See also degeneracy; sin nature.
Gentile Jew
For further reference, Rebound & Keep Moving!;
Political dictator of the Political dictator of the Reversionism.
Revived Roman Empire Jewish state during the Lessons 412:915–917, 960.
during the Tribulation Tribulation

Religious leader of Religious leader of revived anti-Semitism Antagonism, prejudice, or

ecumenical religion during Judaism during the vicious hatred directed toward the Jews as a
the Tribulation Tribulation
nation or race (Matt. 24:9).
His capital—Rome His capital—Jerusalem The author and sponsor of this enmity is Satan,
Figure 1 who has sought to annihilate God’s chosen peo-
ple ever since the Jewish race was founded.
See also beast; false prophet; Tribulation.
Historically, Satan targeted the Jews in order to
For further reference, Armageddon; The Divine Outline
of History. prevent the Jewish-descended Messiah, Jesus
Lessons 429:62–63, 149–50. Christ, from entering the world. When that
objective failed, the devil set his sights on
antiestablishment Describes the thinking and preventing God from fulfilling His covenants to
behavior of the citizen whose desire is to dispute, Israel at the Second Advent. Satan reasons that if
reject, and even destroy the legitimate authorities all the Jews are destroyed, God cannot keep His
under which he lives. promise of a millennial Jewish kingdom ruled
The antiestablishment person hates divinely by the greater Son of David.
delegated authority and directly attacks the di- Embedded in the satanic agenda is the lie that
vine institutions: he distorts his individual rights the Jew is the root of virtually all evil. Such pro-
and misuses his freedom, rejects or disdains the paganda has fueled anti-Semitic atrocities includ-
biblical principles of marriage, rebels against ing the eleventh-century Crusades, the fifteenth-
parental leadership, and shirks or even defies century Torquemada inquisition, Hitler’s World
the system of law and order under local, state, or War II Holocaust, and the ongoing Israeli-
national governments. Such open revolt against Palestinian conflict. Regarding the latter, Arab
traditional societal concepts is the result of mental nations seek to eliminate the Jewish state while
revolt against God (Isa. 30:1; Rom. 1:19–26). convincing the world that Israel is the source of
Antiestablishment agendas might include civil Middle East strife. History bears witness, however,
that God’s sovereign will and purpose prevail:
disobedience, Marxist-socialist programs, crimi-
individuals and nations who support and offer
nality, even revolution or paramilitary insurgency.
refuge to the Jews are blessed, those who are
See also apostasy; cosmic system (hatred complex);
hostile to the Jews are ultimately destroyed, and
divine establishment.
For further reference, Reversionism. the Jews as a race continue to survive (Gen. 12:3;
Lessons 458:389; 457:313. 15:13–14; 39:5; Esther 3:5–6, 13; 6:10—9:15). God
 9 Antonine caesars, age of the

intends that Israel will not only survive all anti- since have labeled a “golden age.”3
Semitism but, through regeneration, will become From the divine viewpoint of history, this
the final client nation to God in history during the exceptional second century resulted from the
Millennium. spiritual pivot that began in Ephesus decades
See also covenants to Israel; Jewish race; Trib- prior (Ephesians; Colossians; 1 John; 2 John;
ulation. 3 John; Rev. 2—3). First-century congregations
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Anti- in the Roman province of Asia had grown under
Semitism; Armageddon; Satan and Demonism.
Lessons 608:1–32; 840:112–14. the ministries of Paul, Timothy, John, and others,
despite persecutions. When Israel was destroyed
antitype in A.D. 70, the Roman Empire became the first
See type and antitype. Gentile client nation to God. And just before
the century turned, a most critical point of
Christianity coincided with human history—the
Antonine caesars, age of the (a) The period
canon of Scripture was completed, and the first
from A.D. 96 to 192 during which the successive
of the Antonine emperors ascended to power.
emperors from the Nervan-Antonine dynasty
Despite the fact that Imperial Rome remained
(collectively, the “Antonines”) ruled the Roman
pagan in its official religion, the Church
Empire; (b) the greatest period of dynamic
expanded rapidly across geographical and racial
Christianity in which Imperial Rome reached
boundaries throughout the second century.
its peak as the first Gentile client nation to God.
Safety and stability instilled by the ruling
The Antonine caesars and their terms of reign are
dynasty, in conjunction with a vast network of
Nerva, A.D. 96–98; Trajan, A.D. 98–117; Hadrian,
public roadways originally constructed for the
A.D. 117–138; Antonius Pius, A.D. 138–161;
legions, allowed for maximum evangelism and
Marcus Aurelius, A.D. 161–180; and Commodus,
dissemination of Church Age doctrine. Not only
A.D. 180–192.1
was the entire Roman Empire evangelized, but
With Augustus’ honorable monarchy disgraced
missionaries were also allowed access to all parts
by the tyrannical emperors Caligula, Nero, and
of the ancient world, including India and China.
Domitian, the succession of Antonine caesars
Blessed by association with its established pivot
restored nobility to the Roman throne and
of mature believers in Asia Minor, all of Imperial
imperial government. Particularly during the
Rome prospered: the individual flourished in
reigns of Nerva through Marcus Aurelius, the vast
education and opportunity, emancipation of
scope of the empire, ranging from the Atlantic
slaves became increasingly common, ingenious
to the Euphrates and from Scotland to northern
engineering connected provinces with key cities,
Africa, was “governed by absolute power, under
extensive commerce brought civility to barbaric
the guidance of virtue and wisdom,” as noted by
peoples and luxurious splendor to the Roman
historian Edward Gibbon.2 Accountable admin-
lifestyle, while attitudes toward women and
istration of Roman law protected individuals,
marriage were elevated as never before in the
institutions, and local churches in a framework
pagan world. Overall, the assurance of peace,
of freedom, ideal for transforming this era of the
a climate of charity and respect, a vigorous
first Gentile client nation into what generations
economy, and stimulating social life benefitted
1. Citing his destructive character and influence upon the empire,
all strata of an immense, diverse population.4
many historians exclude Commodus’ reign when discussing Though the invisible impact of Christianity
this golden age of Rome. Some divide the period between the
“five good emperors” and the wretched sixth. Thieme, however, 3. Willis Mason West, The Ancient World From the Earliest Times
includes Commodus in the entire scope because the impact to 800 A.D., 2 vols. (Boston: Allyn and Bacon, 1904), 2:425; Stewart
of the spiritual pivot on the nation, though certainly in decline, Perowne, Caesars and Saints (New York: W. W. Norton & Co.,
was still in effect during the sixth emperor’s infamous reign. 1962), 17.
2. Edward Gibbon, The History of the Decline and Fall of the 4. West, 2:442–4; S. A. Cook, F. E. Adcock, M. P. Charlesworth, eds.,
Roman Empire, ed. John Bagnell Bury, 7 vols. (New York: The Cambridge Ancient History, 12 vols. (Cambridge: Cambridge
Macmillan Co., 1914), 1:86. University Press, 1954), 11:199.
Antonine caesars, age of the 10

escapes the secular scholar, the preeminence of 4; Titus 3:1). Without morality and law to restrain
the Antonine period is affirmed in statements like man’s sinful nature, satanic policy becomes the
the following from Gibbon: “If a man were called ruling authority in the land. The people accept
to fix the period in the history of the world during human philosophies, like relativism and secu-
which the condition of the human race was most larism, and abandon the divine principles that
happy and prosperous, he would, without hesita- establish and preserve a client nation. Dishonesty
tion, name that which elapsed from the death of and hypocrisy, immorality and greed, crime and
Domitian to the accession of Commodus.”5 corruption become signs of national disinte-
See also client nation to God; Ephesus; pivot of gration. The structure of freedom is eroded and
mature believers. eventually lost, to be replaced by social anarchy
Lessons 412:332, 1211; 376:1107. or state-sponsored tyranny.
All apostates are enemies of the Lord and
Apocrypha The collection of spurious writings therefore recipients of divine judgment, person-
sometimes inserted between the Old and New ally and collectively. Unbelievers suffer eternal
Testaments. See Canon. condemnation; apostate believers suffer divine
discipline in time. Both categories are subject to
apostasy [Heb. meshubah, faithless, turning back; national discipline (e.g., economic, social, health,
Gk. apostasia, defection, revolt] (a) The condition natural disasters) once rejection of truth spreads
of an individual or group who abandons estab- throughout a client nation (2 Chron. 36:11–21;
lished principles, truth, and faithfulness; (b) a Ezra 5:12). It should be noted, however, that the
way of thinking that rejects divine truth and weakening of the client nation always begins with
accepts false doctrine. Apostasy occurs through spiritual apostasy among its resident believers
rejection of any of the three categories of truth: (Hosea 4:6).
(1) Rejection of the Gospel by the unbeliever, who See also client nation; cycles of discipline;
refuses the saving work of Christ and, in its doctrines of demons.
place, either denies man’s need for salvation or For further reference, Apostasy in the Land; Daniel
Chapters One through Six; Freedom through Military
accepts a counterfeit gospel based on the power Victory; Reversionism.
of man, false gods, or both. When the unbeliever Lessons 776:195–200; 877:14.
rejects the reality of God, or if he desires to know
more about God and then rejects the salvation apostle [Gk. apostolos, the one sent] Describes a
message, a vacuum develops in his mind. Satanic man officially commissioned by an authorizing
deception fills the void, and he remains dead to agent and given the authority to perform a specific
the understanding of absolute truth (Rom. 1:20– task. Historically, the word apostolos referred to a
25; 1 Cor. 2:14; cf. John 8:44; 2 Cor. 4:3–4; 2 Thess. high-ranking Greek officer sent out to command
2:10–11). the Athenian fleet or govern a founding colony.
(2) Rejection of Bible doctrine by the believer, who, In New Testament usage, the word carries similar
by failing to renovate his thinking to the “mind connotations of commission and responsibility.
of Christ” (1 Cor. 2:16), adopts a false system of During Christ’s ministry on earth, His twelve
spirituality or becomes antagonistic toward di- disciples were appointed apostles to Israel for
vine viewpoint. The absence of spiritual truth in the purpose of authenticating and spreading
the soul means the believer functions just like an the message that the Savior had arrived (Matt.
unbeliever (Eph. 4:17). The soul vacuum draws in 10:1–4). Following the resurrection and ascension,
“doctrines of demons” (1 Tim. 4:1), perpetuating two forms of apostleship were ordained for the
carnality and alienating him from the plan of purpose of establishing the Church:
God (Jer. 32:33–35; Rom. 6:12; 2 Pet. 2:15, 20–22). (1) Gift of apostleship. The temporary spiritual
(3) Rejection of the laws of divine establishment gift given solely to twelve men, eleven of those
by believers and unbelievers (Rom. 13:1–7; 1 Tim. 2:1– who had previously served as disciples, and later,
to Paul (1 Cor. 15:7–10; Eph. 4:11). The gift was
5. Gibbon, 1:85–86. bestowed by God the Holy Spirit, and each apostle
 11 appeal trial of Satan

was commissioned personally by the resurrected righteousness, God pronounced them guilty and
Lord Jesus Christ. Endowed with the highest sentenced Lucifer and his minions to the eternal
ranking gift ever given to the Church, these men lake of fire (Matt. 25:41). That sentence, however,
communicated the Gospel and Church Age was not immediately executed. Postponement
doctrine throughout the ancient world, estab- of punishment (Rev. 20:10) indicates that Satan
lished local churches, trained and ordained objected to the verdict, likely on the grounds of
pastor-teachers, and wrote the books of the New injustice. His line of argument probably matched
Testament under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit a common protest in the world today: “How can a
(2 Pet. 1:16–21). The sensational gifts that they loving God cast His creatures into hell?” Although
possessed—including tongues, miracles, healing, there was no higher court to which Satan could
and prophecy—validated and confirmed their appeal, the Supreme Court of Heaven graciously
divinely appointed authority and were necessary granted a new trial, with new witnesses and new
to gain a hearing for their message (Acts 2:43; 4:33; evidence. Through this second trial—for which
5:12; cf. 2 Cor. 12:12). Since the apostles themselves is coined the term appeal trial—God would
made official, divinely inspired pronouncements demonstrate His perfect character by allowing
that would become the written Word, they had Satan every opportunity to prove his own flawed
absolute authority over the precanon Church. case. Earth was the designated venue, and God
Today, apostolic authority and credentials do inaugurated human history in order to duplicate
not exist, for the spiritual gift of apostleship was every situation that Satan could use as a basis
discontinued after the completion and circulation for his objections. Man’s freewill decisions, his
of the canon of Scripture, ca. A.D. 96. choices for or against God’s plan, would provide
(2) Office of apostleship. Pioneer missionaries observing angels with evidence of both Satan’s
sent out under the authority of the apostles to culpability and God’s perfect love and fairness
evangelize, lead local churches, and train others (Luke 15:7, 10; 1 Pet. 1:12). Witnesses for the
to spread the Gospel and mystery doctrine in Prosecution would be those who utilize the
the first-century ancient world. These men were gracious power of God against all adversity, even
not commissioned personally by Christ and did cross-examination from Satan himself (Job 1—2;
not possess the same authority or gifts as those Zech. 3:1–2). Testimony for the defense would
with the gift of apostleship. Barnabas (Acts 14:14), show Satan’s cunning yet futile determination to
Andronicus and Junias (Rom. 16:7), and Titus discredit the God of all creation.
(2 Cor. 8:23) were among this group. The process of the appeal trial, as it unfolds
See also spiritual gifts (temporary). against human history, can be divided into three
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History;
Tongues.
phases, each illustrated by procedures common
Lessons 412:2, 351; 376:1558. to our own judicial system:
(1) Creation of man to birth of Christ—Cases
appeal trial of Satan (a) Illustrative terminol- presented. God entered His new evidence by
ogy that draws on the judicial concepts of trial and creating man just as the angels were created,
appeal to explain the continuing conflict between sinless yet free to express positive or negative
God and Satan; (b) Satan’s objection to eternal volition toward God (Gen. 2:7, 16–17). When man
condemnation and the ensuing courtlike event— disobeyed and fell into spiritual death, Satan
still playing out on earth—in which he strives to gained rulership of the world and established
prove God’s judgment unfair and inconsistent the grounds to present his case (Gen. 3:1–7).
with His love. His intent was to prove himself equal with God
When Lucifer’s original revolt sparked prehis- and his system of arrogance a viable alternative
toric conflict in heaven, God convened a trial to the plan of God—a plan that now included a
to judge the offenders. The fallen super-angel, prophesied Savior of man and victor over Satan
under his new title “Satan” (meaning adversary, (Gen. 3:15b). Attacking the messianic genetic line
accuser), represented himself and the angels to prevent the Savior’s arrival was the devil’s main
that followed him. In perfect justice and strategy. He simultaneously targeted and accused
appeal trial of Satan 12

various Old Testament heroes, desperate to If, according to Satan, God cannot fulfill His
persuade faithful believers to renounce the grace promise of a kingdom for Israel, then God’s
and power of God. Job, for example, was mer- character is flawed and His case disproved
cilessly persecuted by Satan (Job 1:9–19; 2:1–7). (Zech. 14:2; Rev. 12:17). But the devil’s schemes,
(2) Incarnation through Tribulation—Rebuttal. though ingenious, will culminate in worldwide
To refute Satan’s arguments with the ultimate catastrophe and violence, indicating his failure
demonstration of love and fairness toward His to meet the arguments and evidence previously
creatures, the divine Prosecutor presented His presented (Rev. 15—18).
chief witness: the God-man in hypostatic union (3) Second Advent through Millennium—Closing
(John 1:14; Col. 2:9). Jesus Christ, after being arguments and summary. The closing argument
tempted and attacked by Satan throughout the for the Prosecution will begin with our Lord’s
Incarnation, arrived at the cross as the spotless triumphant return to earth (Rev. 19:11–14). As
Lamb of God. There, He bore the penalty that King of kings and Lord of lords, He will incarcer-
belonged to fallen mankind and opened the ate Satan and establish the millennial kingdom,
door to eternal salvation. By His substitutionary restoring Israel as promised (Rev. 19:15–16; 20:1–
judgment, death, and resurrection, the strategic 6). The thousand-year reign of Christ on earth
victory over Satan was secured (Matt. 4:1–11; Phil. will summarize God’s case: perfect environment
2:6–11). All accusations against the character of cannot provide true happiness or solutions to
God had been totally disproved by Christ’s life, and no creature can succeed apart from a
completed work (John 3:16). God rebutted His relationship with the Creator. Even when this
opponent once again by presenting the most truth is revealed by the visible presence of Christ,
dramatic evidence in the entire appeal trial: the some will still reject God and manufacture their
Church, with its mystery doctrine and unique own misery, for both time and eternity. No per-
spiritual assets (Rom. 16:25; 2 Cor. 5:17; Eph. 3; son or angel goes to the lake of fire except by his
Col. 1:25–26). In the Church Age, every individual own negative volition.
believer has available the same divine power sys- The closing argument for the defense will
tem that sustained Jesus Christ to defeat Satan occur at the end of the Millennium, when Satan,
(1 Cor. 2:12–13; 2 Cor. 4:7; Eph. 4:11–13; Phil. 2:5). released from prison, instantly rallies unbelievers
Those who reach spiritual maturity take the to revolt against the world rule of Christ (Rev.
witness stand to provide irrefutable evidence 20:7–8). Satan will have no closing argument but
of God’s manifold wisdom, grace, and love (Eph. violence, the utter desperation of defeat. His last-
3:10). Rebuttal for the Prosecution will conclude ditch outburst will destroy his case, which also
with the resurrection of the Church at the Rapture. represents every other creature, angelic and
Satan’s rebuttal will be his desperate quest for human, who rejects God. The self-destructiveness
world control during the Tribulation. With the of arrogance will meet the perfect justice of
Holy Spirit’s restraining ministry removed, Satan Almighty God, who instantly suppresses the
will craft a scheme of political and religious unity revolution with fire from heaven (Rev. 20:9).
aimed at eradicating the Jews and establishing Concluding the appeal trial of Satan, the final
his own millennial kingdom (Rev. 13:1–8, 11–15). pronouncement will be “Appeal denied!” The

Creation of Second Satan’s Last

Incarnation Rapture
Man Advent Release Judgment

God Satan God Satan God Satan

CASES PRESENTED REBUTTAL CLOSING ARGUMENTS

Figure 2 PHASES OF THE APPEAL TRIAL

 13 ark of the covenant

prehistoric judgment and sentence will at last be right conduct and thinking.
Satan’s reality, as he and his fallen angels are cast See also adoption; protocol plan of God; royal
into the lake of fire (Rev. 20:10). Jesus Christ will family of God; royal family honor code.
immediately convene the Great White Throne For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Divine
Outline of History; The Integrity of God.
Judgment, where all human unbelievers are
confronted, declared guilty, and consigned to the
ark of the covenant [Heb. aron, chest or coffer]
same eternal fire (Rev. 20:12–15).
A rectangular chest of acacia wood overlaid with
See also angelic conflict; Satan; witness for gold and placed in the Holy of Holies of the
the Prosecution.
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Christian Tabernacle, later the Temple. Above this most
Suffering; The Divine Outline of History. sacred piece of furniture dwelt the presence of
Lessons 412:674, 1273–80. the Lord with Israel.
Depiction of the Savior. The construction of the
archangel ark spoke of the future God-man: acacia wood
See seraph. represented Christ’s humanity; gold, His deity
(Ex. 25:10–14; 37:1–5). Inside the ark were three
area of strength The component of the sin items testifying to man’s sinfulness and rebellion
nature that generates human good, “dead works,” against God (Heb. 9:4): tablets of the Ten Com-
benevolent deeds produced apart from the filling mandments depicted rejection of God’s law (Ex.
of the Holy Spirit (Heb. 6:1; 9:14). See sin nature. 25:16); the pot of manna depicted rejection of
God’s logistical grace provision (Ex. 16:32–33);
area of weakness The component of the sin and Aaron’s rod that budded depicted rejection
nature that tempts the believer to personal sin. of God’s delegated authority (Num. 17:8–10). Just
See sin nature. as these emblems of sin were carried in the ark,
Christ would carry all of man’s sins “in His body
aristocracy, spiritual Refers to the unique on the cross” (1 Pet. 2:24).
status of nobility held by all Church Age believers,
who through union with Christ are adopted as
royal heirs of God.
Historically, aristocracies are formed on the
basis of achievement. Extraordinary men accom-
plish more than their contemporaries and then
bequeath to their descendants a privileged heri-
tage, along with superior standards of excellence,
courage, and responsibility. In the Church Age,
believers are spiritual aristocrats not through
their own achievements but through those of
the Lord Jesus Christ, whose victory at the cross
earned Him the royal title of “King of kings and
Lord of lords” (1 Tim. 6:15; Rev. 19:16). Everyone
who believes in Christ during the Church Age
is entered into His royal family, granted an
inheritance of all that Christ is and has, and called Figure 3 ARK OF THE COVENANT
to “proclaim the excellencies of Him” (1 Pet. 2:9).
As aristocrats of heaven residing on earth, Church Fitted as a lid atop the chest was the solid gold
Age believers have the privilege and opportunity “mercy seat,” adorned on each end by a golden
to reflect the Lord’s superior aristocracy in their cherub (Ex. 25:17–21; 37:6–9; Heb. 9:5a). The
daily lives (John 15:9b–10; Eph. 4:20–24). They figures of the cherubs—wings outspread, faces
fulfill this noble mission by following divine gazing down upon the mercy seat—represented
protocol and adhering to biblical standards of the righteousness and justice of God. On the Day
ark of the covenant 14

of Atonement, a high holy day for Israel, the high Armageddon [from Heb. har megiddo, the hill
priest would enter the Holy of Holies and sprinkle of Megiddo overlooking the plain of Esdraelon
the blood of a sacrificial animal on top of the (Rev. 16:16; cf. Judg. 1:27; 5:19)] The last battle
mercy seat. The righteousness and justice of God, of the last campaign of the last world war of his-
depicted by the two cherubs, saw not the sinful- tory, when besieged Jerusalem is delivered by
ness of man represented by the contents of the Jesus Christ, who once and for all annihilates
ark but the covering blood of the animal sacrifice. Israel’s enemies and deposes Satan as the ruler
This yearly ritual taught and foreshadowed how of this world (Rev. 19:11—20:3).
the righteousness and justice of God would be During the last half of the Tribulation, when
satisfied by Christ’s substitutionary atonement on Satan sets vast human and demonic forces into
the cross (Eph. 1:7; Heb. 10:8–14). See also Day of motion (Dan. 11:36–45; Rev. 16:13), four Gentile
Atonement; unlimited atonement. world powers will eventually converge upon Israel
Seat of dwelling presence. The ark of the covenant in what Scripture refers to as “the war of the great
was a sacred symbol of God’s presence with Israel, day of God, the Almighty” (Rev. 16:14; cf. Zech. 12:3).
thus Scripture also refers to it as the “ark of the With history’s largest concentration of armies en-
compassing one small section of Jerusalem, the
Lord” (Joshua 6:7, 12), “ark of God” (1 Sam. 3:3;
situation will appear hopeless for the remnant of
4:11), and “ark of Your strength” (Ps. 132:8). During
Jewish believers fighting against all odds. Suddenly
the Exodus, the ark was carried out in front of the
a deep darkness will cover the earth, immobilizing
advancing caravan as a sign of divine presence
the invaders, and a supernatural light will reveal
and protection (Num. 10:33). At the Jordan River,
the Second Advent of Jesus Christ. The Lord will
the ark guided the way and parted the waters
descend from heaven and “set about to destroy all
for the Israelites to cross the river into Jericho
the nations that come against Jerusalem” (Zech.
(Joshua 3:3–17; 4:7, 11, 18); the ark then served as
12:9). With eyes “a flame of fire, . . . robe dipped
part of the offensive against the city’s walls and
in blood” (Rev. 19:12–13), the living Word of God
inhabitants (Joshua 6:4–12). When the ark was will decisively slaughter every hostile army,
placed inside the Holy of Holies in the Tabernacle deliver the believing Jews, and bind Satan in the
or Temple, the dwelling presence of the Lord Abyss “so that he would not deceive the nations
resided “above the mercy seat, from between the any longer” (Rev. 20:3).
two cherubim” (Ex. 25:22; Lev. 16:1–2; 1 Sam. 4:4;
See also Tribulation.
Ps. 99:1; Isa. 37:15–16). See also Shekinah Glory. For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Armageddon.
Ark removed. In 586 B.C., the invading armies
of Nebuchadnezzar destroyed Solomon’s Temple— armor of God The defensive equipment that God
and the ark inside it—when they “laid Jerusalem provides for the Christian in spiritual warfare,
in ruins” (Ps. 79:1; cf. 2 Chron. 36:18–19; Ezra 5:12). revealed as an extended metaphor in Ephesians
Although a new Temple was built after the Jews 6:10–17.
returned from captivity, the Holy of Holies re- The royal family of God, made up of all Church
mained empty of sacred furniture. Following the Age believers, forms a royal legion of Christian
crucifixion, the absence of the ark would signify warriors. Every member is therefore commanded
that Jesus Christ—resurrected and seated at the to “put on,” to “take up the full armor [panoplia] of
Father’s right hand—had entered into the true God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil
Holy of Holies, the heavenly throne room of God day” and “stand firm against the schemes of the
(Heb. 6:19–20; 8:1; 9:24). Even the restored temple devil” (Eph. 6:11, 13a). Using imagery drawn from
in the Millennium will have no ark, for Christ his close association with the Praetorian Guard
will personally rule the earth and “they will call (Acts 28:16; Phil. 1:13), Paul depicts this spiritual
Jerusalem ‘The Throne of the Lord’” (Jer. 3:16–17). protection with each piece of Roman battle gear.
For further reference, The Blood of Christ; Levitical
Belt of truth (Eph. 6:14a). The Roman legion-
Offerings. naire’s central and basic item was the belt, which
Lessons 554:4; 457:382; 412:316–17; 376:821. protected the lower body and carried the sword
 15 arrogance complex of sins

and other battle provisions. Just as the belt was met sheltered the soldier’s most vital body part, and
the foundation of the soldier’s equipment, so in the same way, the spir-
truth is the vital basis of the believer’s spiritual itual helmet shelters the
armor. Girded with the belt of truth, the entire believer’s soul. Paul uses
realm of Bible doctrine, the believer is prepared “helmet of salvation” to
and fortified for the cosmic conflict. See also refer to the believer’s as-
Word of God. surance of eternal secu-
Breastplate of righteousness (Eph. 6:14b). Held rity. Each part of the Ro-
firmly in place by the belt, the ancient cuirass man helmet is analogous
or breastplate protected the soldier’s entire torso. to a salvation doctrine:
Similarly, its spiritual counterpart offers protec- for example, the bronze
tion for the believer’s ‘heart,’ his mentality of soul, casque points to Christ’s
and is entirely dependent upon his knowledge judgment for man’s sins
of divine truth. The “righteousness [dikaiosune]” (Scripture frequently
that characterizes this breastplate is experiential, associates bronze with
the result of the continuous process of living judgment). As a whole,
the spiritual life (1 Tim. 6:11). An advancing the helmet reminds the
Christian warrior, highly trained in the knowl- believer that salvation is
edge of God, exhibits the inner stability, grace, an undeserved gift and
and virtue of experiential righteousness. See guards against the lies
also righteousness (in the believer). that seek to undermine
Footgear of Gospel preparation (Eph. 6:15). In- confidence in this irre-
spired by the Roman infantry’s leather hobnailed vocable status. See also Figure 4 ARMOR OF GOD
sandals, Paul exhorts the believer to be ready eternal security.
to go into action for the mission of spreading Sword of the Spirit (Eph. 6:17b). “The sword of the
the Gospel to unsaved mankind. His spiritual Spirit, which is the word of God” is Bible doctrine,
combat boots must be laced up, fortified with the believer’s mighty weapon empowered by the
accurate knowledge of salvation doctrines. Shod Holy Spirit. Like the classic Roman short sword—
with the preparation of good news, the believer light, maneuverable, every inch of its double-
is protected from Satan’s obstacles that seek edged blade effective in combat—the power of
to thwart its delivery. This prepared Christian the spiritual sword is unsurpassed, because the
warrior will neither compromise truth, be Holy Spirit makes biblical truths understandable
discouraged by false doctrines of salvation, nor and usable. When the doctrines in the Word are
succumb to fear of failure or persecution. See unsheathed from the printed page and trans-
also witnessing. ferred to the soul, the believer can apply doctrine
Shield of faith (Eph. 6:16). To protect the as his sure defense against warring antagonists.
believer in every exigency of life, God issues him See also Operation Z.
a shield far surpassing that of the Roman soldier For further reference, The Angelic Conflict.
(Ps. 18:30b). Paul’s reference to this piece of armor Lessons 212:102–9; 412:1290–1301, 1381–83.
points to the faith-rest technique—the method
whereby the believer can overcome mental arrogance complex
distress by claiming biblical promises, applying See cosmic system.
doctrinal rationales, and reaching a doctrinal
conclusion. The result is confidence in the Lord’s arrogance complex of sins The string of sins
perfect provision. Like a Roman soldier caught that are formed from preoccupation with self
without his battle shield, the believer who fails to and that function together to propel the believer
pick up his shield of faith becomes a casualty in further and further into spiritual failure. Sins
the conflict. See also faith-rest drill. of the arrogance complex include jealousy, bit-
Helmet of salvation (Eph. 6:17a). The Roman hel- terness, vindictiveness, implacability, revenge
arrogance complex of sins 16

motivation, revenge function, gossip, slander, ma- combines with self-deception—in order to justify
ligning, judging, inordinate ambition, inordinate himself he must lie to himself (Gal. 6:3; 1 John
competition. 1:10). Now in a state of denial, he often projects
Arrogance is never an isolated sin. Beneath his own flaws onto other people or ascribes to
the weakness of vanity lurks a multitude of himself exaggerated qualities of greatness. This
mental attitude sins, and when pride is frustrated leads to self-absorption, total preoccupation with
or pressured by adversity, a chain reaction is self, resulting in hypersensitivity, extreme self-
triggered. Latent antagonisms like jealousy and centeredness, and lack of consideration for
bitterness are brought to the surface, and in self- others. Self-absorption calls for additional self-
righteousness the believer retaliates with judging, justification, and the pattern of the arrogance
gossip, vengeance, or open defiance against any- skills begins an increasingly vicious cycle.
one who threatens his fabricated self-image. The believer who cycles through the arrogance
As the sins of arrogance become operational, skills becomes entrenched in carnality. Sins of
norms and standards built on virtue collapse jealousy can grow to hatred, anger to vindic-
and the spiritual life disintegrates. The believer tiveness, malice to violence and abuse (Eph. 4:31–
removes himself from objective reality by ex- 32; 1 Tim. 6:3–6; James 3:14–16). When the cycle
changing the grace policy of God for his own is reversed, bitterness is intensified and the soul
system of self-importance and hypersensitivity. eventually degenerates into reversionism.
No longer able to apply doctrine, he lives by emo- See also arrogance complex of sins.
tional reaction to life and becomes enslaved to For further reference, Rebound Revisited.
the trends of his sin nature. Moral or immoral Lessons 376:143, 145–46, 252, 1914–16.
degeneracy, possibly to the state of psychosis, is
the result. ascension of Jesus Christ The transfer of the
Warnings regarding arrogance and its out- resurrected Jesus Christ from earth to the throne
growth of interrelated sins appear in such pas- room of heaven.
sages as Romans 12:3, Ephesians 4:31, 1 Timothy Jesus Christ ascended from the Mount of Olives
6:3–5a, Hebrews 12:15, James 3:14–16, and 1 Peter forty days after His resurrection. Eleven of His
5:5–6. But in Job 33:16–17 and Proverbs 11:2 is the chosen apostles looked on as “He was lifted up
solution: humility and teachability in learning . . . and a cloud received Him out of their sight”
God’s instruction, Bible doctrine, which insulates (Acts 1:2, 9–12; cf. Luke 24:44–53). In a triumphal
against the destructiveness of human pride. procession into heaven, the resurrected Christ
See also emotional complex of sins; fragmen- brought with Him the souls of all believers who
tation; reversionism. had died up to that time (Eph. 4:8–10). These
For further reference, Reversionism. believers had been previously residing in Para-
dise, since no person could enter heaven until the
arrogance of Christian service Father accepted the humanity of Christ. When
See cosmic system (arrogance complex). the resurrected Lord entered the heavenly throne
room, the Father said, “Sit at My right hand” (Ps.
arrogance of unhappiness 110:1; Heb. 1:13). The substitutionary sacrifice for
See cosmic system (arrogance complex). sin was approved, and the victorious Jesus Christ,
exalted and glorified forever, had opened the
arrogance skills Interlinked functions of a be- way for believing mankind to enter into the holy
liever preoccupied with self to the exclusion of the presence of God (Heb. 8:1; 10:12–20).
plan and will of God. The three arrogance skills See also session of Jesus Christ.
are self-justification, self-deception, and self- Lessons 457:399; 412:821–23.
absorption.
The believer in self-justification rationalizes his asceticism (a) Austere self-denial as the means
own flaws and sinful behavior, convinced he is of attaining a higher spiritual state or divine
right and others are wrong. Such thinking approbation; (b) a false system of works that
 17 authority

attempts to overcome sinfulness through per- principles—like the law of supreme sacrifice or
sonal sacrifice and suffering; (c) the term some- the command to take up one’s cross—are distorted
times used to designate the sin nature trend into legalistic systems of self-abnegation.
toward legalism (self-righteousness), antithetical Behind the ascetic’s devotion to overcoming
to the trend toward antinomianism (licentious sin lies a tragic misunderstanding of God’s grace,
immorality). power, and plan. True Christian restraint and
Despite having garnered admiration as a ‘deeply virtue are derived from spiritual growth—a
spiritual’ or ‘godly’ way of life, asceticism is a growth rooted in the filling of the Holy Spirit and
product of arrogance. People with a strong trend renovated thinking from Bible doctrine (Rom.
toward self-righteousness often use extreme 8:13; 12:2; Eph. 2:3; 4:23, 30; Gal. 5:16). Because
self-denial to promote their own sense of piety, asceticism replaces these spiritual dynamics
alleviate guilt, or separate themselves from the with self-imposed human experience, all ascetic
shocking licentiousness they observe in society. displays and ideals are rejected by God as useless
They erroneously assume that a lifestyle of absti- for the Christian life (1 Cor. 13:3; Col. 2:18–23).
nence, physical deprivation, or even self-inflicted See also legalism; monasticism; self-righteous-
pain will earn them favor and forgiveness from ness; sin nature; tabooism; worldliness.
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Christian
God, man, or both. Among the unbelieving Suffering; Reversionism.
world, particularly where Eastern religions are Lessons 467:52; 458:431; 728:136.
prominent, asceticism is assumed beneficial for
transcending the material realm and attaining atonement
spiritual ideals. In the Christian world, asceticism See unlimited atonement.
seeks to merit anything from salvation itself to
postsalvation spirituality and purification. attitude arrogance
Asceticism entered Christianity in the first See cosmic system (arrogance complex).
century A.D. through the influence of Gnosticism,
a philosophical religion that, among its many attributes of God The individual qualities or
attacks on Scripture, taught an abstemious life- characteristics intrinsic to God’s essence (Rom.
style as a way to salvation. Avoidance of wine, 1:20). See essence of God.
certain foods, social relationships, matrimony—
all for the sake of holiness—became a heresy that authority Power held by a person or persons to
crept into the nascent Church (1 Tim. 4:1–4). By command, judge, train, legislate, or act on behalf
the Middle Ages, extreme forms of asceticism had of others, as well as the designation given to those
spread across the Christian world by influence who possess that power.
of the celebrated monastic orders, secluded in God is the supreme, absolute, and final author-
poverty, celibacy, and legalistic devotion. In ity over all His creation, including angels and
some cases, a person would feel so overcome mankind (1 Chron. 29:11; Matt. 8:27; Mark 1:25–
by sinfulness that he would subject himself to 27; Rom. 8:20–22; Col. 1:16; 1 Tim. 6:15; 1 Pet.
intense physical abuse, erroneously concluding, 3:22). Nothing exists that is not subject to Him.
“I hurt; therefore, I am being purified.” While Nothing in God’s laws, God’s plan, or structure
most of modern Christianity avoids medieval of the universe is free from authority. To sustain
extremes, ascetic beliefs and practices still and prosper the human race and allow the free-
exist in the Church today, particularly among will decisions of mankind to resolve the ongoing
overzealous believers who lack sound doctrinal war between God and Satan, God has established
teaching. Christian ascetics might fast, restrict systems of authority in both the temporal and
their wardrobes, refrain from drinking and spiritual realms:
dancing, or isolate themselves from ‘worldly’ Temporal authority. “Temporal” refers to earthly
society. Some abstain from legitimate, marital life or life in time, as opposed to life in the
sex or advocate the belief that sex is strictly for eternal state. For the perpetuation and orderly
the procreation of children. Legitimate biblical function of the human race during the course
authority 18

of history, God has ordained the principles of Outline of History; Freedom through Military Victory.
divine establishment—divine laws that consist Lessons 410:58; 457:120; 412:1207.
of legitimate authority, morality, ethics, and
rule of law and that define the proper balance authority arrogance
between authority and freedom (Rom. 13:1–3). See cosmic system (arrogance complex).
Temporal authority derived from divine estab-
lishment principles includes the volition of each authority orientation The attitude of those
individual (Prov. 22:5b, 8a; Col. 3:25), the husband who voluntarily accept and obey the God-
in marriage (Gen. 3:16b; Eph. 5:22–23), parents in ordained systems of authority.
the family (Prov. 22:6; Eph. 6:1), and government Authority orientation is a product of honor,
in the national entity (Rom. 13:1–7). Leadership humility, and teachability. It guards against arro-
within educational, business, and military orga- gance, maintains the balance between freedom
nizations also constitutes temporal authority. and authority, and provides stability and order
Although designed and ordained by God, temporal within society (1 Pet. 5:5–6). In contrast, rejection
authority in its proper function is to be respected of authority derives from self-centered arrogance,
whether one believes in God or not. fosters subjective thinking, and eventuates in
Spiritual authority. To allow believers to ad- human degeneracy and chaos. While rejection
vance in His plan, God has established and dele- of authority reaps divine discipline under the
gated forms of authority in the spiritual realm. law of volitional responsibility, orientation to
The Word of God, the truth of Bible doctrine,
authority develops capacity for life and blessing,
is the absolute authority for the statement of
both individually and collectively (Hosea 8:7a;
divine policy. In the early Church, men gifted
Gal. 6:7; Col. 3:25).
as apostles were the highest authority figures,
Authority is a basic component of divine estab-
charged with communicating God’s Word and
lishment, the laws designed by God to protect and
establishing local congregations. God now dele-
perpetuate human life. Therefore, believers and
gates the highest authority to men with the
unbelievers must orient to legitimate temporal
spiritual gift of pastor-teacher, for the purpose
authorities such as parents, teachers, coaches,
of communicating His Word to the local church
(2 Cor. 10:8; 1 Thess. 5:12; Heb. 13:7, 17). The pastor supervisors, government, law enforcement, and
delegates authority for church administration others (Rom. 13:1–7; 1 Tim. 2:2–3; Titus 3:1; 1 Pet.
to men spiritually gifted as deacons. See also 2:13–16). In the spiritual realm, believers must
apostle; pastor-teacher. orient to Bible doctrine under the teaching of a
Whether temporal or spiritual, only authority prepared pastor (Heb. 13:7, 17). The child of God
established in accordance with the principles subjects himself to the Father’s plan as revealed
of divine establishment and the spiritual laws in His Word. The believer’s model for authority
of God’s Word is legitimate authority. Power orientation is the humanity of Jesus Christ, who
established apart from these guidelines—illegally “humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the
or without human consent—is illegitimate au- point of death, even death on a cross” (Phil. 2:5–8).
thority, a product of man’s arrogance motivated Greek terms denoting authority orientation
by the ideas of the cosmic system. By God’s design, in the New Testament include the following:
authority is the counterpart, not the enemy, of hupakouo, to obey, to be subject to (Luke 8:25;
freedom. The two concepts must exist in tandem Rom. 6:16; Eph. 6:1; Col. 3:20); hupotasso, to be
to rightly benefit the human race. Freedom subordinate to (Rom. 8:20; 1 Cor. 14:32; Eph. 5:21–
without authority is anarchy, in which no one 22; Col. 3:18); peitho, to obey (Gal. 5:7; Heb. 13:17;
is free; authority without freedom is tyranny, James 3:3); peitharcheo, to obey rules (Titus 3:1).
which ceases to be legitimate authority. See also authority; divine establishment; divine
See also authority orientation; Christian re- institutions; humility.
sponsibility; divine establishment; divine For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Divine
institutions. Outline of History; Freedom through Military Victory.
For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Divine Lessons 102:50; 405:40–41; 458:5, 539–40; 412:1207.
 Bb
Babylonian captivity Denotes the seventy-year the God of Israel. Restoration of the Jewish nation,
period, 586 to 516 B.C., in which the Southern however, would not be completed until God’s
Kingdom of Israel (“Judah”) remained under people established their testimony, which would
the fifth cycle of divine discipline for spiritual be the dedication of the second Temple.
apostasy. This period began with the Chaldean The beginning of deliverance. In 539 B.C., the
conquest of Jerusalem (2 Kings 25:1–21; 2 Chron. Chaldean Empire fell to Cyrus the Great, ruler
36:15–21) and ended with the completion of the of the Media-Persian Empire. Cyrus, inspired by
reconstructed Temple (Ezra 6:15–16). God to liberate the Jews, decreed that the captives
Fall of Judah. By the late seventh century B.C., “go up to Jerusalem . . . and rebuild the house
much of Judah had exchanged the worship of of the Lord” (2 Chron. 36:22–23; Ezra 1:3; Isa.
God for the worship of idols and ignored God’s 45:1–5). A remnant of over 42,000 returned under
mandate to evangelize the Gentiles. Nebuchad- the leadership of Zerubbabel to begin rebuilding
nezzar, king of the Chaldean Empire, twice the Temple (Ezra 2:3–64). The foundation was
invaded Jerusalem (605 and 598 B.C.) and laid with unified effort, dedication, and worship
deported boys of noble background, like Daniel, (Ezra 3:10–11), yet the faith of the returning
to the empire’s capital city of Babylon. Judah remnant, along with work on the Temple,
failed to see these events as warnings and contin- languished when Cyrus died in 530 B.C. Foreign
ued to follow after the “idols in their hearts” (Ezek. adversaries in and around Judah frustrated
14:3). In order to purge the land of apostasy and rebuilding efforts while Samaritans pressured
preserve the remnant of faithful believers, God the Persian court to thwart the Jews (Ezra 4:4–
administered the final increment of discipline: 23). In 522 B.C., the anti-Semitic king Pseudo-
Nebuchadnezzar’s third invasion was an eighteen- Smerdis, who had usurped the Persian throne
month siege that leveled the walls, palaces, and under false identity, issued a decree to prohibit
Solomon’s temple in Jerusalem (586 B.C.). Most of any additional Temple reconstruction (Ezra 4:24).
the surviving population—including their rebel- Temple restored. Barely a year into his reign,
lious king, Zedekiah—were marched in bondage however, Pseudo-Smerdis was dethroned and
to Babylon (2 Chron. 36:11–21; Ezra 5:12). replaced by the pro-Semitic Darius I. Simulta-
Discipline and reawakening. The Jews, now neously, the ministries of Haggai and Zechariah
exiles in a foreign land, had lost their national revived the Jewish people’s faith and persuaded
sovereignty and sacred place of worship. As them to resume work on the Temple (Ezra 5:1–
prophesied, seventy years of desolation (corre- 2). King Darius soon discovered and reinstated
sponding with seventy missed Sabbatical years) Cyrus’ decree, banning interference to the
would serve as punishment for their failure to Jews’ mission and funding the reconstruction
honor God’s mandates (Lev. 26:33–36; 2 Chron. (Ezra 6:1–12). In the sixth year of Darius’ reign
36:20–21; cf. Ex. 23:10–11). Under exile, men (516 B.C.), the Temple was completed. Daniel’s
like Ezekiel, Daniel, Haggai, and other faith- restoration prayer, his plea to the Lord “to let Your
ful believers helped to reawaken Israel to her face shine upon Your desolate sanctuary,” had
spiritual heritage, leading to a resurgence of the not gone unanswered (Dan. 9:17). “Dedication
study of God’s Word. Many Jews realized why they of this house of God” marked the termination of
had disintegrated as a nation and looked again to Judah’s divine discipline, as well as the people’s
Babylonian captivity 20

renewed fellowship with God and obedience to Ritual (“RepResentative”) baptisms

His Word (Ezra 6:16). For nearly two hundred performed by John the Baptist (Matt. 3:1–11; John
years afterward, the Jews enjoyed a golden age of 1:25–33; Acts 19:4). John the Baptist ministered
spiritual and economic prosperity. to the Jews during the time that Christ was on
earth. As the herald of the King, he announced
HISTORICAL NOTES ON BABYLON the presence of the Messiah and performed
water baptism on those who accepted salvation.
• Babylon was the capital city of Babylonia—the Immersion in the water identified believers with
ancient region that is now Iraq. In 625 B.C., the Lord’s kingdom, which at that time was still
Nabopolassar, from the Chaldean clans, defeated “at hand” (Matt. 3:2). Though the earthly kingdom
the Assyrian hold on Babylonia and became was postponed when Israel as a nation rejected
“king of Babylon” (Jer. 25:11). This explains why Jesus Christ, the significance of John’s water
the terms “Babylonian” and “Chaldean” are used
baptism remained—those who expressed faith
interchangeably.
in the Messiah were forever saved and identified
• Persian king Pseudo-Smerdis, imposter of Cyrus’ with His eternal kingdom. John’s distinct baptis-
deceased son Smerdis, is identified in Ezra 4:7–24 mal ritual ended with his death.
as “Artaxerxes.” of Jesus Christ. The water baptism of Jesus
• The seventy-year captivity is sometimes assigned identified the incarnate Christ with the Father’s
to the years between Nebuchadnezzar’s first de- salvation plan and represented the Son’s will-
portation of Jews to Babylon in 605 B.C. and ingness to go to the cross and be judged for the
Cyrus’ decree for their return to Judah in 539 sins of humanity (Matt. 3:13–17). When Jesus
B.C. More significant, however, are the seventy went into the water, He was making a public
years in which Judah, under the fifth cycle of
declaration that He would remain sinless
discipline, lost then recovered her status as
under the most intense testing and then receive
client nation to God (586–516 B.C.).
mankind’s judgment. Jesus’ emergence from the
water illustrated the results of His substitutionary
mission—resurrection, ascension, and session.
See also cycles of discipline; diaspora; Dispen-
sation of Israel. Following this ritual demonstration, the Father
For further reference, Daniel Chapters One through Six; confirmed His approval by announcing from the
Freedom through Military Victory. heavens, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am
Lessons 201:122–23; 438:2; 596:7–8; 540:107–8. well-pleased” (Matt. 3:17).
Church Age water ritual. The water baptism of
baptism The English transliteration of the noun Church Age believers visually illustrates the
baptisma, first used in classical Greek to indicate baptism of the Holy Spirit, which occurs at
identification of one object with another or, salvation. The real water is merely symbolic of
more specifically, the intimate union or change the invisible, silent spiritual baptism through
of one object through its identification with which the believer is permanently identified
another. The word in its various forms (baptizo, with Christ (John 1:33; Gal. 3:27).
bapto, baptismos) was used by ancient Greek poets, Immersion in water illustrates the believer’s
dramatists, and historians to indicate the dipping identification with Christ’s death and burial
or immersion of an object into an identifying or (Rom. 6:3–4a). Rising from the water illustrates
symbolic liquid. the believer’s identification with Christ’s resur-
Biblical use of the word “baptism” draws upon rection, ascension, and session (Rom. 6:4b–5).
this concept of identification. The seven baptisms See positional truth.
presented in Scripture fall under two distinct cat- During the early formation of the Church,
egories: ritual (or “representative”) baptisms, which water baptism was regularly used as an illus-
use immersion in water to illustrate a higher trative aid to teach the spiritual transformation
principle, and real baptisms, which are actual, that occurs at salvation (Acts 2:38, 41; 8:12, 38;
literal identifications of one object with another. 1 Cor. 1:13–17). This ritual, however, was no
 21 barrier

longer necessary after certain New Testament which I [Jesus Christ] am baptized” (Mark 10:38),
passages revealing the baptism of the Holy “a baptism to undergo” (Luke 12:50).
Spirit, particularly Romans 6, were written and of fire. At the second advent of Christ, all
circulated. While the baptismal ritual remains tribulational unbelievers will be removed from
a legitimate testimony to the believer’s faith in the earth and identified with literal fire (Matt.
Jesus Christ, water baptism is not a prerequisite 3:11b; Luke 3:16b). They will be confined to the
or requirement for salvation. Apart from under- fire of Torments for the thousand years of the
standing the reality of the doctrine behind the Millennium, only to await the Last Judgment
ritual, water baptism in the current period of the and their ultimate transfer to the eternal lake
Church holds no significance. of fire (Matt. 25:31–46; 2 Thess. 1:7–9; Rev. 14:9–
11). Scriptural analogies used to depict this
Real baptisms
separation and casting out of unbelievers at the
performed by the Holy Spirit. The baptism of the
end of the Tribulation include the chaff on the
Holy Spirit is an invisible but real identification
wheat-threshing floor being carried away and
that occurs at the moment of salvation, when
burned up (Dan. 2:35; Matt. 3:12; Luke 3:17); the
God the Holy Spirit enters the believer into
“days of Noah,” when “the flood came and took
eternal union with Christ. This unprecedented
them [unbelievers] all away” (Matt. 24:37–39); the
union positions the Church Age believer above
“tares [bad weeds]” in the field being gathered and
angels and sets him apart as a member of the
burned with fire (Matt. 13:25–40); and the disposal
royal family of God (1 Cor. 12:12–13), sharing in
of bad fish from the catch (Matt. 13:47–50). See
the eternal destiny and inheritance of the King
also Operation Footstool; Tribulation.
of kings and Lord of lords (Rom. 8:16–17).
On Pentecost A.D. 30, the day the Church Age For further reference, The Divine Outline of History;
The Integrity of God; Tongues; The Trinity; Victorious
began, the baptism of the Spirit occurred for Proclamation.
the first time. This initial bestowal of the Spirit Lessons 458:189–90; 457:645–47; 412:408–9, 788.
involved the apostles and was unique in its audible
and visible nature (Acts 2:1–4). Other occur- barrier The insurmountable, invisible wall that
rences are recorded in the Book of Acts—involving separates sinful man from perfect God and pre-
Samaritans (Acts 8:14–17), Gentiles (Acts 10; 11), vents man from having a relationship with God.
and disciples of John (Acts 19:2–8)—to show that All mankind is born on the wrong side of the
this new ministry of the Spirit applies to believers barrier—hopelessly separated from God. No
of all races and geographical locations (Gal. human work or effort can break through the
3:14, 26–28). All Church Age believers are united obstruction to bring even one person to God.
into the “one body” of Christ by the “one bap- Only the work of Jesus Christ on the cross “has
tism” of the Holy Spirit (Eph. 4:4–5). See also God destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hos-
the Holy Spirit; Pentecost. tility,” and made salvation available to everyone
of Moses. The Jews of the Exodus generation (Eph. 2:14, niv; cf. Col. 1:20–22). Where the
were “baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the barrier once stood, Jesus Christ now stands as
sea” when the waters of the Red Sea were part- the door between God and man (John 10:9; 14:6),
ed and they passed through dry land, leaving so that any member of the human race can enter
the Egyptian army behind (1 Cor. 10:2; cf. Ex. into a personal, eternal relationship with God by
14:29–31). Moses was identified with Christ—who accepting Christ as Savior.
was the guiding pillar of cloud—and the people Consider the barrier to be composed of six
were identified with Moses as they followed him bricks, each representing one of the following
to safety. obstacles between man and God.
of the cross. In accomplishing His saving work (1) Sin. Because of Adam’s original transgres-
on the cross, Jesus Christ was identified with sion, “all have sinned and fall short of the glory
the sins of the world, which were imputed to of God” (Rom. 3:23). Every human being receives
Him and judged. This is the baptism the Lord at birth the imputation of Adam’s original sin and
addressed with His disciples, “the baptism with begins life in a state of condemnation, separated
barrier 22

from God. Man remains under condemnation imputes His own eternal life (John 3:6b; 1 John
until he accepts the redemption solution offered 5:11). The believer is regenerated—born again—
by God through Christ (Rom. 5:12, 15–17). See and made spiritually alive (John 3:3–8; 1 Cor.
also Adam’s original sin; redemption. 2:12–13). See also human spirit; regeneration.
(2) Penalty of sin. “For the wages [penalty] of sin (4) Relative righteousness. The personal good-
is [spiritual] death” (Rom. 6:23a). The punishment ness, or relative righteousness, of even the most
incurred by Adam when he sinned—spiritual noble unbeliever cannot meet the standard of
death—is passed down to the entire human race. God’s absolute righteousness (Isa. 64:6a; Rom.
Everyone is born under this penalty of sin, hope- 3:10, 23). Compared to God’s perfection, man’s
lessly in debt to God. The debt has been paid by righteousness is wholly inadequate. The problem
the perfect humanity of Christ, whose substitu- of relative righteousness is resolved by the grace
tionary spiritual death on the cross “canceled gift of divine righteousness, which God imputes
out the certificate of debt” (Col. 2:14). Man now to those who accept Jesus Christ as Savior (Gen.
stands free to accept Jesus Christ and receive the 15:6; Rom. 4:5; 2 Cor. 5:21). See also relative
gift of an eternal relationship with God. See also righteousness; imputations; justification.
death (spiritual); expiation. (5) Character of God. The perfect, uncompromis-
(3) Physical birth. Since Adam’s fall, every hu- ing essence of God cannot save sinners unless
man being is born physically alive but spiritually God’s righteousness and justice are first satisfied
dead (Rom. 5:12). Everyone enters the world with (Rom. 8:8). In grace, God has made provision to
a body and soul, but no human spirit. Without reconcile man to Himself without compromising
a human spirit no person can understand “the His divine character. The impeccable Jesus Christ
things of the Spirit of God,” much less have an
became man’s substitute and was judged on the
eternal relationship with God (1 Cor. 2:14). So
cross for the sins of the world. The sacrifice of the
how does one acquire a human spirit? Jesus said,
sinless Son satisfied the demands of the perfectly
“You must be born again” (John 3:7b). At the mo-
righteous and just Father (1 John 2:2), freeing God
ment a person believes in Christ, the Holy Spirit
to offer the grace blessings of salvation to sinful
creates in him a human spirit, to which the Father
man. See also propitiation.
(6) Position in Adam. “In Adam
all die [spiritual death],” meaning
mankind is born condemned and
separated from God (1 Cor. 15:22a;
Eph. 4:18). Man’s position in Adam
is resolved only by man’s posi-
tion in Christ, the personal and
eternal union with Christ through
which “all will be made alive”
(1 Cor. 15:22b). The instant a per-
son believes in Jesus Christ, he is
made a “new creature” by God the
Holy Spirit (2 Cor. 5:17). This new
spiritual species is identified with
Christ and positionally sanctified,
set apart for God’s own purpose
(Heb. 10:10, 14).
See also position in Adam; position
in Christ; sanctification.
For further reference, The Barrier;
God’s Perfect Gift; Slave Market of Sin.
Figure 5 THE INSURMOUNTABLE BARRIER Lessons 101:2–3; 412:510–11.
 23 berachah

beast Biblical title for the dictator of the Revived seized and “thrown alive into the lake of fire” (Rev.
Roman Empire during the Tribulation, a man of 19:11–21; cf. Dan. 7:26; 2 Thess. 2:8).
genius and charisma who receives Satan’s author- See also abomination of desolation; anti-
ity for three and a half years (Dan. 7:25; 2 Thess. christ; ecumenical religion; Revived Roman
2:9–10; Rev. 13:2–5). Scripture also designates Empire; Tribulation.
For further reference, Armageddon.
the beast as “another little horn” (kjv), “the other Lessons 457:424–26, 471–91.
horn which came up,” “the prince who is to come,”
“man of lawlessness . . . the son of destruction,” believer Any person throughout human history
“antichrist,” and “a beast . . . out of the sea” (Dan. who has expressed faith alone in Christ alone
7:8, 20; 9:26; 2 Thess. 2:3; 1 John 2:18a; Rev. 13:1). and thereby received the free gift of salvation
(John 1:12; 3:36; Acts 16:31; Rom. 3:24; Eph. 2:8–9;
1 Pet. 1:18–19). In the Church Age, synonymous
“BEAST” IN REVELATION
with Christian.
Although Revelation 13 uses “beast” to describe both Old Testament believers expressed faith in
the Gentile dictator of the revived empire and the Jewish the promised Messiah, whose saving work was
dictator of tribulational Israel, the theological title “beast” foretold by the prophets (Isa. 53) and portrayed
typically refers to the former, while “false prophet” through sacrificial rituals (Gen. 3:21; Lev. 16:14–
distinguishes the latter (Rev. 16:13; 19:20). 17; Heb. 9:12–14). Believers alive during the time
of Christ expressed their faith in the incarnate
God-man, the revealed “Lamb of God who takes
away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). Church
During the first half of the Tribulation, the
Age believers look back at the finished work of
beast will gain absolute power over a ten-nation
the cross, expressing faith in Christ’s completed,
confederation in the West, forming the Revived efficacious sacrifice (John 19:30; Rom. 3:25–26;
Roman Empire, and will solidify an alliance 1 Cor. 15:3–4; 2 Cor. 5:21; Heb. 10:10).
with the dictator of Israel (the “false prophet”)
See also Christian; justification; regeneration;
(Dan. 7:24; 9:27a; Rev. 13:1b; cf. Dan. 2:41; 7:8). salvation.
Broadening his influence even further, the For further reference, The Divine Outline of History; A
beast will establish himself as leader of a new, Matter of Life & Death; The Plan of God.
one-world, or “ecumenical,” religion. This is a
system of organized evil sponsored by Satan to bema Greek noun used in the ancient world to
evangelize the multitudes to a false gospel and, designate a judgment or award platform; also used
most importantly, defile Israel with “blasphemies in Scripture for Christ’s post-Rapture evaluation
against God” (Rev. 13:2–8; cf. Dan. 7:25). At the throne. See judgment seat of Christ.
mid-point of the Tribulation, the beast will coor-
dinate with the Jewish false prophet to secure berachah (a) Hebrew noun meaning “blessing,”
Israel’s worship of himself, using a computerized derived from the verb barak, which means “to
method of tyranny to identify and persecute praise,” “to kneel,” “to salute” in honor of bless-
anyone who fails to conform (Dan. 9:27b; Rev. ing and deliverance; (b) the name given to the
13:12–18). The Roman beast, having sold his valley where the Lord ambushed Judah’s enemies
soul to the devil like no one else, will prove to while her king and people stood firm in praise
be an evil warrior against believers, enslaver of (2 Chron. 20:1–30).
unbelievers, and key player in Jewish holocaust The valley of Jehoshaphat, between Jerusalem
and history’s most devastating world war (Dan. and the Mount of Olives, was the place where, in
7:21, 25; Zech. 12:2b–3; 14:2; Rev. 13:16–18; 16:13– 871 B.C., the Lord delivered client nation Judah
16; 17:11, 16–17). Finally, the beast will meet his from the armies of Moab, Ammon, and Mount
personal doom at the Second Advent. Even before Seir (2 Chron. 20:10–22). Trusting in the Lord’s
his army is slaughtered by the returning Christ, instruction to watch Him fight the battle, King
the beast, along with the false prophet, will be Jehoshaphat and the inhabitants of Judah stood
berachah 24

in place and sang praises to the Lord. Then they life that begins at conception is nourished and
looked toward their enemies to find only corpses sustained in the mother’s womb as the embryo
lying among spoils of tremendous wealth. The develops into a human fetus (Ps. 139:13). The
Lord allowed His people to take “the goods, gar- mother-dependent fetus is strictly biological
ments and valuable things” as provision for life. But when the viable fetus emerges from
themselves (2 Chron. 20:25). Once the spoils were the womb, God imputes soul life to the existing
distributed, the people assembled in the valley biological life to form human life (Job 27:3; Isa.
and “there they blessed [barak, saluted] the Lord: 42:5). Biological life and soul life remain united
therefore the name of the same place was called, until physical death, when “the dust [the material
The valley of Berachah, unto this day” (2 Chron. body] will return to the earth as it was” (Eccl. 12:7).
20:26, kjv).
Biological life is the means of transmitting
The change of name from valley of Jehoshaphat
mankind’s inherent corruption, the sin nature
to valley of Berachah reflects Judah’s attitude
(Rom. 6:12; 7:18a), which was originally acquired
of dependance upon the Lord for His blessing
by Adam at his fall and is subsequently passed
and deliverance. Also reflected is Judah’s attitude
down through the male in procreation (Rom.
of humility and thanksgiving—her praise and
5:12). In the biological life in the womb, however,
salute toward the Lord in recognition of His
power and promise to always protect His people. the sin nature is dormant—it cannot be active
The Lord’s deliverance of Israel in this valley where soul life is not present. Activation occurs
foreshadowed what is yet to occur at Armaged- at the moment of birth. At the same time that
don, when the Lord “will gather all the nations God imputes soul life, He also imputes Adam’s
And bring them down to the valley of Jehosha- original sin to the genetically formed “body of sin”
phat,” where He “will enter into judgment with (Rom. 6:6).
them” (Joel 3:2). See also format soul; imputations; mediate
Lessons 376:2051–52. creation; origin of human life; soul life.
For further reference, The Integrity of God; The Origin
of Human Life.
Bible doctrine The entire realm of God’s truth Lessons 412:747–51, 1120–27.
presented in nomenclature, categories, concepts,
and principles that define God, man, sin, salva- bitterness [Gk. pikria, an acrid or astringent
tion, the angelic conflict, the spiritual life, and taste; harshness, antagonism] A harsh, hostile
eschatology. Doctrine is drawn from the content attitude that results from arrogant reaction and
of the completed canon of Scripture, Old and
then becomes a source of habitual carnality. Fig-
New Testaments, and is the sum total of the
uratively described as venom in the soul (Ps.
divine viewpoint of life. See Word of God.
140:3; Rom. 3:13–14).
Hebrews 12:15 exhorts the believer, “See to
biological life (a) The cellular tissue, genetic
it that no one comes short of the grace of God;
makeup, and functions necessary to sustain liv-
that no root of bitterness springing up causes
ing material; (b) the visible, physical, and mortal
trouble, and by it many be defiled.” Unchecked
aspects of man that begin at conception and ter-
minate with physical death. self-absorption takes root in the soul as bitter-
At the original creation of man, God directly ness, and from this root spring up numerous
formed the flesh, blood, and bone of Adam’s body sins like anger, vindictiveness, jealousy, self-pity,
from the chemicals of the soil (Gen. 2:7a). This slander, vituperation. By always complaining,
biological life was not yet human life, for only criticizing, and quarreling (Job 7:11; 10:1), the
when God exhaled His breath into the first man bitter person not only obstructs his own life but
did Adam become “a living being” (Gen. 2:7b). For also contaminates those in his periphery, the
Adam’s progeny, biological life is created indirectly “many” who are “defiled.” Love turns into hatred
by God through intermediate agents: the mother and respect turns into resentment, as personal
and father in procreation (Gen. 4:1–2). Biological relationships disintegrate (Col. 3:19).
 25 blessing by association

See also arrogance complex of sins; arrogance Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit was com-
skills; emotional complex of sins. mitted by the Pharisees when they said that Jesus
For further reference, Isolation of Sin; Rebound & Keep
Moving!; Reversionism. cast out demons by the power of Satan (Matt.
Lessons 412:1063; 840:107; 376:671–74. 9:34; 12:24). Since the humanity of Christ was
sustained by the power of the Holy Spirit (Isa.
blackout of the soul 11:2; Acts 10:38), their accusation blasphemed
See reversionism. the Spirit and rejected the miraculous signs
that testified to Jesus’ identity as the Messiah.
blasphemy [Gk. blasphemia, slander, insulting The blasphemous charge was tantamount to
speech] The sinful act of disrespect, disregard, rejecting the God-man Savior and His message
or contempt toward God, demonstrated by of salvation.
(1) slandering, cursing, or challenging the char- The Lord’s response, “any sin and blasphemy
shall be forgiven. . .but blasphemy against the
acter of God, or by (2) exalting oneself or another
Spirit shall not be forgiven” (Matt. 12:31b), made
person, creature, or object to the level of God.
it clear that rejection of the Savior was the only
Satan is the model for both forms of blasphemy.
unpardonable sin—the one sin for which Christ
In prehistory, he declared that he would usurp the
could not atone (cf. Mark 3:28–29; Luke 12:10).
heavenly throne and make himself “like the Most
High” (Isa. 14:13–14). Then, when he was rightly See also God the Holy Spirit (ministries of common
grace); resisting the Holy Spirit; unpardonable sin.
sentenced to eternal condemnation in hell, Satan For further reference, Satan and Demonism; Slave
slandered the character of God by challenging Market of Sin.
the judgment. Though the details are unrecorded
in Scripture, the devil probably argued that such blessing by association The endowment of
punishment could not come from a loving God, prosperity and protection that overflows from a
the same blasphemy so often repeated today. mature believer to loved ones, associates, the
Other scriptural examples of blasphemy in- nation, and beyond. When a Christian grows in
clude, but are not limited to, the following: Job grace and attains spiritual maturity, he becomes
portraying God as the antagonist and blaming an invisible hero having a positive, unseen influ-
God for his own bitterness and adversity (Job ence upon his surroundings. This invisible
9:17–18; 10:1–2); Old Testament Jews worshiping impact occurs in five categories:
man-made idols (Ex. 32:1–8; Lev. 26:30); Saul (1) Personal impact upon the close associates
making God a witness to his promise to protect of the mature believer. These include family
a necromancer (1 Sam. 28:9–10); King Belshazzar members, friends, neighbors, or professional
using the holy vessels of Israel to praise the gods colleagues, as well as entire organizations such as
of Babylon (Dan. 1:2; 5:1–4); Jewish believers con- schools, churches, businesses, law enforcement,
tinuing to offer sacrifices in the Temple, implying and social circles. Because of their association
that Christ’s completed sacrifice on the cross was with the mature believer, these groups or indi-
not efficacious (Heb. 5—6); believers slandering, viduals are blessed by God with various forms
maligning, or assuming the divine prerogative of of success, prosperity, or protection. In many
judging other believers (James 4:11; 5:9). cases the believer himself is unknown or his
contribution unnoticed. At other times, the
See also appeal trial of Satan.
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; King of Kings believer visibly helps others by sharing his
and Lord of Lords. own kindness and concern, personal expertise,
Lessons 376:647–49. material support, or doctrinal wisdom and
encouragement (Rom. 12:13; Philem. 7).
blasphemy against the Holy Spirit The term (2) Historical impact upon the client nation.
used by Jesus Christ to describe the unbeliever’s Inside God’s representative nation, the client
sin of rejecting Him during the Incarnation (Matt. nation, mature believers form a pivot through
12:31–32), comparable to “resisting the Holy Spirit” which the Lord furthers His plan for human
during the Church Age (Acts 7:51). history. As a way of honoring His Word resident
blessing by association 26

in their souls, God protects and blesses the blood of Christ Figurative biblical language that
nation in which they live. The pivot of mature represents the saving work of Jesus Christ on the
believers, designated “the salt of the earth [land]” cross—His substitutionary spiritual death.
(Matt. 5:13a), can be the means of preserving that The technical phrase “blood of Christ” sets
national entity and reversing historical disaster up an analogy between the physical death of Old
(Gen. 18:22–32; Lev. 26:3–13; 2 Chron. 7:14). Testament sacrificial animals and the spiritual
(3) International impact upon nonclient nations death of Christ on the cross. In Israel’s ritual
receiving doctrinally oriented missionaries from sacrifices, shedding of animal blood was a visual
the client nation. A foreign nation is protected aid for teaching the substitutionary sacrifice
and prospered by association with one or more of the prophesied Savior. Since blood is the seat
missionaries who present the Gospel, teach cor- of life for an animal (Lev. 17:11), the innocent
rect doctrine, and establish indigenous churches animal’s blood was an apt representation of a
in the land (Deut. 4:6–8; Jonah; Acts 18:22–23). life given on behalf of others. Animal sacrifices
Because their impact is spiritual and not tem- were the “shadow of good things to come”—the
poral, these missionaries avoid interfering in the reality would be fulfilled at the cross by Jesus
nation’s politics or ethnic culture. Christ (Heb. 9:11–12; 10:1). To pay the penalty
(4) Angelic impact upon the ongoing conflict for mankind’s sins, Christ had to die spiritually,
between God and Satan. Angels, both elect and not physically, as a substitute for us (2 Cor. 5:21;
fallen, constantly observe the human race (1 Cor. 1 Pet. 2:24). This substitutionary spiritual death,
4:9; 1 Tim. 5:21; 1 Pet. 1:12). Elect angels rejoice the figurative “blood of Christ,” opens the door
to salvation for anyone who believes in Him (Eph.
when a person chooses for God’s plan; fallen
2:12–13). Furthermore, because the figurative
angels tremble. The mature believer stands as a
blood of Christ “cleanses us from all sin,” believers
powerful witness for God in the heavenly realm
can simply name their postsalvation sins privately
as he relies on divine assets and perseveres
to the Father and be forgiven (1 John 1:7b–9).
through every test of faith. His very life is a
The literal blood that flowed from Christ’s
testimony to God’s grace, love, and perfect
hands, feet, and head was not a factor in either
fairness. Although his impact is invisible, this
His spiritual or physical death, nor was it in any
victorious believer has the privilege of resisting
way related to His substitutionary atonement.
Satan and glorifying God in the conflict of the
Christ remained physically alive until His sal-
ages (Eph. 3:10; 6:10–12). See also witness for
vation work was complete, at which time He
the Prosecution.
uttered the words “it is finished” then died
(5) Heritage impact after the mature believer has
physically by His own volition (Luke 23:46; John
gone home to be with the Lord. Because of God’s
10:17–18; 19:30). Afterward, a soldier thrust his
high regard for this departed believer, those left
spear into Christ’s side and “immediately blood
behind are cared for throughout their lifetimes and water [blood clots and serum] came out,”
(Ps. 37:25). This inheritance blessing extends to forensic evidence that our Lord did not die from
individuals associated with the mature believer loss of blood (John 19:34).
during his time on earth—parents, children, In Scripture. The word “blood” in the Bible often
friends, loved ones, colleagues—regardless of their indicates literal blood of humans and animals
spiritual standing. Indeed, spiritually immature (Gen. 9:4; 37:22–31; Ex. 7:17; 12:23; Lev. 7:26; Ps.
believers and even unbelievers can receive 106:38; Acts 22:20), but when the New Testament
heritage impact just as they can receive personal speaks of blood in relation to the sacrifice of
impact during the mature Christian’s lifetime. Christ, as in “the blood of Christ” or “His blood,”
See also client nation to God; cursing by the terminology is always a figure of speech for
association; invisible hero; pivot of mature His saving work (1 Cor. 10:16; Eph. 2:13; Heb. 9:14;
believers.
1 Pet. 1:2). More specifically, Scripture relates the
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Christian Suf-
fering; The Divine Outline of History; The Integrity of God. figurative blood to the soteriological doctrines of
Lessons 458:371; 412:899; 361:55–56; 376:110. reconciliation (Col. 1:20), propitiation (Rom. 3:25),
 27 Bride of Christ

expiation (Rev. 1:5), redemption (Eph. 1:7; Col. human deeds; (b) one of the two books opened at
1:14; Heb. 9:12; 1 Pet. 1:18–19), justification (Rom. the Last Judgment.
5:9), and sanctification (Heb. 13:12). At the end of human history, the name of every
See also representative analogy; soteriology; unbeliever will have been blotted out of the Book
substitutionary spiritual death; unlimited of Life and transferred to the Book of Works.
atonement. Those who reject the saving work of Jesus Christ
For further reference, The Blood of Christ.
Lessons 419:100–108; 429:14–16, 214–17; 412:284–87. will be left to stand at the Last Judgment on
nothing but their acts of relative righteousness,
Body of Christ A designation for the universal recorded next to their names in the register of
Church on earth, the royal family of God during deeds (Isa. 64:6a; John 12:48; Rev. 20:12–13). See
the Church Age. Last Judgment.
This Scriptural imagery describes believers in See also Book of Life; human good; relative
righteousness.
union with Christ as “members” of His body
For further reference, Slave Market of Sin; The Unfailing
(1 Cor. 12:12–27), all formed into one organic Love of God.
whole with various spiritual gifts and functions
but with a common plan, common objectives, and born again
a united purpose (Rom. 12:4–6; Eph. 4:12). God See regeneration.
is forming this body of Church Age believers
for the maximum glorification of the Lord Jesus breath of life
Christ, who is the “head” of the Body (Eph. 1:22– See soul life.
23; 5:23–24, 29–30; Col. 1:18; 2:10; 2 Thess. 1:12).
When the royal family is complete, this distinctive Bride of Christ A designation for the universal
group of believers will be removed from earth Church in the future, when every Church Age be-
at the Rapture and transferred to heaven (1 Cor. liever resides in resurrection body in the presence
15:23). The Body will then be prepared to return of Jesus Christ.
as the Bride of Christ at His second advent (Eph. On earth, the Church is called the Body of
5:27; Rev. 19:6–8). Christ (Rom. 12:5; Eph. 4:11–12) and is formed
See also Bride of Christ; church; royal family throughout the Church Age by regeneration and
of God.
baptism of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 12:13; Eph. 1:22–
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History;
Tongues. 23). The completed Body will be transferred to
Lessons 412:117, 409–10, 851, 1115. heaven at the Rapture, at which time the Body is
instantly transformed into the Bride (1 Cor. 15:42–
Book of Life (a) The heavenly register in which 57).
the name of every human being is recorded and Scriptural imagery portraying Christ and the
retained forever if he believes in Jesus Christ Church as bridegroom and bride draws upon
(Phil. 4:3; Rev. 3:5; 21:27); (b) one of the two books the marital customs of the ancient world. A
opened at the Last Judgment. marriage in biblical times was celebrated in three
Every member of humanity is entered into the stages: the betrothal, ceremony, and feast. Unlike
Book of Life at physical birth. When a person of modern-day engagement, “betrothal” referred to
accountable age dies without believing in Jesus the signing of a contract between the parents of
Christ for salvation, that person’s name is blotted the prospective marriage parties. This contract
out, struck from the Book of Life, and transferred designated the woman as the man’s legal wife,
to the Book of Works (Ps. 69:28; Rev. 20:12, 15). though the two remained in separate residences.
See Last Judgment. When they were of marriageable age, the wedding
ceremony took place: the groom entered the
Book of Works (a) The heavenly register con- home of his betrothed, her father’s house, where
taining the name of every unbelieving member she was formally presented to him as his virgin
of the human race along with a record of his bride. Then, in a lively procession made up of
Bride of Christ 28

celebrating groomsmen, the married couple was

escorted to the home of the groom. There the
bridesmaids were waiting outside, and the entire
group entered the groom’s home for the wedding
feast, a grand occasion lasting a week or more.
New Testament writers used the ancient-
world marriage terminology to reveal future
events and to emphasize the intimate, eternal
relationship between Christ and the Church. To
his Corinthian congregation Paul proclaimed, “I
betrothed you to one husband, so that to Christ
I might present you as a pure virgin” (2 Cor.
11:2b). “Betrothed to one husband” indicates
the Church Age believer’s expression of faith in
Christ, resulting in unbreakable union with the
Son of God. The presentation as a “pure virgin”
will occur in heaven following the Rapture of
the Church: the Bride of Christ will be brought
before her Groom “in all her glory, having no spot
or wrinkle,” in a resurrection body free from all
vestiges of sin and human good (Eph. 5:27). While
the Tribulation is taking place on earth, the Bride
will be in heaven getting ready to accompany the
Groom at His second advent (Rom. 14:12; 1 Cor.
3:12–15; 1 Thess. 3:13).
The triumphal return to earth marks the
beginning of the “marriage supper of the
Lamb”—a spectacular wedding feast complete
with celebration and rejoicing, set against the
backdrop of perfect environment and lasting
throughout the Millennium (Rev. 19:7–9). “Those
who are invited” (Rev. 19:9) are Old Testament
believers and tribulational martyrs (the grooms-
men—John 3:29; Rev. 20:4) and surviving
tribulational believers (the bridesmaids—Matt.
25:1–10).
See also Body of Christ; royal family of God;
Second Advent.
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History.
Lessons 419:11; 457:636–39; 412:1109–10; 376:623–24.

Bright Morning Star

See royal patents.
 Cc
Canon [Gk. kanon, rod, measuring stick; rule, prophet or both), internal and external evidence,
model, standard] The collection of divinely and endorsement by Jesus Christ (Matt. 4:4; 22:29;
inspired Scripture, called “the Bible,” divided John 5:39; 10:35). Furthermore, Paul and other
into Old and New Testaments. The Canon in New Testament writers repeatedly declared the
its original languages—Hebrew, Aramaic, and Scriptures to be the Word of God (Rom. 14:11;
Greek—is the authoritative, infallible Word of 15:9–12; 1 Cor. 14:21; Gal. 4:27; Eph. 4:8; Heb. 1:6–
God, preserved in writing to reveal God’s person 13; 2:6–8; 3:7–11; 1 Pet. 1:24–25; 2:6).
and communicate His truths to man. The twenty-seven books of the New Testament
God’s Word has existed from eternity past were determined to be canonical on the basis
(Prov. 8:22–31), and this divine wisdom has been of internal and external evidence of divine
reduced to written form, collected, and bound inspiration (2 Pet. 1:20–21), apostolic or Christ-
into the Holy Bible. The Canon exists for several associated authorship (meaning all writers
reasons: (1) to provide people with the complete either had the gift of apostleship or were closely
and authoritative revelation from God, (2) to associated with an apostle or Jesus Christ), doc-
ensure the preservation and circulation of the trinal consistency, acceptance by the early local
sacred writings, (3) to establish which writings churches, and the presence of instruction in
are divinely inspired and which are not, (4) to the text to publically exegete the Scriptures (e.g.,
present mankind with the Gospel of salvation, Col. 4:16; 1 Thess. 5:27; 1 Tim. 4:13; Rev. 1:3; 3:6).
and (5) to equip believers with the entire realm of As it stands today, the authorized recorded
doctrine in writing. Word is the most widely circulated book in the
The texts that became the Old and New Testa- world, having been translated into over 670
ments were produced over a period of approx- languages. No other book in history has been
imately two thousand years. The Book of Job is opposed so intensely and survived all attempts
the earliest manuscript, with details indicating at its destruction. Of the Bible’s divine origin,
an origin during the time of the Jewish Patriarchs, protection, and perpetuation there can be no
prior to Moses. The Book of Revelation is the doubt, for within those pages is “the living and
latest manuscript, completed by the Apostle John enduring word of God” (1 Pet. 1:23).
in A.D. 96. During the second and third centuries See also divine revelation; verbal plenary
A.D., the texts for canonical consideration were inspiration; Word of God.
compiled, examined, catalogued, and debated, For further reference, Canonicity.
until the fourth-century Church Councils for-
mally ratified the authoritative Canon of sixty- capacity for life
six books. The collection of books known as the See capacity, spiritual.
Apocrypha, although asserted by some to be
canonical, are not divinely inspired and were capacity righteousness A term correlating
rejected as such. the three phases of God’s plan with the believer’s
The Old Testament consists of thirty-nine ability to receive specific divine blessings. Capac-
books determined to be canonical on the basis of ity righteousness at salvation, a result of the im-
divine origin (2 Pet. 1:21), prophetic authorship putation of divine righteousness, provides all
(meaning all writers had the gift or office of believers with the capacity to receive God’s
capacity righteousness 30

logistical support for the rest of their lives (Rom. spiritual blessing in itself—expands his capacity
3:22; Phil. 4:19). Spiritual capacity righteousness for ever more spiritual blessings, as well as for
is developed through spiritual growth, through any tangible and material blessings God may
the process of experiential sanctification (2 Tim. have for him (Matt. 6:33). These “greater grace”
2:21), which gives the believer capacity for true blessings of maturity, tailor-made in eternity
happiness and other “greater grace” blessings past for each individual Church Age believer
(James 4:6). Capacity righteousness for the eternal (Eph. 1:3–4; James 4:6), are so extraordinary that
state is realized through ultimate sanctification, every recipient must possess a mature capacity
when the believer receives a sinless resurrection to benefit from them. In so blessing the believer,
body and has the capacity to live in God’s presence God is pleased and glorified (Heb. 11:6).
forever (1 Cor. 15:53; 2 Pet. 3:13). See also escrow blessings; grace pipeline; hap-
piness; supergrace.
See also righteousness; sanctification.
For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Integrity
Lessons 376:161–69, 1459–66.
of God.
Lessons 422:36–37; 454:7; 458:125, 333; 376:999.
capacity, spiritual The inner soul attitude that
gives the believer the ability to truly appreciate carnal death
and enjoy the benefits of divine grace. Maturity, See death.
the goal of the Christian life, is where one acquires
full capacity for life, for love, for happiness, for carnality The absolute status of the believer
prosperity, and even for suffering. who has sinned and whose soul is under the
In God’s plan, capacity for blessings must pre- influence of the sin nature. Synonyms: out of
cede the conveyance of blessings. Before God fellowship with God; temporal death. Antonym:
can pour out all of the prosperity and happiness spirituality.
He has designed for each of His children, they Carnal is the old-English translation of the
must possess an inner ability to appreciate these Greek sarkikos, which means “fleshly,” or “of
grace gifts (Isa. 30:18). God can prosper believers the flesh.” The terms fleshly and flesh are used
who have capacity because such prosperity does throughout the New Testament to indicate the
not distract from their spiritual growth and ser- sin nature. When the believer succumbs to temp-
vice. They can enjoy the details of life—romance, tation and commits sin, he is controlled by the
success, achievement, wealth—while not depend- sin nature; he is carnal—living by the power
ing on these details for happiness. This inner of the “flesh” rather than the power of the Holy
capacity is undiminished and even strengthened Spirit (Gal. 5:17). Though his eternal relation-
by the challenges of undeserved suffering. For ship with God cannot be changed, his fellowship
believers without capacity, however, even the with God in time is broken. “Those who are in the
finest trappings of prosperity become a source flesh cannot please God,” because nothing the
of distraction, discontent, and misery. flesh can do is good in itself (Rom. 7:18; 8:8).
God in grace provides the means for develop- At any point in time, at any stage of spiritual
ing spiritual capacity—His Word, Bible doctrine. growth, the believer is either completely carnal,
As doctrine fills the soul of the advancing believer, controlled by the sin nature, or completely spir-
he orients to God’s plan and develops the capa- itual, controlled by the Holy Spirit. Both are
bility to understand, appreciate, and enjoy all absolute conditions that cannot occur simulta-
facets of life. He learns to recognize the giver, neously. To move from carnality back to spir-
God Himself, in every gift received (James 1:17). ituality, the believer simply cites his personal sins
With a total appreciation for grace and doctrine, to God the Father. But the believer who chooses
the mature believer has the ability to maintain to dwell in carnality remains out of fellowship,
a stabilized inner happiness, to love others with unable to serve God or advance in the Christian
the courtesy and thoughtfulness of impersonal life. Like the Corinthian “men of flesh” who
love, and to trust the Lord in all circumstances. could receive no spiritual nourishment, the car-
This wealth of divine viewpoint in his soul—a nal believer cannot learn or apply even the most
 31 chaos

basic truths of the Word of God (1 Cor. 3:1–3). The proliferation of mental attitude sins stems
See also fellowship with God; rebound; spir- from failure to isolate past sins, forget them,
ituality; top and bottom circles. and keep moving in the plan of God (1 John 1:9).
For further reference, God the Holy Spirit vs. The Sin The chain-sinner, after citing a particular sin,
Nature; Isolation of Sin; The Prodigal Son; Rebound &
Keep Moving!; Reversionism. starts worrying, develops a guilty conscience, or
Lessons 101:6; 408:12–13; 458:252–53; 376:776. becomes fearful of possible consequences of the
sin. He may agonize over seeking penance or
casting out demons (a) The miracle performed become embittered and vengeful as he remem-
by the incarnate Christ and His appointed disci- bers the incident that motivated the sin (Heb.
ples in order to expel a possessing demon from its 12:15–16). Follow-on mental sins quickly ignite
victim; (b) a temporary divine power authorized verbal or overt sins until the chain-sinner finds
only during the Incarnation and the apostolic era himself continually out of fellowship, suffering
of the Church Age. the consequences of self-induced misery and
Demonstrating His Messiahship, Jesus Christ divine discipline.
ousted demons upon command to immediately
See also isolation of sin; rebound.
heal people afflicted by the indwelling evil (Matt.
8:16; Mark 1:34, 39; 5:2–13; Luke 4:41; 8:2). The
chaos The state of the earth sometime after cre-
Lord delegated this power to the original twelve
ation but before restoration—the period when
disciples and seventy others as an accompani-
fallen angels turned God’s perfectly formed order
ment to His earthly ministry (Matt. 10:1, 8; Luke
into barren waste, desolation, and disorder.
10:1, 17). Later, during the precanon era of the
God’s creation of “the heavens and the earth,”
Church Age, the power to cast out demons was
bestowed upon the apostles for the purpose of presented succinctly in Genesis 1:1, was perfect
authenticating the Gospel message (Acts 5:12a, in every respect (cf. Isa. 45:18). The next verse,
14, 16). The Book of Acts reveals the apostolic however, reveals our planet as having under-
gift of casting out demons, used in founding the gone a cataclysmic transformation: “The earth
first-century Church. Acts 19:11–16 specifically was [became] formless and void, and darkness
contrasts Paul’s divinely authorized power with was over the surface of the deep” (Gen. 1:2a).
the false practice of exorcism. The Hebrew word tehom, translated “deep,” is
See also demon possession; exorcism; spiritual symbolic of chaos and death. Together with tohu,
gifts (temporary). “formless,” and bohu, “void,” these words paint a
For further reference, Satan and Demonism. scene of malevolent destruction.
Leading to this catastrophic event were the fall
categorical storage of Satan and the resultant angelic conflict. Earth
See stream of consciousness. was somehow central to Satan’s revolt against
God, and he and the other rebellious angels
categories brought war, desolation, and chaos to this tiny
See ICE. planet. Yet God would not allow such waste and
ruin to go on indefinitely. His judgment on the
category one, two, three love Three ways in fallen angelic hosts included enshrouding the
which the believer expresses personal relation- earth in darkness, making it an uninhabitable
ship love: category one is love toward God, category wasteland. The arena of destruction, its light and
two is love toward the opposite sex in romance heat extinguished by God, was flooded by God
and marriage, category three is love in friendship. and packed in ice. Beneath the ice everything was
See also love; marriage; personal love for God chaos; above the ice, darkness.
the Father; right man–right woman.
See restoration of the earth. See also angelic
conflict; Satan.
chain-sinning Allowing a previously confessed For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Creation,
and forgiven sin to generate further sins. Chaos, & Restoration.
cherub 32

cherub [pl. cherubim; Heb. cherub, a covering faith in the finished work of Christ on the cross
angel who guards or protects] A high ranking, (John 1:12; Rom. 8:38–39; Eph. 2:8; 1 Pet. 2:24).
four-winged angel created by God in eternity past Whereas religion focuses on man’s efforts toward
as a perfect creature with free will and rational God (e.g., allegiance to a group, rule-keeping, self-
capacity to understand His divine character. sacrifice, social action), true Christianity is based
Cherubim guard and represent God’s holiness, solely on what God in grace does for man. Even
a role first carried out by Lucifer, “the anointed after salvation, the way of life for the Christian
cherub” guarding the throne room of God (Ezek. excludes any form of human merit, as it depends
28:14–17). Other such examples include the entirely upon the power, plan, and resources of
cherubs placed “at the east of the garden of Eden God revealed in His Word (2 Pet. 1:3–4).
. . . to guard the way to the tree of life” (Gen. 3:24) See also believer; church; religion.
and the two cherub figures on the mercy seat. For further reference, Heathenism; The Plan of God.
The latter two, the “cherubim of glory,” repre-
sented God’s integrity as they stood on either side Christian activism (a) The use of illegal or bibli-
of the ark of the covenant (Ex. 25:17–22; Heb. 9:5). cally unauthorized methods to impose Christian
The role of cherubim also includes warning and ideals, either real or alleged, upon the populace;
execution of divine judgment upon the human (b) the function of self-righteous arrogance that
race, exemplified in 2 Samuel 22:11, Ezekiel 1 and exchanges the duty of spiritual impact for the
10, and Revelation 8, 10, 15, and 16. goal of correcting societal depravity.
See also angels; seraph. Let it first be clear that Christian activism
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict. does not include believers exercising the right to
vote or to enter into legitimate activities related
chesed to their country’s governing process. Nor does
See love. activism include service in law enforcement
or the military for defense of national freedom.
Christian A Church Age designation for those Activism, rather, is a function of moral degen-
who have entered into an eternal relationship eracy that exalts man’s efforts over God’s grace.
with God through faith alone in Jesus Christ Never condoned by Scripture (1 Pet. 2:13–17),
alone. Synonym: Church Age believer. activism is sponsored by Satan to preoccupy
Believers at Antioch in the first century A.D. believers with temporal, human solutions so
were the first to be called “Christians,” a nomen- that the true, lasting solutions of God’s plan are
clature distinguishing those who spread the ignored.
Gospel of the resurrected Jesus Christ (Acts The Christian activist is the believer who seeks
11:26b). These early followers of Christ called to influence the world for Christ through public
themselves disciples, brethren, and saints but action, often to the point of coercion. Overzealous
were scornfully labeled “Christian” by the unbe- and ignorant of Bible doctrine, activists typically
lieving Gentiles in Rome (Acts 26:28; 1 Pet. confuse the roles of church and state and crusade
4:14–16). What began as a term of derision—an to enforce a Christian standard upon society
expression of contempt for both the Lord Jesus (Prov. 29:18). Some employ civil disobedience,
Christ and those who belong to Him—became while others cross the line into vigilantism, or-
a term of honor as the message of salvation ganized revolution, and violence. Campaigns to
grew and “considerable numbers” were brought whitewash the devil’s world may involve anything
to the Lord (Acts 11:24a, 26; 14:21–22). from demonstrating against blasphemous movies
During this current age, Christians are iden- or offensive behavior, to picketing outside an
tified with the companion term “Christianity.” objectionable workplace, to terrorizing abortion
Despite its common classification as a religion, clinics. Tragically, an end-justifies-the-means
Christianity is distinct from all other systems philosophy often results in destruction of privacy,
of faith and worship. Biblical Christianity is a freedom, prosperity, property, even life. These
personal, eternal relationship with God through actions launched against evil actually alienate
 33 Christian nation

the unbelieving world by making a mockery of growth or confused with Christian service and
Christianity and its principles (Rom. 1:21–22). worship.
Activists fail to understand that the power of The benefits of Christian fellowship are depen-
Christianity is not political or visible but spir- dent upon the spiritual maturity and priorities
itual and invisible. The unseen impact of the of those involved. Comradery among advancing
doctrinally oriented believer is what influences believers provides the blessings of doctrinal
the course of history, not social reform. Only by encouragement; comfort and refuge from peer
advancing in God’s plan does the Christian bring pressure, opposition, or even persecution;
true solutions to national problems. As a citizen relaxation based on spiritual like-mindedness;
strengthened by Christian virtue, he breaks no and lifelong friendships. The Apostle Paul
laws, sponsors no violence, does not intrude on experienced this joy of true Christian fellowship,
privacy, but turns the world upside down through expressed by his eager desire to return to his
the invisible force of Bible doctrine. God honors faithful congregation at Thessalonica (1 Thess.
and blesses a nation in association with such 2:17–18). On the other hand, social intercourse
mature believers. among immature, negative, or habitually carnal
Today’s crusaders would benefit from recogniz- believers perpetuates false doctrine, legalism,
ing that despite tyranny, paganism, and wide- or licentiousness (1 Cor. 15:33; 2 Tim. 3:2–7);
spread slavery in the first-century Roman Empire, becomes a superficial remedy for insecurity
evangelism and spiritual growth thrived. The and loneliness; or is transformed into career
most influential figure in Church history, the networking and courtship programs. Whenever
Apostle Paul, ministered amidst that period’s people-emphasis takes priority over God-
institutionalized evil, yet he did not beat the emphasis, spiritual growth stagnates. Wrong
drums of abolition or incite revolt against the priorities send the believer into the downward
regime. Paul stayed on course with spreading slide of reversionism.
the Gospel and teaching the spiritual life. He Despite the potential blessings and advantages
emphasized the doctrine whereby people in all of positive Christian fellowship, believers should
situations, even those “under the yoke as slaves,” refrain from assigning too much importance to
can remain where they are and glorify God (1 Cor. this type of activity. Social interaction cannot
7:21–22; 1 Tim. 6:1–2). When Nero took the throne, advance the believer in God’s plan and purpose
Paul refrained from maligning the monstrous for his life. Accordingly, there is no command
anti-Christian dictator and taught his Roman for it in Scripture. The verse so often upheld as
congregation to obey authority (Rom. 13:1–9). the directive, Hebrews 10:25, emphasizes assem-
Truth was the issue, so the great Apostle left the bling together not for the purpose of fellowship
evils of the Roman Empire to the Supreme Court with other Christians but for the teaching of
of Heaven and remembered that Jesus Christ God’s Word. With doctrine in the soul and an
controls history. ever-increasing rapport with God, the believer
See also Christian nation; Christian respon- then has capacity for enjoyable, legitimate rela-
sibility; separation of church and state.
tionships with those of like mind.
For further reference, Freedom through Military Victory;
In Whom Do You Trust?; Reversionism. See also Christian service; fellowship with God.
Lessons 458:395–99; 412:832–34, 885; 840:77; 376:187, For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Witnessing.
210–11, 1583. Lessons 412:725, 812, 926; 376:716–18.

Christian degeneracy The condition of the Christian nation (a) A term sometimes used to
Church Age believer who has fallen into a life describe a country deeply influenced by Chris-
of unrestrained sin by rejecting the spiritual life tianity; (b) a misguided ideal applied by believers
for this age. See degeneracy. who advocate merging of church and state for the
national entity.
Christian fellowship Social interaction among Strictly speaking, the term “Christian nation” is
believers, not to be relied upon for spiritual incongruous. In any national entity, even those
Christian nation 34

influenced by Christianity, there are believers and will never be in human history, including the
unbelievers, people of all religions and no religions, Millennium, a Christian nation.
atheists and agnostics. We as Christians have the See also Christian activism; client nation to
responsibility to present the Gospel to all—some God; pivot of mature believers; separation of
will believe and some will not. And regardless of church and state.
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History;
how many citizens profess Christianity, the nation Freedom through Military Victory; In Whom Do You Trust?
itself cannot be “Christian.” After all, Christianity Lessons 412:933, 1165.
is a faith by which individuals gain a relationship
with God by making a personal choice to accept Christian responsibility The Church Age
Jesus Christ as Savior. Nations, on the other hand, believer’s duties toward God, country, and his
are entities designed to provide and protect, by fellow man.
rule of law, freedom for the function of individual In the Dispensation of the Church, two sys-
volition toward faith and all other aspects of life. A tems of authority—divine and human—coexist.
nation populated with a core of mature believers As commanded by Jesus Christ, the believer is
can reside under God’s patronage as a “client to “render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s;
nation”—a representative entity that provides the and to God the things that are God’s” (Matt. 22:21).
supreme environment for influence of Christianity The Christian citizen fulfills his civil and spir-
on civilization, both domestic and foreign. itual responsibilities by complying with the laws
The United States of America, for example, is not of divine establishment and submitting to the
a Christian nation but a client nation. Although spiritual laws of God’s Word.
many American citizens profess Christianity, the Civil responsibility. The principle of rendering
individual liberties recognized in our founding to Caesar is amplified in Romans 13:7: “Render
documents ensure protection and blessing of to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due;
Christians and non-Christians alike. Freedom is custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; hon-
the issue. There must be freedom to evangelize or to whom honor.” In other words, respect the
and to be evangelized, freedom to teach and learn principles and activities of divine establishment.
God’s Word, freedom to protect the dispersed This means to recognize the divine institutions
Jews, and freedom to aid remote lands with the of individual freedom, marriage, family, and the
message of Christ. Christianity must support national entity; obey civil authority and the laws
the state and political establishment, but it must of the land (including tax regulations, no matter
never be the establishment (Matt. 22:21; Rom. how confiscatory); uphold the rights to privacy,
13:1–7; Titus 3:1). The influence of Christianity, self-determination, property, and life; exhibit
rather, occurs by individual believers advancing patriotism toward the national entity, which in-
spiritually and forming a pivot that has invisible cludes honoring and serving the country’s mili-
impact on the nation and beyond. tary; and carry out other duties that may apply,
Trying to impose Christianity on a population such as jury service, voting, even holding public
destroys the very framework necessary for Chris- office (Rom. 13:1–7; Titus 3:1–2; 1 Pet. 2:13–17).
tianity’s maximum impact. At no point in history The Christian must recognize that govern-
is a national entity prospered by movements to mental authority derives its power not from
‘Christianize’ the laws, culture, and people, or by the people but from God (Rom. 13:1). And what
a ruling force mandating conversion. The latter God has ordained, the believer has no right
was attempted in fifteenth-century Spain, whose to contradict. Revolution, anarchy, or violent
crown persecuted Jews and so-called heretics overthrow of government should never be
in the name of national religious purity. The endorsed, and only lawful, legitimate means
famous Inquisition devastated Spain’s industri- should be employed in rescinding unjust laws.
ous middle class and, consequently, the empire’s Spiritual responsibility. As a royal priest and
economic power. When man tries to do the work ambassador, every Church Age believer is com-
of God and establish God’s kingdom on earth, missioned to represent himself before the Father
man produces evil. There has never been and and to represent Jesus Christ before man and
 35 Christology

angels. The Christian’s preeminent spiritual believer, determine the more specialized areas
responsibility is to renovate his thinking by per- of Christian service, while certain functions like
sistently learning Bible doctrine under the witnessing and prayer are obligations for all
ministry of the Holy Spirit (Matt. 4:4; Rom. (John 15:16; Rom. 12:4–8; Gal. 6:9–10).
12:2; 2 Pet. 3:18). The more mature the believer Not everything touted as ‘Christian service’
becomes, the more he serves the will of God by actually is effective Christian service, because
accurately presenting the Gospel, offering con- believers can perform such acts from true or false
sistent prayer directly to the Father, functioning motives. Service can come from genuine love for
in his spiritual gift, extending graciousness and God or from legalism, coercion, self-promotion,
impersonal love toward all. arrogance. True Christian service is a privilege,
Should civil authorities curtail religious free- a result of faithfully adhering to the plan of
dom and interfere in spiritual matters, the Chris- God. Divine good is produced by the doctrinally
tian’s duty is to “obey God rather than men” (Acts prepared believer whose service is performed
5:29). Following the precedent set by the great under the filling of the Holy Spirit; otherwise,
heroes of Scripture (Esther 3:1–2; Dan. 3:6–18; the believer’s deeds amount to human good and
6:7–10; Acts 4:18–20; 5:27–32), the believer who dead works (Eph. 6:7; Col. 1:10).
rightly takes a stand for the Lord continues to See also dead works; divine good; human good;
witness and grow spiritually and, in doing so, spiritual gifts.
contributes to the recovery of his nation. For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; The Divine
Outline of History; Giving: Gimmick or Grace?
See also Christian activism; royal family honor Lessons 412:850; 361:50–57.
code; separation of church and state.
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History.
Lessons 438:58; 458:386–410; 412:855. Christian way of life A synonym for the spir-
itual life of the Church Age, the system of divine
Christian service The believer’s good deeds power, provision, and protocol that enables
and production that can be classified as either believers to reflect the character of Christ and
(1) genuine and effective, when accomplished as grow to spiritual maturity. See protocol plan
a result of the filling of the Holy Spirit, doctrinal of God.
inculcation, and spiritual growth, or (2) acts of
arrogance, when accomplished as a means for Christocentric dispensations The two eras of
spiritual growth or blessing. human history encompassing the years between
At the moment of salvation, every Church Age the birth of Jesus Christ and the still-future
believer enters into full-time Christian service Rapture of the Church. This hub of human his-
(1 Cor. 12:27; Eph. 4:12; Col. 3:23–24; 2 Thess. tory is defined by Christ’s appearance in the flesh,
1:11–12). Full-time service does not imply that His strategic victory over Satan at the cross, and
all must function as pastors, evangelists, or mis- the formation of spiritual royalty to glorify the
sionaries; it simply refers to every Christian’s resurrected King of kings. See Dispensation of
privilege, purpose, and obligation in daily life. the Hypostatic Union; Church Age.
The believer serves the Lord first and foremost
by learning Bible doctrine, applying divine view- Christology The study of Jesus Christ, with
point to life, and advancing toward spiritual emphasis on His person. (Soteriology focuses
maturity. As a result of this spiritual progress, specifically on His saving work.) Christology
the believer develops the inner capacity to serve includes every aspect of who and what Christ is,
the Lord in more outward ways. Where readiness from His preincarnate existence in eternity past
exists, the Lord opens doors for overt service ac- to His ultimate glorification in eternity future.
tivities, which include but are not limited to char- Existing forever from eternity past, Jesus Christ
itable giving, evangelism, intercessory prayer, is the coequal, coeternal Second Person of the
doctrinal encouragement, and offerings of time Trinity—God the Son. He is the Creator, through
and expertise both inside and outside the local whom everything came into being, and He is the
church. Spiritual gifts, unique to the individual Logos (the Word), the revelation of God to man
Christology 36

(John 1:1–3; Col. 1:16–17; Heb. 1:10; cf. Isa. 37:16). 3, 6; 22:13). See also Tribulation; Millennium;
See also logos; Trinity. Operation Footstool.
In the ages between creation and the Incarnation, For further reference, King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
God the Son provided divine revelation, protec- Lessons 215:1–15.
tion, and judgment to man, appearing in various
preincarnate forms (e.g., Ex. 3:2; 13:21–22; 24:9– Christophany [from Gk. Christos, Christ +
11; Judg. 6:12–21). He founded and ruled the phainein, to show, to cause to appear] Theo-
people and nation called Israel, who anticipated logical designation for the post-resurrection
His coming in the flesh. A system of animal appearances of Jesus Christ.
sacrifices prescribed for Israel pointed to Jesus Between His resurrection and ascension,
Christ as the prophesied Messiah and sacrificial Jesus Christ in resurrection body made Himself
Lamb of God (Heb. 10:1). See also God of Israel; visible to hundreds of people, including Mary
ritual plan of God. Magdalene at the empty tomb (Mark 16:9–11;
During the Incarnation, starting with the virgin John 20:11–17); the two travelers on the road to
birth and culminating with His death, resurrec- Emmaus (Luke 24:13–31); the disciples in the
tion, and ascension, the God-man Jesus Christ upper room (John 20:19–28), on the Sea of Galilee
fulfilled the Law and provided the work of salva- (Tiberias) (John 21:1–23), and on the mountain
tion. The unique Person of the universe, true in Galilee (Matt. 28:16–20); the group of more
humanity and undiminished deity, “dwelt among than five hundred (1 Cor. 15:6); and those on the
us” as the teacher of truth, worker of miracles, Mount of Olives at His ascension (Luke 24:44–
and the spotless Lamb who paid man’s penalty 51; Acts 1:3–9). Following His ascension, Christ
for sin (John 1:14; Gal. 4:4–5; 1 Pet. 1:18–21), then appeared to Stephen (Acts 7:55–56), to Paul (Acts
was resurrected and “taken up in glory” (1 Tim. 9:3–6; 22:6–11; 23:11), and to John on the Island
3:16). See also virgin pregnancy and birth; of Patmos (Rev. 1:12–20).
hypostatic union; ascension of Christ. See also angel of the Lord; theophany.
Upon His arrival in heaven, Christ was seated
at the right hand of God the Father (Acts 3:15; church A reference to either the universal Church
5:31; 1 Pet. 3:22). From this seat of highest honor, or localized Christian congregations. The English
He is today the head of the Church and continues New Testament uses the word “church” to translate
His ministry as Intercessor, High Priest, and the Greek ekklesia, which indicates an assembly or
Advocate (Rom. 8:34; Eph. 1:22–23; Heb. 4:14–16; organization. Apart from a few exceptions (Matt.
7:25; 8:1; 1 John 2:1). His person—past, present, 18:17; Acts 7:38, kjv), appearances of “church” in
and future—is now fully revealed through the Scripture pertain to one of the following:
completed canon of Scripture. See also session (1) The Church. The collective body of believers
of Christ; church. who accept Christ during the Church Age, be-
A future age will see Christ’s next appearance tween Pentecost and the Rapture (Eph. 1:22; 5:25–
on earth, this time as Deliverer, Conqueror, and 27; Col. 1:17–18). Synonyms: royal family of God;
Ruler who removes Satan and all of Israel’s ene- universal Church.
mies and establishes the kingdom promised Believers enter the universal Church at the mo-
to His people (Isa. 40:11; Rev. 19:11–20; 20:1–3). ment of personal faith in Jesus Christ. Through
Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace and eternal Son the baptism of the Holy Spirit, they are placed in
of David, will rule the earthly nations for one eternal union with Christ and made an entirely
thousand years (Isa. 2:4; 9:6b; Matt. 1:1; Luke new spiritual creation (Rom. 6:3; 1 Cor. 12:13;
18:38–39; John 12:13). At the end of human history, 2 Cor. 5:17). Members of the Church—male and
He will preside as almighty Judge over those who female—come from all walks of life, all races and
rejected the offer of salvation (Rev. 20:11–15). regions of the world, and speak many different
Then “a new heaven and a new earth” will be languages, yet they are “all sons of God through
created where Christ, the Alpha and Omega, will faith in Christ Jesus” (Gal. 3:26–28; 4:5–7). As His
dwell among His people for all eternity (Rev. 21:1– sons, the Church is not a nation or man-made
 37 Church Age

organization but a spiritual family—God’s own the universal Church, Jesus Christ delegates
royal family. Each member is indwelt by God in authority to men with the gift of pastor-teacher
order to represent and glorify the resurrected (Col. 1:25; Eph. 4:11). Just as Christ is the great
King of kings, Jesus Christ (Acts 1:8; 2 Cor. 5:20; Shepherd over all Church Age believers, the pas-
Eph. 2:10, 19; 3:10). tor is the under-shepherd who guards and feeds
In Scripture, the Church being formed on earth the congregation under his authority through
is designated the Body of Christ. The image of accurate teaching of Scripture (Acts 20:28; 2 Tim.
Christ as the “head” illustrates His authority over 2:15; 4:2; Heb. 13:20; 1 Pet. 5:1–3). In accordance
believers (Eph 1:22–23; 5:23; Col. 1:17–18; 2:10), with biblical principles, each local church is
and the image of believers as individual “mem- administered through a governing policy and
bers” emphasizes the varying spiritual gifts and board of deacons (Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:1–13).
functions that make up the collective organism See also Bride of Christ; Church Age; pastor-
(Rom. 12:4–5; 1 Cor. 12:18–28). When the Body of teacher; royal family of God; sanctification.
Christ is complete, the Rapture of the Church will For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Divine
Outline of History; Tongues.
occur (1 Cor. 15:42–57). The resurrected Church Lessons 408:44; 443:42–44; 412:158, 406.
in heaven is called the Bride of Christ, the “pure
virgin” who is presented to the Groom in sancti- Church Age The time period beginning on the
fied perfection (2 Cor. 11:2; Eph. 5:27; Rev. 19:6–8). day of Pentecost A.D. 30 and ending with the
Additional scriptural imagery depicting the Rapture (John 14—17, Acts—Jude; Rev. 2—3). Syno-
relationship between Christ and His Church nyms: Age of the Royal Family; Dispensation of
includes the following: shepherd and sheep, illus- the Church. This is the dispensation initiated
trating the security and blessings that the leader by God to form Christ’s royal family on earth, to
of the Church provides for His helpless, direc- glorify the physically absent King of kings, and
tionless members (John 10:1–16; Heb. 13:20; 1 Pet. to prepare a generation of spiritual nobility to
5:4); vine and branches, portraying the Church rule with Christ during the future Millennium
Age believer’s union with Christ (John 15:1–6); (Eph. 1:5–6, 22–23; 1 Pet. 2:9; Rev. 2:26; 3:21; 19:16).
chief cornerstone and smaller stones, first taught The Church Age is distinguished by its unfore-
by Christ when He told the disciple Peter, “You told “mystery” doctrine, which reveals the unique
are blessed, Simon, Son of Jonas . . . your name privileges, function, and purpose of believers
is now Peter [Petros, a stone], and upon this rock during this age (Rom. 16:25; 1 Cor. 2:7; Eph. 3:3–4,
[petra, giant rock, Jesus Christ] I will build my 9; 5:32; Col. 1:26–27; 4:3). As the royal family of God,
church” (Matt. 16:17b–18, corrected translation). the Church is a spiritual organism, not a racial
Peter recognized and later wrote that Jesus Christ
species or national entity like the Jews in the
is the foundation of the Church, the “precious
Age of Israel (2 Cor. 5:17). The Church includes
corner stone,” and that “you also [Church Age
all individuals of any race, culture, or nationality
believers], as living stones, are being built up as
who express faith alone in the risen Lord Jesus
[constructed into] a spiritual house [the Church]”
Christ (Rom. 1:14; 1 Cor. 12:14; Gal. 3:27–28). At
(1 Pet. 2:4–7).
the moment of salvation, every believer is united
(2) The local church. A localized subset of the uni- with Christ and indwelt by all three members of
versal Church; namely, a congregation assem- the Trinity (John 14:20, 23; Rom. 6:3; 1 Cor. 2:12).
bling in a specific geographical location for the Each represents himself before God and repre-
teaching of the Word of God (1 Cor. 1:2; 11:18; sents Christ to the world (Acts 1:8; 1 Cor. 9:16, 19;
16:19; 1 Thess. 1:1; Titus 1:5–9; Rev. 1:11). 2 Cor. 4:5b; 5:20; Eph. 6:20; Heb. 4:16; 1 Pet. 2:9).
The local church functions as a classroom God maintains a spiritual, not political, presence
where believers assemble to learn Bible doctrine among mankind through faithful believers
under the teaching of their right pastor. Instruc- learning and thinking with the “mind of Christ,”
tion is received either face to face or through as recorded in Scripture (1 Cor. 2:16). This unseen
another system of communication (1 Cor. 4:17; spiritual advance of the positive believer is what
1 John 2:1a; 2 John 12; Rev. 2—3). As head of impacts other people, organizations, nations,
Church Age 38

future generations, and even angels (1 Cor. 4:9; See also great power experiment; mystery
Eph. 3:8–10). doctrine; royal family of God; spiritual gifts.
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History;
The Dispensation of the Church is divided into Follow the Colors; Tongues.
two sub-periods:
Precanon Period. The era in which the New circumcision [from Heb. muwl, Gk. peritemno, to
Testament canon was being formed (ca. A.D. cut short, to cut around] Removal of the male
30–96), beginning with the Church’s inception foreskin, a procedure commanded by God of
on the day of Pentecost and ending with John’s Abraham and his male progeny.
completion of the Book of Revelation. At the age of ninety-nine Abraham was sexu-
The precanon period was characterized by ally dead, incapable of producing an heir from
temporary spiritual gifts (e.g., healing, prophecy, his own body. But after believing in the promises
tongues) designed to authenticate the apostles’ of God and submitting to the mandated pro-
authority, spread the Gospel, and communicate cedure, he became the father of the Jewish race
the doctrines for this new dispensation (Acts 1:8; (Gen. 17:1–21, 24; Rom. 4:17–21; Heb. 11:11–12).
1 Cor. 12—14). By the end of the first century, rev- From then on, circumcision was a mandated
elation of the Church was permanently recorded ritual for every male descendent of Abraham
in the New Testament epistles. Temporary gifts, (Gen. 17:11–12; Lev. 12:3). The physical sign on the
having fulfilled their purposes, were discontin- Jewish male served as a reminder of the sexual
ued, abolished, “done away” (1 Cor. 13:8). Com- ability restored to the aged yet faithful Abra-
munication from God in the form of dreams, ham. Furthermore, circumcision represented
visions, theophanies, unusual events, and direct the beginning of a new, distinguished people
conversation also ceased with the close of the multiplied through Abraham (Gen. 17:2, 4), and
precanon period. it was also a “sign of the covenant” between
Postcanon Period. The current era of history, God and Abraham’s descendants who followed
beginning with completion of the Canon (ca. his pattern of faith (Gen. 17:10–11, 19).
A.D. 96) and ending with the Rapture. Protocol Outward and inward circumcision. Apart from
for the postcanon period is governed by the the profound reality behind the ritual, circum-
New Testament epistles, Revelation 2—3, and cision carried no spiritual merit. Most impor-
Christ’s teachings in John 14—17. tantly, circumcision was in no way a means to
Since divine revelation now resides strictly in salvation. As Scripture clarifies, Abraham was
the completed Canon, this period is characterized justified before God by faith, not by works (Rom.
by permanent spiritual gifts, designed to commun- 4:1–3; cf. Gen. 15:6). Long before submitting to
icate the doctrines of the written Word and carry the physical ritual, Abraham was circumcised
out the functions of the local church (Eph. 4:11– inwardly, “of the heart,” meaning he believed
13). The postcanon period will terminate on an in the promised Messiah and was spiritually
unknown future date, when the Rapture instantly regenerated (Rom. 2:29). Then, as a result of
transfers God’s completed royal family to heaven spiritual maturity, Abraham “received the [out-
(1 Thess. 4:16–17). With the Church Age ended, ward physical] sign of circumcision, a seal of the
the time of tribulation on earth will begin. righteousness of faith” that he had previously
expressed (Rom. 4:9–11).
Still, throughout the generations, Jews who
Pentecost Completion of Rapture
A.D. 30 Canon A.D. 96 rejected the grace of God erroneously clung to
physical circumcision as evidence of a superior
spiritual and ethnic heritage. Paul described the
Precanon Postcanon arrogant, unbelieving Jews of the first century
as “the so-called ‘Circumcision,’ which is per-
CHURCH AGE formed in the flesh by human hands” (Eph. 2:11).
They had the outward physical ritual without
Figure 6 any inward spiritual reality. Stephen described
 39 civilizations, biblical

them as “uncircumcised in heart . . . resisting the Adam, only one uncorrupted and faithful family
Holy Spirit [rejecting the Savior]” (Acts 7:51). remained (Gen. 6:5, 8–12). God administered the
Circumcision in the Church Age. Because the great judgment over the earth and its unbeliev-
ritual plan of God for Israel has been replaced ing population through the universal Flood (Gen.
with the protocol plan of God for the Church, 6:7, 13–17). Noah and his believing family, along
physical circumcision carries no significance for with portions of the animal population, were the
the believer today. Every Church Age believer is only ones preserved (Gen. 6:18–22; 2 Pet. 2:5).
baptized by the Holy Spirit into union with Christ, As part of this judgment, God also removed the
and “neither circumcision nor uncircumcision sexual ability from the angels. See also Nephilim.
means anything” (Gal. 5:6; 6:15; Col. 2:11–12). Cir- (2) Postdiluvian civilization. The period begin-
cumcision is, however, still practiced throughout ning with Noah and his family after the Flood and
the world, as a means of physical sanitation, as ending with the Second Advent.
a religious ritual in modern-day Judaism, or, in From Noah’s sons the earth was repopulated
some cultures, as a rite of initiation. (Gen. 9:19), yet life span was shortened due to bac-
See also Jewish race; ritual plan of God; seed of teria introduced by the Flood. An interim divine
Abraham. judgment was pronounced on arrogant mankind
Lessons 419:68–69; 600:82–84; 458:66–68; 412:183–84. at Babel: after confusing the language and scat-
tering the people, God ordained the national
civilizations, biblical Periods of human his- entity as additional protection on the human
tory that begin with believers only, then populate race (Gen. 11:7–9). The postdiluvian civilization
and progress to a state of maximum degen- continues to the present day. It will reach the
eracy, and finally end with a divine judgment peak of degeneracy during the future Tribulation
that removes all unbelievers from the earth. and will terminate with the judgment that occurs
Three such civilizations occur during the span at Christ’s second advent. At that time, He will
of human history. A unique civilization, with no cast unbelievers into the fire of Torments and
degeneracy, unbelievers, or terminating judg- rescue the remnant of believers (Matt. 24:37–39;
ments, is reserved for eternity. Luke 3:16–17; cf. Dan. 2:35). See also baptism (of
(1) Antediluvian civilization [from Lat. ante, fire); nationalism; Tribulation.
prior to + diluvium, deluge, flood]. The period be- (3) Millennial civilization. The future period
ginning with the creation of Adam and ending beginning with the establishment of Christ’s
with the Flood. thousand-year earthly reign and terminating
The initial state of perfection in the Garden with the Last Judgment.
came to an end with Adam’s fall. Adam and Eve The remnant of believers delivered into the
were driven out of perfect environment and into millennial kingdom will be instantly joined by
the devil’s world (Gen. 3:22–24), and the human resurrected believers of history up to that point.
race began to increase in number (Gen. 4:1—6:1). Perfect environment—including universal peace,
During this civilization, environmental condi- absence of disease, and a tame animal popula-
tions allowed for perfect climate, the absence of tion—will once again exist (Isa. 2:4; Hosea 2:18).
bacteria and disease, unique animal forms, and Degeneracy, however, will manifest itself in
a human life span of over 900 years (Gen. 5:3–5; descendants of the surviving tribulational be-
9:29). Over time, however, the ways of God and lievers. The rebellious portion of the millennial
His protective principles of marriage and family population will reject the ruling Jesus Christ
gave way to lusts of the sin nature. Seizing the and enlist in Satan’s final campaign against Him.
opportunity, fallen angels in the form of human Their efforts instantly crushed, these unbelievers
men invaded earth, procreated with human will be condemned to the lake of fire at the Last
women, and produced a contaminated, hybrid Judgment (Rev. 20:8–9, 15). Millennial believers
superrace called “Nephilim” (Gen. 6:2, 4). So great will be transferred to the eternal state as this
became the evil—the violence, lawlessness, and civilization, along with human history, comes
degeneracy—that by the tenth generation from to an end (1 Cor. 15:24). See also Millennium.
civilizations, biblical 40

(4) Eternal civilization. The period beginning as a nation were delineated under the Mosaic Law,
with the creation of the new heavens and new doctrine was revealed to and communicated by
earth and continuing forever (Rev. 21:1–4). With specially appointed prophets and priests, and
the divine purpose for humanity accomplished, the “remnant” of faithful believers was used by
all believers, in resurrection bodies, will reside God to sustain the nation (Ex. 19:5–6; Lev. 18:1–5;
with God and His elect angels in a state of 2 Kings 19:30–31; Rom. 11:2–5). The theocratic
indescribable glory (1 Cor. 15:42–44; Phil. 3:21). kingdom (1441–1020 B.C.), the first in a series of
Degeneracy and judgments are not factors of the five Jewish client nations, was founded under
eternal civilization. See also eternal state. Moses’ leadership in the Exodus and was indeed
For further reference, Victorious Proclamation. a theocracy, ruled personally by God. The four
Lessons 376:135, 194–95. kingdoms that followed were monarchies, ruled
by human kings. Currently under divine disci-
client nation arrogance pline that began in A.D. 70, Israel as a client nation
See cosmic system (arrogance complex). will be restored at the Second Advent and con-
tinue throughout the millennial reign of Christ.
client nation to God A national entity set Gentile client nations. With Israel temporarily
apart by God as a repository for divine truth—a set aside, these are the times of Gentile client na-
nation where the Gospel is freely communicated, tions (Luke 21:24). In every generation until the
doctrine widely taught, and missionary activity Rapture, there exists among the earth’s nations
extended to areas of positive volition throughout at least one center of positive volition that stands
the world. Synonym: priest nation, in reference as God’s protected agent. Gentile client nations,
to Israel. unlike the theocracy of Israel, are ruled through
Throughout most periods of history, God human government that, under lawful design,
ordains a client nation for the purpose of fur- functions separately from the church. God’s
thering His plan for mankind. The formation of purpose is fulfilled as the state promotes human
such a nation begins with people who respond freedom and Christianity impacts the nation
to God’s grace in salvation. Under a government through a spiritual pivot of invisible heroes. By
that honors divine establishment and protects choosing to utilize the unique spiritual assets of
the freedom of all citizens, the nucleus of the Church Age, individual believers contribute
believers matures spiritually and becomes anonymously to their country and to the uptrends
sufficient to fulfill the mandates of custodian- of history. The spiritual vigor of the nation is
ship and communication of God’s Word, inside manifested by evangelists, pastor-teachers, and
and outside national borders. The nation also missionaries who accurately communicate the
acts as a haven for the Jews. Gospel and written Word to those who are posi-
God deals with the client nation according to tive. The nation is blessed and sustained also for
the spiritual condition of individual believers providing the currently dispersed Jews a refuge
(Matt. 5:13–16). Blessing by association overflows from persecution in other parts of the world (Gen.
from mature believers to the nation in the form 12:3). Imperial Rome, A.D. 70–476, was the first
of stability and prosperity; divine discipline to Gentile client nation; other examples include fifth-
reversionistic believers finds the entire nation and-sixth-century Scotland and Ireland, sixteenth-
weakened, and unless believers heed God’s warn- century Switzerland, seventeenth-century Sweden,
ing and recover, the client nation is eventually nineteenth-century England, and the United
destroyed through the fifth cycle of discipline States of America since its founding in 1776.
(2 Chron. 7:14; Hosea 4:1–6). As goes the spiritual See also blessing by association; cycles of dis-
life of the believer, so goes the client nation. cipline; Dispensation of Israel; divine estab-
Jewish client nations. In the Old Testament Age lishment; pivot of mature believers.
For further reference, Anti-Semitism; The Divine Out-
of Israel, the client nation to God was made up of
line of History; Freedom through Military Victory; In
His chosen people, the Jews (2 Sam. 7:10–12; Ps. Whom Do You Trust?
33:12). Specific responsibilities delegated to Israel Lessons 458:60–61; 457:152; 835:1–10.
 41 cosmic one and cosmic two

cognitive invincibility only of His deity: “Most assuredly, I say to you,

See spiritual adulthood (spiritual maturity). before Abraham was, I existed eternally” (John
8:58, corrected translation).
common grace Generally refers to the blessings See also hypostatic union.
that God extends to all mankind, including divine For further reference, King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
maintenance of the universe (Col. 1:16–17; Heb. Lessons 840:165–66; 376:1303–4.
1:3), the natural bounties that sustain life on
earth (Matt. 5:45; John 1:16), restraint of evil in computer assets
the fallen world (Eph. 2:2; 2 Thess. 2:7), and the See portfolio of invisible assets.
Holy Spirit’s clarification of the Gospel for unbe-
lievers. Most often, “common grace” is used in condemnation at birth
specific reference to the Spirit’s ministry toward See Adam’s original sin.
unbelievers.
See also God the Holy Spirit (ministries at Gospel confess English translation of the Hebrew yadah
hearing). and Greek homologeo, used in Scripture to describe
the act in which believers admit, or acknowledge,
Communion their transgressions to God the Father (Ps. 32:5;
See Eucharist. 1 John 1:9). See rebound.

communion of attributes Describes the divine confidence A state of absolute certainty and
and human natures of Jesus Christ functioning assurance, used as a synonym for the biblical use
in hypostatic union, so that whatever is true of of the word “hope.” See hope.
either nature is true of the entire person.
Since the Incarnation, Jesus Christ is both God conscience
and man in one person forever. The natures of See stream of consciousness.
His deity and humanity are inseparably united
in such a way that there is no loss or mixture
contentment [Gk. autarkeia] The inner hap-
of their separate identities. While both natures
piness, relaxed mental attitude, and tranquillity
remain distinct and unchanged, the communion
of soul that characterize the mature believer in
of attributes affirms that whatever Scripture
every circumstance of life (1 Tim. 6:6–8; Heb.
reveals about either nature must be understood
13:5). See sharing the happiness of God.
in the context of the entire unique Person (John
1:14). More specifically, attributes of His deity
(e.g., omniscience, omnipresence) are never
convicting ministry of the Holy Spirit
See God the Holy Spirit (ministries at Gospel
ascribed to His humanity, nor are attributes of
hearing).
humanity (e.g., born of flesh and blood, tempt-
able) ever ascribed to His deity, but the attributes
of both natures are properly ascribed to the one corban
person of Jesus Christ. See qorban.
Some biblical passages focus on the whole
Person and reveal attributes that involve both corporate witness
natures—Jesus Christ is a prophet, high priest, See marriage (Christian).
king, and redeemer (Matt. 11:28; Luke 22:37; John
14:6; 1 Cor. 11:24; 2 Cor. 5:21; Heb. 4:15–16; 10:5– cosmic one and cosmic two Alternative titles
14). Some passages reveal attributes true only of for the two spheres of Satan’s cosmic system—the
His humanity—“I am thirsty” (John 19:28b); “He arrogance complex and the hatred complex—
became hungry” (Luke 4:2b)—but the whole both of which exploit man’s innate weaknesses
Person is the subject. In another passage, the and bad decisions and imprison him in a laby-
whole Person Himself declares attributes true rinth of satanic deceit. See cosmic system.
cosmic panaceas 42

cosmic panaceas Satan-inspired philosophies the hatred complex, that person rebels against
and agendas upheld as cure-all remedies for the God and is hostile toward anything identified
complex problems of mankind. with grace and truth. Gates of the arrogance and
Utopian ideals such as durable peace, human hatred complexes interlock in myriad combina-
equality, and perfect environment are unattain- tions, attacking personal weaknesses and areas
able in the devil’s world. But to foolish man they of blindness. The believer may enter by any
are panaceas—guaranteed cures for unhappi- one of the gates, but once inside, if he does not
ness, poverty, injustice, deprivation. These over- immediately escape by rebound (acknowledging
simplified solutions are commonly molded into his sins to God) and application of doctrine, he
agendas to redistribute wealth, clean up the develops new weaknesses and succumbs to new
environment, disarm the nations, and legislate sins that never before tempted him. Eventually,
morality and welfare, all of which oppose the involvement in many gates pulls him down until
plan of God while professing to help man- he is thoroughly entangled in the cosmic system.
kind. Cosmic panaceas promise everything that CosmiC one—the aRRoganCe Complex
cannot be fulfilled. Their very nature demands The first sphere of satanic influence entangles
a full mobilization of arrogant self-righteousness, man in sinful attitudes related to preoccupation
which must finally resort to coercion, confis- with self and apathy toward Bible doctrine. The
cation, and destruction of freedom to impose its believer who exaggerates his own importance to
false standards. See utopianism. the exclusion of God cannot appreciate divine
See also cosmic system (hatred complex). grace or enjoy the blessings God has for his
Lessons 412:460. individual life. He becomes his own worst enemy,
enslaved to himself and his bad decisions. Syn-
cosmic system Satan’s orderly, cohesive, and onym: interlocking system of arrogance.
multifaceted system of power and thinking, Gate 1, attitude arrogance. The thinking of the
which includes a purpose, strategy, and structure person consumed with mental attitude sins such
of authority designed to subvert the human as pride, jealousy, vindictiveness, fear, bitterness,
race and control the world he now rules. anger, implacability, self-pity, or guilt. Because
The cosmic system, Satan’s alternative to the mental attitude sins motivate all other evils of
perfect plan of God, is designed to exploit man’s the cosmic system, no other category of sin is as
bad decisions and trap him in a web of decep- destructive to the believer’s spiritual growth, for
tion. When the Bible declares that someone as a man “thinks within himself, so he is” (Prov.
loves the world (2 Tim. 4:10; James 4:4; 1 John 23:7a).
2:15) or lives according to the standards of the Gate 2, negative volition. Preoccupation with
world (Rom. 12:2; Eph. 2:2), that individual resides self to the point of indifference toward Bible doc-
in the cosmic system. He is under the control of trine. While not denying that doctrine is truth,
the sin nature and in a position of weakness, en- this believer is distracted by wrong priorities,
slaved to Satan’s authority and fulfilling Satan’s ignores the study of the Word of God, and renders
purpose. Residents include anyone—believer or himself defenseless against false doctrine. See
unbeliever—who uses his volitional freedom to also negative volition.
reject divine truth (the laws of divine establish- Gate 3, authority arrogance. Behavior that du-
ment, the Gospel of salvation, or Bible doctrine). plicates Satan’s original rebellion against God.
Toward those who have personally believed in When under authority, the person immersed in
Jesus Christ, the devil administers the cosmic this type of arrogance despises his leaders and
system to prevent, impede, and reverse their seeks to undermine or overthrow them. When
spiritual growth. in a position of authority, this person abuses his
The cosmic system is composed of two spheres power and becomes a tyrant to those under his
of power, or dynaspheres. In cosmic one, the leadership. See also authority orientation.
arrogance complex, a person is self-centered Gate 4, self-righteous arrogance. Describes the
and neglectful of the spiritual life. In cosmic two, distortion of true morality and the spiritual life
 43 cosmic system

into a legalistic mode of operation that elevates CosmiC two—the hatRed Complex
self and judges others. This insidious mental The second sphere of satanic influence entan-
attitude easily links with the impulsive desire gles man in antagonistic attitudes toward God’s
to impose those standards on others through authority, Word, and plan. The hatred complex
religious fanaticism and activism. See also takes apathy toward Bible doctrine and parlays
Christian activism; crusader arrogance; it into outright opposition. As a full-fledged
self-righteousness. ally and slave of the devil, the believer in the
Gate 5, sexual arrogance. Describes the hatred complex is an “enemy of God” (James
distortion of normal sexual desire into an un- 4:4b), one who justifies evil, despises divine
controllable lust that destroys the capacity for good, and relentlessly attacks divine viewpoint
legitimate romantic love and distracts from with human viewpoint. Antagonism toward God
the spiritual life. only increases as the various gates of the hatred
Gate 6, criminal arrogance. The thinking and complex interlock with one another. Synonym:
behavior of a person who presumes himself to be interlocking system of hatred.
above the law and superior to the rights, privacy, Gate 1, the sin nature. Satan’s inside agent
and property of others. Such a person uses and through which he executes his sinister policies
harms others to demonstrate control, alleviate of hatred and antagonism within the human
boredom, or attempt to prove his own worth. race. Succumbing to the temptations of the sin
Gate 7, psychopathic arrogance. Describes a nature means automatic entrance into the cos-
person who, through habitual bad decisions, mic system. See sin nature.
rejects reality and moves into a state of psy- Gate 2, negative volition. Outright rejection
chosis. Distorted thinking from a position of of and antagonism toward the plan of God and
subjectivity creates intolerance, insecurity, self- Bible doctrine. See also negative volition.
destructiveness, possibly violence, and can also Gate 3, degeneration. Progressive deterioration
lead to suicide. See also shiggaon. of thoughts and behavior. In the believer, this
Gate 8, arrogance of unhappiness. The subjec- is the decline from the superior standards of
tive preoccupation with self that expects circum- God’s plan to inferior, worldly standards. See
stances, possessions, and other people to provide degeneracy.
one’s happiness. See also happiness (pseudo). Gate 4, antiestablishment. Describes the behav-
Gate 9, iconoclastic arrogance. The subjective ior of the citizen whose desire is to dispute, re-
attitude that inordinately exalts another person ject, and even destroy the legitimate authorities
then attacks him for failing to meet fantasized under which he lives. See antiestablishment.
expectations. See iconoclastic arrogance. Gate 5, demonism. Refers to the influence of
Gate 10, rational and irrational (emotional) arro- demons on the human soul, an influence through
gance. Rational arrogance describes those who which Satan increases his control over the world.
dispute or superficially interpret the Bible [see also See demonism.
intellectual arrogance]. Irrational arrogance Gate 6, cosmic panaceas. Philosophies and
is emotional revolt, uncontrolled emotion taking agendas inspired by Satan’s cosmic policy and
over the mentality of the soul [see also emotion]. upheld as cure-all remedies to the problems of
Gate 11, arrogance of Christian service. The mankind. See cosmic panaceas.
thinking of the believer who performs biblically Gate 7, religion. Antigrace systems of human
mandated activities while motivated by the sin- works and worship rituals used to seek salvation,
ful desire to earn approbation or stave off divine spirituality, or the approbation of God. See
discipline. See also lying to the Holy Spirit. religion.
Gate 12, client nation arrogance. The state of a Gate 8, anthropocentric academic speculation.
client nation in which the majority of believers Man-centered ideologies and scientific assertions
have succumbed to self-centered, worldly think- that explain life through human intellect and
ing and rejected both divine establishment and experience and produce antagonism toward di-
Bible doctrine. vine viewpoint. Persons afflicted with intellectual
cosmic system 44

arrogance enter this gate by trying to reconcile the New Testament use of kosmos, the term that
academic speculations with God’s Word. They designates the “world” as Satan’s domain and
end up using humanistic theories to deny spiritual identifies the evil premise, purpose, and policy
truth. See also intellectual arrogance. on which it is formed (John 7:7; 15:18–19); (b) the
Gate 9, evil. The policy and modus operandi state of human civilization as fashioned by the
through which Satan seeks to capture the human ruler of this “present evil age” (Gal. 1:4; cf. 2 Cor. 4:4).
soul, establish his own millennial kingdom, and To gain control over the realm he usurped from
become the victor in the angelic conflict. See evil. Adam, Satan constructs his earthly kingdom on
The believer in Jesus Christ has a choice be- the lie that the creature can thrive independently
tween palace living (residence inside God’s di- of the Creator (John 8:44; 1 John 5:19b). The vast
vine dynasphere) or dungeon living (residence and sophisticated cosmos diabolicus, according to
inside the cosmic system). The conflict of the theologian Lewis Sperry Chafer, is “the consum-
divine dynasphere versus the cosmic system is mating display of that which the creature—both
a battle of thought versus thought, an ongoing angelic and human—can produce, having em-
warfare waged in the soul. Divine viewpoint is barked on an autonomous career.”6 It is a highly
pitted against cosmic-influenced human view- ordered civilization of secular governments, edu-
point, and Satan’s evil counterfeits attack the re- cation, and culture; man-centered theories of
ality of God’s plan. Although the power of God is life, nature, and human behavior; religions of
greater than the power of Satan, the devil can lure mere morality, legalism, even false gods. In its
any believer out of fellowship into arrogance or determination to imitate, obscure, and rule out
hatred so that spiritual strength is never at- God, Satan’s cosmos “includes all the good which
tained. Despite eternal security, life on earth for he can incorporate into it and be consistent in
the cosmic believer is meaningless, filled with the thing he aims to accomplish.”7 This deceptive
subjectivity, instability, and unsolvable frustration. ‘good’ is the relative righteousness of human good,
a replacement for the absolute standards and
See also cosmos diabolicus; divine dynasphere;
worldliness. righteousness of God. Cosmos diabolicus is thus a
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Christian world in which man strives by his own works to
Integrity; Reversionism. improve, even perfect, the human condition—a
Lessons 457:297–315; 412:438–50, 457–60.
world whose intrinsic depravity is whitewashed
by the ideals of a utopian kingdom that, in
cosmic thinking (a) The mental attitude of the Satan’s mind, will supersede the kingdom that
person residing inside Satan’s power system (i.e., Christ has promised to inaugurate on His return.
cosmic system), inculcated with the doctrines Satan is indeed the present ruler of the cosmos
of demons, and thereby living a life based on (John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11; Eph. 2:2). His offer to
human viewpoint as opposed to divine view- Jesus in the desert was bona fide, because “all
point; (b) defines the mentality and lifestyle of the kingdoms of the world” were, and still are,
the unbeliever in rejection of the Gospel and his to offer (Matt. 4:8–9). However, infinite God,
the believer with negative volition toward Bible sovereign over all creation, ensures that this
doctrine. Cosmic thinking enslaves man to his finite creature will never gain complete control of
own bad decisions and arrogant notions. It the world he rules and thus never accomplish his
perpetuates sin, human good, and evil in the evil objectives. God permits the satanic kingdom
devil’s world. to run its course, because the failure of cosmos
See also cosmic system; doctrines of demons; diabolicus must be fully demonstrated against
worldliness.
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Mental
the supremacy of God’s power and plan. This
Attitude Dynamics. demonstration will culminate with Satan’s defeat

cosmos diabolicus [Lit. “the devil’s world,” from 6. Lewis Sperry Chafer, Systematic Theology, 8 vols. (Dallas:
Gk. kosmos, world, worldly affairs, and Lat. dia- Dallas Seminary Press, 1947), 2:84.
bolicus, of or relating to the devil] (a) Drawn from 7. Ibid., 100.
 45 covenants to Israel

at the Second Advent, when rulership of all the eradicate the new race (applies to believing and
earth’s kingdoms will be delivered to Jesus Christ. unbelieving Jews during human history) (Gen.
The King of kings will inaugurate His millennial 12:3a); “All the land which you see, I will give it to
reign only after everything of cosmos diabolicus is you and to your descendants forever. I will make your
crushed, set ablaze, laid waste, and the devil is descendants as the dust of the earth,” a promise of
deposed and imprisoned (Ps. 2:7–9; Dan. 2:34–35, land from which this great nation would serve
44–45; Mal. 4:1; Matt. 13:41–43; Rev. 18:9—20:3). God (Gen. 13:15–16). The Abrahamic Covenant
See also cosmic system; evil. was confirmed to its regenerate heirs: Isaac (Gen.
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Heathenism; 26:3–4), Jacob (Gen. 35:12), and Moses and the
Satan and Demonism. Exodus generation at the time the Jewish nation
was formed (Ex. 6:2–8).
covenants to Israel God’s promises and pro- Palestinian or Real Estate Covenant. Defines the
visions for Israel as the new racial species and specific geographical boundaries for the client
unique client nation, and to born-again Jews as nation (Gen. 13:14–15; 15:18–21). The real estate
the possessors of eternal life. Israel is defined by contract was the basis for the Jews’ deliverance
these five divine covenants. Although Israel was from slavery, for the founding of the new nation
established to benefit all nations, the covenants (Ex. 6:6, 8; Joshua 1:2–4), and for securing Israel’s
did not and never will belong to Gentiles (Deut. future restoration in this territory at the Second
4:8; Rom. 2:12–14). Neither do they apply to Advent (Isa. 11:11–12). Initially disclosed to
the Church (including racial Jews who become Abraham as “all the land which you see” (Gen.
believers during the Church Age). Of the five 13:15), the region is revealed in other passages to
covenants to Israel, four are unconditional and include a significant portion of the Middle East,
eternal and one is conditional and temporal: going as far west as the Nile and as far east as the
unConditional Covenants Euphrates (Gen. 15:18–21; Num. 34:1–12; Joshua
Fulfillment depends solely upon the character 1:3–4). Not until the Millennium will the Jews
of God, and since fulfillment is everlasting, only fully occupy this real estate (Deut. 30:1–9; Jer.
those Jews who possess eternal life can receive 32:36–44; Ezek. 11:16–20; 36:21–38).
these covenants’ eternal blessings (Gen. 13:15; Davidic Covenant. Defines the ruling dynasty
17:7; 2 Sam. 7:13, 16). for client nation Israel and guarantees perpetua-
Abrahamic Covenant. The sworn contract in tion of that dynasty through the eternal reign of
which God promised to make Abraham and his Jesus Christ (2 Sam. 7:8–16; 22:51; 2 Chron. 21:7;
descendants the first and last client nation to Ps. 89:20–37; Luke 1:32; Acts 2:29–30). In His
God. After commanding Abraham to separate humanity, Jesus Christ is the “Son of David” and
from his homeland (Gen. 12:1), God added the “King of Israel” (Matt. 1:1; Luke 18:38–39; John
following distinct promises: “I will make you a 1:49; 12:13), fulfilling God’s covenant to David at
great nation,” which revealed Abraham as founder two points of history: (1) the First Advent, when
and foundation of the new race and ordered great He was born by virgin pregnancy to Mary, a
national blessings for the future (Gen. 12:2a); “I descendant of David’s son Nathan (1 Chron. 3:5;
will bless you,” which provided personal blessings Luke 3:23–38); and (2) the Second Advent, when
for the patriarch, particularly once he reached Christ returns to earth to establish His millennial
spiritual maturity (Gen. 12:2b); “And make your reign and assume the throne of David in restored
name great; And so you shall be a blessing,” which Jerusalem. In the eternal state, the Son of David
spoke of his impact on future generations (Gen. will rule from the throne of the Jews’ heavenly
12:2c); “In you all the families of the earth shall be city called New Jerusalem (Rev. 21:2).
blessed,” which revealed the promise of a Savior New Covenant. Defines restoration of the client
for mankind through Abraham’s seed (Gen. 12:3b; nation Israel at the Second Advent and guar-
cf. Gal. 3:8–9, 16); “I will bless those who bless you, antees eventual fulfillment of all the everlasting
And the one who curses you I will curse,” which covenants. The New Covenant was first stated to
promised God’s protection against Satan’s plan to Jeremiah and is quoted by the writer of Hebrews
covenants to Israel 46

(Jer. 31:31–34; Heb. 8:8–12; 10:15–17). This revela- (covenant of works and covenant of grace) are
tion is reassurance that despite Israel’s failure as said to exist between God and man, and a third
a nation and her current dispersion under divine (covenant of redemption) within the Godhead.8
discipline, believing Jews of history have a fu- From these covenantal concepts is constructed
ture kingdom on earth. The Lord will “faithfully an interpretive framework to explain the explicit
plant them in this land” (Jer. 32:41), where they biblical covenants, as well as the fall of man,
will dwell in safety and be His blessing to all mil- the redemptive role of Christ, the relationship
lennial nations (Isa. 61:2–11; Jer. 32:36–44; Ezek. between Israel and the Church, and eschatology.
11:16–21; 36:21–38; Zech. 8:23; cf. Deut. 30:1–9). Fundamental errors. In striving to fit everything
The way of life for restored Israel will be like into this framework, covenant theology tends
that described in the Sermon on the Mount to overemphasize continuity in the plan of God.
(Matt. 5—7), and Israel’s millennial priesthood Interpreting Scripture primarily through their
will function as described in Ezekiel 40—48. covenant of grace, covenantalists weave a seam-
Furthermore, the restored regenerate nation is less relationship between the Old and New Testa-
guaranteed to continue on into the eternal state. ments, overlook changes in divine administra-
Conditional Covenant tion, and fold the biblical covenants into God’s
Covenant to Moses—Mosaic Law. Defines the overarching promise of grace, said to be fulfilled
spiritual and civil policy for all citizens of the in the Lord Jesus Christ. The most prominent
Old Testament nation of Israel. The Law was not consequence of this broad-stroke approach to
designed to provide Israel’s spiritual heritage but Scripture is the absence of definition between
to serve as a vehicle by which spiritual heritage Israel and the Church. In other words, covenant
and freedom could be understood and perpetu- theology regards any believer from any period
ated. Most importantly, this covenant identified of history to be part of God’s chosen people
nonmeritorious faith as the way to inherit the (sometimes called “spiritual people” or “cove-
eternal blessings of the unconditional covenants. nant people of God”). The basic reasoning is as
According to the Law’s conditional clauses, if the follows: God’s people in Old Testament times
Jews would do their part, then God would do His consisted primarily of Jews in Israel, hence the
(Ex. 19:3–6; Joshua 1:7–8). See Mosaic Law. term “Israel.” Since the time of Christ, the chosen
See also Jewish race; seed of Abraham. group has been expanded to include believing
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History. Gentiles and Jews worldwide, named “the
Lessons 631:170; 412:505; 840:11–14. Church.” All believers are seen as the same regen-
erate people with a common role and destiny in
covenant theology A method of biblical inter- the plan of God. In this classic covenantal view,
pretation that sees all of God’s purposes worked there is no lasting significance to the Jews as a
out on the basis of covenants. Covenant theology race or national entity, and no earthly Jewish
is intrinsically opposed to dispensationalism. kingdom is anticipated for the future. Instead,
Synonym: covenantalism. Sometimes referred to the Rapture and Second Advent are blended into
as federal theology or Reformed theology. one event, after which the millennial kingdom
Overview. While dispensationalism views God’s
plan as unfolding across defined periods of his-
8. Covenant theology interprets Scripture with the following
tory, each with unique elements of revelation
theologically devised covenants: (1) covenant of works, de-
and administration, covenant theology approach- scribed as an agreement between God and Adam whereby
es all of Scripture through a framework of cove- God put Adam under probation, offering eternal life in perfect
nants. “Covenants” does not refer here to the righteousness for passing the test of obedience; (2) covenant
promises to Israel clearly stated by God and of grace, which indicates God’s intervention on behalf of fallen
recorded in the Bible (e.g., Abrahamic, Davidic). mankind—God extends His grace to those made able to receive
Rather, the “covenants” in covenant theology it, promising eternal life to the elect; (3) covenant of redemp-
refer to a specific set of concepts formulated by tion, described as an eternal contract between members of
several Reformed theologians. Two covenants the Godhead concerning the salvation of man.
 47 cross and crucifixion

is established with a common purpose for all criminal arrogance

believers of history. See cosmic system (arrogance complex).
By contrast, dispensational theology asserts that
Israel is a distinct entity with blessings yet to cross and crucifixion [Gk. n. stauros, upright
come. The Jews are God’s chosen people—they pole or cross used for execution; v. stauroō, to hang
will be preserved as a race (Isa. 66:22), and Israel’s on a pole or cross as a means of capital punish-
covenants regarding the land and promised ment] (a) The ancient instrument and method
kingdom will be literally and physically fulfilled of execution that suspended the body on an up-
in the Millennium (Ezek. 36:21–38; Rev. 20:3–4). right post and crossbeam in order to inflict slow
The Church is the Body of Christ, a spiritual death; (b) terms that describe and represent Jesus
organism presently being formed on earth for a Christ’s substitutionary sacrifice and death, the
separate, unique purpose. The Church will be most significant event of history in which God’s
salvation plan for mankind was accomplished.
resurrected prior to Israel’s final testing period
Among the ancient Persians, Greeks, Cartha-
but will return at the Second Advent to take her
ginians, and Romans, crucifixion in all its varia-
own special place in the millennial kingdom.
tions was considered the most ignominious form
Both regenerate Israel and the Church are believ-
of death. The Romans perfected the torturous
ers saved by grace through faith in Christ, but
process and reserved its use for non-citizen
they are two discrete peoples with separate roles
thieves, murderers, traitors, fugitive slaves, and
in the plan of God. See Israel and the Church.
provincial rebels. (Roman citizens were by and
See also covenants to Israel; dispensationalism; large exempted from this form of execution.)
dispensations; Jewish race. In the standard Roman procedure of New
For further reference, Anti-Semitism; The Divine
Outline of History. Testament times, crucifixion was preceded by
Lesson 412:603. scourging the accused with a leather whip
embedded with bits of metal and bone (Lat.
Creationism flagellum/flagrum, Gk. mastix). The criminal was
(1) The biblical doctrine declaring that the uni- then required to carry his crossbeam to the site
verse and all life forms were created by God with of execution, outside the city. There, a primitive
distinct design and purpose. This is opposed to narcotic of sour wine and gall was offered to less-
en the pain. After being stripped of his clothes,
the theory of evolution, which proposes that life
the condemned was fastened to the horizontal
originated through random natural processes
beam with either cords or nails. The crossbeam
and developed over time into its present form.
was then connected to the vertical post, which
See also restoration of the earth.
was secured into the ground, and a sign naming
(2) The theological viewpoint that every human the accusation was sometimes affixed to the top
soul originates with a creative act of God. Crea- of the upright post. Slowly but surely, by weight
tionism correctly recognizes that the immaterial of the body, bones separated and joints moved
soul—created by God directly and immediately— apart. Screams of excruciating pain rang out,
is joined with the material, mediately formed sometimes for several days, until the person
body to produce a living human being. This is finally died from suffocation. In cases where
opposed to Traducianism, which maintains that the Romans wanted the bodies removed more
both the soul and body are formed through hu- quickly, they practiced crurifragium—breaking
man reproduction. Concerning the actual time the legs below the knee in order to hasten death.
of ensoulment, Creationists differ on whether the CRuCifixion of Jesus ChRist
soul is created by God at conception, during the In the time of Christ, imperial Rome executed
nine-month gestational period, or at the time of many criminals by crucifixion. Our Lord’s cruci-
birth. Correct interpretation of Scripture con- fixion, however, was unique among all others
firms ensoulment at birth. See also origin of because of who He is and what His execution
human life; Traducianism. represents. Here was the unique Person of the
cross and crucifixion 48

universe, the impeccable God-man willingly sac- put it on His head, and a reed [mock scepter] in
rificing Himself for sinful humanity. Having His right hand; and they knelt down before Him
never committed one act of sin, Jesus Christ was and mocked Him, saying, ‘Hail, King of the Jews!’
accused of criminal offense, abused, rejected, They spat on Him, and took the reed and began to
mocked, and agonizingly tortured. Yet even beat Him on the head” (Matt. 27:27–30). Ironically,
through the most intense suffering ever endured, their evil ridicule declared the truth: before them
the humanity of Christ stayed true to His purpose, was the “Son of Man” (Dan. 7:13; Matt. 9:6; 12:8),
remained sinless, and humbly bore the penalty of who would bear the curse of thorns pronounced
sin that rightfully belonged to all mankind. From after the Fall, provide mankind with the way to
beginning to end, the process of Jesus Christ’s salvation, and someday, as the true King of the
crucifixion reveals that “God causes all things to Jews, reign over a transformed earth (Gen. 3:17–
work together for good” (Rom. 8:28), for out of this 18; Ps. 72; Isa. 11; 35; 62; Zech. 14:9–11).
travesty of justice came our so-great salvation. Carrying His cross. A barely recognizable Jesus
Trials. Jesus’ legal examination consisted of not was led out of the Praetorium to the processional
one but six trials—three before Jewish religious roadway. He looked at the hostile crowds lining
leaders (Matt. 26:57–68; 27:1–2; Mark 14:53–65; the street, He looked at the religious mob, and
Luke 22:66–71; John 18:12–14, 19–24), one before impersonal love prevailed. He had come to earth
Herod (Luke 23:8–12), and two before the Roman to die as the perfect sacrifice for sinful man, so
governor Pontius Pilate (Matt. 27:11–26; Mark He picked up His cross and moved toward His
15:1–5; Luke 23:1–7; John 18:28—19:16). During the destiny. Because of the abuse, however, He had
process, two superior systems of jurisprudence not the physical strength to carry the cross. So
(Jewish and Roman) violated cardinal principles the Roman centurion grabbed a man walking
of law: the prisoner was presumed guilty from through the crowd—Simon of Cyrene (North
the start, no legal defense was allowed, and court Africa), visiting Jerusalem for the Passover—and
proceedings were corrupted by false accusations, forced him to assist Jesus (Mark 15:21). This un-
false testimonies, and violence against the defen- suspecting and unbelieving Jew later accepted
dant. In the end, Pilate yielded to public pressure Christ and evangelized his family (Rom. 16:13).
and allowed mob rule to usurp Rome’s official Prayer of forgiveness. When He arrived at the
verdict of innocence [see also moral courage]. hill of Golgotha, the “Place of the Skull,” Jesus
Scourging. Since Pilate had already tried and was offered an intoxicant-anesthetic of sour wine
pronounced Jesus not guilty, this scourging and gall (Matt. 27:33–34a; Mark 15:22; John 19:17).
was neither for interrogation nor preliminary He refused it in order to retain mental clarity
suffering (John 18:38; 19:1). The flogging of Jesus, for the judgment He was about to endure (Matt.
rather, was Pilate’s attempt to avert crucifixion by 27:34b). He was nailed to the beams through His
pacifying the Jews with the lesser punishment. palms and feet (Ps. 22:16; John 20:25b–27; Acts
Jesus was hauled into the Praetorium where His 2:23), and then His cross was lifted into vertical
hands were tied to the scourging post and His position. Across the top of His head was placed
back lashed repeatedly by the Roman whip. But a placard inscribed with the charge against Him:
after Pilate presented the lacerated prisoner to “THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS,” another
the crowds for mercy, the Jews only continued intended mockery that proclaimed the truth
their demands to “crucify Him!” (Matt. 27:22–23; (Matt. 27:37; John 19:19). Soldiers who had driven
Luke 23:23; John 19:4–6a). Pilate then “washed his the nails proceeded to cast lots for His garments
hands” of the situation and handed Jesus over to (Matt. 27:35; Luke 23:34b), while the crowds and
his soldiers for crucifixion (Matt. 27:24–26; Mark religious leaders sneered at Him saying, “If you
15:15; Luke 23:24; John 19:6b). are the Son of God, come down from the cross”
Mockery of a King. When Pilate’s cohort gath- (Matt. 27:39–43; Mark 15:29–32; Luke 23:35). One
ered around Jesus, “they stripped Him and put of the criminals crucified beside Him also hurled
a scarlet robe on Him [robe of a Roman official]. abuse, saying, “Are You not the Christ? Save
And after twisting together a crown of thorns, they Yourself and us!” (Luke 23:39).
 49 cross and crucifixion

“ALL THIS HAS TAKEN PLACE TO FULFILL THE SCRIPTURES”

AND ACCOMPLISH GOD’S PLAN OF SALVATION (MATT. 26:56).

PROPHECY DECLARED PROPHECY FULFILLED

“The Son of Man . . . will be handed over to the Gentiles, and Matt. 26:47—27:50;
will be mocked and mistreated and spit upon, Mark 14:43—15:39;
and after they have scourged Him, they will kill Him.” Luke 22:47—23:47;
Luke 18:31–33a; Matt. 26:1–2 John 18—19:30

“He was oppressed and He was afflicted, Matt. 26:63; 27:12–14;

Yet He did not open His mouth . . . Mark 14:61; 15:5;
like a sheep that is silent before its shearers.” Luke 23:9;
Isa. 53:7 John 19:9

“By His scourging we are healed.” Matt. 27:26; Mark 15:15;

Isa. 53:5b John 19:1

“They pierced my hands and my feet.” John 20:25b–27;

Ps. 22:16b; Zech. 12:10 Acts 2:23

“Because He poured out Himself to death, Matt. 27:38;

And was numbered with the transgressors.” Mark 15:27;
Isa. 53:12b Luke 23:39–43

“All who see me sneer at me . . . . A band of evildoers has Matt. 27:22–23, 27–31, 39–44;
encompassed me . . . . They wag their head.” Mark 15:29–32;
Ps. 22:7a, 16b; 109:25b Luke 23:35; John 19:5–6, 12

“They divide my garments among them, Matt. 27:35; Mark 15:24;

And for my clothing they cast lots.” Luke 23:34b;
Ps. 22:18 John 19:24

“They also gave me gall for my food Matt. 27:34, 48; Mark 15:23, 36;
And for my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.” Luke 23:36;
Ps. 69:21 John 19:29–30

“My tongue cleaves to my jaws.”

John 19:28
Ps. 22:15b

“He will bear their iniquities . . . .

Rom. 5:8, 18;
He Himself bore the sin of many.”
Heb. 9:28a
Isa. 53:11b-12; cf. 53:6

“My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?” Matt. 27:46;
Ps. 22:1a Mark 15:34

“Into Your hand I commit my spirit.”

Luke 23:46
Ps. 31:5a

“He keeps all his bones,

Not one of them is broken.” John 19:31–36
Ps. 34:20; cf. Ex. 12:46

“He was with a rich man in His death.” Matt. 27:57–60;

Isa. 53:9b John 19:38–42

“And the third day He will rise again.” Matt. 28:6–7; Mark 16:1–14;
Luke 18:33b; 24:6b–7, 45–47; Luke 24:6, 34; John 20:1–18;
Matt. 12:39–40; John 2:19 Acts 10:40; 1 Cor. 15:4

Figure 7 CRUCIFIXION PROPHECY

cross and crucifixion 50

Instead of crying out from the excruciating front of Him, saw the way He breathed His last,
pain, railing against the horrid injustice, or he said, ‘Truly this man was the Son of God!’”
invoking the heavenly hosts to destroy them all, (Mark 15:39; cf. Matt. 27:54; Luke 23:47).
Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them; for they do Victory revealed. Immediately following Christ’s
not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34a; cf. physical death, the veil in the Temple, sixty feet
Matt. 5:44). The other criminal hanging beside of heavy twisted cords blocking the entrance to
Jesus requested of Him, “Remember me when the Holy of Holies, “was torn in two from top to
You come in Your kingdom,” expressing his belief bottom” (Matt. 27:51; Mark 15:38). God Himself
in the Savior. Jesus assured him, “Today you shall split the veil to indicate that the barrier between
be with Me in Paradise” (Luke 23:40–43; cf. Matt. God and man was forever removed by the work of
27:38; Mark 15:27). Christ (Heb. 10:19–20).
Another show of victory came when Jewish
leaders requested expeditious death and remov-
BY HIS OWN WILL
al of the bodies, in order to comply with Sabbath
Christ’s death on the cross did not depend on either
regulations. Soldiers broke the legs of the two
Jewish rejection or Pilate’s lack of moral courage. thieves, but when they saw that Jesus was already
Execution of the Son of God could only occur by His dead, “they did not break His legs” (John 19:31–
own consent, which He had previously confirmed to His 33). The true “Lamb of God” (John 1:29; 1 Pet.
followers when He said, “I lay down My life . . . No one 1:19), without spot or broken bone, had been
has taken it away from Me, but I lay it down on My own sacrificed once and for all according to God’s
initiative” (John 10:17–18). promise (Num. 9:12; Ps. 34:20; John 19:36).
Finally, one of the soldiers “pierced His side
with a spear, and immediately blood and water
The work of salvation. At the third hour of came out” (John 19:34), a sign that Jesus died not
crucifixion, noontime, ordinarily the brightest from loss of blood but of His own accord after
period of the day, an impenetrable “darkness fell accomplishing His mission.
upon all the land” (Matt. 27:45; Mark 15:33; Luke Completion of victory. Roman authorities re-
23:44). For the following three hours, so intense leased Jesus’ body to the wealthy Joseph of Ari-
was the suffering of Jesus Christ that the Father mathea, who “wrapped it in a clean linen cloth,
hid the Son’s face from view. Jesus had borne in and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had
silence the scourging, the ridicule, and the agony hewn out in the rock” (Matt. 27:57–60; Luke
of crucifixion (Isa. 53:7; Acts 8:32–35), but the 23:50–53; John 19:38–42; Acts 13:29). On the third
anguish of bearing the sins of the world caused day, Jesus Christ rose from the dead and, in an
Him to scream out again and again, “My God, My eternal resurrection body, walked through the
God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Matt. 27:46; solid stone of His tomb (Matt. 28:6–7; Mark
Mark 15:34; cf. Ps. 22:1). The Father had to turn 16:1–14; Luke 24:6, 34; John 20:1–18; Acts 10:40;
His back on the Son in order to judge Him on 1 Cor. 15:4). He arose victorious, having defeated
our behalf (2 Cor. 5:21). Separated from God the sin and death upon the cross. Forty days later,
Father, the humanity of Christ died spiritually, victory was confirmed by God the Father when
and this was the price paid to redeem fallen the resurrected Jesus ascended into heaven and
mankind from the penalty of sin (Rom. 6:23a). was seated at the Father’s right hand (Acts 1:3, 9;
See also substitutionary spiritual death. Heb. 8:1; 10:12–13). The Father said in effect, “I
With every last sin imputed and judged, the am satisfied with this Man, with His sacrifice,
Lord shouted tetelestai, “It is finished!” (John and I will accept anyone who seeks Me through
19:30b). Atonement was accomplished, and He Him” (cf. Heb. 2:10; 1 John 2:2).
was free to die physically. He did so in the words, See also blood of Christ; salvation; strategic
“Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit,” and tactical victories.
For further reference, The Blood of Christ; King of Kings
after which “He breathed His last” (Luke 23:46). and Lord of Lords.
“When the centurion, who was standing right in Lessons 438:72–78; 424:95–110.
 51 cycles of discipline

crowns Decorations of honor awarded to mature 1 Thess. 2:19–20).

Church Age believers at the judgment seat of See also order of the morning star; uniform of
Christ (Rom. 14:10b–12; 2 Cor. 5:10). glory; winner believer.
Illustrative analogy. In the ancient Greek For further reference, The Integrity of God.
Lessons 458:444; 457:81–82; 376:323.
athletic games, wreaths called stephanos were
awarded to the victors. The superior badge of
victory was accompanied by ceremonial honors,
crusader arrogance The desire to impose a dis-
torted standard of moral superiority on others. A
monetary rewards, and various civil privileges
product of self-righteous arrogance and power
for the recipient and his family. The Romans
awarded a similar crown of leaves (called corona lust, crusader arrogance is a self-righteous indig-
in Latin, equivalent to stephanos in Greek) for dis- nation that disregards honor, law, and justice to
tinguished military service. Highly coveted and pursue its goals through activism, sometimes to
held in awe, these wreaths signified the highest the point of violence. See Christian activism.
personal valor of the soldiers who wore them.
New Testament writers adopted this termino- current positional truth
logy to illustrate the highest awards that will See positional truth.
be given by God in eternity. The Greek stephanos,
translated wreath or crown in Scripture, rep- cursing by association (a) The negative impact
resents the indescribable blessings that the Lord of the reversionistic believer on his periphery
will distribute to Christians who have “fought (Prov. 13:20; Jonah 1:4–16); (b) the judgment exe-
the good fight . . . finished the course . . . kept cuted on client nations whose pivot of mature
the faith” (2 Tim. 4:7–8). For their faithfulness believers is reduced due to rejection of Bible
to God on earth, winners of these awards will doctrine (Hosea 4:6). As the pivot shrinks, “the
be distinguished at the judgment seat of Christ salt of the earth . . . has become tasteless” and
and throughout eternity (1 Cor. 9:25; Rev. 22:12). “is no longer good for anything” (Matt. 5:13). The
Crowns of righteousness and life. The “crown of nation loses its client nation status with God and
righteousness” describes the mature believer’s undergoes the five cycles of discipline.
capacity to receive and enjoy the greater bless- See also client nation to God; cycles of disci-
ings of the eternal state (2 Tim. 4:8). The “crown pline; reversionism.
For further reference, Christian Suffering.
of life” honors the mature believer’s persever-
Lessons 457:72; 412:1353.
ance under testing and his use of spiritual skills
while on earth (James 1:12; Rev. 2:10). Together,
cycles of discipline Five incremental divine
these two rewards indicate maximum produc-
judgments upon a client nation saturated with
tion of divine good, occupation with Christ, and
negative volition, reversionism, immorality, and
the positive impact of that believer’s life on
evil. Divine retribution intensifies through the
human history.
cycles (Lev. 26:14, 18, 21, 23, 27), until the once-
Crown of glory. This eternal decoration is
mighty nation is destroyed by military conquest
specially designated for pastors who faithfully
and her populace reduced to poverty, barbarism,
communicate the Word of God (Heb. 6:10). The
and slavery (Deut. 28:15–67).
one who obeys the command to “shepherd
the flock of God,” whatever the size of his local Cause of disCipline
congregation, not for his own gain but according Scripture confirms that national suffering is
to God’s will, will be awarded this distinction administered by God Himself. Just as God dis-
once the “Chief Shepherd appears” to bring His ciplines individuals when they step out of line
Church home (1 Pet. 5:2–4; cf. Col. 1:25–29). As (Heb. 12:6), so also does He discipline a country
part of his reward, the faithful pastor has the whose believers reject His Word. In a national
pleasure of presenting the mature members of entity where neither Bible doctrine nor divine
his congregation before the Lord and watching establishment principles are heeded, crime and
them receive their eternal rewards (Phil. 4:1; other forms of degeneracy prevail and human
cycles of discipline 52

freedom disappears. The first four cycles of divine judgment, citizens must wake up and look
discipline serve as warning signals, then God toward the truth of God’s Word. The country’s
administers the fifth cycle in order to purge the survival depends on spiritual factors: evange-
land of apostasy and preserve the remnant of lism and regeneration of unbelievers and the
Bible-oriented believers. application of Bible doctrine among believers.
administeRed to Jewish Client nations If God’s people will humble themselves before
Upon the founding of Israel, God instructed Him, confess their sins, pray, and seek His
His people on the progressively intensified dis- Word, He will hear their cry and heal their land
cipline they would experience if they rejected (2 Chron. 7:13–14). Any nation that experiences
Him and His mandates (Lev. 26:14–39). About the fifth cycle of discipline has failed to heed
700 years later, through the prophet Hosea, God the warnings of the previous cycles and rejected
warned the apostate believer-citizens that the God’s solution for recovery.
Northern Kingdom would be destroyed for “lack See also Babylonian captivity; client nation to
of knowledge [divine truth]” and forgetting “the God; pivot of mature believers.
For further reference, Daniel Chapters One through Six;
law of your God” (Hosea 4:1–6; cf. 2 Kings 17).
Freedom through Military Victory.
Over a century later, the Southern Kingdom was Lessons 201:74; 809:10; 585:21–22; 412:844.
removed for the same reasons (Jer. 7:24–29; 50:17).
The last judgment of Israel occurred in A.D. 70,
when decadent Jerusalem fell to the conquering
legions of Titus. The barbarous siege left over one
million Jews dead or enslaved, and the entire Jew-
ish nation was dispersed throughout the world.
the five CyCles
While the content of Leviticus 26 was given
specifically to the original Jewish nation, the
principles apply to any country set apart by God.
Penalties for a nation’s persistent disobedience
toward God include the following:
First cycle. Loss of health; decline of agricul-
tural prosperity; escalation in crime, terror, and
fear; decline in patriotism as the people lose the
will to defend the nation (Lev. 26:14–17).
Second cycle. Economic recession and depres-
sion (Lev. 26:18–20).
Third cycle. Breakdown of law and order
severely restricts travel and commerce (Lev.
26:21–22); violence and natural calamity thin out
the population.
Fourth cycle. Military invasion and partial
defeat; disease, rationing, and beginnings of
starvation (Lev. 26:23–26).
Fifth cycle. Total conquest and destruction of
the nation; malfunction of morality and estab-
lishment principles to the point of cannibalism;
the people taken into slavery by their victorious
enemies (Lev. 26:27–39; Deut. 28:49–67).
solution to national disCipline
To save the client nation from catastrophic
 Dd
Daniel’s seventieth week A synonym for the of great trouble for his people (Dan. 9:27). Details
Tribulation, based on the timetable prophecy of unknown to Daniel were finally revealed to the
Daniel 9:24–27. Apostle John near the end of the first century A.D.
Background. Daniel chapter 9 opens with the (Rev. 6—19).
prophet’s intense prayer for deliverance of Israel.
At the time, the Jews had been under the disci-
“WEEK” = SEVEN
pline of foreign exile for nearly fifty years, but
their conqueror Babylon had just fallen into the The Hebrew shabua, translated “week,” is a generic term
hands of the Media-Persian Empire (539 B.C.). for a segment of seven. In the context of Daniel 9:24–27,
Daniel wanted to know what would happen in shabua refers to segments of seven years, not days.
the years to come. His prayer acknowledged that Verse 25 states that from the issuance of the decree
“indeed all Israel has transgressed Your law and to the time of Christ’s rejection in Jerusalem would
turned aside, not obeying Your voice” (verse be “seven weeks [49 years] and sixty-two weeks [434
11), and he appealed to God’s righteousness for years].” These prophetic 483 years are calculated on an
forgiveness. While Daniel was still speaking, the ancient calendar system of 360 days per year.
angel Gabriel appeared.
In a prophetic vision, Daniel was told that “sev-
enty weeks have been decreed for your people See also intercalation of the Church; Tribula-
and your holy city [the Jews and Jerusalem] . . . to tion.
make atonement for iniquity . . . and to anoint the Lessons 508:44–45; 457:378.
most holy place” (Dan. 9:24–27). “Seventy weeks,”
literally seventy segments of seven years each, Davidic Covenant
means 490 years were given to post-exilic Israel. See covenants to Israel.
With this promise Daniel was assured that the
Age of Israel would continue and that the Jews Day of Atonement [Heb. yom kippur, literally
had a future on the other side of discipline. “day of covering”] The most solemn holy day of
Timetable. The starting point for these “seventy Israel, on which the high priest entered the Holy
weeks” is 445 B.C., the year Artaxerxes I of Persia of Holies to perform the annual sin offerings
issued a decree to rebuild the walls and city of on behalf of himself and the people (Lev. 16;
Jerusalem (Dan. 9:25a; Neh. 2:1–8). After 483 23:26–32).
years, Jesus Christ entered Jerusalem, where He Ritual and symbolism. Two animal sacrifices
was hailed by some as Messiah but was overall were required on the Day of Atonement: a young
rejected and crucified (Dan. 9:25b; cf. Matt. 21:8–9, bull as a sin offering for the high priest and a goat
15). The 490-year interval, then, was halted seven as a sin offering for the people. Only by way of
years short. Israel’s remaining time will be fin- these symbolic offerings could the high priest
ished during the seven-year Tribulation, or the enter the Holy of Holies. First, he sacrificed the
“seventieth week.” (The Church Age, the period bull on the brass altar and collected the blood in
when Israel is set aside, occurs in the interim.) a basin. After carrying the basin past the heavy
By what was revealed to him, Daniel under- curtain and into the sacred inner room, he
stood that the seventieth week referred to a time sprinkled the blood over the top of the mercy seat,
Day of Atonement 54

the golden lid of the ark of the covenant (Lev. 16:6, own power and ability (Heb. 9:14).
14). The high priest then returned to the altar and Described as phaulos (bad, worthless) in 2 Cor-
sacrificed a goat as an offering for the people. inthians 5:10, dead works do not meet God’s
With the goat’s blood in a bowl, he reentered the standard and therefore constitute the “wood, hay,
Holy of Holies and again sprinkled the blood over straw” disqualified for reward at the judgment
the mercy seat (Lev. 16:15–16). seat of Christ (1 Cor. 3:12–15).
The blood symbolized the work of Christ aton- See also Christian service; divine good; human
ing for the sins of the high priest, the people, and good.
indeed of all mankind (Rom. 3:25). Two cherub For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Reversionism.
figures atop the golden lid, both looking down
at the blood upon the mercy seat, represented death A condition caused by separation or by a
God’s righteousness and justice being satisfied change from one state to another. Scripture re-
by the sacrificial work of Christ. The high priest veals seven categories of death:
returned to the people waiting outside to show (1) Physical death is the separation of the
that God had accepted the “atonement for the immortal, immaterial soul from the mortal,
sons of Israel for all their sins” (Lev. 16:34). material body (Gen. 3:19; Eccl. 3:2a). God decides
Rejoicing arose, for once again God had ceremo- the time, manner, and place of physical death;
nially pardoned and cleansed His chosen people therefore, nothing can remove the believer from
from the sins of the past year (Lev. 16:30). this life apart from the wisdom, grace, and sov-
Veil removed. The heavy curtain blocking en- ereignty of God. The souls of believers enter into
trance into the Holy of Holies separated man from the presence of the Lord and spend eternity in
the dwelling presence of God. When Jesus Christ heaven housed in a resurrection body (John
completed His saving work on the cross, this 3:36; 14:1–6; 2 Cor. 5:8; Rev. 21:4). The souls of
veil was ripped by God from top to bottom (Matt. unbelievers are transferred to the temporary
27:51; Mark 15:38; Luke 23:45). The torn curtain residence called Torments, where they await the
symbolized the removal of the barrier between Last Judgment and permanent condemnation to
God and man through the blood of Christ (Heb. the lake of fire (Matt. 25:41; Rev. 20:15). See also
9:12; 10:19–20). interim body; resurrection body.
See also ark of the covenant; blood of Christ. (2) Spiritual death describes man’s total sep-
For further reference, The Blood of Christ; Levitical aration from God (Rom. 6:23a; Eph. 2:1). Adam,
Offerings.
Lessons 419:100–103, 111. the first man, was created spiritually alive—
body, soul, and human spirit—but he lost his
dead works [Gk. nekros ergon] The good deeds human spirit and became spiritually dead when
and Christian service produced by a believer in he chose to sin in the Garden (Gen. 2:17; 3:6).
the state of carnality, operating on human power Adam’s original sin brought condemnation to all
as opposed to the power of the Holy Spirit. mankind (Rom. 5:12). Every human being, with
Hebrews 6:1 and 9:14 use the term “dead the exception of Jesus Christ, is born physically
works” to indicate human good performed by alive but spiritually dead, no human spirit, unable
believers. Classification of these works as “dead” to have a relationship with God or understand
draws from Scripture’s use of death terminology His truths (1 Cor. 2:14). The only solution to
to describe the believer out of fellowship, under man’s spiritual death is regeneration, to be “born
the control of his sin nature (Rom. 8:6; Eph. again” into eternal life (John 3:6–7; Rom. 6:23;
5:14; 1 Tim. 5:6). When the believer’s motivation 1 Cor. 15:22). See also Adam’s original sin;
for service stems from self-righteousness or the regeneration.
lust for approbation, he functions in carnal and (3) Positional death refers to the Church Age
operational death. To “serve the living God” believer’s identification with Christ’s spiritual
requires the filling of the Holy Spirit and metab- death, physical death, and burial. See positional
olized Bible doctrine, but the carnal believer truth (retroactive).
forgoes this divine power and substitutes his (4) Carnal/temporal death describes the believ-
 55 defense mechanisms

er’s loss of fellowship with God in time, which cases of abuse involving the very young and
is the result of personal sin and the control powerless, these mechanisms are the only avail-
of his soul by the sin nature (Rom. 8:6; Eph. able means for survival, yet they are especially
5:14; 1 Tim. 5:6; James 1:15). First John 1:9 is detrimental when carried over into adulthood.
the means of recovery from temporal death. See Psychology refers to defense mechanisms as
also carnality; rebound. relatively involuntary responses, but a true bibli-
(5) Operational death describes any form of cal perspective must classify them as impulsively
Christian service produced apart from the filling voluntary. They are reactions from a particular
of the Holy Spirit. When the believer is out of weakness in the soul, and whether or not the
fellowship with God and hence under the control person realizes it, they involve the use of volition.
of the sin nature, he can produce only dead works, For a believer to rely on defense mechanisms is,
human good (1 Cor. 3:12–13; Heb. 6:1). See also in effect, to choose against the spiritual life. Per-
dead works. petual carnality and psychoneurotic behavior
(6) Sexual death describes loss of procreative are common consequences, unless these human
ability, exemplified in Scripture by Sarah’s bar- expedients are replaced with God’s solutions.
renness and Abraham’s inability to produce an Regardless of background, every believer has an
heir (Rom. 4:17–21; Heb. 11:11–12). option in postsalvation experience: use defense
(7) Second death is the perpetuation of spiritual mechanisms to lose out on spiritual advance and
death and separation from God into eternity. This blessing, or use God’s solutions to achieve victory.
occurs when the unbeliever is condemned to the A few defense mechanisms relevant to studies of
lake of fire at the Last Judgment (Matt. 25:41; Heb. the Christian life are as follows:
9:27; Rev. 2:11; 20:14–15). Autistic fantasy. (a) Routine mental retreat into
For further reference, The Barrier; Dying Grace; Slave fantasies regarding human relationships and
Market of Sin. effective behavior, employed to compensate for
Lessons 412:1173–74. feelings of inferiority and social awkwardness;
(b) the use of excessive daydreaming as a sub-
death-shadowed valley stitute for problem solving.
See dying grace. Autistic fantasy is a form of extreme self-
absorption, isolating the person from reality and
Decalogue [Gk. deka, ten + logos, word] Designa- creating a false perception of self and others.
tion for the portion of the Mosaic Law containing Instead of pursuing constructive relationships
the Ten Commandments. See Mosaic Law. and solving problems through objectivity, the
person withdraws into a dreamland of unrealistic
defense mechanisms (a) Thought and behav- expectations where he is supreme and others
ioral patterns used to insulate the conscious mind comply with his wishes. The believer who en-
from conflict and anxiety; (b) psychological tools gages in imaginations of personal triumph and
that temporarily compensate for lack of strength productive social interaction disregards the
in the soul and are incompatible with spiritual fact that God has provided everything for his
problem-solving tools. happiness. And by failing to orient to the grace of
Defense mechanisms are the mind’s various God, he loses out on the confidence gained from
attempts to cope with traumatic experiences, a personal sense of destiny in the plan of God.
personal failures and weaknesses, or feelings of Denial. (a) Refusal to acknowledge a generally
fear, guilt, shame, inadequacy. Intended to hide apparent aspect of reality; (b) avoiding confron-
or alleviate stress in the soul, these maladaptive tation with a personal problem or fact by refusing
devices arrest development and frustrate human to recognize its existence; (c) a mechanism of
maturity. By relieving the consciousness from self-deception, in which a believer fails to see his
overpowering pressure, they separate the person flaws, failures, or sins that are apparent to others.
from reality and are counterproductive to nor- Dissociation. Mental withdrawal in which cer-
mal mental function. Sometimes, particularly in tain elements of thought and emotion split off
defense mechanisms 56

from normal consciousness and function as a or guilt, the believer assigns his weaknesses to
separate existence. his rejecter and portrays himself as a victim.
The pioneering studies of psychologist Pierre The most explicit biblical example of projection
Janet (1859–1947) revealed dissociation as a key is found in Moses’ chronicle of the Exodus gen-
characteristic in several psychiatric ailments. eration: vociferous complaints and accusations
Janet showed that when the mentality is weak against God and Moses were the projection of
and deficient, offering no defense against outside the Israelites’ own mental attitude sins (Ex. 16:3;
pressure, emotionally charged ideas separate, 17:3; Num. 14:2–4; 16:13, 41). See also shiggaon.
or “dissociate,” from consciousness to reside in Rationalization. The act of devising incorrect
the subconscious. There, they produce abnormal explanations and excuses to justify one’s own
responses ranging from frenzied, sinful behav- sinful motives and behavior.
iors to multiple fully developed personalities. Examples of rationalization in Christianity
Within the spiritual realm, dissociation is sep- are found in the antinomian believer who uses
aration from Bible doctrine circulating in the the sins of others to justify his own debauched
stream of consciousness. When stress and the sin activity, as well as in the self-righteous believer
nature dominate the soul, integrative strength who rationalizes snobbery and judgment toward
from metabolized doctrine diminishes and the others based on his own pseudovirtue.
believer becomes disconnected from the only re- Repression. The psychological mechanism
ality that matters, the reality of divine viewpoint. that keeps unacceptable, disturbing, or threat-
Sinful thoughts and emotional reactions band ening thoughts from the conscious mind. In
together to form erratic behaviors or alternate repression, anything incompatible with indi-
opposing personalities. This dissociative split- vidual self-esteem, anything causing anxiety or
off in the thinking guarantees a halt to spiritual guilt reaction, is automatically pushed out of
as well as human maturation and explains why conscious awareness and into the subconscious.
so many believers suffer a lifetime of confusion, Use of this defense mechanism alleviates the
instability, and misery. See also dipsuchos. immediate anguish related to whatever motivated
Idealization. The inordinate approval and the repression, yet the repressed emotions and
admiration of others or self. weaknesses remain active in the subconscious to
The believer who idealizes others has suc- destroy true values and motivate sinful behavior.
cumbed to role-model arrogance. The one who The abused child, for instance, might escape the
idealizes self is in a state of self-righteous arro- reality of his horror by repressing shame and
gance, literally making a role model of himself. disturbing emotions but later direct his inward
The latter fantasizes a self-image beyond reality, rage toward others. The arrogant adult believer
thinking “more highly of himself than he ought who represses the reality of his flaws blames
to think,” against which Paul spoke in Romans others for his misery; his life is defined by judging,
12:3. See also iconoclastic arrogance. maligning, and seeking to conform everyone to
Projection. The act of falsely assigning one’s his expectations.
own flaws, failures, and sins to someone else in Sublimation. (a) The process of assuaging an
order to justify and deceive oneself. unacceptable thought, failure, or impulse with
Projection explains why many believers vilify, another system of thought or activity; (b) the
gossip, malign, and judge. When sins go unac- attempt to compensate for frustration and dis-
knowledged, the believer becomes blind to his appointment by diverting one’s focus toward an
own faults yet highly sensitive to everyone else’s. outside activity or source of pleasure.
Seeking an excuse for his internal misery, he Sublimation describes the bored and often
projects bitterness, hatred, vindictiveness right embittered believer who, lacking true capacity
onto his targets, as he accuses them of the very for life and happiness, seeks fulfillment in any
transgressions and flaws that belong to him. of life’s details: social, family, marital, or sex
An example might occur in romantic rejection, life; education and career achievement; food,
when, in order to assuage feelings of inferiority alcohol, drugs; material possessions; wealth
 57 deity

accumulation; change of environment; even to his salvation on the Damascus journey, this
pseudospiritual ecstatics like tongues. In them- very moral and pious unbeliever persecuted and
selves, some details of life are normal, but murdered Christians in the name of religion (Acts
using them to fill a spiritual void and assigning 8:3).
to them priority over relationship with God The morally degenerate believer parlays his
reduces even the noblest human pursuits to legalism into the false doctrines of salvation
distractions. A famous biblical account of by works, revocable eternal life, or spirituality
sublimation is Solomon’s frantic search for by works and asceticism. His holier-than-thou
happiness (Eccl. 1—12). The discontented king intolerance assumes the divine prerogative of
pursued every avenue of worldly prosperity and judgment, as he invades the privacy of others
achievement, only to find emptiness awaiting through manipulation, gossip, slander (Rom.
him at the end of each excursion. 14:4, 10). Shocked by the overt sins of his fellow
See also right lobe of the soul; subconscious. man, he crusades to reform not only those in his
Lessons 376:8–10. vicinity but society at large. See also Christian
activism; legalism.
defensive action (2) Immoral degeneracy. Indulgence in the sin
See offensive and defensive action in the nature trend toward antinomianism that mani-
Christian life. fests a lifestyle of debauchery and rebellion,
sometimes to the point of criminality. The
degeneracy (a) Progressive decline marked immorally degenerate believer becomes indis-
by loss of integrity; (b) describes the mentality tinguishable from his unbelieving counterpart
and inner condition of the person who has (Rom. 6:12–14; Eph. 4:19). Both succumb to
relinquished proper norms and standards and sexual permissiveness and perversion, chemical
become locked into a lifestyle of unbridled sin; dependencies, all-consuming quest for power
(c) also describes the condition of society when or wealth, disregard for law, or a combination
the general citizenry diverges from standards of thereof. See also antinomianism.
absolute truth and thus invites divine discipline See also fragmentation; reversionism.
upon the nation (Hosea 4:1–6; Rom. 1:21–32). For further reference, Freedom through Military
In the unbeliever, the degenerate condition is Victory; Reversionism.
the consequence of prolonged rejection of divine Lessons 412:945–92.
establishment laws. In the believer, degeneracy
is the decline from the superior standards of degeneration
the plan of God to inferior, worldly standards—a See cosmic system (hatred complex).
degradation that travels the stages of spiritual
reversionism (Eph. 4:18–28). Depending upon deity The state of being God, the possession of
the individual’s sin nature trend, degeneracy can divine nature. Deity belongs to each member
take two forms: of the Trinity and to no other being. Synonym:
(1) Moral degeneracy. Indulgence in the sin divinity.
nature trend toward legalism that practices evil Essence of deity. The three persons of the Trinity
behind a façade of good. This type of degeneracy share the nature of deity (Isa. 48:16; Matt. 28:19;
begins with morality arrogance—an arrogance John 10:30; 2 Cor. 13:14). God the Father, God the
that robs morality of its true virtue and substi- Son, and God the Holy Spirit all possess the same
tutes self-righteousness. Jesus used “hypocrites” divine attributes of absolute sovereignty, jus-
and “whitewashed tombs” to denounce those who tice, righteousness, omniscience, omnipotence,
“outwardly appear righteous” while harboring omnipresence, love, eternal life, immutability,
inner sins (Matt. 23:25–28; Luke 12:1). The and veracity.
moral degenerate is best exemplified by Saul of Scriptural words for deity. In the Old Testament
Tarsus, a Pharisee and zealous adherent to the Hebrew, Elohim indicates the deity of God. Elohim
legalistic distortions of the Mosaic Law. Prior is often paired with Yahweh, a personal name of
deity 58

God. For example, in Rahab’s confession of faith, demon influence The infiltration of satanic
she declares “the Lord [Yahweh] your God [Elohim], ideas, the “doctrines of demons,” into the think-
He is God [Elohim]” (Joshua 2:11; cf. Deut. 7:9). In ing of believers and unbelievers (1 Tim. 4:1).
other words, “Christ, the God of Israel, is deity.” Demonic attacks on man’s thinking do not
occur apart from man’s free will. In fact, the
prerequisite for demons’ attention is a soul sat-
THE LORD JESUS CHRIST
urated with negative volition toward divine
The full title “Lord Jesus Christ” confirms that the truth. Prime targets include the believer in
incarnate Son retained the nature of deity while also prolonged carnality, the believer antagonistic
becoming true humanity: “Lord” refers to His deity toward Bible doctrine, the unbeliever in rejection
(Phil. 2:11), “Jesus,” meaning Savior, is the title for His of the Gospel, or anyone who opposes the laws
humanity (Matt. 1:21), and “Christ,” meaning Anointed of divine establishment. Demon influence is a
One, refers to His role as the promised Messiah and process by which every facet of a person’s soul
King (John 4:25–26). and personality is eventually overwhelmed by the
policies of Satan’s cosmic system. The process can
occur subtly, by embracing such false concepts
In the New Testament Greek, Kurios, typically as humanism and religion, or more directly by
translated “Lord,” is the indication of deity and, involvement in the occult. The longer one rejects
depending on the context, can refer to any mem- divine truth, “paying attention to deceitful spirits
ber of the Trinity: 2 Timothy 2:19 and 2 Peter and doctrines of demons” (1 Tim. 4:1), the greater
2:9 use Kurios to emphasize the deity of God the the degree of influence. For the unbeliever,
Father, as related to His omniscience in eternity demon influence can be a staging ground for
past; 2 Corinthians 3:17 proclaims the deity of demon possession.
the Holy Spirit; and in Matthew 8, Luke 11:1, and See also cosmic system; demon possession;
John 11, Jesus Christ is called Kurios by those who demonism; doctrines of demons; occult;
vacuum in the soul.
recognize Him as God and Savior. For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Satan and
See also essence of God; Trinity. Demonism.
For further reference, The Integrity of God; The Trinity. Lessons 457:297–301.

demon [Heb. shed, sair; Gk. daimonion] Designa- demon possession [Gk. daimonizomai, to be
tion for an angel who fell with Satan and actively possessed by a demon; echo daimonion, to have a
serves him in the ongoing angelic conflict. demon] The invasion and control of the body of
Demons are also called “unclean spirits” and an unbeliever by one or more demons.
“deceitful spirits” in Scripture (Mark 5:13; 6:7; Indwelling demons are capable of imparting
1 Tim. 4:1). supernatural strength as well as inflicting physical
To further Satan’s agenda of deceiving the illness and deformities, blindness and inability
nations and controlling human history, demons to speak, and mental disorders to the point of
violence (Matt. 9:32–33; 12:22; Mark 9:17–18; Luke
seek every opportunity to influence and indwell
8:29; 13:11). The possessing force can also induce
unbelievers and influence believers (Matt. 17:18;
personality changes manifesting irresistible,
Luke 8:30; 1 Tim. 4:1). Demons cannot indwell a
compelling, and charismatic qualities. In the
believer [see demon possession]. At the end of
case of engastrimuthos (ventriloquist) demons,
time, all fallen angels will be consigned to the
the indwelling demon controls the vocal cords
lake of fire for eternity, along with Satan and the
of a medium in order to impersonate the dead.
entire unbelieving human race (Matt. 25:41).
The demon-influenced unbeliever, his men-
See also angels (fallen); demon influence; tality saturated with the doctrines of demons, is
demonism.
an open platform for demon possession. Believers,
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Satan and
Demonism. protected by the imputed righteousness of God
Lessons 457:279–301, 611–15; 412:1270–73. and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, cannot be
 59 details of life

demon possessed. is an avenue for demonic communication, em-

See also casting out demons; demon influence; phatically warned against and judged by God
demonism; engastrimuthos demon; exorcism; (Judg. 2:10–14; Ezek. 16:36–41; Rom. 1:22–25;
occult. 1 Cor. 10:6–8; Gal. 5:19–21).
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Satan and
Demonism. Some of the guises under which demonism
Lessons 748:17–18; 412:424. has secured its place in human history are as
follows: (1) ancient-world religious practices like
demonism (a) The operation of fallen angels Baal worship, licentious and sacrificial rites, and
(demons) through which Satan covertly lures mythology; (2) Eastern religions like Buddhism
humanity into his service; (b) the invisible attacks and Hinduism, which promote heightened spiri-
of demons on the human soul, attacks in which tuality through idolatry, asceticism, and mystical
weapons of satanic doctrine are used to influence meditation; (3) Islam and Mormonism, both of
the thinking or even gain possession of the entire which derive from alleged angelic appearances
person, body and soul. and claims of new revelation; (4) the pervasive
Satan himself is the prince of demons and, New Age movement, a contemporary conglomer-
therefore, the strategist and commander of all ation of humanistic psychology, Eastern mysti-
demon offensives toward mankind (Matt. 9:34; cism, and astrology; and (5) various cultural and
12:24; Mark 3:22; Luke 11:15; Eph. 2:2; 6:12). Of intellectual movements that reject legitimate
all his attacks on the human race—including the authority and divine truth. Demonism has even
genetic corruption of the pre-Flood civilization crept into areas of Christianity through emphasis
(Gen. 6) and violent invasion of demon armies on ecstatic experience, empty rituals, deification
during the Tribulation (Rev. 9; 12:7–17)—demonism of human beings, and mystical traditions.
is the most devastating and successful. This is See also demon influence; demon possession;
divination; mysticism; necromancy; occult.
Satan’s most clever invention through which his
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Rever-
doctrine, his own thinking, is transferred to the sionism; Satan and Demonism.
human soul. Satanic doctrine puts believers and Lessons 748:16–18; 457:279–301, 611–15; 412:1270.
unbelievers under demon influence—their think-
ing and decisions conform to Satan’s deceptive denial
agenda. For unbelievers, demon influence is the See defense mechanisms.
staging ground for demon possession—every
facet of their being, physical and mental, is open depravity
for control by indwelling evil forces. See total depravity.
Satan’s supernatural soldiers indeed possess
immense power, but demonism cannot succeed details of life (a) The external factors of human
apart from human consent. Those who are demon- life, beyond the spiritual nourishment of the
ized have knowingly or unknowingly courted soul; (b) temporal blessings provided by God as
these sinister forces and allowed the invasion of logistical grace support and prosperity for the
cosmic policy. Submission to demons can occur believer in time. Details of life include the basic
subtly and inadvertently through chemical abuse, necessities of food, shelter, and clothing, as
sexual promiscuity, religious rituals and idolatry, well as the less fundamental accouterments like
modern-day tongues and healing, or adherence wealth and material possessions, education and
to any man-centered philosophy. The more direct achievement, approbation and status, personal
route to the demonic realm is the occult—actively relationships, environment, and the general cir-
engaging the supernatural through divination, cumstances of everyday living.
necromancy, astrology, mysticism, sorcery. No The details listed above, however pleasant,
matter how alluring, innocent, or beneficial the must be kept in proper perspective and distin-
pathway may seem, no matter how much knowl- guished by their superficial, temporary nature.
edge, self-fulfillment, or ‘spirituality’ it claims to In themselves they are neither wrong nor evil,
offer, if it excludes divine power and truth it but when desire for human security and plea-
details of life 60

sure supercedes desire for spiritual advance, the • Satan’s tyranny over the fallen world is wield-
details of life become the master of the soul ed through a system of evil disguised as good,
(2 Pet. 2:19b; cf. Matt. 6:24; 1 Tim. 6:17). In contrast, promoting the lie that the creature can succeed
when the spiritual life based on God’s Word independently of the Creator and thereby
takes first priority, there emerges a soul capacity encouraging arrogance and antagonism toward
called “mastery of the details of life.” The believer God (2 Cor. 11:15).
who masters life’s details genuinely enjoys and • Satan possesses tremendous power to distract,
appreciates but is not controlled by circumstances, persuade, discredit, even destroy—a power
people, wealth, or material things. With a soul offset only by the grace of God (Eph. 6:10–11).
edified from metabolized doctrine, he realizes See cosmic system; cosmos diabol icus.
the sufficiency of God’s grace provision, fixes his
eyes on spiritual victory, and is content in both (3) Strategy against the nations
abundance and need (Phil. 4:12–13, 19; Heb. 13:5). • Strategic objective: to consolidate the nations
See also happiness; logistical grace. into a one-world state from which he can
For further reference, The Pursuit of Happiness. destroy Israel and maintain his evil influence
over humanity.
devil [Gk. diabolos, slanderer, traducer, adversary]
• Tactics: break down the sovereignty and free-
A biblical title for the fallen super-angel, origi-
dom of independent nations; oppose the laws
nally named Lucifer, or “morning star,” then
of divine establishment and advocate visionary
renamed Satan upon his fall. See Satan.
schemes of socialism and internationalism (Rev.
20:3a, 8a). See anti-Semitism; nationalism.
devil’s seven A seven-point intelligence report
on Satan—his person, history, and strategy. This (4) Strategy against unbelievers
profile helps believers understand why they are • Strategic objective: to keep unbelievers (spir-
mandated to be on the alert and to hold their itually dead citizens of his kingdom) from
ground against the devil (2 Cor. 2:11; 1 Pet. 5:8–9). being regenerated, or born again into God’s
(1) Person of Satan: a powerful super-angel with kingdom.
alluring personality, spectacular beauty, but an • Tactics: obscure the Gospel with counterfeit
essence of absolute evil that entirely opposes God gospels of human works, false gods, social
(John 8:44; 2 Cor. 11:14). justice, and the cunning denial of the Savior
• Under his original name “Lucifer,” this pre- (2 Cor. 4:3–4; Col. 2:8); entice the sin nature
historic creature held the highest position with sin and degeneracy; promote the prom-
among all angels. Arrogance brought him to ise of security and happiness through the
revolt against his Creator, and he took one-third superficialities of life (Gen. 13:13; Ps. 140:1–5;
of the angels with him (Isa. 14:12–17, kjv; Ezek. Mark 7:21–22; Luke 8:12). See also evil; human
28:14–15; Rev. 12:4a). good; utopianism.

• Renamed Satan (meaning “adversary”) after his (5) Strategy against believers
fall, he became the chief antagonist, instigator, • Strategic objective: to dupe believers into
and commander of all fallen angels in the on- arrogant preoccupation with self and antag-
going war against God (Eph. 6:12). onism toward grace, inculcate their minds with
• He continues to be an unrelenting opponent of human viewpoint, and render them defenseless
the Word of God and believers in Jesus Christ. in the angelic conflict.
See angelic conflict; Satan.
• Tactics: accuse believers before the court of
(2) Rulership over the world: secured after the fall heaven (Job 1:6–11; Rev. 12:10b); lure believers
of Adam and retained until Jesus Christ returns from the Word with false doctrine, legalism,
(Luke 4:5–7; John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11; 2 Cor. 4:4; and social crusades (1 Chron. 21:1; Prov. 29:18;
Eph. 2:2). Rom. 1:21–22; 1 Cor. 10:19–21; Eph. 4:17–24;
 61 diaspora

Heb. 3:12); hinder believers from recognizing idolatry and fell to Nebuchadnezzar of Chaldea.
and executing the will of God (1 Thess. 2:18); Through three invasions (606–586 B.C.), Judah’s
neutralize doctrinal application with mental population was exiled in the Chaldean Empire,
attitude sins of worry, anxiety, and fear (Matt. which later fell to Persia (2 Kings 25:1–6; Jer. 3:8;
13:22; Heb. 2:14–15); discourage occupation 17:1–13; 25:11; 50:17b). While many Jews returned
with Christ by encouraging eyes on people, to the Land when Judah was finally restored
self, and details of life (Jer. 17:5; 1 Tim. 6:10; (2 Chron. 36:22–23; Jer. 29:10; cf. Ezra 1:1–3),
2 Tim. 3:2–5). See also Christian activism; thousands chose to remain in Persia and from
reversionism; worldliness. there wandered into other parts of the world.

(6) Religion, his greatest weapon

JEWS IN PERSIA
• As counterfeits of God’s grace plan, religious
systems deceptively distract from true Chris- Descendants of Jews who remained settled in the
tianity. Persian Empire became the population subject to the
attempted holocaust in the Book of Esther.
• With religion, Satan encourages believers and
unbelievers to seek salvation, spirituality, or
approval from God through their own ideas and
Further dispersion occurred in 332 B.C., when
efforts (Matt. 23:5–6, 23–27; Mark 7:3–9; Phil.
Alexander the Great carried off Jews to admin-
3:2–7). See religion.
ister his far-flung Graeco-Macedonian Empire.
(7) False teachers: sponsored by Satan to teach and And in 63 B.C., Pompey’s conquest of Jerusalem
promote spurious doctrines. left another portion of Jews in Roman captivity.
The extent of the diaspora as of the mid-first
• Using a phony and hypocritical façade (Matt.
century A.D. is confirmed in the New Testament.
7:15; Rom. 16:18), Satan’s teachers appeal to
On the day of Pentecost A.D. 30, Jews visited
pride and emotionalism with “empty chatter,”
Jerusalem from “every nation under heaven,”
legalism, social programs, even idolatry (Hab.
speaking a multitude of languages from the many
2:18–19; 1 Tim. 1:6–7; 2 Tim. 2:16–17; 3:5–7).
regions of Egypt, Parthia, and Asia Minor (Acts
• Maligning of truth will continue throughout 2:5–11). Reports of synagogues in Thessalonica,
Satan’s rulership and reach its peak in the Berea, Athens, and Corinth (Acts 17:1, 10, 16–17;
Tribulation (2 Thess. 2:9; 2 Pet. 2:1–3; 1 John 18:1–8; cf. James 1:1) further illustrate the
4:1; Rev. 13:3b–8, 11–14). See also demonism; dispersion established throughout the previous
ecumenical religion. centuries, a condition exacerbated by the perse-
cution of believing Jews in Jerusalem (Acts 8:1).
devil’s world The final increment of dispersion, the culmi-
See cosmos diabolicus. nating discipline to apostate Israel who rejected
the incarnate Christ, occurred in A.D. 70 when
diaspora Greek word that means “scattering” or Roman legions served as God’s instrument of
“dispersion,” used theologically for the scattering destruction upon the homeland’s capital (Luke
of the Jews outside their homeland. The primary 21:24). According to historian Josephus, approx-
cause of the diaspora is divine discipline upon imately one million Jews died and ninety-seven
client nation Israel. thousand were taken as slaves, leaving the nation
Dispersion of the Jews began in 721 B.C., when scattered across the world.9
the apostate Northern Kingdom surrendered to Since the fall of Jerusalem in A.D. 70, no Jew-
Assyrian forces and the conquered Jews were ish client nation has existed. Modern-day Israel,
taken as slaves to eastern Assyrian provinces established in 1948, is the Jewish nation-state, but
(2 Kings 17:5–12, 20–23; Jer. 50:17a). Over one hun- it is not the regenerate nation that God ordained
dred years later, the Southern Kingdom (Judah)
similarly ignored the prophets’ warnings against 9. Flavius Josephus, The Wars of the Jews, Book VI, ix.
diaspora 62

to represent Him to the world. Not until the dipsuchos (a) The Greek noun that literally means
Second Advent will believing Jews of history be “double-souled,” translated “double-minded” in
regathered as the promised client nation (Deut. the English text to describe believers in an un-
30:3–5; Joel 3:1–2). In the meantime, God’s chosen stable, psychoneurotic state (James 1:8; 4:8);
people remain largely dispersed, under divine (b) describes believers whose thinking has split
discipline, yet still protected by His unbreakable off from spiritual truth, resulting in an alternate
promise (Gen. 12:1–3). personality of emotional and arrogant reaction.
See also Babylonian captivity; client nation to God. Dipsuchos is a companion term of the Hebrew
For further reference, Anti-Semitism; The Divine Out- shiggaon (madness), which denotes mental and
line of History; Tongues.
emotional disorders of Old Testament believers
(Deut. 28:28).
dichotomous / trichotomous Two terms that Biblical usage. James 4 is a rebuke of Christians
describe the status of man with regard to his ma-
who, through emotional revolt and locked-in
terial and immaterial components. Dichotomous
negative volition, have amplified carnality into
refers to the possession of the material body and
the psychotic realm and become “double minded
the immaterial soul. Trichotomous refers to the
[dipsuchos].” Though eternally united with Christ,
possession of the material body, the immaterial
these reversionists have failed to put the Lord
soul, and the immaterial human spirit (1 Thess.
first and are preoccupied with themselves, other
5:23; Heb. 4:12).
people, material possessions, and pleasure. Unre-
Adam and the woman were created as perfect
strained lusts of the sin nature have attacked
and trichotomous beings, each possessing a body,
their once-unified souls and caused a personality
soul, and human spirit. The moment they sinned,
change—a separation from the normal, spiritual
each acquired a sin nature, fell into spiritual
personality and the formation of a definitively
death, and lost the human spirit. In their new-
carnal personality. Bitter, jealous, greedy, venge-
found status of dichotomy—body and soul only—
ful, they justify their wrongdoing and continue to
they were separated from God and totally inca-
commit evil, even to the point of murder. James
pable of a relationship with Him (Gen. 2:17; 3:8).
heightens his reprimand by calling them “adulter-
Faith in the Savior brought regeneration, which
esses” who have rejected God’s Word for a pseudo-
restored the human spirit and rendered them
love relationship with the world (James 4:4).
trichotomous again (1 Cor. 15:22). The sin nature,
Cause and recovery. To grasp the concept of eter-
however, remained part of their mortal bodies.
nally saved yet split-souled believers, understand
As Adam’s progeny, every human being (with
first that all children of God have a vulnerability
the exception of the humanity of Christ) enters
they did not possess as unbelievers: they are vul-
this world separated from God, without a human
nerable toward viewing life from the “old things”
spirit (Rom. 5:12). First Corinthians 2:14 de-
of human viewpoint (2 Cor. 5:17), when only
scribes the dichotomous person as the “natural
divine viewpoint will sustain them in God’s plan.
[psuchikos, soulish] man,” the one who “does not
Failure to learn and utilize Bible doctrine incites
accept the things of the Spirit of God.” This is the
their vulnerability and leads to soul weakness.
unbeliever. Though he does indeed have soul life,
When the soul lacks cohesive strength from
he does not have spiritual life or a human spirit
doctrine, the mentality gives way to emotion.
to comprehend the revelation of God. In order to
Fear, worry, and anxiety convert outside pressure
be reconciled to God and granted eternal spiritual
into stress, and temptation from the sin nature
life, dichotomous man must accept God’s gift of
overwhelms the soul. If rejection of God’s plan
salvation and be regenerated by rebirth (John 3:3,
persists, believers become disorganized in their
16). The one who expresses faith in Jesus Christ
thinking, irrational and withdrawn from reality.
gains a human spirit and becomes trichotomous.
Perpetual sinful reaction takes on an existence
See also Adam’s original sin; human spirit; re- of its own, and the outcome is a conflict of
generation; spiritual death.
For further reference, The Barrier; The Divine Outline of personalities within the soul—a true double-
History; The Trinity. mindedness.
 63 dispensationalism

Across the Old and New Testaments, Scripture on the doctrine of dispensations, which reveals
presents this soul division in the believer as a God’s plan for human history through the
condition acquired through negative volition framework of distinct, successive divine admin-
toward doctrine, not through heredity. The per- istrations of time. Dispensationalism is most
sonality dysfunction and mental disorders of the distinguished by its ecclesiology and eschatology:
double-minded are fostered by arrogance—the the Church and Israel are dealt with by God as
use of free will to reject truth and make many separate entities, and the Jews have a national
decisions toward human viewpoint and sin: future guaranteed by God’s unconditional
“Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the covenants. Synonym: dispensational theology.
world makes himself an enemy of God” (James 4:4, Antithetical to covenant theology.
italics added). Still, the “Lord is slow to anger and Ideas of various dispensations and the scrip-
abundant in unfailing love” (Num. 14:18a, cor- tural unfolding of history are present in writings
rected translation). Recovery is available. James of some early Church fathers and in other works
instructs his subjects accordingly to “cleanse your previous to the nineteenth century. But the
hands,” a reference to rebound, the confession of formal theology of dispensationalism is credited
sin to God the Father (1 John 1:9), and to “purify to the 1830s Plymouth Brethren movement in
your hearts [kardia, right lobe of the soul],” a Ireland and England, most notably to John
reference to metabolizing doctrine (James 4:8b). Nelson Darby (1800–1882), the regarded father
The believer must make many decisions—day by and systematizer of dispensationalism. Faithful
day, moment by moment—toward renovating to theological orthodoxy, Darby and his con-
the weakened soul with God’s grace provisions. temporaries developed more accurate methods of
As the Holy Spirit circulates divine viewpoint interpreting Scripture, with careful attention to
throughout the stream of consciousness, emo- biblical prophecy and the varying order of God’s
tional revolt is replaced by emotional stability interaction with man across time. Darby’s most
and sin nature lust is restrained by humility significant contributions to Church history were
(Gal. 5:22–23). Also, spiritual problem-solving in clarifying the timing of eschatological periods
devices are formed to prevent outside pressure and distinguishing the roles of Israel and the
from becoming stress in the soul. Church.
Though not part of the spiritual life as such, Simultaneous to its burgeoning presence in
psychiatric diagnosis and medication may be Europe, dispensational theology made its way
necessary to resume normal function and con- into North America in the mid-1800s through
centration for those suffering from psychoses or publications and organized teaching of James
neuroses. However, true stability for the Christian Inglis (1813–1872). Its eschatological views in
is ultimately derived from metabolized doctrine particular captured the attention of conservative
in the stream of consciousness. Recovery for the denominations, namely Baptist and some Pres-
dipsuchos believer hinges on making daily percep- byterian, who were concerned with the rise of
tion of doctrine and execution of the plan of God liberalism in Christian thought. Dispensation-
the top priorities in life. alism spread across the United States through
See also reversionism; shiggaon; spiritual meta- the Niagara Bible Conferences (1883–1897) and
bolism; subconscious. the teaching of pastors and theologians such as
Lessons 361:10–13; 840:26–40. James H. Brookes (1830–1897), Dwight Moody
(1837–1899), and Cyrus Scofield (1843–1921).
disaster testing Scofield’s reference Bible, with its accompanying
See suffering (for blessing). dispensational notes, helped further instill this
theology, especially among evangelical churches.
discipline Dispensationalism secured institutional stand-
See divine discipline. ing as noted proponents assumed leadership of
Bible schools and seminaries such as Moody Bible
dispensationalism An orthodox theology based Institute (1886), Philadelphia School of the Bible
dispensationalism 64

(1914), and the Bible Institute of Los Angeles Tribulation and Millennium.
(1908). In 1924, Lewis Sperry Chafer (1871–1952), See entries for description of each: (1) Dispen-
perhaps the most influential twentieth-century sation of the Gentiles, (2) Dispensation of
dispensationalist, founded and led Dallas Theo- Israel, (3) Dispensation of the Hypostatic
logical Seminary. The systematic teaching of Dr. Union, (4) Church Age, (5) Tribulation, and
Chafer and fellow doctrinal professors like (6) Millennium.
Charles L. Feinberg (1909–1995), Henry Ironside Terminology. The New Testament uses several
(1876–1951), and Merrill Unger (1909–1980) estab- Greek words to communicate the concept of dis-
lished the seminary’s flagship status among pensations. Aion, chronos, and kairos all indicate
U. S. dispensational institutes. Today, the tenets time periods or eras, as in the age of the Church
of dispensationalism are upheld across various being “hidden from the past ages [aion] and gener-
portions of conservative evangelical Christianity, ations” (Col. 1:26) and “kept secret for long ages
though debates linger over the precise division, past [chronos]” (Rom. 16:25). Oikonomia speaks
nomenclature, and number of dispensations. of the administration of a business or estate and
See also covenant theology; dispensations. implies order, plan, arrangement (Eph. 1:8–10;
Selected Bibliography: Beale, David O., In Pursuit of Col. 1:25–29; 1 Tim. 1:3–4). Each dispensation is
Purity: American Fundamentalism Since 1850 (1986). ultimately administered by God, and He appoints
Evangelical Dictionary of Theology (2001), s.v. “Darby, stewards, or human agents, to convey His plan for
John Nelson” by W. A. Hoffecker; “Dispensation, a particular era. For example, oikonomia reveals
Dispensationalism” by C. Blaising. that Paul was entrusted with the “administration
[oikonomia] of the mystery [doctrine for the
dispensations Consecutive periods of human Church]” (Eph. 3:9; cf. 3:2). From these various
history that reflect the unfolding of God’s plan terms of the original Greek, dispensation comes
for mankind. From one dispensation to the to mean a period of human history expressed in
next, differences in administration and policy terms of divine revelation and administered to
reveal God’s unchanging glory under changing man by God’s appointed stewards.
conditions. Continuity and change through the ages. The
The time line. Human history can be viewed in divine administration of time incorporates both
the following three categories, each containing two continuity and change. Regardless of biblical
dispensations: The theocentric, or pre-Incarnation, era, there is always one Savior—the Lord Jesus
dispensations are the Age of the Gentiles and the Christ—and fallen man is saved by faith alone
Age of Israel. The Christocentric dispensations begin in Him alone (Gen. 15:6; Isa. 43:10–12; John 14:6;
with the First Advent (called the Dispensation Acts 4:12). But revelation of the Savior is different
of the Hypostatic Union) and continue with the in each dispensation, as is the human agency
Church Age, which is the present dispensation. entrusted with its communication (e.g., prophets
Finally, the eschatological dispensations that the of Israel, apostles and pastor-teachers of the
Bible prophesies for the end of history are the Church, Jewish evangelists of the Tribulation)

Creation Moses and Birth of Pentecost Rapture of Second Last

of Man the Exodus Christ the Church Advent Judgment
Fall of
Man

Age of Gentiles Age of Israel Hypostatic Church Age Tribulation Millennium

Union

THEOCENTRIC CHRISTOCENTRIC ESCHATOLOGICAL Eternal State

Figure 8 DISPENSATIONS OF HUMAN HISTORY

 65 Dispensation of the Gentiles

[see also divine revelation]. Age of Positive Volition. From the creation of
Furthermore, because God’s character is un- Adam to the Fall (Genesis 1:26—3:6). Synonyms:
changing (Ps. 102:25–27), His policy of grace Age of Innocence; Age of Perfection.
toward mankind remains constant throughout During this undefined span of time, Adam
history. Expressions of that grace vary, however, and the woman were supplied with everything
as His plan unfolds across time. Against a back- necessary to enjoy paradise in Eden. Individual
ground of consistency, God introduces changes volition and marriage were the only divine insti-
in delegated authority, divine instruction, and tutions in operation, since families and nations
the mechanics and assets for living the post- had yet to be formed. The first couple lived in
salvation life. These changes distinguish one perfect environment, received direct revelation
epoch of biblical history from another. from God, and in their state of sinlessness had no
Dispensations and the Christian life. The doc- need for salvation. However, the age came to an
trine of dispensations clarifies God’s purpose end when they disregarded God’s authority and
for Christians after salvation. The Church Age is disobeyed His mandate concerning “the tree of
unique, set apart from other dispensations, and the knowledge of good and evil” (Gen. 2:17; 3:6–7).
the postsalvation life holds unprecedented privi- By Adam’s initial transgression, sin entered the
leges and opportunities (Eph. 1:3–14). Through human race, and he and the woman were sent
an accurate and cohesive view of Scripture, the “out from the garden of Eden” (Gen. 3:23).
dispensational Christian can utilize the spiritual The events of the Age of Positive Volition
assets of this age to orient to God’s plan and ulti- emphasize that neither human perfection, per-
mately glorify the resurrected Jesus Christ [see fect environment, nor divine warnings are a
also royal family of God]. guarantee against man’s sin. Human volition,
Apart from dispensational truth, however, truly free, is the critical issue in determining
Christians cannot know all that God has provid- man’s course in history.
ed for them or why He has given them so much.
They might erroneously view Christianity as a
blend of the Ten Commandments, the Sermon on Creation of Fall of Abraham Moses and
Man Man the Exodus
the Mount, and a few contemporary social norms.
Some fail to distinguish between Israel and the
Positive Negative Jewish
Church, creating confusion about Law, divine Volition Volition Patriarchs
promises, and New Testament doctrine. Instead
AGE OF GENTILES
of fulfilling their personal destiny in God’s plan,
they occupy themselves with issues that are not
Figure 9
central to their spiritual growth or relationship
with God. The right dispensational approach to
Scripture frees Christianity from harmful dis- Age of Negative Volition. From the Fall to Abra-
tortions and gives direction to the believer’s life. ham (Genesis 3:7—11:32). Just prior to their ex-
See also covenant theology; millennialism.
pulsion from the Garden, Adam and the woman
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History. were regenerated through faith in the promised
Lessons 412:580–83, 655–71. Savior. However, as a result of the Fall, both
possessed a sin nature, which would be inherited
Dispensation of the Church by their progeny. Since every descendent would
See Church Age. be born in a state of depravity, spreading the
Gospel of the promised Savior became the re-
Dispensation of the Gentiles The period sponsibility of believers during this age. To this
beginning with the creation of Adam and end- end, the third divine institution, the family, came
ing with the Exodus (Genesis 1—Exodus 11). Syn- into being. Spiritual authority was vested in the
onym: Age of the Gentiles. This dispensation is head of the family, who communicated God’s
divided into three sub-periods: truth and performed priestly functions on behalf
Dispensation of the Gentiles 66

of the household. God revealed Himself to these of God and man in the incarnate person of Christ.
stewards of His Word through angelic messengers, Synonyms: First Advent; Incarnation.
visions, dreams, and theophanies, as no canon A distinct era of history. For approximately thirty-
of Scripture yet existed. Evil, first displayed in three years, God the Son dwelt in the flesh among
Cain’s murder of Abel, grew to epidemic pro- mankind. This unique age, termed the Dispensa-
portions during this age, warranting severe tion of the Hypostatic Union, stands as its own
divine judgments in the form of a universal flood distinct, momentous time period. It separates
and, later, the separation of languages at Babel. the ages of Israel and the Church, relating to
These catastrophic events served to differentiate both yet belonging to neither. During His earthly
man by race, national boundaries, and language, ministry, Christ presented Himself to Israel as
eventuating in the fourth divine institution, the the promised Messiah and Savior. He fulfilled Old
national entity. See also nationalism. Testament prophecy (Isa. 7:14; Matt. 1:20b–23; 2:13–
The Age of Negative Volition highlights the fact 20; 4:13–16), performed miracles that established
that anthropological unities—a single language, His credentials (Matt. 4:23–25), and announced
race, and culture—cannot solve man’s problems policy for His coming kingdom (Matt. 5—7). In
or replace his relationship with God, and that the same period, Christ began His ministry to the
divine institutions can restrain human arrogance approaching Church, unveiling a new system of
but never eradicate the sin nature. See also spiritual dynamics and setting the precedent for
Adam’s original sin; divine institutions; the Christian way of life (2 Pet. 1:2–4).
tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Israel’s opportunity. The Incarnation repre-
Age of the Jewish Patriarchs. From Abraham to sented a fork in the road of history. To the Jews,
the Exodus, ca. 2050 to 1441 B.C. (Genesis 12— Christ announced that the kingdom of God was
Exodus 11). God founded the Jewish race during “at hand” (Matt. 4:17), yet the kingdom’s arrival at
this age in preparation for the upcoming client that time was contingent on Israel’s acceptance
nation Israel. of Him. Here was the nation’s opportunity to
Through direct revelation, the Lord entered embrace her Messiah, resume her God-ordained
into a covenant with Abraham, making him the function, and enter into the long-awaited kingdom
father of a new racial species (Gen. 12:2; 17:1–21; on earth (Matt. 3:1–2; 4:17; 9:35; 12:28; John 2:18–
22:17–18). “Abraham, the patriarch” (Heb. 7:4) 22). Individual Jews, like Jesus’ disciples, believed
“became the father of Isaac . . . and Isaac became in Him as Savior, but Israel as a nation denied her
the father of Jacob, and Jacob of the twelve patri- King and even played a role in His death (Matt.
archs” (Acts 7:8b–9). Jacob’s sons were the heads 20:18; 27:1, 22–25; Mark 15:1–15; Luke 23:13–25;
of the twelve tribes of Israel and the basis for John 11:47–57).
perpetuating the Jewish race. The Age of the Results of Israel’s decision. With the nation’s re-
Patriarchs ended with the Jews enslaved in Egypt. jection confirmed, Israel was removed from the
(Moses was born during this age, but the last spotlight and the historical focus was shifted
forty years of his life belong to the next dispen- to a new body of believers, the Church. Shortly
sation, the Age or Dispensation of Israel.) before His crucifixion, Jesus announced to His
disciples the plan of God for the Church Age, a
See also Jewish race; seed of Abraham.
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History. divine system of mystery doctrine and spiritual
Lessons 201:8–40; 412:657–58. protocol (John 14—17). He then completed His

Dispensation of the Hypostatic

Union The period beginning with Birth of
Christ
Christ Proclaims
the Kingdom
Israel Rejects
the Messiah
Christ Announces
the Church Ascension

the birth of Jesus Christ and ending

with His resurrection, ascension,
AGE OF HYPOSTATIC UNION
and session; ca. 4 B.C. to A.D. 30
(Matthew—John). Hypostatic union
is the theological term for the union Figure 10
 67 dissociation

saving mission on the cross, rose from the grave, the people rejected the Lord’s personal rule and
and ascended victoriously to the Father’s right petitioned for a human king (1 Sam. 8:7, 19–20). A
hand. Regarding failed Israel, her future was century later, civil and political upheaval divided
not withdrawn but put on hold (Matt. 23:37–39; the client nation into the Northern Kingdom of
24—25). The kingdom has been postponed until Israel and the Southern Kingdom of Judah. Both
the King’s future return. In the interim, a royal kingdoms fell deeper and deeper into apostasy,
family—the Church—is being formed on earth to ignored the warnings of divine discipline, and
glorify and represent the exalted King of kings. were eventually conquered by foreign peoples
See also hypostatic union. (2 Kings 17:1–23; 25:1–21; 2 Chron. 36:11–21; Jer.
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History. 7:24–29; 50:17; Hosea 4:1–6). After a period of exile,
Judah was restored and spiritually revived, yet
Dispensation of Israel The period beginning her positive volition, peace, and grace prosperity
with Moses and the Exodus and ending with the did not endure.
birth of Jesus Christ, ca. 1441 to 4 B.C. (Exodus 12—
Malachi 4). Synonyms: Age of Israel; Dispensa-
tion of the Jews; Jewish Age. Moses and Birth of
the Exodus Christ
Upon the Jews’ delivery from Egyptian bond-
age, God established Israel as His national repre-
sentative and missionary agency on earth. The Jewish Client Nations
spiritual heritage that had been established with
the Jewish patriarchs continued, but to this was AGE OF ISRAEL
added a legacy that would manifest God’s grace
and character as never before (Deut. 4:6–8, 32–
Figure 11
40). Israel was made “a kingdom of priests and a
holy nation,” carrying the great responsibility of
recipient, custodian, and communicator of the By the last century B.C., the Jewish client
written Word (Ex. 19:6). The kingdom was to be nation, reduced to the territory of Judea, had
a theocracy—ruled personally by Jesus Christ, the lost her spiritual vigor and distorted the Law
God of Israel. Directly from God, Moses received a into a tyrannical system of religious legalism.
new code of law, the Mosaic Law, which regulated Divine discipline was administered through
life among God’s chosen people, exposed man’s domination by the Roman Empire, eventually
sinfulness and need for a Savior, and instructed bringing Judea under Rome-appointed rulers.
Israel to anticipate the coming Messiah. With Christ’s birth came the beginning of the
In addition to the Mosaic Law, God’s mandates, next era, the Dispensation of the Hypostatic
warnings, and prophecies were revealed to certain Union. Spiritually and politically rebellious
men endued with the Holy Spirit and endowed Israel, having squandered her opportunity as
with the gift of prophecy, office of prophet, or God’s client nation, now had to make her most
both (Judges 6:34; Ezek. 2:2; Zech. 7:12). Included critical decision in history—to accept or reject
in this revelation were additional covenants spe- the incarnate Messiah.
cifying the Savior’s genealogical descent from See also covenants to Israel; God of Israel;
Mosaic Law.
the Davidic dynasty (2 Sam. 7:8–17; Ps. 89:20–37)
For further reference, Anti-Semitism; The Divine Out-
and Israel’s future kingdom ruled by Christ (Jer. line of History.
31:31–34). God’s entire plan and instruction for Lessons 201:42–63, 70–116; 412:659.
His chosen people, along with Israel’s history as it
unfolded, was recorded to form the books of the dispersion
Old Testament canon. See diaspora.
Throughout this dispensation, Israel frequently
disregarded God’s Word and embraced false gods, dissociation
suffering divine discipline as a result. In 1020 B.C., See defense mechanisms.
divination 68

divination The attempt to foresee and foretell certain to occur, God did not interfere with
future events or to discover hidden knowledge, angelic or human free will. In fact, He decreed
usually by interpreting omens or engaging the that His creatures would have free will and that
aid of supernatural powers. Clairvoyance, palm- freewill decisions would certainly take place.
istry, channeling, dowsing, and psychometry are Omniscient God knew ahead of time precisely
practices of the diviner. what His creatures would decide, and He not only
The Bible declares divination a sin and express- decreed that those exact decisions would exist
ly forbids its practices (Lev. 19:26; Deut. 18:10; but also decreed the exact manner in which His
1 Sam. 15:23a). In describing the evil of Jewish perfect integrity would respond.
king Manasseh, who “practiced witchcraft and No event, then, is directly effected or caused
used divination, and dealt with mediums and by the decree. The decree merely establishes the
spiritists,” Scripture declares that he “did much facts of history—reality—much of which God does
evil in the sight of the Lord provoking Him to not desire. Sin, human good, and evil are not the
anger” (2 Kings 21:6). desire of God, but they are in the decree because
Demons do in fact operate in divination to they occur from individual volition. Neither
accurately foretell the future, though some of the does God desire to cast His creatures into the
dabbling in this area amounts to clever fakery. lake of fire, but it is decreed as certain for all who
In either case, intoxication with the diviner’s choose to reject Jesus Christ as Savior (2 Pet. 3:9).
claims of power is tantamount to rejection of Illustration of the decree. In eternity past, from
God’s authority and provision. His omniscience, God fed the facts of history
into what can be thought of as a giant computer.
See also demonism; necromancy.
For further reference, Satan and Demonism. Data consisting of the sovereign will of God and
the freewill decisions of man was integrated
divine decree The sovereign declaration by God, into God’s computer to produce an output that
made in eternity past, of all that would occur amounts to every detail of human history playing
in history. In full theological description, the out in time. For every individual there is a
decree of God is His eternal, holy, wise, and sov- printout of the course of his life. Romans 9:10–
ereign purpose, comprehending simultaneously 13, for example, reveals information from the
all things that ever were or will be—in their causes, decree: Jacob’s printout reads regeneration and
courses, conditions, successions, and relations— true Israel, while Esau’s reads condemnation and
and determining their certain futurition (i.e., exclusion from the Jewish race (cf. Mal. 1:2–3).
future occurrence). We do not know exactly what the future holds for
each of us, but God does. He knew it and recorded
In the divine decree is the all-inclusive will and
it in eternity past, and it glorifies and pleases
purpose of God, objectively designed by God for
Him now to run the printouts until the end. See
His own glory, satisfaction, and pleasure (Prov.
also ROM and PROM chips.
16:4; Rom. 11:36; Heb. 2:10; Rev. 4:11). The “will
of God” in this context refers to God’s sovereign See also election; foreknowledge; lapsarianism;
predestination.
decision that certain things would actually come For further reference, The Integrity of God.
into being while other things would not. It is in Lessons 458:550–53, 573–77; 412:11, 13.
reality all one decree, made instantly, eternally,
and simultaneously and covering everything that divine discipline Punitive action taken by the
occurs in angelic and human history (Ps. 2:7; justice of God to correct, encourage, train, and
148:6). However, the plural “decrees” is some- motivate the carnal believer to recover and move
times used to express its many facets and to forward in the plan of God. This category of
better accommodate human understanding. To suffering is limited to believers and occurs only
the finite mind, the decrees are many, but to God, in time, not in eternity (Heb. 12:8; Rev. 21:4).
they are all one plan embracing both cause and God desires only the best for every member
effect, means and end. of His family; therefore, all divine discipline is
Volition in the decree. In rendering all things administered in love and grace, in the manner of
 69 divine dynasphere

a parent toward a child (Heb. 12:6–10; Rev. 3:19). sins falsely mentioned while He gives special
When believers neglect the Word and drift off blessing to the one wrongly accused (Ps. 37:33).
course, away from God’s will and purpose, the This is what Jesus meant when He warned, “For
pain of punishment is designed to bring them in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by
back. Punishment from our heavenly Father is your standard of measure, it will be measured to
perfectly just: He “disciplines us for our good” with you” (Matt. 7:2). See also judging.
corrective measures that are neither too lenient Collective discipline. Believers are responsible
nor too severe, tailored to the individual believer for their decisions collectively as well as indi-
and administered for maximum effectiveness vidually. Across a geographic area or a generation,
(Heb. 12:5, 10). Even during the punishment, God God administers punitive suffering when the
faithfully supplies logistical grace blessings to impact of negative Christians is strong enough
protect and sustain His errant children. In this to affect the larger group. Collective discipline
way believers under divine discipline have every can occur through natural disasters, political
opportunity to rebound, receive forgiveness of crises, widespread famine, or some form of
sins, be restored to fellowship, and resume their historical catastrophe. Like individual discipline,
spiritual lives (Job 5:17; Heb. 12:12–13; 1 John 1:9). the intensity of mass suffering increases as
Three stages of discipline. With each stage of believers fail to respond to God’s warnings (Lev.
decline, the negative believer is subject to even 26:14, 18, 21; Ps. 37:38; Isa. 28:14, 17). Although
greater divine punishment (1 Cor. 11:30–32). Stage the innocent suffer with the guilty, God delivers
1, warning discipline, alerts the carnal Christian faithful believers through the adversity “because
to his need to recover fellowship with God. The they take refuge in Him” (Ps. 37:40). See cycles
Lord graciously knocks at the door, giving the of discipline; fourth-generation curse.
believer opportunities to recognize his failure See also suffering; Supreme Court of Heaven;
and rebound (Rev. 3:19–20). Lack of response volitional responsibility, law of.
For further reference, Christian Suffering; Rebound
warrants stage 2, intensive discipline (Ps. 38:1–14), Revisited; Reversionism.
a more potent warning that is administered to Lessons 366:3, 20; 457:113, 193–95; 412:196–97; 361:20.
shock the rebellious believer out of his persistent
carnality (Heb. 12:6). With each rejection of divine dynasphere [from Gk. dunamis, power
God’s appeal, the Christian causes himself more + sphaira, sphere, area] The system of power and
misery. Unless he chooses to acknowledge his sin virtue given by God to Church Age believers.
and reverse his bad decisions, he arrives at stage Used as an illustrative teaching aid, the concep-
3, dying discipline, the “sin unto death” (1 John tual “divine dynasphere” consolidates all of God’s
5:16, kjv), which is a premature, painful, and mandates and provisions for the Christian life
sometimes prolonged departure from time into into one comprehensive system. Synonyms:
eternity [see sin unto death]. interlocking system of love; love complex; royal
Triple compound discipline. For a believer guilty palace. Antonym: cosmic system.
of verbal sinning—gossip, slander, maligning, Strength in place of weakness. On our own, we
judging others—divine punishment is threefold: are helpless to understand God’s will, resist the
(1) discipline for the mental sin that motivated influence of evil, and glorify the Lord Jesus Christ.
the verbal sin; (2) discipline for the verbal sin Only God’s power can convert our human weak-
itself; and (3) discipline for the sins mentioned. ness into strength, and only inside the divine
In the third form, the believer who accuses dynasphere is God’s power available. This invisible
another person of sinning is judged by God as sphere of divine resources offers an inexhaust-
if he himself had committed those sins. More ible supply of spiritual strength—surpassing
specifically, if the accusations are real and the any human ability—that enables us to obey God,
accused is under divine discipline, God gives execute His plan, and receive divine blessings
an equal measure of that discipline to the one beyond imagination (Eph. 1:19; 6:10; 2 Tim. 1:7).
guilty of verbal sinning. If the person accused is Those not residing in the divine dynasphere are
innocent, God disciplines the slanderer for the residing in Satan’s cosmic system and living in a
 divine dynasphere 70

state of weakness. At any given time, we live in resource in itself, but all the gates must function
one system or the other. together as a complete, balanced system for the
System modeled and tested. The original divine believer to achieve victory in God’s plan.
dynasphere was given by the Father to Jesus Gate 1: The power gate is the filling ministry
Christ on the day of His birth. This magnifi- of the Holy Spirit, the enabling power for the
cent source of strength was designed to support Christian life. The believer enters the divine
the humanity of Christ throughout the First dynasphere at salvation through Gate 1, but he
Advent. Our Lord’s total reliance on the divine exits immediately when he sins. He reenters at
dynasphere allowed Him to resist every temp- Gate 1 by simply following the grace procedure
tation, remain sinless, and ultimately fulfill His of rebound, privately confessing personal sins
destiny as Savior of mankind. After fully testing to the Father (1 John 1:9). Back in the sphere of
and proving its effectiveness, He gave the same divine power, he is once again “filled with the
system to the Church (John 15:9–10). Now Spirit” (Eph. 5:18b) and ready for advance in
Church Age believers, by residing inside the the other gates (Gal. 5:16a). See also rebound;
divine dynasphere, can “walk in the same man- spirituality.
ner as He [Jesus Christ] walked” (1 John 2:6), Gate 2: Basic Christian modus operandi intro-
acquire the same virtue and integrity, and ful- duces the elementary tools for maintaining
fill their individual destiny in the plan of God objectivity and solving problems: mixing biblical
(1 Cor. 2:16; Gal. 5:16; Phil. 2:5). See also pro- promises with faith, avoiding mental attitude
totype spiritual life. sins, and understanding the attributes of God and
Royal palace for Christian living. The entire basic doctrines about Christ and His saving work
divine dynasphere can be likened to a palace, (Ps. 37:7a; Rom. 8:28; 12:3, 12a; Heb. 4:1–2). See
where members of God’s royal family (Church also faith-rest drill; spiritual childhood.
Age believers) reside for instruction, motivation, Gate 3: Enforced and genuine humility form the
protection, and momentum toward spiritual ma- key virtue that makes the believer teachable
turity. Life inside the palace is achieved by fol- and self-disciplined (1 Pet. 5:5b–6). Humility is
lowing New Testament mandates such as “be freedom from arrogance, allowing the believer
filled with the Spirit” (Eph. 5:18), “clothe your- to submit to divine authority and accept the
selves with humility” (1 Pet. 5:5), “continue [abide] absolute truths of the Word. The believer with
in My word” (John 8:31), “love one another” (John genuine humility is oriented to grace; he depends
15:12), “put on the full armor of God” (Eph. 6:11– on a strength greater than his own and has the
13). The many divine mandates, when classified discipline necessary to fulfill his objectives. See
into categories, act as gates of the palace that also grace orientation; humility.
open upon divine assets. Each gate is a spiritual Gate 4: Spiritual momentum is where the believ-
er’s perception and application
of Bible doctrine accelerate his
Basic Christian spiritual growth (Matt. 4:4; Heb.
Modus Operandi 4:12). His experience in the first
Power: The Filling Enforced and
of the Holy Spirit 2 Genuine Humility three gates—learning, thinking,
1 3 and solving problems with
tu al C h ildh o Spiritual doctrine—further increases his
Spi ri o d Momentum:
Spiritual desire to “grow in the grace and
Maturity 8 4 Perception and
S p ir it Application of
u al A d ult h o o d knowledge” of Christ (2 Pet. 3:18).
Bible Doctrine
The believer in Gate 4 understands
7 5
Momentum 6
Motivational Virtue and lives by the Word, which, in
and turn, strengthens his motivation
Testing Spiritual Self-Esteem
Functional Virtue
and Spiritual Autonomy to learn and advance even further.
See also doctrinal orientation;
Figure 12 GATES OF THE DIVINE DYNASPHERE spiritual momentum.
 71 divine good

Gate 5: The gate of motivational virtue and was given by God to govern Israel’s theocratic
spiritual self-esteem is where the believer moves kingdom, its principles of liberty, morality,
from spiritual childhood to spiritual adulthood. civility, and authority within a national entity
Personal love for God becomes the believer’s apply to all mankind in every age. These basic
motivation in life (Mark 12:30; 1 Pet. 1:8), and truths, reiterated in the New Testament (e.g.,
from that love comes confidence in his own Matt. 19:5; Rom. 13:1–7; Eph. 6:1), are God’s
ability to use the assets God has given him. design for restraining man’s sin nature while
This builds spiritual self-esteem—a confidence allowing maximum function of volition, which
marked by inner strength, composure, and doc- includes bearing responsibility for personal
trinal wisdom. See personal love for God; decisions. Without the divinely established order
personal sense of destiny; virtue love. for life on earth, the human race would destroy
Gate 6: The gate of functional virtue and spiritual itself, along with all opportunity for man to be
autonomy is the counterpart to Gate 5. The moti- reconciled to God. Therefore, adherence to these
vation of personal love for God becomes the principles is the inherent obligation of every
function of impersonal (unconditional) love person, regardless of faith, personal status, or
toward mankind, in which the believer exhibits circumstances.
virtuous morality, courage, and integrity toward The foundation of God’s plan for humanity is
others (Matt. 5:44b; Mark 12:31b; 1 John 4:18a, freedom, which He encourages and protects by
21). Living solely on God’s agenda, the believer way of four divine institutions: the individual,
attains spiritual autonomy—the strength to live marriage, family, and the national entity, each
by his own independent thinking from divine regulated by a corresponding authority. When
viewpoint. See also impersonal love; virtue. each institution functions as outlined in Scrip-
Gate 7: Momentum testing provides the oppor- ture, maintaining a balance of freedom and
tunity to accelerate spiritual growth by relying on authority, the individual and society at large are
divine solutions during the intensified challenges stabilized and strengthened. Self-determination,
of life (Phil. 3:14–15a). See also suffering (for privacy, property, and life are protected, so that
blessing). all human beings have the greatest opportunity
Gate 8: Spiritual maturity is the winner’s gate, to cultivate virtue and achieve happiness and
where God is glorified and the believer is abun- prosperity. While establishment principles can-
dantly blessed. Here, inner happiness is main- not provide salvation or the spiritual life, adher-
tained through all circumstances, whether good ence to these guidelines creates an environment
or bad, prosperous or adverse. See also sharing for evangelism and Bible teaching within society.
the happiness of God; winner believer. See also authority; divine institutions; moral-
See also cosmic system; dynasphere; great power ity; Mosaic Law.
experiment; love complex. For further reference, The Divine Outline of History;
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Christian Freedom through Military Victory.
Suffering. Lessons 373:6; 458:382–86.
Lessons 431:62–69; 457:318–43; 412:38.
divine good (a) In the broadest sense, indicates
divine establishment Principles ordained by everything that originates from God and serves
God for the survival, stability, prosperity, pro- to fulfill His sovereign purpose; (b) with specific
tection, and perpetuation of the human race, reference to man, describes the thinking, deeds,
believers and unbelievers alike. service, and impact of the believer utilizing
Divine establishment principles were intro- divine resources to execute the plan of God.
duced in the Garden (Gen. 2:16–18, 22–25), Though all good works may appear commend-
extended to the formation of early nations (Gen. able, God differentiates those performed by hu-
10:5, 32), and fully delineated in the Mosaic Law, man power from those performed by use of His
specifically the Ten Commandments of Codex I power. The believer’s good works—visible and
and the social and political rules of Codex III invisible—are classified as divine good when
(Ex. 20:1–17; 21:1—24:11). Even though the Law achieved through total dependence upon God
divine good 72

and His grace provisions (2 Cor. 9:8). The filling Biblical illustration. Fruit bearing is used meta-
of the Holy Spirit is the necessary source of pow- phorically throughout Scripture to represent
er behind all divine good production, and Bible the production of divine good. Colossians 1:10
doctrine in the believer’s soul is what the Spirit encourages believers to “walk in a manner worthy
uses to properly motivate and guide that pro- of the Lord, . . . bearing fruit in every good work.”
duction (Gal. 5:16, 25; Eph. 4:11–13; 2 Tim. 3:16–17). In John 15:1–8, Church Age believers are depicted
as branches connected to—in union with—the
“true vine,” Jesus Christ. Just as branches must
FRUIT BEARING CLARIFIED
be nourished by the vine in order to bear fruit,
Fruit bearing, or serving the Lord with divine good, is so also believers must utilize the power of the
a function of the believer’s spiritual life. Fruit bearing Spirit and Bible doctrine in order to cultivate
must never be used to determine whether one is a ‘true divine good. In another analogy, Christ states
Christian,’ because eternal salvation is accomplished at that “every good tree bears good fruit, but the
the moment of faith alone in Christ alone. bad tree [carnal believer] bears bad fruit” (Matt.
7:17). That is, the believer operating on the sin
nature and human energy is like a rotten tree—he
The more the believer matures in the spiritual may perform a lot of good deeds and be praised
life, the more he can glorify God by producing by others, but his production amounts to bad
this good of intrinsic value—good of absolute, fruit, dead works, nothing of value to the plan of
incorruptible, eternal value—as opposed to God (Matt. 7:19; John 15:6).
the relative, temporal, easily corruptible value See also Christian service; good of intrinsic
of human good. Only divine good receives value; human good.
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Rebound &
recognition and reward from God in heaven.
Keep Moving!
When all Church Age believers are evaluated at Lessons 361:28–40, 45–59.
the judgment seat of Christ, the quality of their
deeds will be tested by fire: human good will be divine guidance The means of determining
consumed in the flames as “wood, hay, straw,” God’s will for the believer’s life. God guides His
while divine good will survive as “gold, silver, children by communicating His thinking and
precious stones” and qualify for eternal rewards plan in divine revelation. See will of God.
(1 Cor. 3:12–14; 2 Cor. 5:10).
The grace basis for divine good. History’s greatest divine institutions Four organizational princi-
act of divine good occurred at the cross, when the ples within the laws of divine establishment, each
sinless humanity of Christ bore the judgment for regulated by a corresponding authority (Titus
all the sins of mankind and rejected every form 3:1–2; 1 Pet. 2:13–17). These institutions apply
of human good. Christ never wavered from the to believers and unbelievers—regardless of race,
Father’s plan, never broke from His total reliance gender, or any other factor—and are ordained by
upon the Holy Spirit and the inner resources God to restrain the sin nature and protect human
of Bible doctrine. For all Church Age believers, freedom. The four divine institutions are as
Jesus Christ is the foundation on which to build follows:
divine good (1 Cor. 3:11–14; cf. Eph. 2:8–10). In (1) The individual, under the authority of his
union with Christ, believers have access to the volition. This personal divine institution began
tremendous grace assets that make it possible to with the creation of Adam (Gen. 1:26). To distin-
serve God in a way that meets divine standards, guish man as a rational creature, God bestowed
with no human merit attached. By utilizing the volition, or decision-making ability, to the human
spiritual skills—namely, the filling of the Spirit soul. Every member of the human race exercises
and consistent perception and application of freedom of choice and also bears responsibility
God’s Word—every Christian has the privilege of for those decisions (Gen. 2:16–17; Col. 3:25). The
glorifying God with divine good in his thoughts, choices made by an individual not only manifest
motives, and actions (Col. 1:10; Titus 2:7). his character but also determine the course
 73 divine revelation

of his life and condition of his nation. See also See also authority orientation; divine estab-
volition. lishment.
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History;
(2) Marriage, under the authority of the husband. Freedom through Military Victory.
In the Garden, prior to the Fall, God instituted Lessons 467:23; 458:382–83; 457:313; 376:784.
marriage—the joining of one man and one
woman—as the stabilizing structure of civilization divine invitation The calling by God for the
(Gen. 2:18, 21–25). God assigned authority to the unsaved person to believe in Jesus Christ for
husband, who is mandated to love his wife and eternal life. Synonym: divine call.
to guard and maintain her freedom; the woman The divine invitation is the link between com-
is mandated to respect her husband’s leadership mon and efficacious grace: once the Holy Spirit
(Gen. 3:16b; Eph. 5:22–33). When the divine makes the Gospel clear and understandable, God
design of marriage is rejected by a sufficient calls the hearer to believe in Jesus Christ. (Note,
portion of society, national degeneracy results. this call is made through accurate commu-
See also marriage. nication of the Gospel, not spoken directly by
(3) Family, under the authority of parents. From God.) If the person responds to the invitation
marriage logically comes the framework for and expresses personal faith in the Savior, the
perpetuating and safeguarding future genera- Holy Spirit then makes that faith effective for
tions. In the home, mother and father create salvation. The divine call that precedes faith is
the environment for a helpless infant to grow mentioned throughout Scripture: Romans 1:1;
and be nurtured until capable of self-sufficiency. 8:28; 9:11; 1 Corinthians 1:1–2, 9, 24, 26; Ephe-
Whether a child is reared by both parents, only sians 4:1, 4; Colossians 3:15; 1 Thessalonians 2:12;
one, or another adult as a surrogate, the parental 2 Thessalonians 2:14; 1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy
figures hold the authority and responsibility to 1:9; Hebrews 3:1; 1 Peter 1:15; 5:10; 2 Peter 1:3.
establish household policy. They are charged See also God the Holy Spirit; salvation.
with teaching their children right from wrong,
instilling norms and standards within their divine revelation [Gk. apokalupsis, an unveiling,
developing souls, and training them to respect uncovering, revealing] (a) The unveiling and
the privacy, possessions, and authority of others. disclosure by God of His person, His works,
Stability in society rests with the family unit, and His ways; (b) all that God makes known to
in which parents have numerous responsibilities man, including that which cannot otherwise be
but children have one: “Honor your father and explained or understood.
your mother” (Ex. 20:12; Deut. 5:16; Eph. 6:2a; By man’s observation, the structure of the phys-
Col. 3:20). Without obedience to this critical ical universe indicates a master designer, creator,
command, peer pressure and self-gratification and sustainer (Ps. 19:1–6; Rom. 1:19–20). God
become the guidance for a budding generation, indeed reveals His existence through the natural
and the condition of the nation deteriorates from world. His plan, will, and purpose for humanity,
within. however, are made known not by His visible
(4) The national entity, under the authority of handiwork but by supernatural communication
government. God ordains independent nations for of His truths to the soul of man.
the orderly function and blessing of humanity Precanon revelation. Prior to completion of
(Gen. 10:5). Also sanctioned is the rule of gov- the written Canon, God revealed Himself and
ernment for each entity, an authority designed to His instructions to man as follows: (1) dialogue
protect the freedom, privacy, property, and lives with the voice of God, such as that experienced
of residents (Rom. 13:1–7). Within the national by Abraham, Noah, Moses, Isaiah, and Jeremiah
borders, the standard of law and order allows (Gen. 6:13–7:5; 12:1–3; Lev. 26:46; Isa. 6:8–13; Jer.
both individual liberty and spiritual evangelism 1:4, 11); (2) visible manifestations of deity, such as
to flourish. Among separate and autonomous the preincarnate theophanies to Old Testament
nations, the balance of power provides for global prophets (Ex. 3:2; 34:28; Judg. 6:12; 2 Kings 1:3)
stability. See nationalism. and the earthly ministry of the incarnate Jesus
divine revelation 74

Christ (Matthew—John); (3) prophetic dreams, such vides protection against the human viewpoint of
as those of Abraham, Joseph the son of Jacob, the cosmic system. The believer who thinks with
Daniel, and Joseph the husband of Mary (Gen. God’s thinking (1 Cor. 2:16b) accurately interprets
15:12–13; 37:5–9; Num. 12:6; Dan. 10:9; Matt. human history and life’s circumstances, objectively
1:20–21); (4) visions revealed to men like Isaiah, evaluates self, recognizes and accepts God’s per-
Ezekiel, and the Apostle John (Isa. 1:1; 6:1; Ezek. sonal plan for his life, and thereby glorifies God.
1; 10; Rev. 1—22); (5) angelic communication (Deut. See also human viewpoint; postsalvation epis-
33:2; Ps. 68:17, kjv; Luke 1:26–38; Acts 7:53; temological rehabilitation; spiritual metab-
Gal. 3:19); (6) written Scripture as it then existed olism; wisdom.
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Mental Atti-
(Dan. 9:2); (7) the Word spoken through prophets tude Dynamics.
like Isaiah and Jeremiah (Isa. 28; 61:1–2; Jer.
28:13–14; 31:33); and (8) temporary spiritual gifts divinity
of communication, like prophecy, tongues, and See deity.
knowledge, bestowed upon certain men to spread
the message of Christ while the New Testament
divorce
was being formed (Acts 2:6–11; 1 Cor. 12; 13:8–10).
See marriage (divorce and remarriage).
Postcanon revelation for the Church. With
completion of the Book of Revelation, all extra-
doctrinal orientation The focused direction of
scriptural revelation ceased. The postcanon
the believer who consistently learns and instills
period of the Church Age is the time in which
the Word of God in his soul and operates on
the Bible, its sixty-six books forming the ratified
divine standards.
Canon, is the sole source of divine revelation
The believer oriented to doctrine is the faith-
and complete provision of spiritual nourishment
ful person who seeks the Lord (Lam. 3:25). He
for believers. The Bible is interpreted by men
recognizes divine truth as a fundamental neces-
with the gift of pastor-teacher, who study from
sity of life and the key to transforming himself
the original languages and then faithfully and
from someone who thinks like the world to
accurately teach the spiritual truths to their
someone who thinks like Christ (Prov. 23:7a; Rom.
congregations.
12:2; 1 Cor. 2:16). He therefore makes the intake
Eschatological revelation. During the Tribulation,
of doctrine top priority around which all other
when cosmic evangelism is at its peak, the Gospel
aspects of daily life are organized. With consistent
will be revealed by 144,000 Jewish evangelists,
perception of God’s Word, the believer develops
the resuscitated prophets Moses and Elijah, and
a frame of reference on which to understand
visible elect angels (Rev. 7; 11:3; 14:6–7). During
more and more doctrine (Isa. 28:10). As he looks
the Millennium, the glory of God will be revealed
into his own soul from the perspective of divine
universally through the reign of the incarnate
viewpoint, he makes objective self-evaluation
Jesus Christ (Isa. 11:9; Jer. 31:33–34).
and increasingly adjusts to God’s will, plan, and
See also logos; verbal plenary inspiration; purpose for his life. Particularly as it works in
Word of God.
tandem with orientation to grace, doctrinal ori-
entation is the glue that holds together all other
divine viewpoint (a) The attitude and stan- functions of the spiritual life.
dards of God revealed in the entire realm of Bible
See also hearer vs. doer of the Word; orien-
doctrine; (b) the system of thinking, values, and tation envelope; postsalvation epistemolo-
problem solving based on the revelation and gical rehabilitation.
“manifold wisdom of God” (Eph. 3:10), as opposed Lessons 376:277–325.
to the system of human or satanic viewpoint
based on the “wisdom of this world [kosmos]” doctrine
(1 Cor. 3:19). See Bible doctrine; Word of God.
Divine viewpoint within the believer results
from metabolized doctrine in the soul and pro- doctrines of demons Terminology used in
 75 doubtful things

1 Timothy 4:1 to describe the false policies, subtle the unbeliever considering the Gospel.
distortions, half-truths, and outright lies conjured Careful study of the Word reveals the differ-
by Satan, “the father of lies,” and disseminated by ence between human opinion and divine stan-
his minions to corrupt and control man’s thinking dards and guides the believer in the tempered use
(John 8:44). Synonym: satanic viewpoint. of freedom (Rom. 14; 1 Cor. 8; 10). The following
In retaliation against God, Satan inundates are four spiritual laws that apply to the dilemmas
the world with a counterfeit of divine truth—the of doubtful things. These laws are designed for
doctrines of demons. These doctrines are the the believer who is filled with the Holy Spirit and
embodiment of Satan’s policy and purpose as is making decisions based on the full knowledge
he fights to maintain control over the world he of doctrine.
currently rules. When man’s negative volition Law of liberty. Directed toward self, this
presents an opportunity, Satan, with the help of spiritual law gives every believer the freedom
his demon army, seizes the initiative, preys on to serve the Lord. Aside from the practice of
the sin nature trends, and targets man’s thinking immorality or sin, “all things are lawful” for
with his evil ideas. Satanic doctrines, which per- the believer in Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 10:23a, 26).
meate every area of life, include the deceptive However, if the innocent actions (e.g., moderate
ideologies of anti-Semitism, antiestablishment, drinking) of a strong believer tempt a weaker
socialism, and internationalism, and the many believer to sin or confuse the unbeliever’s view
facets of religion such as salvation and divine of Christianity, then other laws must supersede
approval by works, removal of the sin nature by the law of liberty (1 Cor. 10:23).
works and rituals, and the perversion of deity to Law of love. Directed toward other believers,
include idolized human beings and an array of this spiritual law places the weaker brethren
false gods and false powers. above the exercise of personal liberty. Since a
See also cosmic system; demon influence; evil. fundamental mandate for the family of God is
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Satan and
“love your neighbor as yourself” (Matt.
Demonism.
Lessons 467:51; 412:1270. 22:37–39), the strong believer is responsible for
tolerating the shortcomings of the weak and
double-column advance avoiding legitimate activities that may cause the
See simultaneous advance to the high brethren to stumble (Rom. 15:1; 1 Cor. 8:9). The
ground. weak believer has not yet learned enough to
differentiate between doctrinal truths and man-
doubtful things Descriptive name for Christian made prohibitions, between sinful and doubtful
behavior not directly addressed in Scripture and activities. He also lacks sufficient inner strength
thus resolved only by application of doctrinal to resist temptation and avoid the misuse of
“laws” and priorities. liberty. When he observes the strong believer
While the Bible presents a clear-cut roster of enjoying a bona fide liberty—in the case of the
sins (e.g., Prov. 6:16–19; Gal. 5:19–21a; Col. 3:5–9), Corinthians, eating meat offered to idols—he may
there exists a realm of activities not defined as react in antagonism or be encouraged to indulge
either sinful or permissible. The questionable in actual sinfulness (1 Cor. 8:11). Therefore, the
activities, termed “doubtful things,” are most strong believer refrains from such doubtful
often related to personal pleasures, style, and activities, not because they are wrong as such
amusements. Since the Bible does not specify but because of the repercussions.
the merits or demerits of these controversial Law of expediency. Directed toward the unbe-
practices, “doubtful things” can be a source of liever, this spiritual law places the unhindered
friction among believers at varying stages of testimony of the Gospel above the exercise of
growth. Biblically speaking, a believer has the liberty. Because the unbeliever typically has his
right to do that which is not prohibited by God, own standard (whether right or wrong) for
yet problems may arise when those actions pre- Christianity, the believer refrains from legit-
sent a stumbling block to another believer or to imate activities that might distract from the
doubtful things 76

true issue of salvation. The mandate, “give no dresses the proper and improper uses of alcohol.
offense either to Jews or to Greeks [unbelievers],” Drunkenness condemned by Scripture. Drunk-
does not imply that one should compromise enness—meaning alcohol consumed to the point
doctrinal principles but, rather, that one must of intoxication—is unequivocally condemned in
live in a manner that may lead others to Christ passages like Proverbs 23:20, Isaiah 5:11, Romans
(1 Cor. 10:32). Giving the Gospel to unbelievers is 13:13, 1 Corinthians 5:11, and Ephesians 5:18.
the objective. If this means setting aside certain Scripture also instructs authority figures to be
liberties, it is well worth the inconvenience to see temperate in the use of alcoholic beverages
people saved for eternity (1 Cor. 10:25–33). (1 Tim. 3:2–3, 8; Titus 1:7) and records the conse-
Law of supreme sacrifice. Directed toward God, quences of drunkenness in men like Noah (Gen.
this spiritual law involves the abandonment of 9:21), Lot (Gen. 19:32–36), and Nabal (1 Sam.
normal functions and liberties for the purpose 25:36–37). In the case of Israel’s Northern and
of maximum service to the Lord (1 Cor. 9:19). Southern Kingdoms, the rampant use of alcohol
Missionaries often function under supreme sac- was a factor in their national demise (Isa. 28:1–9;
rifice by living in primitive conditions of the Jer. 13:12–13; Hosea 7:13–14; Joel 1:5–6).
mission field. However, this law also operates in Whether a person drinks an inordinate amount
highly civilized environments. A faithful pastor, over a long period or at one time, excessive drink-
for instance, forgoes many aspects of family and ing is not only a sin in itself but an activity that
social life in order to study and teach his con- carries grave consequences. First, alcohol is a
gregation. An evangelist may do likewise, as he depressant; when used liberally it dulls the
travels the country to deliver the Gospel. Even for senses and lowers resistance to temptation. More
the ordinary believer, sacrifice is demanded in specifically, alcoholic indulgence interferes
one way or another, namely to maintain the daily with clear thinking and distorts judgment, sup-
intake of Bible doctrine as top priority in life. presses moral standards, and induces irrespon-
In summary, the primary purpose of the be- sible behavior that can harm the drinker as well
liever on earth is to glorify God (1 Cor. 10:31), as those in his periphery: the drunken leader
and certain circumstances demand that certain loses integrity, the drunken man or woman
liberties be set aside: when love supersedes becomes promiscuous, the drunken spouse
personal pleasure, when the value of one soul or parent abuses, the drunken driver injures
becomes more precious than human comforts or kills (Prov. 20:1; 23:29–35; 31:4–5). A person
and desires, and when serving the Lord is more given to excessive drinking eventually destroys
important than all other functions of life. his personal relationships, career opportunities,
See also asceticism; drinking; tabooism. physical and economic well-being, and possibly
Lessons 408:19, 29–37. his own life or individual freedom. Furthermore,
the believer who seeks happiness or escape in
dragon [Gk. drakon] A title used in the Book of drinking rejects the superior blessings of the
Revelation for Satan (Rev. 12:9; 16:13; 20:2). spiritual life and reaps punitive action from God
Drakon is derived from the classical Greek verb (Gal. 6:7; Col. 3:25).
derkomai, which means “to see clearly, to have Moderate drinking not condemned by Scripture.
perspicacity.” Since the devil possesses superior Believers of legal drinking age have the spiritual
intelligence and foresight with which to deceive right to drink moderate amounts of alcohol. In
the world, the name “dragon” or “great dragon” is fact, there are legitimate benefits to be derived
an apt description of the ancient enemy of God. from temperate alcohol consumption, as indi-
See Satan. cated in Psalm 104:15, Proverbs 31:6–7, and
1 Timothy 5:23. The key to temperance is using
drinking, doctrine of The biblical viewpoint one’s volition to remain within reasonable and
regarding consumption of alcoholic beverages. proper limits, so as to avoid loss of self-control.
Scripture gives neither a license to drink nor a An example is Jesus Himself, who appropriately
universal command to abstain, but instead ad- enjoyed the customary beverage of the ancient
 77 dynasphere

Near East. Naturally, the Pharisees attempted to and no matter how painful or dangerous the
discredit His character by labeling Him “a man circumstances, the death-shadowed valley for
gluttonous, and a winebibber,” but the Lord’s the mature believer is one of inner peace and
perfect humanity never indulged sinfully (Matt. confidence (Job 5:22–24). He looks back on his
11:19, kjv; Luke 5:29–30). life with no regrets and joyfully anticipates
For all believers, common sense must be meeting his Savior face to face (2 Cor. 5:8; Phil.
employed when deciding where, when, and 1:20–21; 2 Tim. 4:7–8). After he crosses the high
how often to drink. For instance, one should golden bridge into heaven, the impact of his life
not drink while frustrated or unhappy, while and his death sends an invisible salute from the
on the job, while operating machinery, or when grave, helping those still living to put death in its
isolated with strangers. One must also consider proper perspective and recognize the victory of
the effect that legitimate drinking has on others. our Lord (1 Cor. 15:55, 57).
Paul warns in 1 Corinthians 8:9, “Take care that See also salute from the grave; sin unto death;
this liberty of yours does not somehow become winner believer.
For further reference, Dying Grace; Psalm Twenty-Three.
a stumbling block to the weak.” A strong believer Lessons 101:22; 412:1087; 376:240–41.
rightly enjoying an alcoholic beverage might
be a stumbling block to a person accustomed dynasphere A term coined from the combina-
to strict abstinence or, on the opposite end, to tion of the Koine Greek dunamis (power) and
an alcoholic looking to justify his sinful indul- Attic Greek sphaira (sphere, area) to designate a
gences. Mature believers should refrain from “power sphere,” a coordinated system of influence
drinking when there is a risk of leading astray an in which man lives under a power greater than
immature believer or distracting an unbeliever his own. A dynasphere has a purpose, policy,
from the true issue of salvation (Rom. 14:13, 21). and structure of authority and is composed of
Of course, the believer who lacks the volitional interlocking elements that unify and direct the
strength to drink in moderation should avoid the efforts of those who reside in it.
use of alcohol entirely. Since humanity is inherently weak, regardless
See also doubtful things; tabooism. of what Satan would have the world believe, man
For further reference, Daniel Chapters One through Six. must inevitably choose something greater than
Lessons 412:1178–82.
himself by which to live. There are two systems
of power operational on earth during the Church
dying grace The final and highest form of bless- Age—one invented by God, for the purpose of
ing for mature believers in time, a divine provision blessing man, and one invented by Satan, for the
that allows them to experience extraordinary purpose of deluding and enslaving man. God’s
blessing and happiness while dying (Ps. 116:15). system is termed the “divine dynasphere.” Satan’s
The sovereignty of God decides the time, man- system is referred to as the “cosmic system,”
ner, and place of physical death. With the excep- which is composed of two distinct yet closely
tion of the Rapture generation, every believer is related dynaspheres. The divine and cosmic
provided his very own death-shadowed valley— power systems have nothing in common and are
the dying phase, the final experience on earth opposed to each other (Matt. 6:24a). God’s system
before departing to be with the Lord. Upon combines divine principles that manufacture
entering that “valley of the shadow of death” (Ps. truth and virtue, while Satan’s system combines
23:4), the spiritually mature believer transitions his two attitudes toward God, arrogance and
from living grace to dying grace and walks the hatred, to produce confusion, misery, and evil.
final journey in harmonious rapport with God. Man cannot change these spheres of influence.
The Bible doctrine in his soul, which comforted He can only recognize their existence and
and encouraged in the living phase, becomes make decisions that determine which one he
his source of comfort and encouragement in the resides in.
dying phase. Anyone, believer or unbeliever, can reside
Whether the journey lasts a year or an instant, within Satan’s system. While unbelievers have
dynasphere 78

access to a few elements of God’s system (i.e.,

principles related to divine establishment), only
believers can reside within God’s complete
system empowered by the Holy Spirit.
See cosmic system; divine dynasphere.
 Ee
ecclesiology [from Gk. ekklesia, assembly] Study in the soul. God has set aside the spectacular
of theological doctrines related to the Church, so that His wisdom and power are displayed
which is the universal body of believers during in doctrine (1 Cor. 1:23–25; Eph. 3:10). Ecstatic
the age spanning the day of Pentecost (A.D. 30) experiences involving visions, prophesying, mys-
through the Rapture. See church. terious utterances, or uncontrollable excitement
are neither the work of the Holy Spirit nor valid
ecstatics [Gk. ekstasis, bewilderment, amazement, forms of worship in the Church Age.
condition of mental trance] (a) An abnormal In the Millennium, when the Living Word,
state of consciousness in which revelatory Jesus Christ, is present on earth with the written
communication (prophecy, dreams, visions) is Word, the Holy Spirit’s ministry will again include
received directly from God to the mentality of ecstatics as a genuine spiritual experience (Isa.
the soul and then revealed to a human audience; 29:19; Joel 2:28–29).
(b) overwhelming feelings of rapturous delight, See also emotion; spiritual gifts (temporary).
sometimes accompanied by an outpouring of For further reference, The Divine Outline of History;
emotional frenzy and mysterious utterances. Tongues.
Legitimate ecstatics, the state in which Lessons 408:55; 402:7; 412:1202.
revelation is communicated directly by God,
occurred in certain persons prior to completion ecumenical religion An organized, global
of the canon of Scripture in A.D. 96. Apostles in system of worship used by Satan to oppress
the early Church sometimes fell into a trance in human freedom, stifle divine truth, and spread
which they received prophetic visions or divine his policy across the earth. Ecumenical religion
instructions; some were instantly induced by is a form of religious internationalism that com-
the Holy Spirit to communicate the Gospel in bines its power with the political power of the
languages unknown to them (Acts 10:10–17; 11:5, state, enhancing the control of dictatorial rulers.
27–28; 19:6; 22:17). Receiving direct revelation Present-day trends. A push toward unity, or
from God undoubtedly caused temporary emo- ecumenism, among religious entities is a satanic
tional excitement, but the experience itself was movement “already at work” in the world today
driven by divine power, not human emotion, (2 Thess. 2:7). Organizations such as the World
for a specific purpose in God’s plan. Once God’s Council of Churches promote cooperation and
communication to the Church was set in writing, ‘solidarity’ among a wide range of faiths, while
new revelation ceased and the spectacular, tem- discarding the fundamental truths of the Gospel
porary spiritual gifts were withdrawn. and Bible doctrine. And yet, heretical as they are,
Today, charismatic Christians promote these efforts of satanic internationalism are but a
illegitimate ecstatics—an aggressive, effusive flicker of the flame to come. With the end of the
pseudojoy—as a mark of so-called spirituality. Church Age, the Holy Spirit’s restraining ministry
Often involved is the experience of ‘speaking in will be removed and the full evil of ecumenism
tongues,’ which is nothing more than a satanic quickly revealed (2 Thess. 2:3–10).
counterfeit of the spiritual gift. In the present The tribulational ruler. The Tribulation will
age, the believer’s true relationship with God is begin with the maneuvering of political powers.
based on thought—the content of Bible doctrine Once the western dictator (the “beast”) secures
ecumenical religion 80

his rulership within the Revived Roman Empire, with the final bowl judgment (Rev. 14:8–11; 15:7;
he will expand his influence through a system 16:19; 17—18).
of ecumenical religion (Rev. 13:1–8). Naturally, See also beast; nationalism; Revived Roman
this man “who opposes and exalts himself above Empire; Tribulation.
every so-called god” will assume leadership of
the one-world faith (2 Thess. 2:3–4). Personally edification complex of the soul (ECS)
empowered by the devil, he will perform “signs Terminology for the immaterial edifice con-
and false wonders” to give himself credibility structed in the believer’s soul, representing the
as the one to be worshiped (2 Thess. 2:9–10; Rev. formation of maturity and spiritual strength.
13:4). Halfway through the Tribulation, the beast
dictator will coordinate with the religious leader
of Judaism to impose ecumenical religion upon
the Jewish population, bringing Israel under his
Sharing the Happiness
power (Dan. 9:27; Rev. 13:14–17).
of God (+H)
The fusion of religious and political forces is
Impersonal Love
described in Daniel 2:43 as nations that “combine for All Mankind
with one another in the seed of men [religious
Personal Love for
beliefs and activities].” In the Book of Revelation, God the Father
ecumenical religion is “the great harlot who sits
on many waters,” dominating all the “peoples and Humility—Teachability
multitudes and nations and tongues” (Rev. 17:1,
15). Her control of political Rome is depicted as Doctrinal Orientation
a “woman sitting on a scarlet beast [the Roman
dictator], full of blasphemous names” (Rev. 17:3). Filling of the Holy Spirit
Worship, delusion, and horror. Ecumenical reli-
gion in the Tribulation will appear to achieve
Satan’s long-coveted kingdom on earth—a world Figure 13 EDIFICATION COMPLEX OF THE SOUL
of relentless Jewish holocaust, sanctioned perse-
cution of believers, and worship of Satan himself. The word “edification” is a translation of the
Kings and peoples across the earth will bow to Greek oikodome, which combines oikia, “house,”
the beast and drink from religion’s “cup full of and demo, “to build” (1 Cor. 10:23b; 14:3–4, 12,
abominations,” including demon-empowered 26; 2 Cor. 10:8; Eph. 4:12, 16, 29). Appropriately,
false miracles, lying wonders, and the devil’s Christian edification—the process of learning
communion table (Rev. 17:4–5). Rhetoric of a and growing in grace—is equivalent to building
universal state and ‘god’ will replace the Gospel, a structure in the soul. This structure is called
a statue of the Roman dictator will replace the a “complex” because it consists of several levels,
ark of the covenant, while the mark of the beast, each representing a mental attitude. With Bible
embedded on the arm or forehead, supplants the doctrine as the building material and the filling of
image of the cross. Any resistance to religion’s the Holy Spirit as its foundation, the edification
mandatory worship will invite persecution and complex is composed of five floors:
martyrdom (Matt. 24:15–22; Rev. 13:15b; 20:4). (1) Doctrinal orientation—operating on the
The fall of ecumenical religion. God’s “judgments standards of God’s Word by consistently and
are true and righteous,” and He reserves His faithfully listening to the teaching of doctrine.
bowls of wrath for the great harlot (Rev. 19:2). (2) Humility and teachability—recognizing a
Every nation and people “drunk with the wine plan and purpose greater than oneself, respond-
of her immorality” will reap torturous pain and ing to grace and divine truth, submitting to
disease, famine, natural disaster (Rev. 17:1–4). legitimate authority.
Utter destruction of the ecumenical system and (3) Personal love for God the Father—respect
base of operations—tribulational Rome—will come and reverence in response to the perfect essence,
 81 election

integrity, and provision of God. elect angels

(4) Impersonal love for all mankind—the virtuous, See angels.
unconditional regard for the entire human race,
based on one’s own integrity of soul. election (a) The recognition by God, before the
(5) Sharing the happiness of God—inner content- foundation of the world, of those who would
ment and joy in all circumstances of life. believe in Christ; (b) the sovereign act of God
Jesus Christ, the glory of God and the light of the in eternity past to choose, to set apart, certain
world, built this immaterial structure in His soul members of the human race for privilege, based
while on earth (John 1:14; 8:12; Luke 2:52). The on His knowledge of every person’s freewill
believer’s soul is designed by God to be likewise decisions in time.
edified, so as to reflect that same glory and light While God is sovereign, having the right to
(Matt. 5:14, 16; 1 Cor. 6:20; 2 Cor. 13:10; Eph. 1:6, do with His creatures as He pleases, never has
12, 14; Col. 1:27; 2 Thess. 2:14). A growing believer He hindered or tampered with human free will.
may have just two floors complete, with only the He did not choose some to be saved and others
scaffolding up on the other floors, but already to be condemned. Instead, in eternity past, God
he has glimmers of light coming forth. As the first chose to accomplish the work of man’s
structure fills in, he has the full reflected glory salvation through the Son. Then, He looked down
of God in his life (Eph 3:19). This mature status the corridors of time and elected for salvation
is described variously in Scripture as “Christ . . . everyone He knew would believe in Jesus Christ
formed in you” (Gal. 4:19), “perfect and complete” (Eph. 1:4). God elected believers in the sense that
(James 1:4), and putting on “the new man” (Eph. He knew ahead of time that their free will would
4:24; Col. 3:10, kjv). choose for Christ. Election is the expression of
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Mental the sovereign will of God, His desire to give the
Attitude Dynamics. highest and best for those who would believe
(Rom. 8:28–30). Moreover, God did not elect
efficacious grace The part of the Holy Spirit’s anyone to hell: unbelievers are condemned to
salvation ministry that makes the unbeliever’s eternally reside in hell only because they have
faith in Christ effective. Without the work of the used their volition toward unbelief (John 3:18).
Holy Spirit, the positive volition of the spiritually Although every believer throughout history
dead person could never result in an eternal is elect in regard to salvation, election carries
relationship with God. See God the Holy Spirit additional significance for particular groups.
(ministries at Gospel hearing). The following are three major elections in the
plan of God:
eirene Greek noun translated “peace” in the New of Jesus Christ. The Second Person of the
Testament. See peace. Trinity was chosen in eternity past as the Savior
(Isa. 42:1; 1 Pet. 2:6). His election to become
ekklesia Greek noun meaning “assembly” or undiminished deity and true humanity in one
“those called out.” Along with the Greek word person, the only one qualified to be the Savior
synagoge, the Septuagint (LXX) uses ekklesia to of man, was fulfilled through the virgin preg-
translate the Old Testament Hebrew qahal, which nancy. The election of Christ is the basis for the
designates the assembly of God’s people, Israel other elections. See also hypostatic union.
(Deut. 10:4; 23:2–3; 31:30; Ps. 22:22). In the Greek of Israel. The election of Israel applies only
of the New Testament, ekklesia is used variously to those who have personally believed in the
to designate political and business assemblies Savior. Christ, the Messiah, was clearly revealed
(Acts 19:32, 39, 41), the Jewish assembly in the to the Old Testament Jews; therefore, those who
synagogue (Matt. 18:17), the Exodus generation believed in Him had an election, a plan, and
called out of Egypt (Acts 7:38; Heb. 2:12), or, most provision (Deut. 4:37; 7:6). God’s gracious and
notably, the Church universal and its local unconditional covenants to Israel can be fulfilled
congregations. See church. only to the elect—to those physical Jews who are
election 82

also spiritual Jews through faith in the Messiah to God the Holy Spirit (cf. 1 Sam. 10:10; Job 33:4).
(Isa. 45:3–4; 65:9; Matt. 24:31). Unless the racial In the contexts of paganism and Gentile
Jew follows the pattern of Abraham in salvation, unbelievers, elohim refers to false gods. The true
he is not elected (Gen. 15:6; Rom. 4:3). See also God commanded Moses that Israel “shall have no
Jewish race; seed of Abraham. other gods [elohim] before Me,” a warning against
of the Church. God elected Church Age be- idolatry (Ex. 20:3; Deut. 5:7). The Philistine
lievers for the purpose of glorifying Him to the Goliath cursed David “by his gods [elohim],”
maximum during this intensified stage of the the false deities worshiped by the Greeks and
angelic conflict (2 Tim. 1:9). The election of the Canaanites (1 Sam. 17:43).
Church brought in the new spiritual species, See also essence of God; Trinity.
the royal family of God, each member united For further reference, Creation, Chaos, & Restoration;
with the resurrected Christ and equipped with The Trinity.
unprecedented spiritual assets (2 Cor. 5:17;
Gal. 3:27; Eph. 1:6; 1 Thess. 1:4). By way of their elpis Greek noun translated “hope” in the New
new position “in Christ,” believers of this age Testament. See hope.
share the election of Christ that occurred in
eternity past and also share in Christ’s eternal emotion [from Lat. emovere, to move out, disturb,
destiny (Eph. 1:5; 1 Pet. 2:4). Therefore, Scripture or upset; Fr. émouvoir, to agitate, excite, stir up]
exhorts us to “walk in a manner worthy of the An affective state of consciousness in which joy,
calling,” to utilize the extraordinary dynamics sorrow, fear, hate, or the like, is experienced, as
of the Christian life and advance to spiritual distinguished from cognitive and volitional states
maturity (Eph. 4:1; cf. Col. 3:12; 2 Pet. 1:10). of consciousness.10 Emotion is a system of feeling,
See also divine decree; lapsarianism. in contrast to thinking.
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History; Biblical vocabulary. Scripture presents emotion
The Integrity of God. figuratively, using words for anatomical organs.
Lessons 469:9; 458:579–80; 457:606–7; 412:46. Greek designations are koilia (belly, abdominal
organ), nephros (kidney), and splagchnon (inward
Elohim (a) Hebrew title for God that emphasizes parts, heart); Hebrew is kilyah (kidneys). English
the deity of the Trinity; (b) also used in specific texts translate these terms as appetite, belly,
contexts to designate heathen deities. affections, feelings, minds, inmost being, and
As a name for God, Elohim is plural in form but other expressions.
singular in meaning. It is considered an intensive Thinking is also represented figuratively: the
plural, which honors the fullness of divine power words kardia and leb, translated into the English
and majesty while emphasizing the identical as “heart,” refer to the mentality or right lobe of
essence that belongs to all three members of the the soul.
Trinity. Elohim, as such, refers to God from the Feeling and thought, God’s design. In God’s scru-
standpoint of His divine nature. Scripture uses the tiny of man, He distinguishes between feeling
name Elohim alone to identify the triune God— and thinking: “O Lord . . . Who tries the feelings
Genesis 1:1, for example, indicates that all three [kilyah, emotions] and the heart [leb, right lobe]”
Persons were involved in creation. In various other (Jer. 11:20; cf. Ps. 26:2; Jer. 17:10; 20:12); “I am
passages, Elohim is combined with other words He who searches the minds [nephros, emotions]
to designate a specific member of the Godhead: and hearts [kardia, right lobe]” (Rev. 2:23b).
Genesis 2:15–22 uses Yahweh Elohim to reveal the For emotion to function as God designed, the
personal relationship between God the Son and right lobe must lead and dominate emotion, an
the first couple; Deuteronomy 6:4b uses Yahweh arrangement brought to light in Proverbs 23:16:
Elohim to declare God the Son as the Messiah “And my inmost being will rejoice / When your
and God of Israel; Psalm 88:1 addresses God the lips speak what is right.”
Father in prayer as Yahweh Elohim; and in verses
like Exodus 31:3 and 35:31, Ruach Elohim refers 10. Random House College Dictionary (1988), s.v. “emotion.”
 83 empowerment of the Holy Spirit

Good and bad emotion. Emotion in itself contains For further reference, Reversionism.
no virtue, no cognition, no reasoning power. An Lessons 540:56–71; 412:908; 376:487–88, 498, 1638.
emotional response simply reflects the character
of that to which it responds. For example, if the emotional complex of sins The string of sins
right lobe of the soul contains establishment or produced from abnormal emotional reaction to life.
spiritual truth, emotion enhances appreciation Succumbing to a pattern of emotional sins—
of such things as patriotism, personal or family such as fear, anxiety, guilt, and anger—destroys
values, relationship with the opposite sex, cour- perception of reality. The believer can no
age and integrity, and even legitimate excellence longer think objectively and apply doctrine to
in music, drama, or athletics. This is good, or experience. Sins of emotion combine with the
normal, emotion. As long as it is responding to sins of arrogance to increase stress in the soul
virtuous thought and maintaining its subordinate and render him unstable, manipulative, and
role, emotion provides stimulation for enjoyment destructive.
in life. For the believer, good emotion is response The sinful attitudes and behavior of the emo-
to life from a doctrinal perspective. The ultimate tional complex can be categorized as follows:
in good emotion is response to the spiritual life (1) Hysteria—fear, worry, anxiety, panic, conster-
itself from maximum doctrine in the right lobe nation; (2) Hatred—anger, bitter jealousy, loathing,
(Jer. 15:16; 1 Pet. 1:8). animosity, vilification, malice, vengeful violence;
However, when emotion revolts against the (3) Egocentrism—self-pity, tantrums, vulnerability
right lobe and responds to the lusts and temp- to imagined insults, projection, denial, whining,
tations of the sin nature, it becomes a dominat- hypersensitivity toward self and insensitivity
ing, irrational force on the soul. Emotion in
toward others; (4) Guilt—remorse for real or
the aggressive role means every aspect of the
imagined wrongs, morbid self-reproach, self-
soul malfunctions. Sins of fear, worry, anxiety,
righteous arrogance, vulnerability to legalistic
guilt—reactions that form corrupted, abnormal,
manipulation, preoccupation with one’s feelings
bad emotion—overrun the soul’s mentality and
and correctness of behavior. Some sins listed are
separate the thinking from reality. Prolonged
a hybrid of emotion and arrogance.
emotional reaction rejects divine authority,
neutralizes doctrine previously learned, and See also arrogance complex of sins; emotion.
Lessons 412:1200–1201; 840:210–11.
hinders the ability to assimilate more doctrine.
Such a believer becomes “senseless and igno-
rant . . . like a beast before You” (Ps. 73:21–22), emotional revolt of the soul
restrained by his “own affections [splagchnon, See reversionism.
emotions]” (2 Cor. 6:11–12). Philippians 3:19
warns that believers “whose god is their appetite empiricism A basic means of perception that
[koilia, emotions]” are destined for destruction. uses observation and experience to understand
Emotion and spirituality. Even good emotion reality. Through empiricism, man draws conclu-
experienced in gratitude for God and His grace sions based on confidence in tangible evidence;
has no spiritual power or effectiveness. The hence, empiricism is the method used in scien-
Christian way of life is a system of thinking tific research and discovery. In contrast to non-
dependent upon the filling of the Holy Spirit, an meritorious perception by faith, empiricism
imperceptible divine power. Emotional activity is cannot discern the heavenly things of God, which
not a sign of the Holy Spirit—no one is spiritual are immaterial and unseen (1 Cor. 2:9; 1 Pet. 1:8).
because he feels spiritual. Making emotion the See also faith perception; intellectual arro-
criterion for spirituality rejects the Holy Spirit’s gance; rationalism.
ministry and emphasizes experience at the For further reference, Christian Integrity.
expense of doctrinal thought.
See also ecstatics; emotional complex of sins; empowerment of the Holy Spirit
reversionism. See enduement; filling of the Holy Spirit.
enduement 84

enduement Technical term for the empow- (2 Kings 2:9b, 15).

ering ministry of the Holy Spirit to certain Old Today, in the Church Age, the Holy Spirit is
Testament believers. Enduement was a granting universally given to all believers. Not only do we
of divine power that provided necessary strength, receive the irrevocable indwelling of the Spirit
wisdom, and skills to those who held positions at salvation, but we are also filled with the Spirit
of unusual responsibility—rulers, judges, priests, every time we confess our sins to God the Father
prophets, writers of Scripture, and artisans of the (1 Cor. 3:16; 1 John 1:9). Compared to enduement,
Tabernacle and Temple. the Holy Spirit’s ministry in the Church Age is far
In the Age of Israel, God the Holy Spirit did greater than anything given to even the greatest
not fill or indwell believers as He does during Old Testament believers.
the Church Age. Only a few specially appointed See also God the Holy Spirit.
believers received a special endowment of power For further reference, Daniel Chapters One through Six.
from the Spirit. This enduement was temporary Lessons 412:65; 376:889–90.
and could even be removed as a means of
discipline. David’s prayer, “Do not take Your engastrimuthos demon [Gk. engastrimuthos,
Holy Spirit from me,” was legitimate in that age, ventriloquist; equivalent Heb. ‘ov] A demon that
because God could revoke the Spirit’s enduing impersonates the dead either by possessing and
ministry in response to prolonged carnality (Ps. controlling the vocal cords of a medium or by
51:10–11). David had been given the Holy Spirit projecting its voice from the ground, ceiling, or
upon his anointing as king (1 Sam. 16:12–13), table in order to communicate to the medium
but after the Bathsheba affair he prayed that he the supposed speech of a deceased person. Enga-
would not lose that endowed power. King Saul, strimuthos demons and a warning against their
before David’s reign, had also received the endue- evil chicanery are found in Isaiah 8:19; further
ment of the Spirit, but this was permanently re- illustrations include those in Isaiah 29:4, Mark
moved as discipline for persistent reversionism 5:2–13, and Acts 16:16–18.
(1 Sam. 10:6, 10; 16:14). See also demon possession; necromancy; occult.
Examples of other Old Testament believers For further reference, Satan and Demonism; Tongues.
endued with the Holy Spirit are as follows: Joseph,
endowed for wisdom, leadership, and preserva- ensoulment
tion of the Jewish patriarchal nation (Gen. 41:38– See Creationism (2); soul life.
40); Moses, to fulfill his office of prophet and lead-
ership of God’s people, along with seventy elders to Ephesus Capital of the ancient Roman province
assist Moses in his tasks (Ex. 4:21; Num. 11:16–17, of Asia and headquarters of early Christianity.
25); skilled laborers, for craftsmanship related to Ephesus was situated three miles from the
the Tabernacle, including the garments of the west coast of Asia Minor at the mouth of the
high priest (Ex. 28:3; 31:2–5; 35:30–35); Joshua, for Cayster River (region of present-day western
spiritual, political, and military rulership (Num. Turkey). Its inland harbor, which opened into
27:18; Deut. 34:9); judges, like Othniel, Gideon, the Aegean Sea, accommodated the largest ships
Jephthah, and Samson, the latter endowed with of the ancient world, making Ephesus the most
supernatural physical strength to defend against prominent seaport in western Asia and a hub of
the Philistines (Judg. 3:10; 6:34; 11:29; 13:25; 14:6; commerce for the entire Roman Empire. Also key
15:14–15); Daniel, for prophecy and communi- to the city’s prominence was its pagan religious
cation (Dan. 4:8; 5:11–14; 6:3); prophets, such as culture, which flourished due to the mythological
Samuel, Isaiah, and Elijah (2 Kings 2:9; Zech. belief that the nearby territory of Ortygia was the
7:12); and all writers of the Hebrew Canon (Jer. birthplace of the Greek goddess Artemis. The
1:9; 2 Pet. 1:21). Elisha was a prophet who request- massive Ephesian temple erected in her honor
ed and received a double portion of enduement, became one of the seven wonders of the ancient
proving that certain Old Testament believers world and operated as a center of both religious
could obtain the Holy Spirit by asking for Him pilgrimage and banking activity.
 85 eschatological dispensations

Christianity entered Ephesus when Paul, on knowledge of spiritual truth, a genuine under-
his second missionary journey, preached the standing beyond that which is purely academic
Gospel for a brief period then left Aquila and (Rom. 10:2; Eph. 1:17; 4:13; Phil. 1:9; Col. 1:9–
Priscilla to continue planting the message of 10; 2 Pet. 1:2–3). Epignosis, also described as
Jesus Christ (Acts 18:18–21). When Paul returned metabolized doctrine, is biblical information
on his third missionary journey, opposition from that has been believed (accepted as truth) and
Jewish legalism in the synagogue persuaded is therefore applicable to the Christian life.
him to preach from the lecture room of the Doctrinal information communicated to the
school of Tyrannus (Acts 19:8–9). There, the believer is initially staged in the left lobe of the
apostle ministered to positive Gentiles and soul as gnosis, or academic knowledge. When
made Ephesus the center of his missionary the believer expresses faith in what he has heard,
work in that region for two years (ca. A.D. 53–54). the Holy Spirit transfers that information to the
The truth of Bible doctrine liberated Ephesus right lobe of the soul where it becomes epignosis—
from the influence of sorcery and demon the knowledge that serves as nourishment for
worship (Acts 19:18–19). By way of Paul’s tremen- spiritual growth. See Operation Z.
dous impact, Ephesus became the focal point See also faith perception; gnosis; hearer vs.
of Christianity in the ancient world. Jews and doer of the Word; spiritual metabolism;
stream of consciousness.
Greeks throughout Asia Minor heard the Gospel For further reference, Christian Integrity; Daniel
and Church Age doctrine and formed local Chapters One through Six; Reversionism.
congregations in Colossae, Smyrna, Laodicea,
Sardis, and other cities (Acts 19:10; 20:17–38). In epistemological rehabilitation
fact, so many renounced their pagan practices See postsalvation epistemological rehabil-
and accepted Christ that Ephesian silversmiths itation.
who thrived on selling idolatrous figures rioted,
fearful that “the great goddess Artemis . . . whom equal privilege / equal opportunity Divine
all of Asia and the world worship will even be benefits received by all Church Age believers at
dethroned from her magnificence” (Acts 19:23–41). salvation, ensuring each person a fair chance to
When Paul departed Ephesus for Macedonia, he execute the plan of God.
left Timothy to pastor the Ephesians (1 Tim. 1:3); At the start of the Christian life, all human
the city later became the Apostle John’s head- inequalities are removed by God’s grace. Anyone
quarters. Through these successive ministries, who believes in Christ is reborn a new spiritual
the ancient center of pagan culture emerged as creature, united with Christ and adopted into
the true ‘holy city’ in Christian history, for here His royal family (2 Cor. 5:17; Gal. 3:26–28).
in Ephesus—not Jerusalem, not Rome—believers Everyone “in Christ” has the same privilege of
positive to doctrine formed a three-generation representing himself before God the Father, and
spiritual pivot. This core of spiritual heroes was each receives his own portfolio of invisible assets
the impetus behind Imperial Rome’s unprece- for representing Jesus Christ to the world. No
dented strength and blessing during the second one is inferior; no one is superior. No personal,
century, when Christianity spread throughout economic, or circumstantial handicaps, and
the ancient world. The end of the second century no racial or gender distinctions, prohibit any
found the pivot in decline, along with the strength Christian from glorifying God to the maximum
of the empire. In A.D. 262, Ephesus was attacked and receiving maximum blessings. Success or
by the Goths and never regained its former glory. failure is determined strictly by the believer’s
See also Antonine caesars, age of the; pivot of individual decisions toward utilizing God’s grace
mature believers. provision. See escrow blessings; portfolio
Lessons 402:82; 457:53–55; 412:1. of invisible assets; royal family of God.

epignosis [Gk. epi, over, beyond + gnosis, eschatological dispensations The final two
knowledge] Used in Scripture to indicate full eras of human history, encompassing the time
eschatological dispensations 86

from the Rapture until the end of the earth. See the special rewards distributed at the judgment
Tribulation; Millennium. seat of Christ [see crowns].
Terms of the escrow. Just like an escrow contract
eschatology [from Gk. eschatos, last, furthest is irrevocable from its signed date, the believer’s
out] The theological study of the final events of blessings are irrevocably reserved in his name
human history, the biblically prophesied end from eternity past (1 Pet. 1:4). God cannot cancel
times, when the “things which have not been or close any account He has established. The
done” will be fulfilled (Isa. 46:10). Eschatology very definition of escrow, however, means there
specifically studies prophecies regarding the are conditions the grantee must fulfill before
Rapture, Tribulation, Second Advent, Mil- the assets are conveyed to him. For the believer
lennium, and Last Judgment. in Christ, capacity for blessings must precede
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; The Divine conveyance. Every beneficiary must possess
Outline of History. the ability to appreciate and benefit from these
extraordinary measures of “greater grace” before
escrow blessings Illustrative term for the Jesus Christ can make a distribution (James
extraordinary blessings prepared by God in 4:6). The faithful believer gains that capacity
eternity past, reserved in heaven for every by taking in Bible doctrine consistently, applying
believer, and distributed to those who reach it to the tests of life, and advancing to spiritual
spiritual maturity. maturity (Heb. 10:35–36). God is glorified by
Parties to the escrow. In legal terms, escrow distributing to this spiritual winner his treasury
describes the placement of a valuable asset by of blessings both in time and eternity.
one party (grantor) into the hands of a third For those who fail to execute the spiritual
party (escrow officer). The escrow contract life, escrow blessings are not distributed (1 Cor.
states the conditions under which the third 3:12–15; 2 Tim. 2:5). While these believers will
party can distribute those assets to the named enjoy perfect happiness in heaven, their personal
beneficiary (grantee). God the Father, long inheritance will forever remain on deposit as a
before the creation of the world, deposited with memorial to lost opportunity.
God the Son an inheritance of special blessings See also capacity, spiritual; glorification of
for each believer (Eph. 1:3–4, 18b). The Father God; portfolio of invisible assets; supergrace.
For further reference, Christian Suffering; The Divine
is the grantor, Jesus Christ is the escrow officer, Outline of History.
and each individual believer is the grantee of Lessons 728:99–104; 412:268–70, 624–27.
his own personalized escrow.
Contents of the escrow. Ephesians 1:3 calls essence of God The intrinsic nature and es-
the contents of this unique treasury “spiritual,” sential being of God, His true substance and
not because they are all intangible but because attributes. Synonym: divine attributes.
God is emphasized as their source (cf. John 4:24a; God’s limitless glory can never be fully grasped
Col. 3:24). Escrow blessings—some awarded in by the finite human mind, but what God reveals
time, others reserved for eternity—are “beyond of Himself is designed to be understood. The
all that we can ask or imagine,” far exceeding essential qualities of His person are revealed
logistical grace provisions like basic life support through His creation (Rom. 1:20) and His infal-
and protection (Eph. 3:20, corrected translation). lible Word (John 1:1). Each attribute of divine
Escrow blessings conveyed during the believer’s essence is eternal, absolute, equal in value,
lifetime include material prosperity and personal unchangeable, and inseparable from the whole
and professional success, as well as invisible of God’s being. All of the attributes work in
impact and spiritual strength. These blessings perfect coordination and harmony without any
are not identical for everyone; God knows best compromise to His character. It is by knowledge
what to give to whom, and when to do the giving. of the following attributes that God can be known
Escrow blessings conveyed for the eternal state to man.
are the “surpassing riches of His grace” (Eph. 2:7), Sovereignty. God is sovereign, the supreme
 87 essence of God

2 Cor. 5:21), making them acceptable to the divine

standard. See also imputations; relative
SOVEREIGNTY OMNISCIENCE
righteousness.
Justice. God is perfectly just and fair, treating
RIGHTEOUSNESS OMNIPOTENCE all His creatures alike, without bias or partiality
(Deut. 10:17; Rom. 2:11). In dealing with fallen
JUSTICE OMNIPRESENCE man, the justice of God acts as the guardian
of God’s perfect character, ensuring that His
absolute righteousness is never violated (Deut.
LOVE IMMUTABILITY
32:4b). Whatever God’s righteousness demands—
either cursing or blessing—His justice executes.
ETERNAL LIFE VERACITY The most dramatic display of divine justice
occurred at the cross. In order to reconcile sin-
ful man to God, righteousness demanded that
Figure 14 ESSENCE OF GOD justice impute all human sins to Jesus Christ and
judge Him in our place (1 Pet. 2:24a). This substi-
ruler of the universe: “Know therefore . . . that
tutionary atonement satisfied God’s righteous
the Lord, He is God in heaven above and on the
standard, freeing His justice to impute His own
earth below; there is no other” (Deut. 4:39). As
righteousness to anyone who believes in Jesus
King of heaven and earth, He has absolute will,
Christ. Justice, in turn, is free to bless the be-
authority, and volition (Ps. 47:2). By God alone liever because he possesses God’s righteousness.
are all things in the universe brought into being, See also adjustment to the justice of God;
maintained and controlled, and made subject integrity of God; Supreme Court of Heaven.
to His pleasure (Isa. 46:10; Col. 1:15–17). The Love. The love of God can be defined as the
sovereignty of God does not, however, interfere absolute virtue and benevolence of His thinking
with the free will of angels or man. In granting and actions. Scripture’s profound truth, “God is
volition to rational creatures, God guarantees the love,” declares that God cannot and does not exist
existence of all free decisions throughout time apart from love (1 John 4:8b, 16). Functioning
as well as His exact sovereign actions regarding in perfect coordination with His righteousness
those decisions. See also divine decree. and justice, God’s love is the motivation behind
Righteousness. God is absolute good, free from every action toward mankind (Ps. 33:4–5a).
sin and perfect in nature (Ps. 25:8; 34:8; 86:5; Divine love, like every other attribute of God,
119:68; Luke 18:19). Inviolable righteousness is the is eternal, unchanging, and unfailing (1 Chron.
very root and center of God’s essence. Because 16:34; Ps. 57:10; 136). Even God’s complete
God cannot compromise His righteousness with- knowledge of the sins and failures of His crea-
tures cannot disappoint, frustrate, or diminish
out destroying His perfect character, all of His
His love. God’s love can never be compromised,
attitudes and actions conform to this flawless
for it is governed by His perfect integrity (Ps.
standard (Ps. 145:17a). Without absolute right-
89:14a; Jer. 9:24). Infinitely superior to human
eousness, God would not be God.
love, divine love always functions in a rational
God’s perfection cannot accept anything less
manner, free from emotion and sentimentality
than the standard of His own righteousness. He (Ex. 34:6; Ps. 86:15; Eph. 2:4).
can only condemn sin and reject the relative The unfailing love of God is expressed and
standards of human good. Only by possessing defined in three categories: (1) divine self-love,
God’s own righteousness can man, inherently directed among the members of the Trinity [see
flawed, have a relationship with God. Hence, Trinity]; (2) impersonal love, directed toward
believers in Christ enjoy an eternal relationship unbelievers [see impersonal love, divine];
with God because God’s righteousness is credited and (3) personal love, directed toward believers
to them at the moment of salvation (Rom. 4:3; in Jesus Christ [see personal love, divine].
essence of God 88

Eternal life. God is the absolute self-existing but may not will to do all He can (Eph. 1:11).
one, Yahweh, the great “I AM” (Ex. 3:14), who has Omnipresence. God is eternally, wholly, and
neither beginning nor end (Ps. 90:2; 102:27; Jer. simultaneously present everywhere (Jer. 23:24).
10:10). There never was a time when God did not His entire essence is present in nature, in history,
exist, and His life continues without termination and in all the affairs of man and angels (Ps. 36:5;
(Deut. 32:40; Rev. 1:4; 4:8–9). God transcends all 139:8; Prov. 15:3; Isa. 6:1, 3). Not to be confused
temporal limitations. To Him, “one day is like a with pantheism, which merely equates God with
thousand years, and a thousand years like one the world, omnipresence reveals that God fully
day” (2 Pet. 3:8b). While human beings think in occupies time and space while remaining infi-
terms of past, present, and future, and of short nitely above and beyond it all (Ps. 139:7; Jer.
or long periods of time, God likens our lives to 23:23–24; Acts 17:27). Sovereign and unlimited
“vapor,” here today and gone tomorrow (James God, whose “glory is above the heavens” (Ps.
4:14). Eternal God extends a gracious offer for 113:4), also dwells locally in the manner of His
finite man to share His eternal life (John 3:36). choosing (Gen. 18:1; Ex. 3:2–6; Num. 14:10;
The timeless life that exists in God is imputed to 1 Kings 8:10–11; John 1:14; 14:20, 23; 2 Cor. 6:16).
all who believe in Jesus Christ (John 3:16; 14:6; Regarding believers, omnipresence ensures that
20:31; 1 John 5:11–12). See also imputations. we are never alone—God is a personal eyewitness
Omniscience. God is all-knowing. He knows to every activity in our lives and is immediately
perfectly, eternally, and simultaneously all that available at every moment (Deut. 31:6, 8; Ps. 113:5–
is knowable, both the actual and the possible 6; 139:7–10; Heb. 13:5b). See also immanence and
(Job 37:16; Ps. 139:4; Matt. 9:4; John 16:30). The transcendence; indwelling of the Trinity.
future is as perspicuous to God as the past (Ps. Immutability. God is unchangeable. He is
33:13–15; Acts 15:18). Because God’s knowledge neither capable of nor susceptible to change
is infinite, everything is completely and clearly (Ps. 33:11; 102:27; Mal. 3:6a). With God there
comprehensible to Him. His wisdom, therefore, is absolute stability, “no variation or shifting
is as complete as His knowledge (Isa. 11:2; Rom. shadow” (James 1:17), regardless of circum-
11:33), and His infinite wisdom and knowledge stances, decisions, or events of human history.
are applied in accomplishing His perfect plan God’s works are unalterable; His entire person
and purpose (Isa. 46:10). is “the same yesterday and today and forever”
Although God’s omniscience transcends (Heb. 13:8). Even His omnipotence cannot
time and eternity, His knowledge of events and override His immutability.
decisions before they occur does not violate or From God’s immutability comes His faithful-
interfere with man’s volition. The omniscience of ness (Lam. 3:22–23). Scripture declares repeat-
God and the free will of man coexist throughout edly that God is faithful to keep His Word and
human history. See also divine decree. to fulfill His promises, even when His own
Omnipotence. God is all-powerful, unlimited in children are faithless (Num. 23:19; 1 Kings 8:56;
His ability and authority. Scripture declares His Heb. 6:17–18; 2 Tim. 2:13). God is faithful to
limitless power with the names “Almighty” (Job secure the believer’s salvation eternally (John
11:7), “the Lord God, the Almighty” (Rev. 4:8), 10:28), faithful in administering His plan, and
“Mighty God” (Isa. 9:6), and “Lord God omnipotent” faithful in provisioning, protecting, and blessing
(Rev. 19:6, kjv). God holds His created universe the believer throughout time (1 Cor. 1:9; 10:13;
together, perpetuates history, and is the source 1 Thess. 5:24; Heb. 10:23; 1 John 1:9).
of power given to believers to execute His plan Veracity. God is absolute truth. His veracity is
(Isa. 40:26; 44:24; Zech. 4:6; Acts 1:8; Col. 1:16–17; evident in His words (John 8:45–46), in His works
2 Pet. 1:3). Divine omnipotence guarantees that (Ps. 33:4; Dan. 4:37), and in His ways (Rev. 15:3).
“nothing will be impossible with God” (Luke 1:37). Divine veracity is confirmed amongst all three
God’s power is limited only by His own restriction, members of the Godhead (John 7:28; 14:6; 1 John
self-imposed to be consistent with His entire 5:6b).
essence. In other words, God can do all He wills Truth has never been diminished or compro-
 89 eternal security

mised in God, for He is the origin of truth (John God and can only be separated from Him (John
6:32). His “word is truth” (John 17:17b) and is 3:18–19).
therefore the only source of absolute truth for God is “not wishing for any to perish” (2 Pet.
mankind. The unbeliever, then, can be confident 3:9). He sent His Son into the world to save, not to
that the Gospel is the truth about salvation, condemn (John 3:17). But by refusing the free gift
and the believer can be assured that the truth of salvation, unbelievers choose for themselves
of Bible doctrine is the inerrant guide for the divine judgment and condemnation. When they
spiritual life and the divine standard of right die, their souls will depart into the fire of Tor-
and wrong (2 Tim. 3:16). See also Word of God. ments (Luke 16:23–25). Each will be resurrected
For further reference, The Integrity of God; The Trinity; with a body of damnation (John 5:28–29) to stand
The Unfailing Love of God. trial before the great white throne of the Last Judg-
Lessons 412:790–99. ment (Rev. 20:11–13). Sharing the fate of Satan
and fallen angels, they will be cast alive into the
establishment “fire which burns with brimstone” for an eternity
See divine establishment. of hopeless suffering (Rev. 19:20; 20:10, 14–15).
See also lake of fire; Last Judgment.
eternal civilization For further reference, Slave Market of Sin.
See civilizations, biblical; eternal state.
eternal life Life with no beginning and no end.
eternal condemnation The sentence of ever- Eternal life is God’s life: all three members of the
lasting doom, suffering, and separation from Godhead have always existed and will always exist.
God that is pronounced upon Satan, fallen angels, God imputes His own eternal life to believers at
and unbelieving members of the human race. salvation, allowing them to live forever with Him
God’s perfect character cannot be compromised, in heaven. See essence of God; imputations.
which means His justice must pronounce a fitting See also eternal security; everlasting life.
penalty upon all sinful creatures. Long before
time began, the devil and his angels rebelled eternal rewards Surpassing riches, vast
against their Creator and were sentenced to sections of heaven, and untold blessings awarded
spend eternity in the lake of fire (Matt. 25:41b). to spiritually mature believers for eternity.
The disobedience of the first man, Adam, likewise See crowns; order of the morning star;
had eternal consequences, bringing spiritual uniform of glory.
death and condemnation upon the entire human
race (Rom. 5:12, 19a; 1 Cor. 15:22a). eternal security The absolute assurance that
In a demonstration of unfathomable love and once a person believes in Christ, his salvation
grace, God sent His Son to pay the penalty for can never be lost. The believer’s unbreakable
human sin and spare mankind from due pun- relationship with God cannot be abrogated or
ishment (John 3:16; Rom. 5:8; Col. 2:14; 1 John destroyed by man, angel, or God Himself. This
4:9). Every person on earth is therefore given a perfect security is supported by the following
choice between eternal salvation and eternal doctrinal rationales:
condemnation: “he who believes in the Son The eternal life of God. When anyone believes in
[Jesus Christ] has eternal life; but he who does Christ, God the Father instantly imputes His own
not obey [believe in] the Son will not see life, but life to that person—“He who has the Son has the
the wrath of God [eternal condemnation] abides life [God’s eternal life]” (1 John 5:11–12). Eternal
on him” (John 3:36). God imputes His own per- life means life forever with God. All believers
fect righteousness to all who accept the saving possess that same unending life, and all believers
work of Jesus Christ, qualifying them for glorious, have the same guarantee of eternal security.
everlasting life in heaven (John 5:24; Rom. 4:3–5). The grace of God. Eternal salvation is a gift from
Those who reject the only solution to spiritual God, “for by grace you have been saved through
death remain unqualified for a relationship with faith; and that not of yourselves” (Eph. 2:8–9).
eternal security 90

God in matchless grace “did not spare His own does not depend upon human attributes but
Son, but delivered Him over for us all” (Rom. strictly upon the attributes of God, “who is able
8:32). Jesus Christ performed the work on the to keep you from stumbling [falling]” (Jude
cross, and the only condition for receiving the 24). God is perfectly capable of maintaining
gift of salvation is personal faith in Him (Rom. the relationship that He alone established. It is
5:10, 19). Since we do nothing to earn salvation, contrary to the character of God to lose even one
we can do nothing to lose it. believer who fails in any way.
Justification by God. To the one who expresses The believer who understands the doctrine
faith in Christ, God instantly imputes His own of eternal security lives in the light of eternity
righteousness. The divine Judge, seeing His and stands on the conviction that he cannot do
own perfect righteousness, declares the believer anything to cancel what God has accomplished
justified for an eternal relationship with Him (Rom. 5:5). Assured of eternal life forever in
(Rom. 5:1). “Being justified as a gift by His grace,” the presence of God, he leaves the settled issue
the undeserving sinner is made acceptable (Rom. of salvation behind and realizes a meaningful
3:24). The highest authority in the universe has life on earth of faithfully serving the Lord. Con-
declared him righteous, and that is the final versely, the believer who is preoccupied with
word. The believer’s status can never change or loss of salvation—always questioning, doubting,
be challenged. reaffirming his faith—squanders his opportunity
The family of God. When anyone makes a deci- and cannot move forward in the Christian life.
sion to believe in Christ, he is instantly born See also essence of God; imputations; salvation.
again into the family of God (John 1:12). The For further reference, God’s Perfect Gift; The Prod-
igal Son.
child of God cannot change his spiritual birth
Lessons 458:130; 412:813–14, 1030–31.
any more than he can change his physical birth—
once a son, always a son (Gal. 3:26–28; Rev. 21:7). eternal state The everlasting, heavenly civi-
The hand of God. Jesus Christ promises, “I give lization for all believers once human history has
eternal life to them, and they will never perish; ended. After the Last Judgment, when the present
and no one will snatch them out of My hand” universe is removed by God in fiery destruction
(John 10:28). No power on earth or in heaven can (2 Pet. 3:7, 10–12), the eternal state will commence.
pluck the believer from God’s omnipotent grip The new universe of the eternal state is prophe-
(Rom. 8:38–39). We may fail or let go of the Lord sied by Isaiah (Isa. 65:17; 66:22), reaffirmed by
many times, but never once does He let go of us Peter (2 Pet. 3:13), and detailed in John’s prophetic
(Ps. 37:24). vision (Rev. 21—22:5). Scripture further reveals
The possession of God. Anyone who hears and that Jesus Christ will rule this kingdom (2 Pet.
believes the Gospel is sealed by God as a sign 1:11) under the authority of the Father (Rev. 22:3)
of possession (Eph. 4:30). God places a seal, or and in perfect union with Him (1 Cor. 15:28).
signature, next to that person’s name in the In the presence of God, all believers—having
Book of Life as a sign of ownership. Anything drunk from the “water of [eternal] life”—will
to which God attaches His seal belongs to God dwell forever (Rev. 21:6b; 22:17; cf. John 4:13–14).
forever. No matter what happens after salvation, Each citizen will have a new resurrection body,
God owns and will deliver all believers to His in which sin and failure are impossible (1 Cor.
eternal residence. 15:42–44). Every form of suffering, including
The faithfulness of God. If the believer is unfaith- death, will be abolished (1 Cor. 15:26). There
ful in the postsalvation life, even if he renounces will be no more pain, sadness, or regrets, for
his belief in Christ, God remains faithful. Sal- “the former things will not be remembered” (Isa.
vation depends strictly on who and what God is, 65:17–19; Rev. 7:17; 21:4).
and God cannot deny Himself (2 Tim. 2:13). The As promised by the Lord Himself, the eternal
believer does not possess the power or ability to civilization will be one of perpetual newness
invalidate his decision to believe in Christ. (Rev. 21:5), with “a new heaven and a new earth”
The perfect character of God. Eternal security (Rev. 21:1) and a new capital city, “the new Jeru-
 91 evangelism

salem,” suspended above the new earth (Rev. memory of Jesus Christ: the believer concentrates
3:12; 21:2). New Jerusalem’s magnificence is de- on Christ’s person and saving work while eating
scribed as fifteen hundred miles in width and and drinking the representative elements of
length, streets of gold, walls of precious stones, bread and wine (1 Cor. 11:23–26). The Eucharist
and gates of pearls (Rev. 21:16–21). She is called is the only ritual mandated for the Church Age.
the “holy city . . . having the glory of God” (Rev. Synonyms: Communion; Lord’s Table.
21:10–11), indicating the headquarters of the At the Last Supper, the Lord converted the
Father and Son, whose full radiance of deity traditional Passover meal into the Communion
will illuminate all of eternal civilization (Rev. ceremony (Matt. 26:26–28). Unleavened bread
21:23–24; 22:5). In the center of New Jerusalem and unfermented juice of grapes were presented
will be the garden “Paradise of God” (Rev. 2:7). in place of the sacrificial lamb. The Lord’s com-
Here, the aristocracy of eternity—mature mand, “do this in remembrance of Me,” initiated
believers of human history—will eat freely from the new ritual and mandated the Church to
the tree of life and enjoy the most exclusive regularly celebrate the Eucharist as a memorial
privileges of the eternal state (Rev. 22:14). to the Savior (Luke 22:19; 1 Cor. 11:25b). Eating
See also heaven; resurrection body. the bread represents faith in the spotless “Lamb
Lessons 457:160, 678–88. of God,” the impeccable humanity of Christ who
“bore our sins in His body on the cross” (John 1:29,
eternity The timeless dimension in which God 36; 1 Pet. 2:24). Drinking of the cup represents
exists without beginning or end (Ex. 3:14; Deut. faith in His substitutionary spiritual death on the
32:40; Ps. 90:2; 135:13; Isa. 41:4; Rev. 1:4; 4:8–9). cross (Rom. 5:8–9; Eph. 2:12–13).
Eternity, with its immeasurable duration, is The only requirement for Church Age believers
beyond our perception. Because our thoughts to partake of the Communion elements is fellow-
are limited to time, we use the following terms ship with God through the filling of the Holy
as points of reference in the existence and work Spirit. Some believers set aside a time alone to
of infinite God: celebrate this significant memorial; others prefer
Eternity past. That which precedes God’s to gather with fellow believers in Bible class.
creation of man. Eternity past includes “the When the elements associated with Communion
beginning which was not a beginning”—the are not available, such as when a soldier is in
period before anything existed except God the the field or when illness prevents partaking of
Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (John 1:1, the elements, the Eucharist can still be entered
corrected translation). Eternity past is also the into through remembrance and concentration
period in which God created the angels and the in the soul. Focusing attention on Christ is most
universe. From eternity past, God knew exactly important, not the ritual itself.
what would occur throughout all eternity and so
See also blood of Christ; Passover.
authored the plan for human history [see divine For further reference, The Blood of Christ.
decree]. Lessons 438:70; 408:40.
Eternity future. The portion of eternity following
the Last Judgment, destruction of the universe, eusebeia
and creation of the new heavens and new earth See godliness.
(2 Pet. 3:12–13; Rev. 21:1–2). Throughout eternity
future, all believers will dwell in resurrection evangelism (a) The declaration of the Gospel
body with the Lord in heaven (Rev. 21:3–4; 22:5; of salvation to unbelievers; (b) the spiritual gift
cf. 1 Cor. 15:20–23); all unbelievers will dwell with of communication that enables certain male
Satan in the lake of fire (Rev. 20:11–15). believers to speak the Gospel and hold the
See also eternal state. attention of unbelievers in a group environment.
Word origin. The Greek verb euaggelizo means
Eucharist [from Gk. eucharisteo, to give thanks] “to announce good news” with authority and power
A Church Age worship ceremony performed in and was used in ancient Greece particularly
evangelism 92

for the authoritative declaration of victory in messenger is totally dependent on the content
battle. In the New Testament the word indicates of the Gospel, as found in Scripture, and totally
announcement of God’s good news, typically dependent on the ministry of God the Holy Spirit.
the news of salvation (Acts 8:25; 16:10; Rom. 1:9; The true evangelistic message emphasizes the
15:19), though sometimes it refers to the teaching saving work of Christ on the cross and faith in
of doctrine to believers (1 Pet. 1:25). From the Christ for eternal life, and the Holy Spirit works
verb euaggelizo is derived the noun euaggelistes, invisibly through that announcement of grace
translated “evangelist” to designate a man gifted for effectiveness in evangelism.
to communicate the Gospel in a public setting Normal and crisis evangelism. Normal evange-
(Acts 21:8; Eph. 4:11; 2 Tim. 4:5). lism refers to the presentation of the Gospel in
Evangelism in human history. The Gospel was times of general tranquillity and prosperity and
first declared in the Garden of Eden after the Fall. is accomplished in several ways: preaching from
The Lord Himself was the first Evangelist, and an evangelist, personal witnessing, distribution
the man and his wife were the first hearers of the of the Gospel message through print or technical
good news (Gen. 3:15). After Adam and Eve were media (e.g., publications, radio, television, record-
saved through faith in the promised Savior, the ings). Under normal evangelism, the unbeliever
Gospel became their sacred trust and witnessing has the opportunity to objectively consider the
operated through the family entity. The family issue of Jesus Christ in eternal salvation. Many
plan of evangelism continued up to and after accept under these conditions, yet others reject
the Flood, and as nations developed, evangelism and become antagonistic toward Christ. Still, God
was generally contained within each national is patient, offering repeated opportunities for all
entity. Client-nation Israel, upon its founding, to come to a change of mind (2 Pet. 3:9b).
was given the responsibility for evangelizing When normal evangelism fails, God shifts
the world (Rom. 3:1–2), but when that nation gears into crisis evangelism, the presentation of
rejected Christ, the mission of evangelism was the Gospel in times of individual or collective
transferred to the Church. Spreading the message disaster (Rev. 16:1–11). As with discipline to the
of Christianity, “even to the remotest part of the recalcitrant believer, intense judgment to the
earth,” began with the apostles and has carried negative unbeliever is designed to shock him
on through evangelists, missionaries, pastors, and into temporary objectivity. Pain and misery high-
individual Christians (Acts 1:8b). During the future light his inherent weakness, prove his need for a
seven-year Tribulation, much of the evangelism relationship with God, and provide a lucid mo-
will be conducted through the 144,000 Jewish ment in which the Gospel can be recalled and
believers and by the two resuscitated prophets, considered. Under God’s grace policy, this is the
Moses and Elijah (Rev. 7:4–10; 11:3; cf. Mal. 4:4–5). last call to believe in Jesus Christ as Savior (2 Cor.
The Millennium will find each new generation 6:2). It is through crisis evangelism that Saul of
evangelized so extensively that Isaiah states, “The Tarsus became a believer in Christ and was trans-
earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord / As formed into the great Apostle Paul (Acts 9:1–9).
the waters cover the sea” (Isa. 11:9b). See also spiritual gifts; witnessing.
Source and power of evangelism. There are three For further reference, Heathenism; Witnessing.
categories of believers mandated to evangelize: Lessons 101:20–21; 457:251.
(1) individual believers, each an ambassador
responsible for delivering the Gospel on a person- everlasting life Life with a beginning but no
to-person basis (Acts 1:8; Eph. 6:20); (2) pastor- end. For all mankind, the endless existence of
teachers, who communicate and clarify the the human soul begins at the moment of physical
salvation doctrines inside the church (2 Tim. 4:5); birth and continues throughout eternity, either
and (3) evangelists, male believers endowed with in heaven or hell. Everlasting life of the soul is
a gift that allows them to gain the attention of distinguished from eternal life, meaning the life
crowds outside the local church (Eph. 4:11). of God, which has neither beginning nor end.
Evangelism is a grace function in which the The unbeliever has everlasting life in the lake of
 93 evil obsession

fire. The believer has everlasting life in heaven, his inherent corruption through his own abilities.
because at the moment of salvation he receives Satan’s counterfeit philosophies deceive the
the imputation of God’s own eternal life. minds of believers and unbelievers alike, blind-
See also eternal life; soul life. ing them to their need for God and His grace
(John 8:44b; 2 Cor. 4:4). While evil captivates many
evidence testing of its followers with much seeming good, it also
See suffering (for blessing). See also witness breeds confusion, rebellion, and violence among
for the Prosecution. the human race (2 Cor. 11:14). The devil’s policies,
instead of ushering in peace and prosperity,
evil [Heb. roa, badness, evil. Gk. kakia, depravity, wreak nothing but misery and destruction.
wickedness; poneros, worthless, degenerate] Evil thinking in man. The evil that comprises
(a) The opposition to God authored by Satan in Satan’s thinking finds its home in human view-
point, prolonged carnality, and lack of integrity
prehistory; (b) the expression of the intrinsic
(Prov. 28:5–6; John 8:44). Any compromise with
nature of Satan, all that emanates from his
evil, any infiltration of satanic viewpoint into
arrogant thinking and constitutes his singular
the mentality of the soul, erodes restraint on
motive to gain victory over God; (c) a synonym
the sin nature and traps man in Satan’s cosmic
for satanic doctrine—the worldly concepts that
system (Ps. 141:4; 1 Cor. 15:33–34; 1 Tim. 4:1–2;
distract from grace and oppose biblical truth.
2 Tim. 2:26). When personal sin combines with
“Evil” also describes the operations of Satan’s
erroneous thinking, man produces evil—he
demon army (“spiritual forces of evil,” Eph. 6:12b,
either overtly opposes truth with lawlessness and
corrected translation), as well as the character
immorality or subtly attacks it from beneath a
and production of perpetually carnal humans
pious, moral veneer (Mark 7:21–22; Acts 6:8–14;
who reside in Satan’s cosmic system (Ps. 140:1–5;
2 Tim. 3:2–7). The latter is far more effective in
Prov. 4:14–16; Jer. 32:31–35; 2 Tim. 3:13).
whitewashing the depraved world and serving
Origin of evil. Evil began in prehistory with
its evil ruler (Matt. 23:27).
the motivation of arrogance in “Lucifer, son of
Victory over evil. To discredit His doomed en-
the morning” (Isa. 14:12, kjv), the greatest of
emy as the angelic conflict plays out in human
all creatures. From the sin of wanting to be like
history, God permits evil to run its course (Prov.
God came the evil of thinking he could defeat
16:4; Matt. 25:41). But man is not left defenseless
God (Isa. 14:13–14). Parlaying his evil intent into
(Ps. 52:1; 117:2b). The laws of divine establish-
opposition, the creature rebelled against the
ment provide protection for the unbeliever, and
Creator and persuaded one-third of the angels to
Bible doctrine in the soul insulates the believer
join him (Eph. 6:12). The super-angel, renamed
from the destructive influence of evil (Prov. 6:20–
“Satan,” later interjected himself into the affairs
22; 16:6–7; 28:5; Rom. 12:21; Eph. 6:13–14a; 2 Thess.
of mankind. When Adam succumbed to tempta-
3:3). Timely divine judgments also limit the
tion in the Garden, Satan seized rulership of the
scope of evil assaults (Gen. 6:13; Ps. 34:16–17; Isa.
earth and became the evangelist of evil for all
13:11; 47:10–11; Micah 2:1–4; Matt. 23:37–38), and
human history (1 John 5:19b; cf. John 12:31; 16:11).
the Holy Spirit’s restraining ministry will keep
Evil in the world. Evil is generally observed as
Satan’s policies in check until the Tribulation
the adverse trend of humanity, the malfunction
(2 Thess. 2:6–7). Ultimately, the power of God’s
of people and society without basic moral
perfect integrity will destroy the power and
principles. But far beyond that superficial screen
source of evil (Rev. 19:11—20:15).
lurks the multifaceted system by which Satan
See also angelic conflict; cosmic system; good
rules the world and seeks to win his war against
and evil.
God. Evil encompasses Satan’s scheme to influ- For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Reversionism.
ence the human soul, establish his own utopian Lessons 640:1–4; 467:14–17, 100; 457:56–60; 376:1435.
kingdom on earth, and prove himself to be “like
the Most High” (Isa. 14:14b). With devious inge- evil obsession
nuity, he promotes the idea that man can remedy See iconoclastic arrogance.
exanastasis 94

exanastasis Greek noun meaning “exit resur- incantations.

rection,” a reference to the Rapture of the Church. Exorcism is never to be confused with biblical
In Philippians 3:11, Paul reassures Church accounts of demons “cast out [ekballo]” by Jesus
Age believers of the certainty of this future and His disciples in the power of the Spirit
event, declaring, “in some way I shall arrive at (Matt. 8:16; 12:28; cf. Mark 5:2–13; Acts 16:16–18;
the exanastasis [exit resurrection]” (corrected 19:11–12). Exorcism, instead, is the illegitimate
translation). The term “exit resurrection” empha- practice of believers and religious unbelievers
sizes the entire Church exiting the earth in a taking offensive action against Satan (Acts
single instant. 19:13–20). Victory over the demonic cannot be
See Rapture. attained by human works. Furthermore, divinely
Lessons 412:616; 376:390. delegated authority to cast out demons has not
been extended into the postcanon period of the
exegesis Church. Any apparent success of those who
See ICE. engage in exorcism today can be attributed either
to the cooperation of Satan and his demons or
exit resurrection to a colossal hoax.
See exanastasis; Rapture. See also casting out demons; cosmic system.
For further reference, Satan and Demonism.
Exodus generation The Israelites brought up
under Egyptian slavery and led by Moses toward experiential righteousness
the Promised Land. See righteousness (in the believer).
According to Exodus 12:37–38, the Israelites
who followed Moses in the great Exodus from experiential sanctification
Egypt (ca. 1441 B.C.) were 600,000 men on See sanctification.
foot, plus women and children. The Exodus
generation had personally witnessed the ten expiation Describes the work of Christ on the
miraculous plagues of Egypt and had expressed cross that canceled mankind’s debt owed for the
faith in the promised Messiah through the first penalty of sin.
Passover ritual. “Written for our instruction” in Man’s penalty for sin is spiritual death, total
1 Corinthians 10:1–11 is a record not only of their separation from God. This is the status of every
gracious provisions from God but also of their human being at birth due to Adam’s fall (Rom.
failures as they journeyed through the desert. 6:23a; Eph. 2:1). The penalty placed all fallen hu-
With the exception of Caleb and Joshua, the manity hopelessly in debt to God and incapable
people failed to trust the promises of God amid of paying the obligation. The only one qualified
the hardships of travel: they panicked at the to pay was Jesus Christ, the Lamb without sin.
Red Sea, grumbled over thirst and hunger in the He “bore our sins in His body on the cross” and
desert, worshiped the golden calf at Mount Sinai, was judged by God the Father (1 Pet. 2:24a; cf.
and cowered in fear of giants at Kadesh-barnea. Isa. 53:6b). Jesus Christ Himself covered the cost
Due to their rejection of doctrine, a recalcitrance of man’s spiritual death and “canceled out the
that culminated in the soul insanity termed certificate of debt” (Col. 2:14). As a result, every
shiggaon (Deut. 28:28), this generation was
human being is released from obligation and
deemed unfit for the Land and was sentenced to
free to accept or reject the grace gift of salvation.
forty years and the sin unto death in the desert.
See also barrier; blood of Christ; unlimited
See also manna; shiggaon. atonement.
For further reference, The Barrier; Slave Market of Sin.
exorcism [from Gk. exorkizo, to adjure, to admin-
ister an oath] A pagan ritual, ancient through
present day, invoked for the alleged purpose of
expelling possessing demons by use of religious
 Ff
faith [Gk. pistis] (a) Belief in or acceptance of faith perception The stage of learning in which
something as true, apart from empirical or a believer expresses faith in the doctrinal in-
intellectual proof; (b) a means of perceiving formation presented, at which point the Holy
information by placing trust in the authority and Spirit converts that information from academic
veracity of another. knowledge (gnosis) to full knowledge (epignosis)
Faith is the only system of perception that is in his soul.
nonmeritorious and compatible with God’s grace. When a believer clearly perceives a point of
Anyone—from the very young to the very old, doctrine, he then faces the issue of faith: Does he
with intelligence low to high—can express faith or does he not believe the information learned?
by trusting and believing. In faith, all of the merit If he believes—if he exercises positive volition
lies in the object. When the object of faith is Jesus toward that information—then that doctrine is
Christ as Savior, faith results in eternal salvation transferred by the Holy Spirit from the left lobe
(John 20:31). When faith of the believer is to the right lobe, where it becomes epignosis.
directed toward the promises of God and biblical In other words, academic comprehension is
truth, the result is happiness, tranquillity, and converted into fully useable spiritual knowledge.
the blessings of spiritual growth. Apart from faith, Faith perception is a grace process that excludes
no one can come to a saving knowledge of Christ all human merit. In faith, the merit belongs not
or comprehend spiritual wisdom that is beyond to the one who believes but to what is believed—
human perspicacity (1 Cor. 1:18; 2:5; Heb. 11:1). in this case, the true Word of God.
The Greek noun pistis, typically translated See also grace apparatus for perception; Oper-
“faith,” has several connotations in the New Tes- ation Z; spiritual metabolism.
tament, all of which relate to perception of and For further reference, Christian Integrity; Reversionism.
confidence in the reality of God. In passages like
Ephesians 2:8 and 1 John 5:4–5, pistis indicates faith-rest drill A three-step technique for re-
the trust and confidence expressed toward covering mental stability in a time of crisis.
Jesus Christ for salvation. In 2 Thessalonians The faith-rest drill allows the believer to rest in
1:4, pistis indicates the attribute of faithfulness God’s promises while logically applying doctrine
and reliability in the believer: Paul commends to a troubling situation. Clear, objective doc-
the faith that caused his congregation to endure trinal thought cannot coexist with fear, worry,
persecution and affliction. A third use of pistis and anxiety, because these emotional sins shut
denotes that which is believed and is equivalent down thinking and make doctrinal application
to Bible doctrine. In passages such as Galatians impossible. When the pressures of life create
1:23, 2 Peter 1:5, and 1 Timothy 1:19, the word mental distress, the believer must quickly recover
faith is more precisely understood as “doctrine.” his ability to think and apply. Confessing to
We perceive reality in the unseen essence of God God the sinful attitude is the first requirement
through doctrine, which is God’s revelation of [see rebound], but fearful agitation must also
Himself (2 Cor. 5:7; Heb. 11:3). be replaced with a restful state of mind. The
tranquil attitude of the Christian life is recovered
See also faith perception; faith-rest drill;
Operation Z. by claiming promises found throughout the Bible
For further reference, The Faith-Rest Life; Heathenism. and mixing those promises with faith. By faith,
faith-rest drill 96

the believer is convinced of God’s ability to fulfill (Ex. 14:13a). The believer now knows the ground
His every promise. By faith, he enters the place he stands on and can see how his problems fit
of rest, the place of contentment where he can into the larger picture of God’s faithfulness.
depend on God’s solutions. Executing the entire faith-rest drill may take
In the three steps of the faith-rest drill, the a few seconds or much longer, since the user
believer first establishes a relaxed mental attitude, may need to repeat a step or start over from the
then concentrates on pertinent doctrines in a beginning if doubts creep in and disturb focus.
logical manner, and finally reaches conclusions Ultimately, faith-rest becomes a continual way
that allow him to take control of the situation. of life that makes Bible doctrine a living reality
Step 1—Claim a promise. Thousands of promises in every experience (Heb. 4:1–4; 1 Pet. 1:7–8).
from God are recorded in the written Word. See also fear; worry.
These divine guarantees are the most basic For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Faith-
form of doctrine, providing instant perspective Rest Life.
Lessons 643:1–34; 637:51–61; 376:99–105.
to complicated situations. Recalling biblical
promises—such as “do not fear, for I am with you”
(Isa. 41:10a), “nothing will be impossible with
fallen angels
See angels.
God” (Luke 1:37), and “the Lord is the one who
goes ahead of you” (Deut. 31:8a)—reminds the
believer to place all problems in the Lord’s hands fall of man
and leave them there. Promises set the stage for See Adam’s original sin; tree of the knowl-
the most important aspect of the spiritual life: edge of good and evil.
thinking with divine viewpoint. By focusing on
what the promise means and realizing that God falls of Satan Three events of history in which
is in control, fears are quieted and the believer Satan attempts to usurp the sovereignty of God
can utilize the Bible doctrine he knows. and thereby reaps destruction because of his in-
Step 2—Apply a doctrinal rationale. A doctrinal satiable arrogance.
rationale provides a logical justification for the First fall. Satan’s prehistoric fall, when he as-
promises claimed. For instance, the essence of God serted his “I will” ambitions to make himself
rationale delineates the attributes of God’s nature “like the Most High” and replace God as the ruler
that guarantee His promises, the logistical grace of angels and the universe (Isa. 14:13–14). In
rationale emphasizes God’s immutable faithful- response to Satan’s sin of arrogance, God con-
ness in supplying the needs of every believer, demned His supercreature to the eternal lake of
and the plan of God rationale highlights the be- fire (Matt. 25:41b).
liever’s place in the eternal purpose of God and Second fall. Satan’s mid-Tribulation fall, when
recounts the assets provided for fulfillment of he is ejected from heaven to earth for his final
his destiny. By mentally tracing a rationale in effort to eradicate the Jews and establish his
a crisis, the believer reexplains to himself the own millennial kingdom (Isa. 14:12; Rev. 12:8–9).
pertinent doctrines of his relationship with God Satan’s desperate agenda will eventuate in a
and logically moves toward a divine viewpoint world engulfed in plagues, catastrophe, and war
conclusion. of unparalleled violence (Rev. 15—18).
Step 3—Reach a doctrinal conclusion. Moving Third fall. Satan’s utter defeat at the Second
through the faith-rest drill, the believer comes Advent, when the Lord Jesus Christ removes the
to the point where he rests firmly in a doctrinal devil from rulership of the world and incarcer-
conclusion, such as that stated in Romans 8:31: “If ates him for one thousand years in the Abyss
God is for us, who is against us?” With objectivity (Isa. 14:15; Rev. 19:11—20:2).
and confidence restored, the believer can evalu- See also Satan.
ate his circumstances and make sound decisions.
If the problem is beyond his ability to resolve, he false prophet Biblical title for the dictator of
can “stand by” and watch the Lord’s deliverance Israel during the Tribulation—the Jewish yet anti-
 97 fasting

Semitic unbeliever who masks himself as Israel’s See also abomination of desolation; beast; Trib-
benevolent Savior (Rev. 16:13; 19:20; 20:10). His ulation.
For further reference, Anti-Semitism; Armageddon.
other scriptural titles are “Dan . . . a serpent” Lessons 457:496–501, 574–75, 661.
(Gen. 49:16–18), the “king” who “will do as he
pleases” (Dan. 11:36–39), the “foolish shepherd” fasting [Heb. tsum, to cover (the mouth); Gk.
and “worthless shepherd” (Zech. 11:15–17), and nesteuo, to abstain] Voluntary abstinence from
the “beast . . . out of the earth” (Rev. 13:11). The normal functions of life, such as eating, recrea-
latter designation emphasizes his conspiratorial tion, or sleeping, for the purpose of intense con-
relationship with Satan’s other tribulational centration on prayer and Bible study.
agent, the “beast . . . out of the sea,” the Gentile Although the practice of fasting was not pre-
dictator of the Revived Roman Empire (Rev. 13:1). scribed by the Mosaic Law, the mandate to
The false prophet will, as revealed by Jesus “humble your souls” in connection with the
Himself, rise to prominence in the Tribulation Day of Atonement was carried out by the Jews
by performing “great signs and wonders” and through abstinence from food (Lev. 16:29–31;
misleading the people, including some believers, 23:27; Acts 27:9). The Jews also practiced fasting
into thinking he is the Messiah (Matt. 24:24; in connection with concentrated prayer or med-
cf. Rev. 19:20). On ascent to rulership, in the itation on the Word (Judges 20:26; 2 Sam. 12:16;
deceptive persona of “a lamb” (Rev. 13:11), the 2 Chron. 20:3; Ezra 8:21–23; Neh. 1:4–5; Joel 1:14).
false prophet will take credit for Palestine’s When motivated by grace orientation, fasting
prosperity, rebuild the Jerusalem Temple, and acknowledged their helplessness and depen-
reestablish the Jewish ritual worship, seemingly dence on God and also allowed adequate time
ushering in the Millennium. In the process, for focus on spiritual matters. For example, the
this Jewish dictator will form a pact with the prophet Daniel fasted during his three weeks of
dictator of the Revived Roman Empire, offering prophetic visions, direct teaching from the angel
Israel’s wealth and allegiance in exchange for Gabriel, and intensive prayer on behalf of the
the empire’s protection (Dan. 11:38–39). people (Dan. 9—10). The humanity of Jesus Christ
Halfway through the Tribulation, the Jewish fasted in the desert in order to concentrate on
dictator and Roman beast will combine religious prayer, the Word, and His upcoming sacrificial
forces. The false prophet, through the power mission. Jesus then utilized His state of severe
of Satan, will use supernatural acts in order to hunger to demonstrate to Satan that the greatest
deceive his people and convert them to the beast’s power is not food in the stomach but the Word
ecumenical religion (Rev. 13:12–14). When the of God in the soul (Matt. 4:1–4).
residents of Jerusalem, at his urging, construct Illegitimate use. When fasting is used as a
“an image to the beast,” the false prophet will way to purify oneself from sin, attain blessing
provide a ventriloquist demon to make the statue from God, or reach a higher spiritual state, it
speak and will then enforce worship of the idol becomes a system of human works. Scripture
upon the populace (Rev. 13:14b–17). is clear that fasting for self-serving, legalistic
In the end, the Jewish dictator’s powerful purposes directly opposes the plan of God. The
alliance with the devil and “a foreign god [the Jewish exiles in Babylon observed four fasts a
beast]” (Dan. 11:39) will prove worthless. Armies year, displaying mournful self-abasement, but
from around the globe, greedy for spoil and intent in their souls they strayed from the Lord and
upon capturing the strategic gem of the Middle His Word (Zech. 7:2–5). Zechariah exhorted
East, will converge on Jerusalem for the worst them to exchange the empty ritual for the
war of history (Dan. 11:40–45; Joel 2:2–9; Zech. inner peace and joyful feasting that result from
12:2–3; 14:1–2). No threat to the false prophet, love for doctrine (Zech. 8:19). In a more stern
however, will compare to the true Messiah, who exhortation, Jesus Christ warned His disciples
in His sudden Second Advent will throw the two against imitating the religious hypocrites of their
diabolic dictators into the fires of hell (Dan. 7:26; day, whose fasting was motivated by arrogance
Rev. 19:11–20; 20:10). and performed purely for show (Matt. 6:16–18).
fasting 98

Modern-day application. The Church Age re- ized by distressful emotion, even feelings of
quires no ceremonial fasting or outward displays dread and terror. Fear is not part of the grace
of devotion. Today, fasting can only be defined as plan of God (Prov. 29:25; 2 Tim. 1:7); therefore
taking time normally devoted to daily functions— Scripture repeatedly commands, “do not fear,”
such as but not limited to eating—and using that “be strong and courageous,” “fear not,” “do not
time for Bible study and prayer. For example, a be afraid,” “do not let your heart be troubled,
Christian might forego a meal in order to attend nor let it be fearful” (Deut. 31:6–8; Joshua 8:1;
Bible class, wake up early in order to listen to a 1 Chron. 28:20; Isa. 41:10; Matt. 10:26; Luke 5:10;
Bible lesson, or decline a dinner invitation in 12:7; John 14:27; Rev. 2:10).
order to spend time in concentrated prayer. The A spiritual enemy. The sin of fear, which is a
key is the motivation and reason behind the product of abnormal emotion, is compounded
abstinence, not the sacrifice in itself (1 Cor. 13:3). by anxiety, worry, and self-pity. Because fear
Deprivation as a means of spiritual achievement immobilizes thinking and makes applying doc-
rejects what the Bible teaches about the spiritual trine impossible, fear is the most potent enemy
life and enters the apostasy of asceticism (Col. of the spiritual life. In short, fear represents
2:18–23; 1 Tim. 4:3–5). total disorientation to the plan of God. Instead
See also asceticism; monasticism. of utilizing faith-rest to see the solution, the
Lessons 438:26, 32; 596:9–11; 508:40, 48; 376:6. believer beset with fear sees only the problem.
Without spiritual recovery and advance, fear
fear Translation of the Old Testament Hebrew can completely overtake the function of the soul
yirah and New Testament Greek phobos. “Fear” as follows: (1) The more things you surrender
is used two ways in the Bible, one indicative of to fear, the more things you fear; (2) the more
virtue, the other devoid of virtue. The specific things you fear, the more you increase the power
meaning of the word is determined by the context of fear in your life; (3) the more you increase the
in which it is used. power of fear, the greater becomes your capacity
for fear; (4) the greater your capacity for fear, the
(1) Reverence, respect, awe, and profound devo-
greater the stress in your soul; (5) the greater the
tion toward God, a manifestation of humility and
stress in your soul, the more you concentrate on
obedience (Mal. 3:16). This connotation of “fear”
problems and the more you fail to execute the
is a virtue that expresses the believer’s mental
spiritual life.
occupation with the Lord and his application of
Solution to fear. Everyone is susceptible to fear,
that virtue toward all areas of life (2 Sam. 23:2–3;
even mature believers. No matter how much doc-
Prov. 22:4; Eph. 5:21; 1 Pet. 2:17).
trine has been learned, none of that doctrine can
The “fear of the Lord” is the foundation for
be of benefit to a mind immobilized with panic.
doctrinal wisdom, “the beginning of knowledge”
When caught off guard, the first requirement is
(Prov. 1:7; 9:10). The believer who responds
to acknowledge the sin to God (rebound); the
positively to the authority and grace of God
second is to reestablish a relaxed mental attitude
commences a lifetime of learning and obeying
by claiming biblical promises (e.g., Ps. 50:15;
His Word (Job 28:28; Ps. 111:10). As respect for
Luke 1:37; 2 Cor. 12:9). Utilizing God’s Word
doctrine strengthens, so does his attitude of
and power enables the believer to bypass the
respect and devotion toward God (Deut. 17:19).
problem and rest in the spiritual solution (Rom.
The awe and respect the believer develops for
8:31; Phil. 4:13). With ability to think and apply
God’s perfect character prevents wrongdoing
doctrine recovered, he can then resume the
toward other people (Lev. 25:17; Neh. 5:9),
spiritual life, where his stable mental attitude is
restrains personal sin (Ex. 20:20; Ps. 19:9), and
characterized by courage, impersonal love, and
leads to a long and prosperous life (Deut. 6:2; Ps.
occupation with the person of Christ (Ps. 3:6;
34:11–12; Prov. 10:27).
56:3–4; 1 John 4:18).
(2) A mental attitude sin aroused by the expec- The following biblical heroes chose the solu-
tation of difficulty, harm, or evil and character- tion to fear and glorified God through their
 99 fellowship with God

spiritual victory: (1) The aged Abraham, “contem- federal head of regenerate mankind through the
plated his own body, now as good as dead . . . new birth (1 Cor. 15:21–22, 45).
yet, with respect to the promise of God, he did See also Adam’s original sin; Last Adam; semi-
not waver in unbelief but grew strong in faith” nally in Adam.
(Rom. 4:19–21); (2) Moses, by faith, “left Egypt, For further reference, The Integrity of God.
not fearing the wrath of the king [Pharaoh]; for
he endured, as seeing Him [God] who is unseen” feet of clay
(Heb. 11:24–29); (3) David, facing the well-armed, See iconoclastic arrogance.
formidable Goliath, identified himself with the
living God and declared “the battle is the Lord’s” fellowship
(1 Sam. 17:45–47). See Christian fellowship; fellowship with
God.
See also faith-rest drill; worry.
For further reference, Christian, at Ease!; Christian
Integrity; Mental Attitude Dynamics. fellowship with God (1) Describes the tempo-
Lessons 809:44, 54; 458:305; 643:1; 429:189; 457:330; ral status of a believer who has no unconfessed
412:633, 857, 1302–5; 376:421.
sin in his life and is therefore able to serve God
and advance spiritually. (2) Describes the Church
feasts of Israel Age believer’s harmonious companionship with
See ritual plan of God. the Trinity in time, made available by divine
operating power and strengthened by grace and
federal headship of Adam A term that de- doctrinal orientation.
scribes the first man’s position as representative
of the entire human race, particularly with re- (1) Temporal status, “in fellowship with God.”
spect to his original sin and the resultant fall of While the eternal relationship between God and
mankind. the believer in Jesus Christ is irrevocable, the
In secular English, the word federal denotes temporal relationship, or fellowship, is lost the
representation of and central authority over instant the believer sins. Sinning relinquishes
individuals or political units. The theological control of his soul to the sin nature. In the state
term “federal headship” originated with the early of carnality, the believer cannot comply with
covenant theologians, who used it to describe divine standards and therefore cannot serve or
Adam’s representation of mankind in what they glorify God (Rom. 8:7–8). The believer is back
designated the “covenant of works” [see covenant in fellowship, however, the moment he utilizes
theology]. The term is used more broadly by rebound—acknowledges his known sins to God
other theologians, including dispensationalists, the Father (Ps. 32:5; 1 John 1:9). In the Church
to illustrate the fact that Adam’s decision to Age, to be “in fellowship” is to be filled with the
disobey God in the Garden brought sin and death Holy Spirit. See rebound; spirituality; top
upon the entire human race. and bottom circles.
Adam, the first man and natural head of (2) Fellowship with the Trinity. New Testament
humanity, was spiritually responsible for his Scripture relates the Christian’s companionship
progeny. Because Adam represented the human with God to all three members of the Godhead
race, and because all mankind descends from (2 Cor. 13:14). Being “filled with the Spirit” (Eph.
him, we were all identified with Adam when 5:18), synonymous with the command to “walk by
he fell. We are born spiritually dead and con- the Spirit” (Gal. 5:16, 25), is fellowship with the
demned not because of personal sin but because Third Person of the Trinity and is the enabling
of sin inherited through our relationship to power for fellowship with the Father and Son
Adam (Rom. 5:12). Of course, the solution to (Phil. 2:1–2). When the Church Age believer
spiritual death received from Adam is to receive with positive volition has no unconfessed sin in
the gift of spiritual life from Jesus Christ (1 Cor. his life and is therefore controlled by the Holy
15:45–49). While Adam is the federal head of all Spirit, the Spirit’s teaching ministry transforms
mankind through physical birth, Christ is the the communication of Bible doctrine into nour-
fellowship with God 100

ishment for the believer’s spiritual growth (John pline that uses one system of evil to punish an-
4:24; 14:26; 15:26; 16:13a; 2 Pet. 3:18a). The consis- other. By permitting the “wrath of man” to run
tent perception of doctrine engenders reciprocal its course, God achieves discipline for the wicked
love and harmonious rapport with God the Fa- and ultimately demonstrates His glory (Ps. 76:10).
ther, the First Person (1 John 1:3, 6; 4:19). And In finesse judgment, God allows evil persons,
when the “mind of Christ” is so firmly implanted organizations, empires, and even demons to
in the believer’s soul that Christ becomes his clos- function as His agents in punishing other apos-
est companion, the believer has fellowship with tate entities. Never coercing man’s free will, God
the Second Person of the Trinity, a relationship simply uses the envy, hubris, power lust, and
better known as occupation with Jesus Christ corrupt motivations of an evil agent (evil1) to
(1 Cor. 1:9; 2:16; Eph. 3:17; Phil. 3:10; Heb. 12:2). administer punitive judgment upon a deserving
Through his harmonious rapport with the Trin- victim (evil2). Finesse judgment dramatizes the
ity, the Church Age believer finds what amounts fact that man is the product of his own decisions,
to social life with God, the most elevated form since it is man’s willing involvement in evil that
of fellowship in the Christian life. This unprece- makes him liable for destruction from evil.
dented companionship is always possible where Examples in history. Finesse judgment fell
positive volition to doctrine exists, even for the upon the seven sons of Sceva, early Church Age
believer in the most isolated circumstances sorcerers claiming to exorcize demons in the
(Philem. 6; 1 Pet. 1:8). See Christian fellowship. name of Jesus Christ (Acts 19:13–20). A demon-
For further reference, Christian Integrity; God the Holy possessed man leapt upon the evil charlatans and
Spirit vs. The Sin Nature; The Prodigal Son. overpowered them with supernatural strength
Lessons 102:2–3; 412:725; 376:716–20. and ferocity. As a result of this punishing de-
feat, “the name of the Lord Jesus” was magnified
filling of the Holy Spirit The ministry of the throughout the land, demonstrating how God
Holy Spirit that empowers the soul of the Church works all things to His purpose (Acts 19:17, 20).
Age believer and enables him to execute the The rise of certain political powers throughout
unique spiritual life. history is also related to finesse judgment (Job
When filled with the Spirit, the believer is 12:23). On three separate occasions, God used
in fellowship with God and under the control, an evil empire to punish Israel for wickedness,
influence, and mentorship of the Holy Spirit rebellion, and disobedience to His mandates.
(John 14:26; Eph. 5:18). The filling of the Spirit In 721 B.C. the Assyrian Empire overthrew the
provides the supernatural dynamics for executing Northern Kingdom of Israel (2 Kings 17:1–12),
the Christian life. Only by utilizing this divine in 586 B.C. the Chaldean Empire conquered the
power and strength can the believer combat the Southern Kingdom (Jer. 50:17b), and in A.D. 70
inner temptations of the sin nature, understand the Roman Empire laid waste to Jerusalem (Luke
and apply spiritual truths, produce divine good, 21:20–25). Sadly, these historical events carry
witness for Christ, pray effectively, and glorify application for us today, as evil foreign powers
the Lord on earth. On his own human power and stand ready to inflict finesse judgment upon our
ability, the believer is helpless to achieve these own nation for its saturation of political, social,
spiritual objectives (Rom. 8:8; Gal. 5:16). and spiritual degeneracy.
Being filled with the Spirit is synonymous In tribulational prophecy. More examples of
with the status of “spirituality.” This status is evil destroying evil will occur in the Tribulation.
lost through personal sin but recovered by Satan, in a ruthless attack on his own followers,
acknowledging transgressions to God the Father will release two demon armies upon the earth
(rebound, 1 John 1:9). to torment “the men who do not have the seal of
See also divine dynasphere; rebound; spiri- God” and then kill one-third of the degenerate
tuality. population (Rev. 9:1–21). The political hierarchy
of the Revived Roman Empire will also act as a
finesse judgment God’s indirect form of disci- weapon of judgment: having sponsored a world
 101 forty things

religion to gain power, the “beast” and his cohorts decreed.

will come to “hate the harlot [satanic, ecumenical Foreknowledge is a category of God’s knowl-
religion] . . . and will burn her up with fire” (Rev. edge distinct from omniscience, in that divine
17:16–17; 18:2–8). omniscience knew in eternity past all the
See also cycles of discipline; Jesus Christ con­ potential outcomes of angelic and human history.
trols history. Based on His omniscience, which in eternity
For further reference, Christian Suffering. past knew all freewill decisions His creatures
Lessons 457:619, 677.
would make, God sovereignly decreed only what
would occur. Divine foreknowledge is simply
first Adam A designation for the first man, Adam, God’s acknowledgment of what is in the decrees.
used in contrast to the Lord Jesus Christ, who is
Specifically, believers and Jesus Christ are said
called the “Last Adam.” See Last Adam. to be foreknown (Acts 2:23; Rom. 8:29; 1 Pet. 1:2).
See divine decree.
First Advent [from Lat. adventus, coming or
arrival] foreordination
(1) The initial appearance on earth of the See predestination.
Second Member of the Trinity as the God-man,
undiminished deity and true humanity in one
format soul The biological home to which God
person, arriving to fulfill the Father’s salvation imparts the immaterial soul life at the moment
plan for the human race. Conceived through the of birth.
Holy Spirit, the Son entered the world by virgin As biological life develops in the mother’s
birth in Bethlehem of Judea (Matt. 1:18; 2:1; womb, there develops in the fetus a basic for-
Luke 1:26–35; 2:1–14). To the world, He would mat for the soul. Derived from the genes of
be known as Jesus of Nazareth (Matt. 2:23; Mark both parents, the format soul consists of the
1:24; Luke 4:34; John 1:45). To those who believed material qualities of the developing brain and
in His name, He would be Jesus, the Christ, is the basis for inherited traits like intellectual
Messiah (Matt. 16:16, 20–21; Mark 8:29; John capacity and personality. There is, however, no
1:41; 4:25; 7:26; Acts 2:38; 9:34). See also hypo­ mental function—no consciousness, thought,
static union; virgin pregnancy and birth. or emotion—until this biological form of life is
(2) The approximately 33-year period (ca. 4 B.C. joined with soul life. At the moment of physical
to A.D. 30) that began with the virgin birth of birth, when the spark or breath of life is given by
Christ and ended with His resurrection, ascen- God, the format soul is ignited, and the fetus is
sion, and session. Synonyms: Dispensation of transformed into a living human being—“a living
the Hypostatic Union; Incarnation. See Dispen- soul” (Gen. 2:7, kjv; Job 27:3). Following birth,
sation of the Hypostatic Union. the material brain becomes the vehicle through
which the immaterial soul expresses itself.
FLOT line A military acronym for “forward line See also biological life; soul life.
of troops,” used metaphorically for the spiritual For further reference, The Integrity of God; The Origin
of Human Life.
defense line formed in the believer’s soul from
metabolized Bible doctrine. As doctrine is be-
lieved, understood, and applied, the ten problem- forty things The spiritual assets that God grants
solving devices are deployed on the FLOT line to every Church Age believer at the moment of
to effectively protect the soul against outside faith in Jesus Christ. Synonym: forty absolutes.
pressures and false doctrines. The following list of “forty things” was
compiled by Lewis Sperry Chafer and revised by
See problem­solving devices.
For further reference, Freedom through Military Victory. R. B. Thieme, Jr.
Thirty-nine Irrevocable Absolutes, not to be
foreknowledge God’s knowledge of what would revoked, recalled, interrupted, repealed, or lost
occur in human history, according to what was under any condition, including sin or failure in
forty things 102

the spiritual life. (12) The believer is justified, declared righteous

(Rom. 3:24; 5:1, 9; 8:30; 1 Cor. 6:11; Titus 3:7).
(1) The believer resides in the eternal plan of God
and shares the destiny of Christ. He is foreknown (13) The believer receives the unique availability
(Acts 2:23; Rom. 8:29; 1 Pet. 1:2), elected (Rom. of divine power (2 Pet. 1:3).
8:33; Col. 3:12; 1 Thess. 1:4; Titus 1:1), predestined
(14) The believer is guaranteed a heavenly
(Rom. 8:29–30; Eph. 1:5, 11), chosen (Matt. 22:14;
citizenship based on reconciliation (Luke 10:20;
1 Pet. 2:4), and called (1 Thess. 5:24).
Eph. 2:14–19; Phil. 3:20).
(2) The believer is reconciled by God (2 Cor. 5:18–
(15) The believer is delivered from the kingdom
19; Col. 1:20) and to God (Rom. 5:10; 2 Cor. 5:20;
of Satan (Col. 1:13a; 2:15).
Eph. 2:14–17), because the barrier between man
and God has been removed. (16) The believer is transferred into the kingdom
of God (Col. 1:13b).
(3) The believer is redeemed, purchased from
the slave market of sin (Rom. 3:24; Col. 1:14; (17) The believer is now on a secure foundation
1 Pet. 1:18). (1 Cor. 3:11; 10:4; Eph. 2:20).

(4) The believer’s condemnation, or eternal (18) The believer is a gift from God the Father to
judgment, is removed (John 3:18; 5:24; Rom. 8:1). Christ (John 10:29; 17:2, 6, 9, 11–12, 24).

(5) The penalty for the believer’s sins has been (19) The believer is delivered positionally from
paid for, canceled, by the substitutionary spiritual the power of the sin nature (Rom. 8:2; Phil. 3:3;
death of Christ on the cross (Rom. 4:25; Eph. 1:7; Col. 2:11).
Col. 2:14; 1 Pet. 2:24). (20) The believer is appointed a priest unto God.
(6) The believer receives propitiation—God is He enters into a holy priesthood (1 Pet. 2:5), a
satisfied with the work of His Son on behalf of royal priesthood (1 Pet. 2:9; Rev. 1:6).
sinful humanity (Rom. 3:25–26; 1 John 2:2; 4:10). (21) The believer receives eternal security (John
(7) The believer is dead to old life, the sin nature, 10:28–29; Rom. 8:32, 38–39; Gal. 3:26; 2 Tim. 2:13).
but alive to God. Positionally, he is crucified with (22) The believer is given access to God (Rom. 5:2;
Christ (Rom. 6:6; Gal. 2:20), dead with Christ Eph. 2:18; Heb. 4:16; 10:19–20).
(Rom. 6:8; Col. 3:3; 1 Pet. 2:24), and buried and
raised with Christ (Rom. 6:4; 7:4; Col. 2:12; 3:1). (23) The believer is within the “much more” grace
care of God (Rom. 5:9–10). He is (a) an object of
(8) The believer is free from the Mosaic Law. He His love (Eph. 2:4; 5:2); (b) an object of His grace
is dead to the Law (Rom. 7:4) and delivered (Rom. for salvation (Eph. 2:8–9), for keeping (Rom. 5:2;
6:14; 7:6; 2 Cor. 3:6–11; Gal. 3:25). 1 Pet. 1:5), for service (John 17:18; Eph. 4:7), and
(9) The believer is regenerated (John 13:10; 1 Cor. for instruction (Titus 2:12); (c) an object of His
6:11; Titus 3:5). He is born again (John 3:7; 1 Pet. power (Eph. 1:19; Phil. 2:13); (d) an object of His
1:23), a child of God (John 1:12; Rom. 8:16; 2 Cor. faithfulness (Phil. 1:6; Heb. 13:5b); (e) an object
6:18; Gal. 3:26; 1 John 3:2), and a new creation of His peace (John 14:27); (f) an object of His
(2 Cor. 5:17; Gal. 6:15; Eph. 2:10). consolation (2 Thess. 2:16); and (g) an object of
His intercession (Rom. 8:34; Heb. 7:25; 9:24).
(10) The believer is adopted by God, placed into
His family as an adult son (Rom. 8:15, 23 at (24) The believer is the beneficiary of an inher-
resurrection; Eph. 1:5). itance as an heir of God and joint heir with Christ
(Rom. 8:17; Eph. 1:14, 18; Col. 3:24; Heb. 9:15;
(11) The believer is made acceptable to God (Eph.
1 Pet. 1:4).
1:6; 1 Pet. 2:5). He is made righteous by imputa-
tion (Rom. 3:22; 1 Cor. 1:30; 2 Cor. 5:21; Phil. 3:9), (25) The believer has a new position in Christ
sanctified positionally (1 Cor. 1:30; 6:11), perfected (Eph. 2:6). He is (a) a partner with Christ in life
forever (Heb. 10:14), and qualified for inheritance (Col. 3:4) and (b) a partner with Christ in service
(Col. 1:12). (1 Cor. 1:9): a worker together with God (1 Cor. 3:9;
 103 fourth-generation curse

2 Cor. 6:1), servant of the New Covenant (2 Cor. (Rom. 12:3; Eph. 3:16–19).
3:6), ambassador (2 Cor. 5:20), living epistle (2 Cor.
One Revocable Absolute, withdrawn when the
3:3), and servant of God (2 Cor. 6:4).
believer commits sin.
(26) The believer is the recipient of eternal life
(40) The believer is filled with the Holy Spirit at
(John 3:15; 10:28; 20:31; 1 John 5:11–12).
the moment of salvation (Gal. 3:3). The filling of
(27) The believer is created a new spiritual species the Holy Spirit is revoked when the believer sins
(2 Cor. 5:17). but recovered when he acknowledges his known
(28) The believer is a light in the Lord, on His side sins to God the Father (rebound, 1 John 1:9).
in the angelic conflict (Eph. 5:8; 1 Thess. 5:4–5).
four horsemen of the Apocalypse A title for
(29) The believer is united with the Father, Son,
the horse-and-rider metaphor of Revelation 6:2–8,
and Holy Spirit. He is (a) in God (1 Thess. 1:1;
figurative language that describes historical
cf. God in you, Eph. 4:6, kjv); (b) in Christ (John
trends and catastrophes of the future Tribulation.
14:20; cf. Christ in you, Col. 1:27): a member in
John’s vision prophesies these four components
His Body (1 Cor. 12:13), a branch in the Vine
that will culminate in Armageddon:
(John 15:5), a stone in the Building (Eph. 2:21–22;
(1) The rider of the white horse represents dic-
1 Pet. 2:5), a sheep in the Flock (John 10:27–29), a
tatorship, specifically the dictator of the Revived
portion of His Bride (Eph. 5:25–27; Rev. 19:6–8), a
Roman Empire. His conquest over the world is
priest of the kingdom of priests (1 Pet. 2:9); and
depicted by the same horse ridden by historical
(c) in the Holy Spirit (Rom. 8:9).
Roman generals in triumphal processions (Rev.
(30) The believer is the recipient of the ministries 6:2).
of the Holy Spirit. He is born of the Spirit (John (2) The rider of the red horse represents world-
3:5–8), baptized with the Spirit (Acts 1:5; 1 Cor. wide warfare (Rev. 6:4).
12:13), indwelt by the Spirit (John 7:39; Rom. 5:5; (3) The rider of the black horse represents eco-
8:9; 1 Cor. 3:16; 6:19; Gal. 4:6; 1 John 3:24), sealed nomic disaster (Rev. 6:5–6).
by the Spirit (2 Cor. 1:22; Eph. 4:30), and given (4) The rider of the ashen horse represents ca-
spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 12:11, 27–31; 13:1–2). sualties and death of tribulational warfare and
(31) The believer is glorified (Rom. 8:30). accompanying disasters of nature (Rev. 6:8).
See also Revived Roman Empire; Tribulation.
(32) The believer is complete in Christ (Col. 2:10).
(33) The believer is a possessor of every spiritual fourth-generation curse Maximum divine
blessing granted in eternity past (Eph. 1:3). discipline administered when several successive
(34) The believer receives a human spirit along generations have increasingly rejected divine
with the Holy Spirit (Rom. 8:16; 1 Cor. 2:12; 2 Cor. truth, when sinful trends are habitually repeated
7:13; 1 Thess. 5:23). and become ingrained characteristics of a family,
group, or nation (Ex. 20:4–5; 34:3–7; Num. 14:18;
(35) The believer has all sins and transgressions
Deut. 5:8–10).
blotted out (Isa. 43:25; 44:22).
God first declared the fourth-generation curse
(36) The believer is the recipient of efficacious in the Ten Commandments. In warning Israel
grace (Eph. 1:13). against idolatry, He promised to visit “the iniquity
(37) The believer is guaranteed a resurrection of the fathers on the children, on the third and
body forever (1 Cor. 15:40–54). fourth generations” (Ex. 20:4–5). This does not
imply that guilt passes from parents to children or
(38) The believer is the beneficiary of unlimited that an inferior ancestry prejudices God against
atonement (2 Cor. 5:14–15, 19; 1 Tim. 2:6; 4:10; an individual. No generation is ever culpable for
Titus 2:11; Heb. 2:9; 2 Pet. 2:1; 1 John 2:2). the sins of the parents (Deut. 24:16; Jer. 31:29–30;
(39) The believer has equal privilege and equal Ezek. 18:20), but parents who oppose His plan
opportunity under election and predestination with sinfulness influence their children to follow
fourth-generation curse 104

the same pattern. Under the fourth-generation fragmentation (a) An illustrative term for the
curse, God disciplines those of the next generation state in which the believer’s motives, thoughts,
who, by their own volition, repeat the sins of their and standards collapse, break down; (b) the self-
parents and reject or disobey Him. induced state of spiritual failure that produces a
The catalyst for this multi-generational down- life of unstable, carnal behavior.
trend is rejection of authority, as outlined by Pulling the grenade pin. “Fragmentation” com-
Proverbs 30:11–14: The first generation “curses pares spiritual failure to a fragmentation grenade:
his father / And does not bless his mother,” the after the pin is pulled, the grenade detonates to
second generation is characterized by self- project small pieces of metal shrapnel. By analogy,
righteousness and hypocrisy, the third is so full every believer is a walking grenade with potential
of self-importance that the “eyelids are raised for a fragmented life. As Proverbs 16:18 warns, an
in arrogance,” and the fourth—“whose teeth are attitude of arrogance precedes this destruction.
like swords / And his jaw teeth like knives”—is so The believer’s grenade pin consists of the realm of
filled with power lust that even the weak and sins formed from arrogance: jealousy, bitterness,
helpless are not spared. By the fourth generation, vindictiveness, hatred, implacability, self-pity,
idolatry in its many forms is ingrained in motivational and functional revenge, inordinate
the culture. Rebellion and revolution prevail, ambition and competition. By succumbing to sin
particularly among the youth. When negative nature temptation and engaging in arrogance
volition runs so rampant as to threaten God’s plan sins, he pulls the pin and shatters his spiritual
for human history, He “will by no means leave life, along with his temporal fellowship with God.
the guilty unpunished” (Ex. 34:7). After a period Biography of the fragmented life. The last half of
of sufficient warning, God finally administers Ephesians 4 reads like a biography of the frag-
severe, collective discipline to the family, group, mented believer. In Ephesians 4:14, Paul first
or nation. The evil trends are thus diminished designates his flawed subject as nepios, meaning
or eliminated so that the next generation can childish in thinking, and then uses an additional
start anew. This divine policy punishes the guilty metaphor to describe what occurs when this
while guaranteeing future opportunity to those type of believer pulls the pin of the grenade: the
who are faithful to God’s plan. Greek verb kludonizomai, commonly used for
At any point in time and in any generation, ancient ships on stormy seas, depicts the believ-
the curse may be broken by positive volition er as “tossed here and there by waves.” Lacking
toward the Gospel and the spiritual life (Ex.
doctrine in the soul, he is mentally agitated
20:6; Deut. 7:9; Ps. 100:5). A biblical example is
and disturbed by the problems and adversities
the spiritual recovery of the second generation
of life. Once he pulls the pin, he is “driven out
of Jews in the Exodus. By responding to Moses’
of control by every wind of false teaching . . .
teaching, they broke the curse that had already
by cunning deception” (verse 14b, corrected
prevented their fathers from entering the
translation), and is characterized by sins
Land. Another example of an eleventh-hour
including anger, adultery and promiscuity, and
recovery is the Assyrian Empire’s response to
criminality (verses 19, 26, 28).
Jonah’s message (Jonah 3:10). Training young
“The futility [vacuum, emptiness] of their
people, the next generation that will determine
mind” (verse 17) adds an additional facet to the
the trend’s direction, is the key to avoiding
fragmentation picture. The empty soul, devoid
catastrophic curse. By following the biblical com-
of doctrine, has no defense against sin nature
mand to “teach them [doctrinal principles] to
temptation. Once volition succumbs to this
your sons” in the home (Deut. 6:6–13; 11:18–21),
outer pressure, the spiritual life implodes, or
parents exert a positive influence and become a
collapses inward—much like a light bulb that
source of blessing to the upcoming generation.
implodes upon contact with cold water. After im-
See also client nation to god; cycles of disci­ plosion comes an immediate explosion: just as
pline; historical trends.
For further reference, Christian Suffering. the bulb’s fractured glass scatters, the believer’s
Lessons 102:59; 412:198–200, 1212–14; 376:1022–24. life shatters outward in destructive fragments.
 105 fruit of the Spirit

This spiritual breakdown explains everything While the believer should be ever grateful
sinful, hypocritical, and degenerate in the born- for the privilege of human freedom, that type
again Christian, everything that makes one dys- of freedom is not required to execute the plan
functional in romance, professional life, and of God. Whether the Christian lives under a
friendship. Fragmentation explains why Chris- government of liberty or tyranny, he has the
tians gossip, judge, seek revenge, and persecute; option to partake of the much higher privilege of
why they fornicate, become psychotic, commit spiritual freedom. The Jews in our Lord’s day, for
suicide. It explains why those who are in Christ example, were under the civil tyranny of the Julio-
steal, rape, murder, or become chemically Claudian emperors and the religious tyranny
addicted; why they rise up in civil disobedience of the Pharisees, yet Jesus promised them, “You
or violent anarchy. Though a Christian can never shall know the truth, and the truth shall make
lose his eternal salvation, pulling the pin of the you free” (John 8:32).
grenade is all it takes for him to detonate his Spiritual freedom begins at salvation, when
spiritual life and become indistinguishable from faith in Christ frees the believer from the
even the most evil unbeliever. penalty of sin and spiritual death. Thereafter,
See also degeneracy; emotion; reversionism; sin believers are set free from their circumstantial
nature. environment through the power of God the Holy
For further reference, Reversionism. Spirit, for “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is
Lessons 412:882–948.
liberty” (2 Cor. 3:17). Inside the sphere of divine
power, they are free to learn and think the truth
frame of reference
of the Word, advance to maturity, and glorify
See stream of consciousness.
God on earth [see divine dynasphere]. This is
the heritage and opportunity granted equally to
frantic search for happiness every Christian. And by exercising such privilege,
See happiness; reversionism. the individual believer lives in the confidence
and protection of divine grace and has lasting
freedom The absence of arbitrary control by impact on other people, his nation, and history.
an outside power and the ensuing liberty to Human freedom is indeed purchased in battle
function under individual volition. There are with human blood and sacrifice, but spiritual
two categories of freedom in human history: freedom is paid for with the blood and sacrifice
human freedom (also called temporal or political of Jesus Christ—His substitutionary spiritual
freedom) and spiritual freedom. death. It was for spiritual freedom that Christ
Human freedom is designed for the entire went to the cross. Having thus been set free, be-
human race and is based on the sacredness lievers are not to be entangled again in a “yoke
of privacy, property, self-determination, and of slavery” (Gal. 5:1), bound by sin and erroneous
life. Human freedom is the individual right to thinking, but are to walk in liberty, regardless
pursue happiness and prosperity, to choose of circumstances, by seeking His doctrines (Ps.
one’s path and pursue opportunities, to lawfully
119:45).
acquire and possess property, to reside safely
See also authority; divine establishment; sepa­
and lawfully without outside interference, ration of church and state.
and to form and express beliefs and opinions, Lessons 728:3–8; 412:287.
all apart from coercion, exploitation, or persecu-
tion. Human freedom is protected under the free will
laws of divine establishment, and its durability See volition.
depends upon the morality, responsibility, and
authority orientation of its recipients, whether fruit of the Spirit Terminology used in Gala-
believer or unbeliever. Within the nation, the tians 5:22 to indicate the manifestations of the
rule of law and a strong military are integral to Holy Spirit’s work within the believer, specif-
freedom’s survival. ically “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, good-
fruit of the Spirit 106

ness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Gal.

5:22b–23a).
The word “fruit” is a translation of the Greek
karpos, which is more accurately translated
“profit, gain, or advantage.” The fruit of the Spirit,
therefore, refers to spiritual advantages and
benefits gained from the Holy Spirit’s ministry
in the Christian life. When the believer is filled
with the Spirit, he is free from control of the sin
nature. The Holy Spirit energizes his spiritual
life by illuminating the truths of God’s Word and
supplying divine strength in place of human
weakness (John 14:26; 16:13; Gal. 5:16). The Holy
Spirit’s influence—unseen, unfelt, yet very real—
transforms the believer’s mental attitude and
lifestyle. Developing a Christ-like character (Gal.
4:19b), the believer produces the fruit of the
Spirit: “love [virtue love toward God and man],
joy [sharing the happiness of God], peace [pros-
perity and inner tranquillity], patience [steadfast-
ness, longsuffering, forbearance toward others],
kindness [graciousness, generosity], goodness
[integrity and uprightness], faithfulness [doc-
trinal confidence], gentleness [humility, grace-
orientation], self-control [self-discipline].”
Manifestations of these fruits increase with
spiritual advance. In the immature Christian, the
Spirit has little doctrine to use as raw material for
producing the fruit of the Spirit. As the believer
matures, the Spirit uses the resident “mind of
Christ” to reproduce the very virtues that Christ
demonstrated in His humanity (1 Cor. 2:16; 2 Cor.
3:3, 18).
See also divine good; God the Holy Spirit.

full knowledge
See epignosis.

functional virtue
See virtue.
 Gg
GAP giving, though easily crossed, is fixed and ab-
See grace apparatus for perception. solute. Legitimate Christian giving includes no
false motivation—no approbation lust, coercion,
garbage in the subconscious manipulation, guilt, or desire for divine blessing.
See subconscious. One cannot expect favors or preferential treat-
ment in return for generosity, for this is legalism.
giving The believer’s voluntary contribution of In order to serve and glorify God, the overt act
money or other resources as a way of worshiping of giving must be performed under the filling
God and commemorating His grace. of the Holy Spirit and with the correct doctrinal
Giving is a freewill, private expression of motivation. The believer who gives in grace,
the believer’s gratitude for all that God has “not grudgingly, or of necessity,” indeed reaps a
accomplished on his behalf (Lev. 1:3; Prov. 11:24– bountiful harvest of blessing for time and eternity,
25; 2 Cor. 8:3; 9:7). In recognition of God’s grace, “for God loveth a cheerful [well-motivated] giver”
the believer gives on the basis of his own mental (2 Cor. 9:6–7, kjv; cf. Prov. 3:9–10; 11:24–25).
attitude—from the spiritual wealth of Bible See also Christian service; tithing.
doctrine in his soul. This spiritual motivation For further reference, Giving: Gimmick or Grace?;
brings true value to giving (2 Cor. 8:5, 7). Mental Attitude Dynamics.
When the grace-oriented believer gives, any Lessons 658:1–14; 412:1020.
offering of any amount is valuable for God’s use.
Paul’s letter to the church in Corinth affirms, “if glorification of God (a) Recognition and
the readiness [proper soul motivation] is present, demonstration of God’s glory—His perfect char-
it [the gift] is acceptable according to what a acter and praiseworthiness; (b) the objective of
person has, not according to what he does not the Christian life, achieved by fulfilling God’s
have” (2 Cor. 8:12). Whether plentiful or meager, plan and receiving special blessings in time and
God’s provision for giving is always sufficient to eternity.
accomplish His purpose (2 Cor. 9:8–10). Even the Worthy of praise and glorification. God has
most destitute believer can commemorate God’s always existed in perfect glory; everything
grace with only the invisible resources in his soul. He does reflects His glory and results in His
Beyond an individual expression of gratitude, glorification (Prov. 16:4; Rom. 11:36; Heb. 2:10;
giving helps to sustain and coordinate fellow Rev. 4:11). God recognizes His own glory, for He
members of the Body of Christ. The congrega- alone can claim inviolable integrity, supreme
tion whose pastor faithfully teaches God’s Word power and knowledge, and infinite existence.
expresses its gratitude by providing him with When Scripture proclaims, “Blessed [eulogetos] be
material support (Phil. 1:3, 5). Outside the local the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,” the
church, Christian giving furthers the plan of adjective eulogetos indicates that God, simply by
God by supporting evangelists and mission- virtue of His absolute being, is worthy of praise
aries, seminaries, Christian service organizations, and glorification (Eph. 1:3; 1 Pet. 1:3). Though He
radio or other media ministries, and family and does not need our praise to be happy—because
friends in need. divine happiness is constant, unchangeable, and
The line between grace giving and gimmick never-ending—God has graciously provided us
glorification of God 108

with the means to please Him and glorify Him vealed in the flesh” (1 Tim. 3:16) and called “Jesus”
from our free will. (Matt. 1:25), God the Son was revealed as the God
The believer’s privilege and objective. Our first of Israel. He guided and governed the Jews by
step to glorifying God is the single decision to appearing to them in various forms, including
accept Christ for salvation. Then, as we choose phenomena of nature (e.g., burning bush, pillars
to learn God’s Word, obey divine mandates, and of fire and cloud), the angel of the Lord, and the
utilize His marvelous grace assets, we glorify God dwelling glory inside the Holy of Holies (Ex. 13:21;
by what He accomplishes within us. To glorify 14:19; 23:20–23; 25:8, 22; Num. 20:16; Isa. 37:16).
God is to realize the happiness and blessings He personally ruled the theocratic kingdom of
that result from executing His perfect plan (Rom. Israel, defining policy through the Mosaic Law
12:2). We contribute nothing to the plan of grace and promising that “I will also walk among you
except our positive volition. We are vessels of His and be your God, and you shall be My people”
grace; God is glorified in blessing us totally apart (Lev. 26:12; Deut. 4:5–9). Old Testament rituals
from human merit (Rom. 9:23). The exalted goal and offerings foreshadowed His future work on
of maximum glorification of God is attained by the the cross, as they illustrated His role as Messiah,
believer who reaches spiritual maturity, at which Savior, and Redeemer (Lev. 1:2–5; Heb. 10:1; 1 Pet.
point God begins to convey special blessings as 1:18–19). Jewish believers received salvation by
a sign of His pleasure (Eph. 1:18; Heb. 10:35–36). expressing faith in His saving work.
And in eternity, God’s glory will be manifest
through the conveyance of even greater blessings GOD OF ISRAEL – OTHER TITLES
to the mature believer in resurrection body.
See also escrow blessings; grace; high ground; In the context of Israel, Scripture also refers to the Lord
indwelling of the Trinity; spiritual adulthood. as “God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob” (Acts 3:13; cf. Ex.
For further reference, Christian Suffering; The Integrity 3:15–16; 1 Chron. 29:18), “God of Jacob” (2 Sam. 23:1; Ps.
of God.
46:7; 146:5; Isa. 2:3), “Lord of hosts [the armies]” (1 Sam.
Lessons 412:9, 26, 84.
17:45; Jer. 51:5a), “Holy One of Israel” (Ps. 89:18; Isa. 12:6;
30:15; Jer. 51:5b), and “King of glory” (Ps. 24:7–10).
gnosis Greek noun used in Scripture to indicate
academic knowledge of spiritual truth (Eph. 3:19;
1 Tim. 6:20). Gnosis resides in the left lobe of the
Israel’s praise to the Lord. Jews since the Exodus
believer’s soul as doctrine comprehended on
regularly recite the words “Shama Yisrael! Adonai
an intellectual level. This academic knowledge
Elohenu, Adonai echad!” correctly translated as
alone is without spiritual benefit (1 Cor. 8:1–2).
“Hear, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord is
To be applicable and effective in the spiritual
unique!” (Deut. 6:4). This Hebrew praise identifies
life, gnosis doctrine must be believed by faith and
Jesus Christ as the God of Israel. Only the Lord
transferred to the right lobe of the soul, where
Jesus Christ is “unique,” one of a kind, because
it becomes epignosis doctrine, or full knowledge.
Christ is the only member of the Godhead in
See Operation Z.
hypostatic union—undiminished deity and true
See also epignosis; hearer vs. doer of the Word; humanity in one person forever. The Lord God of
left lobe of the soul; spiritual metabolism.
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Daniel Israel became true humanity at the First Advent
Chapters One through Six. in order to fulfill the Old Testament prophecies
and receive the judgment for the sins of the
God of Israel Title for God the Son, the second world (Luke 1:68; Rom. 1:2–6; Phil. 2:6–8). He con-
person of the Trinity, as divine creator and ruler tinues forever as the God of Israel in hypostatic
of the Jewish nation and people. Known today as union. At the Second Advent, He will fulfill all
Jesus Christ, the God of Israel was identified by remaining covenants to the Jews and commence
Old Testament Jews as Adonai Elohim, the Lord His eternal reign as David’s greater Son (2 Sam.
God, as well as many other titles. 7:12b, 13b; Isa. 11:11–12; Zech. 14:9; Heb. 1:8).
In Old Testament history, before He was “re- See also adonai; ritual plan of God; Shekinah Glory.
 109 God the Holy Spirit

For further reference, The Divine Outline of History; tually dead person—still utterly helpless to bring
Levitical Offerings. life to himself. So in grace, the Spirit provides
Lessons 412:316, 952–53.
the power necessary to make that human faith
effective (Rom. 1:16; Eph. 2:8–9). Without this
God the Father
ministry of the Spirit, the unbeliever’s faith could
See Trinity.
never produce the intended result of salvation.
As soon as the Holy Spirit makes the unbe-
God the Holy Spirit The third person of the liever’s faith effective for salvation, the Spirit’s
Trinity, whose function is to reveal the divine plan
ministry of regeneration creates in him a human
and convey divine power as it applies to mankind.
spirit for the imputation of God’s own eternal life.
As the divine inspiration behind the recorded
(The believer becomes trichotomous—body, soul,
Word of God, the Spirit Himself reveals His
and human spirit.) The “washing of regeneration”
various functions toward humanity. Some of His
(Titus 3:5) is also defined by the terms rebirth,
ministries are for the benefit of every individual
new birth, second birth, and born again (John
across human history, while some apply to
3:1–18). See regeneration.
certain people in certain dispensations.
ministRy of enduement
ministRies foR pRoteCting mankind
Prior to the Church Age, the Holy Spirit
After the ruin and judgment of the original
endowed, or endued, certain believers with
earth, the Spirit’s ministry of restoration renewed
divine power necessary to fulfill an extraordinary
the planet for man’s habitation (Gen. 1:2; Job
mission in the plan of God. This ministry was
26:13; Ps. 104:30). His restraining ministry against
limited to a few and could be removed as a means
sin and evil allows for stability and perpetuation
of discipline. The first endued person recorded
of man while the divine plan plays out (2 Thess.
in Scripture is Joseph (Gen. 41:38–39). See
2:6–7). The Spirit’s restraining force, however, will
enduement.
be removed during the Tribulation, when Satan’s
strategy is fully unleashed on earth (Dan. 7:21, 25; ministRy to the humanity of ChRist
Rev. 13:1–8, 11–15; 17). The Holy Spirit was the agent of conception
in the virgin birth (Matt. 1:18–20; Luke 1:34–35).
ministRies at gospel heaRing
And as prophesied in Isaiah 11:2 and 42:1, the
Throughout all of human history, the Holy Spir-
Spirit was put upon Jesus Christ to sustain His
it’s ministry of common grace makes the message
humanity in the devil’s kingdom. Jesus Christ
of salvation understandable to any unbeliever
was indwelt and filled with the power of the Holy
willing to listen (1 Cor. 2:13–14). The omnipotent
Spirit at every moment (Luke 4:1). Supported by
Spirit illuminates the Gospel so that the listener,
these divine resources, Jesus taught the truths
spiritually dead and incapable of understanding
of God’s plan (John 3:34), performed miraculous
spiritual truth, can make a decision for or against
signs that demonstrated His identity (Matt.
Christ. This is also called the Spirit’s convicting
12:28), and carried out the operations of His
ministry, because His function in common grace
earthly ministry (Luke 4:14). The omnipotence
is to convict, or convince, the unbeliever. As
of the Holy Spirit sustained the Lord through the
stated in John 16:8–11, “He [Holy Spirit] . . . will
substitutionary judgment on the cross (Heb. 9:14)
convict the world [unbelievers] concerning” the
and then provided the power that raised Him
“sin” of rejecting Christ, concerning the perfect
from the dead (Rom. 8:11a; 1 Pet. 3:18). See also
“righteousness” of Christ accepted by the Father
prototype spiritual life; virgin pregnancy
in heaven, and concerning the eternal “judgment”
and birth.
that the rejecter of Christ shares with Satan. See
also human spirit; spiritual phenomena. ministRies to ChuRCh age believeRs
The Spirit’s ministry of efficacious grace makes Believers in the Church Age, at the moment
the faith of the unbeliever effective for eternal of salvation, enter into the royal family of the
salvation. When the unbeliever hears the Gospel glorified King of kings (Gal. 3:26). The Holy
and accepts Christ, he exhibits the faith of a spiri- Spirit provides for them more ministries than for
God the Holy Spirit 110

believers of any other dispensation. God the Son

Through the Holy Spirit’s ministry of baptism, See Christology; Trinity.
the believer is eternally identified and united
with Christ, which means the believer shares God-consciousness Describes the state of an
in Christ’s eternal destiny and inheritance. See individual who is able to recognize the existence
baptism (real). of a Supreme Being and is therefore responsible
The sealing ministry of the Spirit is a signature for his choice toward a personal relationship
guarantee from God, ensuring eternal security, with God.
authenticating the believer’s status as spiritual God makes Himself known to the entire human
royalty, and ratifying the promise of future bless- race (Rom. 1:19–20). By comprehending facts and
ings (Eph. 1:13; 4:30). As a mark of ownership, drawing a conclusion, human beings can come
the seal declares the Church Age believer’s to the knowledge that God exists. There are many
permanent union with Christ (2 Cor. 1:21–22). approaches whereby the human mind moves
See also position in Christ. beyond the material to consider the infinite: The
The Spirit’s ministry of spiritual gifts distributes fact that humans can even conceive of a Deity
at least one gift to each believer within the brings some people to God-consciousness. For
Church. This special ability, bestowed at salva- others, our moral nature points to a Supreme
tion, determines the particular manner in which Being who sets the standards for right and wrong,
the royal ambassador for Christ functions on the perfectly ordered physical universe indicates
earth to fulfill God’s plan (1 Cor. 12:4, 11). See the need for a Designer, or the logic that the
spiritual gifts. universe cannot be its own cause leads to belief
The indwelling ministry of the Spirit provides a in a Creator. Children may simply hear about God
temple for the indwelling of Christ. The Spirit’s in their periphery, glance up at the sky, and think,
indwelling also makes it possible for the believer “God is up there somewhere. I wonder what He is
to utilize enabling divine power to execute the doing now. Does He know I am down here?”
spiritual life (1 Cor. 6:19–20). See indwelling of Once a person, at any age, can recognize God’s
the Trinity (Holy Spirit). existence, he is accountable for his decision for
The filling ministry of the Spirit is the source or against a relationship with God [see age of
of spirituality and fellowship with God. Through accountability]. Aware of a Supreme Being but
the filling ministry, the Spirit empowers, mentors, ignorant of God’s nature and plan, that person
and teaches the believer so that he can grow faces a choice: does he or does he not desire
spiritually and glorify Christ (John 7:39; 14:26; further knowledge? If his volition is positive
16:12–14; 1 Cor. 2:12–13; 2 Cor. 3:3; Eph. 5:18; toward a relationship with God, then God will
2 Pet. 1:3–4). See filling of the Holy Spirit; provide the news of Jesus Christ and His saving
mentorship of the Holy Spirit; Operation z; work, regardless of geographical isolation or lin-
parakletos; spirituality. guistic barrier. If his volition is negative—having
ministRies to millennial believeRs no desire for further information—then God is
Throughout the Millennium, the postsalvation not obliged to provide the Gospel. Should the
life will include the indwelling and filling minis­ unbeliever’s desire for truth occur at a later time,
tries of the Holy Spirit (Isa. 29:19; 32:15; 44:3; the Gospel message will then be made available.
Ezek. 36:27; 37:14; 39:29; Zech 12:10). However, God desires that all mankind be saved, and in
unlike the invisible filling ministry during the His perfect righteousness, love, and fairness, He
Church Age, the millennial filling of the Spirit provides everything necessary for that salvation
will elicit prophecy, dreams, and visions—ecstatic (1 Tim. 2:3–4; 2 Pet. 3:9). Anyone who wants to
experiences designed to praise and glorify Christ’s know Him will receive the Gospel (Jer. 29:13;
reign on earth (Joel 2:28–29). See also ecstatics; John 7:17; Acts 17:27). Those who for one reason
Millennium. or another do not arrive at God-consciousness are
For further reference, God the Holy Spirit vs. The Sin automatically saved, because they lack the ability
Nature; The Integrity of God; The Trinity. to make a responsible decision. Some examples
 111 Gog and Magog Revolution

include babies, young children, or the mentally phrase kata Theon lupe to describe a particular
handicapped. All others are left “without excuse” kind of mental anguish. English translators have
for rejecting the saving work of God (Rom. 1:20). rendered this phrase “godly sorrow,” a translation
See also heathenism; salvation. not only inaccurate but misleading. First, Theon
For further reference, Heathenism; Witnessing. is a proper name for God and should not be
Lessons 458:23–24; 376:185–88. translated as “godly,” an adjective. Second, lupe—
which means sorrow, grief, mental anguish—
God-man is specifically used in this passage to describe
See Christology; hypostatic union. pain or divine discipline that moves the carnal
believer to recovery. The correct translation
godliness [Gk. eusebeia] Used in the New of kata Theon lupe, therefore, is “sorrow as God
Testament (specifically, 2 Peter and the pastoral would have it,” or “sorrow as God intended.”
epistles) to refer to the function of the unique God wants carnal believers to evaluate them-
spiritual life of the Church Age believer. Syno- selves objectively. We learn from Paul’s epistle
nym: experiential righteousness. that it was God’s intention for the Corinthians to
Not a superficial piety, godliness is the virtuous feel the sting of divine discipline, not to evoke a
manner of life that results from devotion to
passionate apology but to motivate the decision to
God—the lifestyle of the Christian growing in
rebound—acknowledge their failures and sins to
grace, relying upon divine power, applying
the Father—so that they may recover fellowship
divine viewpoint to circumstances, and thereby
with Him. Paul rejoiced because the distress of
fulfilling God’s will and plan (2 Tim. 3:5; Titus 1:1;
his congregation brought them “to the point of
2 Pet. 1:3; 3:11). In the First Advent, Jesus Christ
repentance,” to the change of thinking that led to
set the precedent for godliness by fully executing
the divine solution (2 Cor. 7:9).
this spiritual life and proving its sufficiency
The mistranslation “godly sorrow,” with
(1 Tim. 3:16).
its overtones of deeply felt remorse and self-
Similar to theosebeia, which means reverence
reproach, introduces emotional gimmicks into
and respect for God, eusebeia also connotes duty
God’s simple rebound procedure. Naming sins to
toward God. Even as divine power provides
God the Father is all that is required to recover
“everything pertaining to life and godliness,”
fellowship and be forgiven and cleansed from all
the execution of the spiritual life demands
wrongdoing (1 John 1:9). Grief and sorrow may
perseverance, self-discipline, and the consistent
occur as legitimate reactions to sin, but these
application of Bible doctrine (2 Pet. 1:3, 6–7).
emotional activities are in no way necessary for
Accordingly, the Apostle Paul exhorts the
forgiveness. God’s provision, not human emotion,
Church Age believer to “discipline yourself for
restores the believer to fellowship. Christians
the purpose of godliness” (1 Tim. 4:7b). From
who believe that their “godly sorrow” contributes
making the “knowledge of the truth” (Titus 1:1)
to divine forgiveness are inserting human works
top priority in life comes the great profitability,
both temporal and eternal, of true godliness: into God’s perfect plan of grace.
capacity for life, love, and happiness; dying grace; See also rebound; repentance; spirituality.
For further reference, Rebound Revisited.
and the surpassing grace of eternal rewards (Ps.
Lessons 376:465–89.
116:15; Eph. 2:7; 1 Tim. 4:8; 6:6).
See also righteousness (in the believer); sancti- Gog and Magog Revolution Designation for
fication (experiential).
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History; Re- the final conspiracy of human history, Satan’s
versionism. revolt against the millennial rule of Jesus Christ
(Rev. 20:8).
godly sorrow An erroneous expression that Word origin. The first pairing of the words Gog
has given rise to false principles about recovery and Magog occurs in Ezekiel 38, a prophetic
from carnality. passage identifying the king of the north and his
In 2 Corinthians 7:9–11, Paul uses the Greek army during the Tribulation. Here the pattern of
Gog and Magog Revolution 112

the phrase is established: “Gog” refers to the king, molish the revolutionary forces as He personally
the leader of the empire, while “Magog” describes and single-handedly administers judgment on the
the multitudes of people under his leadership. last revolt of human history (Rev. 20:9).
These anti-Semitic, anti-Christ forces will invade See also Millennium; Satan.
tribulational Israel only to be annihilated when Lessons 457:142, 667–69.
Jesus Christ returns to inaugurate His millennial
kingdom (Ezek. 38:18—39:6). good
The next pairing of Gog and Magog appears in See divine good; human good.
Revelation 20:8, the passage describing the final
anti-Christ conspiracy prophesied for the end of good and evil The policy through which Satan
the Millennium. As in Ezekiel, the two words fit rules the earth and strives to hinder man’s
a pattern. In this case, “Gog” is the code name relationship with God. Not until Adam sinned in
for Satan as the archenemy and leader of the the Garden did this policy enter the world (Gen.
millennial revolt, while “Magog” designates the 2:16–17; 3:4–6).
multitudes who come from all races and nations Coupling the term good with evil reveals the
to form Satan’s revolutionary force (Rev. 20:7–9). link between Satan’s brand of good—human good,
Millennial insurgence. The millennial reign of dead works—and the evil that defines him. Like
Christ will begin with the removal of Satan and a revolutionist talking out of both sides of his
fallen angels from the earth (Rev. 20:1–3). For mouth, the devil idealizes human goodness and
one thousand years, under the Lord’s perfect prosperity while pushing an agenda that stifles
rulership, there will be unfettered evangelism, truth, justice, and freedom. Satan’s policy of
dynamic spiritual life, prosperity, justice, safety, good and evil, for example, tries to convince man
and peace throughout the earth (Isa. 2:4a; 9:6b–7; that his own works will make him acceptable to
Heb. 1:8b). Such an environment, however, does God, when in fact these righteous deeds are as
not guarantee contentment or happiness. Man “filthy rags,” worthless before God (Isa. 64:6, kjv).
will still have a sin nature. Many of the people When man attempts to gain salvation, merit
born during the Millennium will reject Christ divine favor, or improve his environment by his
as Savior and, despite the pristine conditions, flawed ability and humanistic pursuits, he lays
nurture evil in their souls. They will be waiting the foundation for his own evil production.
for a leader around whom they can rally to See also cosmos diabolicus; evil; human good;
tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
express their negative volition.
For further reference, The Integrity of God; Reversionism.
At the close of the Millennium, Satan will be Lessons 527:20–28; 361:34; 412:1080.
released from incarceration (Rev. 20:7). This
ancient enemy of God will return to earth good of intrinsic value (a) Expressed in
implacable, unreformed, and desperate for Scripture as agathos, indicates the good of abso-
retaliation. With violence as his chief strategy, lute, unchanging, eternal value that derives from
he will plot to overthrow the rule of Christ, and God, fulfills the plan of God, and glorifies Him in
millions of malcontents will quickly be persuaded time and eternity; (b) synonym for divine good,
to join his conspiracy. “The number of them is used to distinguish the absolute good generated
like the sand of the seashore” describes what through God’s power from the relative good
seems an overwhelming advantage for the “Magog” generated through human power.
army (Rev. 20:8b), gathered to wage war against a In Scripture agathos is often translated by
kingdom where no military establishment exists the single word “good,” but this Greek word
(Ps. 46:9; Isa. 2:4; Hosea 2:18; Micah 4:3). But one specifically refers to “good of intrinsic value.” An
thousand years of imprisonment will have taught item with intrinsic value is valuable because of
Satan nothing. Gog and Magog will surround its inherent qualities. The earthly value of gold,
Jerusalem to discover that creature power is for example, is intrinsic—a gold coin holds the
inconsequential against the power of the Creator. same worth whether stored in a vault or carried
With swift heavenly firepower, the Lord will de- in the hand. For “good” to be intrinsically valu-
 113 Gospel

able, it must derive from that which is absolute. In story”). The Gospel is the good news of eternal
this sense, good of intrinsic value always relates life through Jesus Christ, the best news humanity
to God—whose perfect character is absolute could receive.
righteousness and goodness (Ps. 25:8; Luke 18:19). Boundaries of the Gospel. First Corinthians
Furthermore, “every agathos thing given . . . is 15:3–4 defines the boundaries of the Gospel, be-
from above,” because God always gives on the ginning with the work of Christ and ending with
basis of His character (James 1:17). His resurrection. The good news is that “Christ
Agathos is used throughout the New Testament died for our sins [He was condemned in our
in a variety of contexts. In Romans 8:28, for place] . . . and that He was buried, and that He was
example, the statement “God causes all things to raised on the third day.” As our substitutionary
work together for agathos to those who love God” sacrifice, Christ died spiritually; His humanity
expresses the perfect quality of God’s all-sufficient also died physically and hence was buried. His
plan for believers. Ephesians 4:29 uses agathos resurrection validated His victory over sin and
to distinguish true from false doctrine: “Do not death and secured the eternal glorification of
permit any unsound [sapros, unusable, worthless] His humanity at the right hand of the Father.
doctrine to go out of your mouth, but whatever is Any Gospel message that strays from the cross or
agathos for the purpose of edification” (corrected denies Jesus Christ’s resurrection from physical
translation). That is to say, only God’s Word—His death is inaccurate and out of bounds.
eternal, unchanging truth—is good of intrinsic To proclaim the good news in evangelism is
value that edifies the soul. to proclaim the solution to sin and the way of
Agathos is also used with the noun ergon to salvation. Any person can have a relationship
describe what the believer produces by use of with God, not through human works but through
his God-given spiritual assets. Appearing in the the free gift provided by Christ’s work on the
English text as “good works” or “good deeds,” the cross (Rom. 6:23; Eph. 2:8–9). First and foremost,
expression is more accurately translated “good- unbelievers need to know that Christ took their
of-intrinsic-value achievements.” Ephesians 2:10 place and paid their debt in full. Those who
specifically states that Church Age believers express faith in Jesus Christ as Savior can then
have been “created in Christ Jesus for agathos understand that His resurrection guarantees
ergon.” Unlike good deeds generated through their own eternal life with Him (1 John 5:11–12).
man’s own efforts, these are intrinsically valuable Revelation of the Gospel. The Gospel has always
achievements because they derive from God, been available, so that in every generation those
from His enabling power and grace support, and who are positive are saved through faith. The
they serve His sovereign purpose (2 Cor. 9:8). pattern is Abraham, to whom God “preached the
Such good achievement satisfies the believer’s gospel beforehand” (Gal. 3:8), “then he [Abraham]
singular purpose in living the spiritual life—to believed in the Lord; and He reckoned it to him
glorify God (1 Cor. 6:20; Col. 1:9–10; Heb. 13:21). as righteousness” (Gen. 15:6; cf. Rom. 4:3, 9, 13;
See also divine good; human good. Gal. 3:6, 9). In Old Testament times, the fact
that the Savior would be judged for the sins of
Gospel (a) The message of the saving work and the world was represented by animal sacrifices.
victory of Jesus Christ on behalf of fallen man; Also, messages of the Old Testament prophets
(b) the name also given to the first four books taught the substitutionary death of Christ and
of the New Testament, all of which reveal the the salvation of man through Him (1 Pet. 1:10–12).
earthly life, ministry, saving work, and glorifi- Isaiah, for example, prophetically revealed that
cation of the incarnate Son of God. “He was pierced by means of our transgressions
Word origin. The Greek noun euaggelion, from . . . crushed by means of our iniquities . . . And by
eu (good) and aggelos (messenger), means “good His wounds we are healed” (Isa. 53:5, corrected
news.” It is translated in the New Testament translation). This is the same message that Paul
modern English as “gospel,” a word that finds its preached when he said, “while we were yet
origin in the Old English gód spel (literally, “good sinners, Christ died [as a substitute] for us” (Rom.
Gospel 114

5:8). Prior to the Incarnation, people believed in personal sin. One example is the gospel of social
the Savior as He was revealed and were saved the improvement, a manifestation of self-righteous
same way we are. In this age of the completed arrogance that seeks to whitewash the devil’s
Canon, we now have in writing everything world with ‘brotherly love’ and ‘social justice.’
necessary to understand the entire realm of the Another example is the claim that the unbeliever
Gospel: must believe in Christ and also, by his own efforts,
There is salvation in no one other than Jesus Christ: make Him Lord. These false doctrines appeal to
John 14:6; Acts 4:12; 1 Tim. 2:5. man’s pride and promote legalism, emotionalism,
For believers in Christ, death is abolished for all and idolatry in place of faith alone in Christ alone.
time and replaced with resurrection and eternal life: Paul makes it clear that if anyone should preach
Isa. 25:8; Rom. 6:9, 23; 8:38–39; 1 Cor. 15:21, 54– a false gospel, “he is to be accursed!” (Gal. 1:8–9).
55; 2 Tim. 1:10. Descriptions of the Gospel. Throughout the New
Christ died for the sins of the entire world, and Testament are various English words used with
salvation is for anyone who believes in Him: John “gospel [euggelion].” The content of the gospel
3:16; 5:24; 11:25–26; Rom. 1:16; 3:22; 1 John 2:2. never changes, but these descriptions emphasize
The grace and power of God, not the power or particular doctrines related to Christ and His
works of man, provide eternal salvation to everyone saving work.
who accepts Christ as Savior: Matt. 19:16–26; Acts The term “gospel of Christ” (Rom. 15:19)
16:31; Rom. 1:16b; Eph. 2:8–9; Titus 3:5. emphasizes the fact that the Gospel refers to one
All who believe in Christ are given the free gift of person only, our Lord Jesus Christ. “Glorious
God’s own righteousness and have peace with Him gospel of the blessed God” (1 Tim. 1:11) points to
forever: Rom. 3:22, 24; 5:1; Phil. 3:9. the essence of God as the source of our good news.
Believing in Christ means guaranteed eternal secu- “Gospel of peace” (Eph. 6:15) emphasizes the
rity, because believers receive God’s own eternal life doctrine of reconciliation, whereby Jesus Christ
at salvation: John 10:28; 20:30–31; 1 John 5:11–12. removed the barrier between God and man, and
For the person who rejects Christ as Savior, there is “eternal gospel” (Rev. 14:6) emphasizes the Gospel
not salvation but eternal condemnation: Matt. 25:41; as the only information by which we can possess
John 3:18–19, 36b; Rev. 20:10–15. eternal life. “Gospel of the kingdom” (Matt.
Power of the Gospel. The Gospel has never 24:14) highlights the fact that the unconditional
failed, not even once, to save those who hear and covenants to Israel are fulfilled only to those
receive it, for the Gospel is “the power of God for Jews who personally believe in Jesus Christ. “My
salvation to everyone who believes” (Rom. 1:16). gospel” (2 Tim. 2:8) and “our gospel” (2 Cor. 4:3–4)
Pastors, evangelists, and individual believers emphasize the fact that every believer possesses
are messengers of the good news, but the the Gospel. Because the good news belongs to
power for making the content understandable us, we have a personal responsibility not only
to the unbeliever, as well as making it effective to understand the message but to present it to
for salvation to the one who believes, is in the others in witnessing for Christ.
ministry of the Holy Spirit (John 16:7–11; 1 Pet. Gospel books. The first four books of the New
1:12; cf. 1:5). Only God’s Word and the Holy Spirit Testament, written by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and
have the power to reach the unbeliever. John, present the good news in four portraits of
False Gospel. Galatians 1 warns of those who the Lord’s incarnation. In this sense the writers
“distort the gospel of Christ” with “a different can be categorized as “the four evangelists,”
gospel” (verses 6–7). Inspired by Satan, the ruler inspired by the Holy Spirit to record for the
of the fallen world, they preach a counterfeit gos- world—each from his unique frame of reference
pel that obscures the good news of grace (2 Cor. and literary abilities—Jesus Christ’s life on
4:4). The unbeliever is blinded by a message that earth, His work on the cross, resurrection from
exalts human works to the exclusion of Christ, the dead, and ascension to heaven. The Gospel
or by a message that adds to the work of Christ books together reveal Jesus Christ as the God-
with good deeds, commitments, and the issue of man, the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy.
 115 grace apparatus for perception (GAP)

Individually, Matthew emphasizes Christ as the AXIOMS OF GRACE

King; Mark, as the Servant; Luke, as the Son of
Man; and John, as the Son of God. Certain parts • God is perfect; His plan is perfect.
of the four Gospels are eschatological, revealing • A perfect plan can originate only from a perfect
God.
our Lord’s future return to fulfill the covenants
to Israel and establish His kingdom on earth. • If imperfect man can do anything meritorious,
then God’s plan is no longer perfect. Grace, which
See also evangelism; salvation; witnessing. excludes human merit, protects the perfection
For further reference, God’s Perfect Gift; A Matter of Life of God’s plan.
& Death; Witnessing.
• Like a chain, a plan is no stronger than its weakest
Lessons 458:3–4; 457:511; 412:662–64.
link. Grace excludes human merit, human ability,
and human good. Therefore, the plan of God has
grace (a) All that God is free to do for mankind on no weak links.
the basis of the saving work of Christ on the cross; • Human works cannot accomplish the plan of
(b) the plan and policy of God for bestowing His God. Human virtue always falls short of God’s
unmerited love and favor on sinful humanity. absolute standards.
Antonym: legalism. • Human good, when assumed to be man’s
approach to God, expresses arrogance.
Grace meets human helplessness. In eternity past,
God made a sovereign decision to treat fallen
mankind in grace. The fall of Adam brought
wisdom, and mandates, rather than on his own
death and condemnation to the entire human
works, morality, or flawed understanding. He
race, leaving us utterly helpless to gain God’s
fully utilizes the gifts of living grace (logistical
favor, but God’s plan of grace allows us to have
grace) to advance to special blessings in the spiri-
relationship with Him forever. Under the divine
tual life (supergrace). In God’s timing, the grace-
policy of grace, God does everything for us—we
oriented believer receives a glorious transition
cannot earn, do not deserve, and can never work
from earthly life to eternity (dying grace). And
for anything in His plan. Grace demonstrates the
in heaven, exceeding riches of grace await (sur-
power, virtue, mercy, forbearance, and pardon
passing grace), simply because he has glorified
of God toward undeserving creatures, all for the
God by following the matchless plan of grace.
glory of God and all without compromising His
See also common grace; dying grace; efficacious
perfect essence (Ps. 145:8; Isa. 30:18; Eph. 1:6;
grace; grace apparatus for perception; saving
James 1:17; 4:6; 2 Pet. 3:18). grace; supergrace; surpassing grace.
God’s plan for mankind is centered in and Lessons 212:6; 373:7; 412:800, 1022–25, 1403–14.
“realized through Jesus Christ” (John 1:17). In the
greatest demonstration of grace, the impeccable grace apparatus for perception (GAP) The
Son of God went to the cross in our place divinely designed and empowered provision that
and was judged for the sins of the world. His enables believers to comprehend God’s person
substitutionary sacrifice satisfied the righteous and plan and grow spiritually. Through GAP every
demands of the Father. It is Christ’s perfect believer can learn, understand, retain, and apply
work, not our work, that frees God to bestow His the entire realm of Bible doctrine, regardless of
unmerited favor on sinful humanity (Rom. 3:24; education, intelligence, or any other human factor.
5:15, 17; 8:31–32; Gal. 2:21; 2 Tim. 1:9). Bible doctrine, the thinking and revelation
Categories of divine grace. Toward unbeliev- of God, is spiritual information that must be
ers, God extends His grace by perpetuating life perceived through a grace system, totally apart
and revealing the message of Christ’s saving from human merit and ability. In accordance
work (common grace). For those who make the with His grace policy, God supplies the completed
nonmeritorious decision to accept Christ, God canon of Scripture (Heb. 4:12; 1 Pet. 1:23–25),
grants eternal life and all the blessings of sal- the local church as the classroom (Heb. 10:25),
vation (saving grace) (Rom. 5:21; Eph. 2:8–9). As the pastor-teacher (Eph. 4:11), daily logistical
the faithful believer grows in grace and doctrine, support (Phil. 4:19), and the enabling power of
he learns to depend on God’s power, provision, the Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:25; Eph. 5:17–18). The
grace apparatus for perception (GAP) 116

mechanics of GAP, called “Operation Z,” are God’s and do not lack anything” (Ps. 23:1, expanded
grace provision for transferring spiritual truths translation). The Apostle Paul, humbled by intense
from the written Word to the believer’s soul. See suffering, recognized that “when I am weak, then I
Operation Z. am strong,” as he fully oriented to his helplessness
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Reversionism. in light of God’s all-sufficient grace (2 Cor. 12:7–10).
See also grace; humility; orientation envelope.
grace orientation The mental attitude of the Lessons 376:200–277.
believer who recognizes that everything he is and
will ever be depends solely upon the power and grace pipeline (a) Terminology that illustrates
plan of God. how God blesses the believer in time; (b) the
Saved by grace, the believer lives by grace. From figurative pathway through which the perfect
the realization of this unmerited divine favor integrity of God sends blessing to His own
comes grace orientation—the attitude of total righteousness residing in the believer.
reliance on God, adjustment to His grace policy, For every believer God constructs a grace
and utilization of limitless grace provisions. All pipeline—a channel through which He can pour
power for executing God’s plan comes from grace out blessings and privileges without compromis-
(1 Cor. 15:10; 2 Tim. 2:1; Heb. 13:9), and without ing His perfect character.
it, believers could not survive in the devil’s On one end of the pipeline is
world. Accordingly, Scripture exhorts believers divine love and integrity, the
to “stand firm in it!” (1 Pet. 5:12). “Humble your- source of all blessing. On the
selves in the presence of the Lord” reinforces this other end, the receiving end,
mandate, for there can be no grace orientation is the believer with God’s
without humility (James 4:10). Nor can there be righteousness imputed to
growth in grace without following the tandem him at salvation [see jus-
command to grow in the “knowledge of our Lord” tification].
(2 Pet. 3:18). Because this imputed
Once the believer submits to God’s plan and righteousness, God’s own per-
adapts to grace procedures, he realizes that fection residing in us, meets
God alone does the work to meet his needs and His perfect standards, He is
solve his problems (2 Thess. 2:16; 2 Pet. 1:2–4). free to personally love and
No longer preoccupied with human works and bless us. The integrity and
achievement, he relates God’s policy to himself love of God supply our every
and others. Encouragement, comfort, and self- need (Phil. 4:19). Following
exhortation come from divine wisdom in his soul, the initial blessings of salva-
not from his own flawed desires, impulses, and tion, God sends down this
Figure 15 GRACE PIPELINE
understanding. A relaxed mental attitude is the pipeline His ceaseless lo-
basis of his conduct, meaning he demonstrates gistical support for all believers, winners and
sensitivity and tolerance toward the weaknesses losers, as well as superabundant blessings for
of others (Eph. 4:31–32; 1 Cor. 4:7; 1 Pet. 5:5). By believers who possess spiritual capacity from
winning the battle over legalism and pride, he doctrine.
invisibly, often unknowingly, represents the grace The encapsulated grace pipeline, sealed and
attitude of Christ to the world (2 Cor. 1:12; 8:9). secured by divine integrity, represents the exclu-
The greatest heroes of the Bible reached ma- sion of human merit as a source of blessing.
turity not by their own genius or strength but by God’s justice performs all the work, His right-
fully submitting themselves to the gracious hand eousness holds all the merit, and His love as the
of God. David, at one of the lowest points of his life, motivation is constant and unfailing. No human
penned a beautiful testament to God’s matchless action, ability, or self-righteousness can break
grace in Psalm 23, acknowledging that “the Lord through the encapsulation and take credit for
is the one who keeps on shepherding me, I cannot what God does in grace.
 117 great power experiment

See also grace; imputations; integrity of God. greater grace

For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Integrity of See supergrace.
God.
Lessons 631:199–201; 412:1238.
great power experiment The demonstration
of divine omnipotence made available to man,
gratitude gauge A figurative, invisible measure
first to the humanity of Christ during the Age of
in the soul that indicates the progress of the
the Hypostatic Union and then to all believers
believer’s rapport with God.
in the Church Age. The great power experiment
The ministry of God the Holy Spirit makes the
is the doctrine of divine omnipotence demon-
benefits of the Christian life a pleasing reality in
strated, proven, and revealed to man.
the soul, so that the accumulation of gratitude
In the Hypostatic Union. The Dispensation of
for God becomes the measure of spiritual matu-
the Hypostatic Union (i.e., the first advent of
rity and capacity for life. The gratitude gauge,
Jesus Christ) began at the virgin birth, when
which begins at salvation and is activated by undiminished deity and true humanity were
the filling the Holy Spirit, shows an incremental united in one person forever. Throughout His
assessment of spiritual advance (Eph. 4:13). life on earth, Jesus Christ voluntarily subordi-
Each increment corresponds with one of the nated Himself to the Father’s plan and restricted
ten problem-solving devices that form a defense the independent use of His own divine power
line on the soul. The gauge registers “1” when and deity (Phil. 2:5–8). He fully relied on two
the believer uses rebound. As the believer learns power sources: the omnipotence of the Father
and applies Bible doctrine, he advances from for logistical support and the omnipotence of
spiritual childhood to spiritual adulthood and the Holy Spirit to sustain and empower His
eventually reaches the highest reading of “10,” humanity amidst the hostility of the devil’s
occupation with Christ. At this pinnacle of the world (Matt. 4:1; 12:18, 28; Luke 4:1, 14–15; John
spiritual life the believer has learned maximum 3:34; Rom. 1:4). Filled with the Holy Spirit, the
virtue, capacity for life, and the divine viewpoint humanity of Christ grew “in wisdom and stature”
necessary to solve problems and glorify God to (Luke 2:52). By utilizing the dynamics of the
the maximum. The mature believer is content, divine dynasphere—the system designed by the
even grateful, in whatever circumstances he finds Father and energized by the Holy Spirit—Christ
himself (Phil. 4:11), never forgetting that God fulfilled His earthly ministry, lived a sinless life,
provides everything to sustain him in this life: and reached the cross fully qualified to bear
“In everything give thanks [gratitude]; for this is our sins. On the cross, the Holy Spirit sustained
God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thess. 5:18). Christ’s humanity during the three hours of
substitutionary judgment (Heb. 9:14). In resur-
See also problem-solving devices.
Lessons 376:985–93. rection, the Father and the Holy Spirit provided
the power to raise our Lord from the grave in a
glorified, immortal body (Acts 2:24; Rom. 8:11;
Eph. 1:20; 1 Thess. 1:10; 1 Pet. 1:21; 3:18).
So vital is the issue of power in the life of Christ,
and so magnificent is the provision of divine
omnipotence, that our Lord’s first advent can be
characterized as a great power experiment. In
this use of the word, an “experiment” is a dem-
onstration of a known truth—a demonstration of
the infinite power of God the Father and God the
Holy Spirit to sustain and empower the humanity
of Christ.
In the Church Age. The great power experiment
Figure 16 GRATITUDE GAUGE of the hypostatic union is extended as the great
great power experiment 118

power experiment of the Church Age. Our Lord’s Great Tribulation The second half of the seven-
proven source of power is now available to year Tribulation, commencing with Satan’s fall
every believer for executing God’s plan and rep- from heaven and culminating with the battle of
resenting Jesus Christ on earth (John 7:37–39; Armageddon (Rev. 12—19). Synonym: time of the
15:10–11; Acts 1:8). Never before in human history devil’s desperation.
has so much divine power been made available Although the entire Tribulation is the intensifi-
to so many. At the point of salvation, through the cation of Satan’s crusade to destroy Israel and
omnipotence of the Holy Spirit, every Church control the world, it is during the final three and
Age believer is entered into union with Christ a half years that Satan vents his greatest fury
and created a new spiritual species, the royal against God’s people. Having been cast out of
family of God (2 Cor. 5:17). The purpose of this heaven and confined to earth, the devil and
new creation is to enable the Church Age believer his fallen angels will inflict his most vehement
to utilize divine power made available in three program of lawlessness, apostasy, and anti-
categories: (1) omnipotence of God the Father, Semitism directly upon the human scene (Rev.
providing and administering the believer’s port- 12:7–9, 12b–13, 17). This period is called “a great
folio of invisible assets that He designed in eter- tribulation, such as has not occurred since
nity past (Eph. 1:3–6); (2) omnipotence of God the the beginning of the world” (Matt. 24:21). See
Son, sustaining the universe and perpetuating Tribulation. See also falls of Satan.
human history (Col. 1:16–17); (3) omnipotence
of the Holy Spirit, empowering the believer’s per- Great White Throne Judgment
ception of doctrine and supplying energy for See Last Judgment.
the believer’s function in the divine dynasphere.
Every member of the royal family of God, even grieving the Holy Spirit [Gk. lupeo, to grieve,
the most ordinary believer, has “been endowed to insult, to offend] Biblical language used to
with all divine power from the superior power of describe the loss of the empowerment, or filling,
His glory, resulting in all endurance and patience of the Holy Spirit, which occurs when the believer
with happiness” (Col. 1:11, corrected translation). sins and relinquishes control of his soul to the
As proven by our Lord, divine power and assets sin nature.
are capable of handling any situation in life The literal translation of Ephesians 4:30 man-
(Eph. 3:16, 20; 2 Pet. 1:3). dates the believer to “stop grieving the Holy Spirit,”
Ephesians 1:19–20 documents the great power making it clear that all believers sin periodically
experiment of the Church Age: “And what is the in the temporal life. As perfect deity, the Holy
surpassing greatness of His [the Father’s] power Spirit cannot suffer grief, but when the believer
to us who have believed for the working of His succumbs to sins like worry, bitterness, and
superior power, which He put into operation by vilification and rejects the grace provisions for
means of Christ when He raised Him from the living the spiritual life, such terminology vivid-
dead and seated Him at His own right hand in ly depicts his loss of fellowship (Eph. 4:22–31).
heavenly places” (expanded translation). The pow- See also carnality; quenching the Holy Spirit;
er that raised Jesus Christ from the dead is now rebound.
Lessons 376:1421–22.
available to every member of the royal family. The
same divine omnipotence will bring this dispen-
sation to a close by transforming our Lord’s royal guardian angels Elect angels charged with the
mission of protecting believers amid the hazards
family, all those dead or alive in Christ, to the
of the fallen world.
resurrection state for eternal residence with Him
To His angels God assigns the task of guard-
(1 Cor. 6:14).
ing believers from bodily harm when He so
See also divine dynasphere; impeccability of
commands them (Ps. 91:11–12). In Hebrews 1:14,
Christ; kenosis.
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Christian Suffering. guardian angels are described as “ministering
Lessons 412:531–62. spirits” in their service to Church Age believers.
 119 guilt complex

Scripture also assures that children are assigned (1 John 1:9). God never asks that His children
“their angels in heaven” for protection in child- grovel or feel remorseful in order to gain His
hood (Matt. 18:10). And during the great Tribula- forgiveness; He simply demands we name our
tion (Matt. 24:21), the guardian angels of Israel sins. Whatever our original failure, we are to
support the believing Jews in the “place [of forget it and move on in the spiritual life (Phil.
refuge] prepared by God,” sustaining them dur- 3:13–14; Heb. 12:1).
ing Satan’s unbridled attacks on Jerusalem (Rev. See also chain-sinning; isolation of sin; rebound.
12:6). For further reference, Isolation of Sin; Rebound Revisited.
The archangel Michael, as “the great prince Lessons 102:3, 43; 637:16; 840:210–13; 376:488.
who stands guard over the sons of your people”
(Dan. 12:1), protects and defends the Jewish
client nations throughout history (Dan. 10:13, 21).
In the Tribulation, Michael not only commands
the army of God’s angels waging war against “the
dragon and his angels,” but he also comes to the
aid of Jewish believers (Rev. 12:7; cf. Dan. 12:1).
See also angelic conflict; angels.
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Anti-
Semitism.

guilt complex A sinful mental attitude caused

by lingering remorse and self-reproach for past
failure, even for sins that have already been
confessed and forgiven.
Anytime a believer dwells on a past sin, either
because he does not believe that God has forgiv-
en it or because he does not ‘feel’ forgiven, he is
harboring a guilt complex. Emotional feelings
of culpability and regret create pressure on the
soul, opening the door to additional sins such
as anxiety, fear, worry, and anger. Guilt-ridden
believers are unstable and irrational. They tend
to associate every problem and difficulty in life
with their past sin while ignoring the devastating
effects of their present sins. Many believers,
wrongly motivated by a guilty conscience, spend
their time serving others and performing good
deeds, vainly seeking strength in their own self-
righteousness. Further attempts to relieve the
pressure of guilt include denying the reality of
the problem, repressing shameful memories,
and transferring blame to others [see defense
mechanisms].
Guilt is failure to understand and orient to
God’s grace. No one can merit divine forgiveness,
but God provides rebound as the grace solution
to every sin and failure in the Christian life. The
very instant that we confess our sins to God the
Father, we are cleansed “from all unrighteousness”
 Hh
Hades [Gk. hades, unseen place, invisible world] [tartaroō] and committed them to pits of dark-
A vast realm where the human dead and certain ness,” until He throws them in the lake of fire for
fallen angels reside or have resided during human eternity (2 Pet. 2:4, corrected translation). See
history. This New Testament designation is syn- also Nephilim; victorious proclamation.
onymous with the Old Testament term “Sheol The Abyss. [Gk. abussos, very deep, bottomless]
[underworld],” as used in passages like Numbers The place of imprisonment for fallen angels who
16:30, Ezekiel 31:15–17, and Hosea 13:14. Hades violated certain rules for angelic creation (Luke
consists of the following four compartments: 8:31), as well as the place where Satan will be
Paradise. The place where departed Old Tes- bound for the thousand years of the Millennium
tament believers resided until the resurrection (Rev. 20:1–3). The first demon assault army in
of Christ, when He transferred them to heaven the Tribulation will be unleashed from this
(Luke 23:42–43; Eph. 4:8–10). Synonym: “Abra- “bottomless pit” under the command of Apollyon,
ham’s bosom” (Luke 16:22). (Now believers after “the angel of the abyss” (Rev. 9:1–11). At the end
death go directly to the presence of the Lord in of the Millennium, Satan will be released from
heaven, 2 Cor. 5:8.) this prison “and will come out to deceive the
Torments. The place of fire and agony where nations” (Rev. 20:7–8). See also Tribulation;
unbelievers temporarily reside after death. Millennium.
Unbelievers remain in Torments until the Last For further reference, Victorious Proclamation.
Judgment, when they will be resurrected and Lessons 412:823–28, 837.
judged before the great white throne then cast
into the lake of fire for eternity (Rev. 20:13–15). hagios Greek adjective that means “holy, set
Between Paradise and Torments is a “great chasm apart.” See sanctification.
fixed,” an impassable barrier that signifies no
hope in eternity for those who reject Jesus Christ hamartiology [from Gk. hamartia, a sin,
in time (Luke 16:19–31). Concepts of purgatory failure] The branch of theology that studies the
and prayers for salvation of the dead are false doctrine of sin, including personal sin, Adam’s
doctrines derived from the Apocrypha. Every original sin, and the sin nature (Rom. 3:23;
person’s eternal residence is determined by their 5:12, 19; 7:15; 1 Cor. 15:22).
personal attitude toward Jesus Christ during
their time on earth (2 Cor. 6:2; 1 John 5:11–13). happiness (a) Generally regarded among
Therefore, those who presently reside in Torments humanity as a state of emotional stimulation,
are already condemned to the lake of fire (John excitement, or anticipation related to favorable
3:18). See also eternal condemnation. circumstances; (b) as designed by God, a mental
Tartarus. The temporary abode of the fallen attitude of contentment based on divine truth in
angels of Genesis 6, who have been imprisoned the soul. Three specific categories of happiness
in this location to await final judgment. These are available to man:
particular demons were the “sons of God” who (1) Neutral happiness (neutral H). The inner
invaded earth prior to the Flood (Gen. 6:2, 4). satisfaction and stability of any person, believer
Because they “did not keep their own domain” or unbeliever, who functions with genuine hu-
(Jude 6), God “cast them down into Tartarus mility under the laws of divine establishment
happiness 122

(Ps. 144:15a; Eccl. 9:9). The person with neutral happiness of God The perfect, immutable
happiness has developed human honor and in- attitude of joy that exists eternally as part of God’s
tegrity, characterized by establishment-oriented nature. God desires to share His happiness with
virtues including self-discipline, personal mankind “so that they may have My joy made
responsibility, courage, respect for authority, and full in themselves” (John 17:13b). See sharing
patriotism. Also called establishment happiness, the happiness of God.
neutral H is genuine but limited—its continuation
depends upon the virtue of the individual and the hardness of heart A biblical metaphor for the
presence of establishment principles within his soul callousness that results from the unbeliev-
environment. See also divine establishment. er’s constant resistance to the Gospel or from
(2) Pseudohappiness (minus H). Emotional the believer’s locked-in negative volition toward
stimulation and gratification derived from details Bible doctrine. Synonym: scar tissue of the soul.
of life such as success, approbation, wealth, Scriptural examples pertaining to unbelievers
possessions, recreation, status symbols, pleasant include the Pharaoh of the Exodus period (Ex.
environment, and relationships. Lacking a foun- 7:22; 8:15, 32; 9:34) and the Jews of our Lord’s
dation in virtue and truth, pseudohappiness is day who rejected Him as Messiah (Mark 3:5;
volatile, transient, and frustrating. This superficial cf. Isa. 6:9–10). In some cases, God is said to do
happiness is incapable of sustaining anyone the hardening (Ex. 9:12, 16; 10:1, 20; John 12:40).
This merely indicates that God confirmed their
through the challenges of life. In fact, it vanishes
stubborn resistence by allowing maximum
in adversity.
opportunity to express negative volition. God
Though pseudohappiness is pursued by
gave these unbelievers many chances to respond
both unbeliever and believer, it is particularly
to the Gospel, but each time they rejected the
damaging to the reversionistic believer who
Savior their hearts became more hardened.
has neglected Bible doctrine (2 Tim. 3:4b). To
Regarding believers, hardness of heart occurs
fill the void in his soul, he embarks on a frantic
when Bible doctrine in the stream of conscious-
search for happiness in the details of life. But
ness ceases to circulate, due to the influence
seeking happiness apart from God and His plan
of false doctrine and evil upon the soul (Eph.
is a vicious cycle that always arrives back at the
4:18). Scripture convicts the Exodus believers
same place—boredom, restlessness, confusion, of hardened hearts (Ps. 95:8) and illustrates the
and futility (Prov. 14:14; Eccl. 1:5–9; 2:9–11). condition with reports of bitterness, ingratitude,
Contentment eludes him, and the misery that panic, and chronic complaining at Rephidim
prompted the frantic search only intensifies. See (Ex. 17:1–7). The incident earned the title Meri-
also reversionism. bah, meaning “place of strife and contention” in
(3) Sharing the happiness of God (plus H). The the Hebrew, and set the stage for that generation’s
enduring state of inner peace, confidence, and persistent negative volition and eventual decline
contentment that results from knowing God into full reversionism (Ex. 32; Num. 14).
and being inculcated with His thinking. Since See also reversionism.
this happiness is unrelated to any detail or
circumstance of life, the believer with plus H hatred complex
knows “how to get along with humble means” See cosmic system.
and also “how to live in prosperity” (Phil. 4:11–12).
Described in 1 Peter 1:8 (niv) as an “inexpressible healing, gift of
and glorious joy,” plus H is enjoyed to the max- See spiritual gifts (temporary).
imum by the believer who reaches spiritual
maturity. See sharing the happiness of God; hearer vs. doer of the Word Terminology
superabundance of happiness. used in James 1:22–25 to distinguish the believer
For further reference, The Pursuit of Happiness. with academic doctrinal knowledge (gnosis)
Lessons 412:427–37. from the believer with fully understood, useable
 123 heathenism

doctrinal knowledge (epignosis). The “hearer of glorifies God in time through the fulfillment of
the word” has gnosis doctrine staged in the left His plan, purpose, and will and “is blessed in
lobe of the soul, academically comprehended but what he does” (James 1:25; cf. Col. 1:9b–10).
not yet believed. The “doer” has exercised faith See also Christian service; Operation Z; spiri-
perception toward that doctrine and therefore tual metabolism; stream of consciousness.
has epignosis knowledge circulating in the right Lessons 728:57–61; 376:283–89.
lobe of the soul.
Hearing the Word is a bona fide part of the heart [Heb. leb; Gk. kardia] In most biblical
spiritual life, for believers must listen to Bible uses, refers to the thinking portion of the soul,
teaching in order to advance spiritually. However, specifically the right lobe of the soul’s mentality.
James refers to one who is exclusively a hearer. A The biblical heart, analogous to the physiological
mere hearer may be able to recite many biblical pump that circulates blood through the body, is
details and numerous doctrines, but his academic where truth or falsehood circulates through the
understanding (gnosis) has no spiritual benefit. thinking and determines the condition of the
He cannot apply those doctrines to experience, soul (1 Sam. 16:7; Prov. 23:7a; 27:19; Jer. 17:9–
cannot solve problems from the divine perspec- 10; Eph. 3:17; Heb. 3:12; James 3:14; 5:5). The
tive, cannot advance to maturity and glorify God— heart nourished by the circulation of doctrine
because the academic information has not been manifests wisdom, confidence, gratitude, and ca-
converted into useable divine wisdom. No matter pacity for life, love, and happiness (Joshua 22:5;
how he tries to serve the Lord, no matter how 1 Sam. 2:1; Job 9:4; Ps. 27:3; 112:7–8; Prov. 17:22;
many benevolent deeds he performs, his works 1 John 3:21–22). The heart devoid of spiritual
of human energy amount to dead works, the nourishment is dominated by the sin nature to
“wood, hay, straw” in 1 Corinthians 3:12. manifest confusion, discouragement, fear, deceit,
In contrast to the hearer, a doer of the Word and evil (Joshua 14:8; Ps. 101:5; Prov. 5:12–14;
has spiritual knowledge beyond gnosis (Eph. 6:14, 18; 21:4; Jer. 17:9; Obad. 1:3). See also right
3:19). He not only hears the principles of God’s lobe of the soul.
Word but also believes them to be absolute
truth. This positive response is all that is needed heathenism The doctrine that addresses the
for the Holy Spirit to transform his academic question, “What about those who have never
knowledge into epignosis—the “full knowledge” heard the Gospel of salvation?”
that allows him to apply divine viewpoint to Skeptics of Christianity often ask this question
every circumstance of life. When performing in relation to primitive peoples who live outside
visible acts of service, this believer is a doer of the of civilization and speak in obscure languages.
Word and not simply a doer of deeds. Because he What the skeptic should ask is, “What about those
operates under the filling of the Holy Spirit and who appear to have never heard the Gospel?” Be-
is motivated by epignosis doctrine, he produces cause no one, regardless of location, background,
works of divine good, the “gold, silver, precious tradition, or linguistic barriers, is hidden from
stones” in 1 Corinthians 3:12. Ultimately, the doer God’s grace. God provides abundant evidence

WORD ORIGIN — HEATHEN

“Heathen” originates from the Gothic haithno, an equivalent to the Latin paganus (from pagus, “village, country
district”). By the latter part of the Roman Empire, when many city residents had accepted Christ and most villagers
still worshiped ancient gods, paganus was used by Christians to designate those outside of the faith. When the
Goths invaded Rome in the fourth century, the missionary-evangelist Ulfilas used the word haithno (from haithi,
“uncultivated land, wilderness”) in the same vein as paganus. Old English rendered haithno as “hæthen,” which in
Church context became a synonym for paganus. The forms heathen and pagan were eventually adopted into the
English language.
Sources: Encyclopedia Britannica, 11th Edition, 1911, s.v. “pagan”; The Oxford English Dictionary, Re-Issue, 1970, s.v. “heath,”
“heathen,” “pagan”; Webster’s New World Dictionary, 2006, s.v. “heathen.”
heathenism 124

by which every individual can become aware of “passed through the heavens” as He ascended to
His existence (Rom. 1:20a), and to anyone who the throne room of God (Heb. 4:14a). Specifically,
desires further knowledge, God makes His offer the first heaven is the band of atmosphere
of salvation available, “even to the remotest part around the earth, created by God to sustain life
of the earth” (Acts 1:8; cf. Jer. 29:13; Rom. 10:18). throughout human history (Gen. 1:6–8, 20; Rev.
So, who are the heathen? Contrary to common 21:1b). The second heaven is the stellar universe,
usage, the term “heathen” does not merely denote the solar system and galaxies and the realm of
a person who lives in a primitive culture or re- angelic activity (Gen. 1:14–18; Acts 7:42). The
mote locale. Neither is the heathen necessarily third heaven is the eternal dwelling place of God,
unthinking or barbaric, idolatrous or supersti- beyond stellar space (1 Kings 8:39). It is “the
tious. A heathen is anyone—from any nation, highest heavens” (Deut. 10:14), the location of
race, or culture—who chooses not to acknowledge God’s throne room and His tribunal of justice,
the one true God. Heathens are not heathen and the final home for all believers in Jesus
because they have never had the opportunity Christ (Ps. 123:1; John 14:2; 2 Cor. 5:1).
to hear divine truth. They are heathen because The third heaven will exist throughout eternity,
at God-consciousness they desired no further but the first and second heavens, along with the
knowledge, or because they heard the Gospel present earth, will pass away at the end of human
and rejected Christ as Savior (Rom. 1:19–20). history and be replaced with “a new heaven and a
As the consequence of their rejection, these new earth” (Rev. 21:1; cf. Isa. 65:17; 2 Pet. 3:7, 10, 12).
unbelievers face divine judgment in time and What is heaven like? The full splendor of the
eternity (John 3:36; Rom. 1:18). eternal heaven is beyond human understanding,
The destructive pattern of heathenism. Heathen- even beyond the limitations of human language.
ism must find a substitute for the truth it denies. Scripture uses language of accommodation—
Whenever divine revelation is rejected, there figurative expressions, allusions, metaphors—to
develops in the soul a darkness, an emptiness, give believers an idea of the heavenly experience.
that draws in falsehood: “For even though they Isaiah was permitted a vision of heaven with “the
knew God [they heard the Gospel message], they Lord sitting on a throne, lofty and exalted,” and
did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they the sight of God’s holiness was so extraordinary
became futile in their speculations, and their that Isaiah felt his own unworthiness (Isa. 6:1–
foolish heart was darkened” (Rom. 1:21). This 5). The Apostle John describes another scene
explains why individuals and entire populations in the heavenly throne room: Twenty-four
exchange “the glory of the incorruptible God” crowned angels surround God’s throne, where
for various satanic delusions—from materialism “He who was sitting was like a jasper stone and
and humanism to false religion and idolatry (Rom. a sardius in appearance” (Rev. 4:1–4). Lightning
1:22–23). Eventually, the denial of truth leads to and thunder, representing historical judgment
a breakdown at both personal and societal levels on earth, proceed from the throne, yet before
(Rom. 1:24–32). the throne is “a sea of glass, like crystal” (Rev.
See also apostasy; God-consciousness. 4:5–6). This translucent sea, undisturbed by the
For further reference, Heathenism. slightest ripple of a wave, represents the com-
Lessons 458:23, 27, 684; 457:676; 412:459. plete absence of storms or troubles in heaven.
Believers in heaven will see the incomparable
heaven [Heb. shamayim, the sky as aloft; Gk. Christ face to face and have the great joy and
ouranos, the sky or starry heavens; epouranios, privilege of serving and praising Him for
heavenly, above the sky] Usually refers to the all eternity. “The body of our humble state” will
eternal residence of God, a place of indescribable be transformed into the “body of His glory,” a
glory and magnificence where no human being resurrection body like that of Jesus Christ (Phil.
can enter apart from God’s power. 3:21; 1 John 3:2). There will “no longer be any
First, second, third heavens. The Bible speaks of death . . . any mourning, or crying, or pain”
more than one heaven, stating that Jesus Christ (Rev. 21:4). Heavenly habitats are labeled “many
 125 high ground

mansions” (John 14:2, kjv), prosperity is likened very real sense, that same command is issued
to a “hundredfold” harvest (Matt. 13:8), and details to all believers by Jesus Christ. Every Church
like “pure gold” and “every kind of precious stone” Age believer is a combat soldier living in enemy
portray the heavenly capital city (Rev. 21:18–19, 21). territory, Satan’s world system (Eph. 6:12). Our
Distinguished rewards, given to those who were Supreme Commander, through His instruction
the Lord’s faithful servants on earth, are described and provision, leads us up the long road to
as crowns (James 1:12; 2 Tim. 4:8; Rev. 2:10), victory. During the Incarnation, the humanity
“white garments” (Rev. 3:5, 18), “the morning star” of Christ seized and held the high ground while
(Rev. 2:28), “authority over ten cities” (Luke 19:17), bearing the regimental colors of Bible doctrine.
and “surpassing riches of His grace” (Eph. 2:7). And now, as His representatives on earth, we
See also eternal state. are commissioned to follow those same glorious
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Creation, colors to the summit of occupation with Christ,
Chaos, & Restoration. capacity for life, and supergrace blessings.
Strategy for advance. Anyone who desires to
heavenly citizenship ascend these heights must be well equipped
See polituema metaphor. to “lay aside every encumbrance and the sin
which so easily entangles us” (Heb. 12:1). Bible
hell English translation of the Greek gehenna, doctrine in the soul motivates the Christian to
which is translated from the Hebrew Ge Hinnom. press forward in spite of every distraction, every
Ge Hinnom refers to the Valley of Hinnom, a deep force of opposition, and every bit of disillusion.
ravine south of Jerusalem that once served as Occasional failure and defeat are inevitable,
a burning pit for child sacrifices and, over the but the advancing believer who utilizes divine
centuries, became a dumping ground for garbage, provisions keeps his eyes on the Lord, “forgetting
waste matter, and corpses. The valley, with its what lies behind and reaching forward to what
ever-burning fires, came to represent a place lies ahead” (Phil. 3:13). Once breaking through
of everlasting punishment. Hence the Greek to the summit, he secures his position in the
gehenna, translated in the New Testament as “hell,” same manner by which he arrived. He keeps on
indicates the lake of fire (Matt. 5:29–30; 10:28; pressing against the pressures of life with posi-
18:9; 23:15, 33; Mark 9:43–47; Luke 12:5; cf. Rev. tive volition toward doctrine and application of
19:20; 20:10, 14–15). See lake of fire. divine viewpoint to all circumstances.
Rewards of victory. The one who seizes and
heritage impact holds the high ground has fully utilized God’s
See blessing by association. grace to become a winner. Through maximum
doctrine in the soul, he has reached the point
hermeneutics [from Gk. hermeneus, interpreter] of greatest happiness, greatest blessings, and
The science of interpretation, particularly the greatest capacity and zest for living that anyone
study of methods and principles used to interpret will ever enjoy during their time on earth (Col.
the Bible. See ICE. 2:7). Paul recorded his perspective from this
vantage point: “But whatever things were gain
high ground A military metaphor for the ob- to me [human achievement and celebrity status],
jective in the spiritual life, the place of victory those things I have counted as loss for the sake of
where the believer utilizes grace to the fullest. Christ . . . loss in view of the surpassing value of
This pinnacle of the Christian life is where all knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have
spiritual dynamics converge for maximum glori- suffered the loss of all things, and count them but
fication of God. rubbish so that I may gain Christ [seize and hold
Orders for ascent. The battle cry, “Follow the the high ground]” (Phil. 3:7–8). Having planted
colors!” is a military command to join the fray the colors on the high ground, Paul testified to
and strike a mortal blow against the enemy, to fighting the good fight and finishing the course
fight to attain the high ground of victory. In a by keeping “the faith,” or doctrine (2 Tim. 4:7).
high ground 126

Paul also looked over the hill to the panorama by a great veil. Only Levitical priests could enter
of the next objective: crossing the golden bridge this room, which contained the golden lamp-
by grace into eternity, where he would receive stand, the golden table of shewbread, and, just in
eternal crowns and rewards for victory in the front of the veil, the golden altar of incense. See
spiritual life (2 Tim. 4:8; Rev. 2:26–28). ritual plan of God.
See also simultaneous advance to the high
ground; supergrace; winner believer. Holy Spirit
For further reference, Follow the Colors.
Lessons 419:134–35, 143–53. See God the Holy Spirit.

High Priest hope [Gk. elpis, thought toward the future] Assur-
See priesthood (New Testament). ance and comfort in relation to things future, a
mental attitude of confident expectation toward
historical trends The propensities and tenden- something magnificent but not yet present.
cies of mankind demonstrated throughout the God is the author of hope. His Word, beginning
cycles of civilization. Man’s positive or negative with the Gospel, is the source of hope. “In fact
volition toward God and His Word is reflected in doctrine [the object of faith] is the reality from
cycles of economic prosperity and depression, which we keep receiving hope, the proof of
war and peace, abundance and famine, national matters not being seen” (Heb. 11:1, expanded
ascendancy and decline, blessing and cursing. translation). Hope allows the believer to look
The impact of positive believer-citizens produces forward with the same certainty he has in looking
historical uptrends that preserve the national back, while simultaneously providing security in
entity (Ps. 33:11–19; Prov. 29:18b); negative voli- the present. By contrast, to place one’s confidence
tion produces national historical downtrends in something other than God’s Word is to nurture
and brings divine judgment on the nation (Prov. false hope—to rely on something as weak and
29:18a; Jer. 9:12b–14). Synonym: trends of history.
fragile as a spider’s web (Job 8:13–14).
See also cycles of discipline; Jesus Christ Within the plan of God are three consecutive
controls history.
For further reference, Apostasy in the Land; The Divine categories of hope. When one hope is fulfilled,
Outline of History. that hope is converted to a reality—it is no longer
Lessons 457:43–47; 412:712. confidence in the unseen future but enjoyment of
present experience. And from the present reality
holiness of God comes potential to reach the next objective in
See integrity of God. God’s plan (Rom. 8:24–25). See Figure 17.
Hope1 is the confident expectation of the
holy unbeliever who hears the Gospel and knows that
See sanctification.
when he believes in Jesus Christ, he will have
eternal life (John 3:16; Titus 1:2). The moment
holy days he acts upon that hope and expresses faith in
See ritual plan of God.
Christ, the hope becomes a reality: the person is
eternally saved.
Holy of Holies The most sacred room in the
Hope2 is the motivation of the immature yet
Tabernacle and Temple, where Christ dwelt as
the Shekinah Glory above the mercy seat. The growing believer who knows that if he persists in
high priest alone entered this room to perform learning doctrine, he will reach the high ground
the atonement rituals on behalf of Israel. See Day of spiritual maturity and receive blessings of
of Atonement. See also ark of the covenant; grace in time (2 Pet. 3:18; 1 John 3:1–3). As the
ritual plan of God; Shekinah Glory. advancing believer continues to press forward,
he is confident that he will reach the objective
Holy Place The outer room in the Tabernacle by following divine mandates and remaining
and Temple, separated from the Holy of Holies inside the plan of God.
 127 human good

Hope3 is the attitude of the mature believer the perfect standard of God (Rom. 7:18; 8:8).
as he confidently looks beyond the barriers of Accordingly, human good deeds are denounced
time to his indescribable eternal rewards (Matt. as “filthy rags” in God’s sight (Isa. 64:6, kjv). No
25:21; 1 Cor. 4:5; 2 Cor. 5:10). Such a believer matter how admirable the intentions or accom-
has a bulwark of doctrine in his soul that gives plishments, no matter how much the temporal
tremendous fortitude under pressure (Rom. human condition is improved by this benevo-
5:2–3). Through all stages of testing, he eagerly lent production, human good has no spiritual
anticipates the future, when “there is laid up or eternal value. At best, such efforts are what
for me the crown of righteousness, which the Isaiah likens to flowers in a field: their appealing
Lord . . . will award to me” (2 Tim. 4:8; cf. Eph. outward impression does not last (Isa. 40:6).
2:7; James 1:12). The distribution of awards and Both believer and unbeliever, saved and un-
decorations for eternity is the ultimate reality saved, are capable of human good. The unbeliever
and the point at which the need for hope ceases.
has no relationship with God and is utterly re-
See also XYZ equation of hope. stricted to the power of the flesh. At the end of
For further reference, The Integrity of God.
Lessons 458:363–68. human history, he will stand in judgment before
the great white throne and discover that all his
human good (a) Deeds performed by an unbe- human good—the kindly acts, the philanthropy,
liever or by a carnal believer with the intention the moral sincerity—will not save him from the
to benefit humanity, merit salvation, or earn the lake of fire (Rev. 20:12–15). Having died without
favor of God; (b) the well-meaning, altruistic activ- accepting the salvation work of Christ, he is
ities performed with human power and energy. condemned for all eternity (John 3:18; Rom. 2:5;
With reference to the believer, synonymous with Eph. 2:8–9; Titus 3:5) [see Last Judgment]. The
dead works. Antonym: divine good. believer, though eternally saved, still functions
Human good is achieved in the power of under the energy of the flesh as long as the sin
the “flesh,” and nothing of the flesh can meet nature controls his soul (Rom. 8:8). However

R RAPTURE
THO
A
DE

Mature believer at
judgment seat of Christ

GROWTH REALITY
AL H
ITU O
IR

P
SP

BLESSINGS IN
E ETERNITY
Mature believer 3
REALITY
CHRIST H
IN
H O
P
IT

BLESSINGS
FA

E IN TIME
Immature believer 2
REALITY
H
O
P
E SALVATION
Unbeliever who
hears the Gospel 1
REALITY
Human life &
spiritual death

Figure 17 CATEGORIES OF HOPE

human good 128

impressive his Christian production might be to and self-determination are destroyed as these
others, his human good deeds and service hold missions for the ‘greater good’ resort to any
no credit with God and are in fact “dead works” means necessary, even violence or tyranny, to
(Heb. 6:1). Nothing acceptable to God is pro- achieve their secular utopian objectives.
duced in the Christian life apart from the work See also divine good; relative righteousness;
and power of the Holy Spirit. At the judgment tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
seat of Christ, the believer’s human good will be For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Christian
Integrity; The Integrity of God.
evaluated as worthless, ineligible for eternal Lessons 361:28–29, 32–35, 47–50, 59.
rewards, and burned (1 Cor. 3:12b, 15; 2 Cor. 5:10).
CategoRies of human good humanism (a) The philosophical system founded
While some deeds of human good contribute on the belief that man himself, excluding God,
to the well-being of mankind, others are parlayed can solve the problems of the world in which he
into evil through sinful intent or unintended lives; (b) the pursuit of human perfection and
consequences. Human good can therefore be achievement without reference to God and His
considered under two categories: overarching control of human history. Often
Legitimate human good. Honorably motivated described as “secular humanism.”
deeds performed in compliance with the laws Embodying Satan’s scheme for a man-made
of divine establishment. Whether coming from utopia, humanism gives central importance to
an unbeliever or a carnal believer, legitimate human intellect, reasoning skills, personal ability,
human good supports the function of individual and man’s ‘inherent good.’ Faith is discarded as
freedom, authority, and the national entity and a foolish leap into the unknown, beyond what
therefore helps preserve civilization (Rom. 13:1– reason and empiricism guarantee, while human
7). Legitimate forms of human good include deliberations and rationalizations are exalted as
service to the nation, the function of capitalism, wisdom. Humanism relies on scientific discovery
charitable giving to the poor and needy, and to solve the mysteries of life and the universe,
other similar acts of duty and kindness that do upholds philosophy and psychology as solutions
not interfere with personal privacy, freedom, and to adversity and dysfunction, and blames man’s
right to property. Though beneficial to humanity, predicaments on external influences instead of
this brand of human good is no substitute for personal decisions. With divine solutions ex-
faith in Christ, nor is it rewardable by God for changed for anthropocentric solutions, human-
His eternal glorification. See also divine estab- ists unwittingly draw the curtain on their own
lishment; morality. minds, blinding themselves to divine revelation
Corrupted human good. Acts of intended or and the fact that Scripture is the inerrant mind
alleged good performed with sinful motivation or of the Creator (1 Cor. 2:12–14).
in violation of the laws of divine establishment. The ideology of humanism devises such vision-
Corrupted human good is in fact evil disguised ary schemes as economic prosperity through
as good. When people, for instance, assume that governmental controls; preservation of earth
they are saved because they are kind, or that they and humanity through environmentalism; reno-
are blessed by God because they are charitable, vation of thinking through multiculturalism,
their good is corrupted into evil—for behind secular education, and behavioral legislation;
these efforts to please God through human works world peace through internationalism; and elim-
is arrogant rejection of the work of Christ. Also, ination of injustice and inequality through social
when man seeks to improve his environment or crusades or revolution.
help his fellow man through socialistic schemes, See also human good; intellectual arrogance;
campaigns for peace, religious activism, or utopianism.
other moralistic crusades, much of this alleged For further reference, The Angelic Conflict.
altruism is outright evil, serving only to erode
the framework of establishment designed by God humanity of Jesus Christ
to protect the human race. Personal freedom See hypostatic union; Incarnation; kenosis.
 129 humility

human life The union of divinely created, opposed to divine viewpoint, values, and problem
immortal, immaterial soul life with humanly solving as revealed in the Bible (1 Cor. 1:20).
reproduced, mortal, material biological life. This The content of human viewpoint is tanta-
union occurs the moment the fetus emerges mount to the deceptive philosophies of Satan’s
from the womb and God sovereignly bestows cosmic system—the worldly, relative values that
the “breath of life” to create a living human being aim to turn man against the absolutes of God by
(Gen. 2:7; Job 33:4). After physical birth, the supplanting divine establishment, the Gospel,
terms “soul life” and “human life” become synon- and Bible doctrine (1 Tim. 4:1).
ymous. See origin of human life. With the exception of the laws of divine estab-
lishment, the unbeliever is capable of only
human righteousness human viewpoint, being “alienated from the life
See relative righteousness. of God” (Eph. 4:18, kjv) and the enemy of God in
his thinking (Col. 1:21). The believer, on the other
human spirit (a) The immaterial part of man hand, can operate on either human viewpoint
that defines him as a spiritually alive being and or divine viewpoint, and he lives in an ongoing
enables him to understand and relate to God; battle between the two. The less Bible doctrine
(b) the spiritual component that Adam and the the believer takes in and understands, the more
woman lost at the Fall, when they sinned and he thinks like an unbeliever and substitutes his
became spiritually dead. The human spirit is own ideas for the plan of God in his life.
separate from the immaterial soul. See also cosmic thinking; doctrines of demons;
The moment a person believes in Jesus Christ, humanism.
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Mental
God the Holy Spirit creates in that person a Attitude Dynamics; Satan and Demonism.
human spirit to which God the Father imputes
eternal life (1 John 5:11–12). This regeneration
humility (a) The attitude of honor and integrity
is the second birth that Jesus explained to
that places virtuous values above egocentric
Nicodemus when He said, “that which is born
desires, responds to truth, and submits to legit-
of the [Holy] Spirit is [human] spirit” (John
imate authority; (b) the foundational Christian
3:6b). Regenerate man, equipped with a human
virtue through which the believer recognizes
spirit, can comprehend the spiritual truths from
that he belongs to a plan centered not in himself
God, the pneumatikos of 1 Corinthians 2:13, and
but in God.
use that information for growth in God’s plan.
A basic human virtue. True humility is a strength,
The “natural man [unbeliever],” lacking a
not a weakness. It is not to be confused with hu-
human spirit, can only view the doctrines of
miliation or lowliness in rank and must never
God as foolishness (1 Cor. 2:14). Even the simple
be defined in terms of legalism, self-effacement,
truth of the Gospel would elude the unbeliever
or asceticism, which are all forms of arrogance.
were it not for the Holy Spirit, whose ministry of
Humility is both a system of thinking and a way of
common grace makes the message understand-
life. As a system of thinking, humility is freedom
able (1 Cor. 1:18).
from arrogance; as a way of life, humility is
At physical death, the believer’s immaterial submission to legitimate authority. Everyone,
human spirit is separated from the material body believer and unbeliever, must set aside pride
and entered along with the soul into the presence and learn obedience in order to adjust to life in
of the Lord (Luke 23:46; 2 Cor. 5:8). general and live respectfully alongside others.
See also God the Holy Spirit (ministries at Gospel The humble person, instead of clinging to an
hearing); dichotomous / trichotomous; Oper a-
tion Z; spiritual phenomena.
inflated self-image, is receptive to objective truth
For further reference, The Barrier; Reversionism. and therefore teachable. Teachability means
Lessons 412:540, 735, 993–94. capacity to listen, to learn, and to respond to
authority without feeling threatened or inferior.
human viewpoint Any system of thinking, For the unbeliever, the basis for humility is truth
values, or problem solving that is contrary and related to the laws of divine establishment. For
humility 130

the believer, an even greater virtue of humility pastor-teacher, learning to evaluate every aspect
is available through spiritual truth, which is of his life in the light of the Word. The humble
revealed in Bible doctrine (Ps. 25:8–9). believer recognizes his spiritual failures, recovers
Development of humility. Since humility is not by acknowledging personal sins to the Father
inherent from birth, it must be learned and (1 John 1:9), and continues to move forward in
acquired. Enforced humility is learned under a the plan of God. With correct priorities and doc-
stable system of order and discipline adminis- trinal objectivity, he expresses thoughtfulness
tered by legitimate authority (e.g., parents, teach- toward others and avoids the arrogance of self-
ers, law enforcement). For a young child, the promotion (Prov. 11:2; Phil. 2:3–4). The consistent
home provides the structure and environment mental attitude of humility becomes the basis not
for parents to enforce their child’s response to only for his promotion in the spiritual life but for
authority. A parent’s role is to restrain the child’s heavenly rewards that glorify Christ throughout
sin nature through fair, consistent training and eternity (Prov. 29:23; Luke 14:11; James 4:6, 10;
discipline. Children are not mandated to agree 1 Pet. 5:5–6).
with or even love their parents but to “obey Humility of Jesus Christ. The greatest humility
your parents in the Lord, for this is right” (Eph. in all of human history is that which was exhib-
6:1–3; cf. Col. 3:20). By submitting to the system ited by the Lord Jesus Christ. As God manifest in
of enforced humility in the home, a child can the flesh, Christ became obedient to the point of
acquire virtue and learn to assume responsibility sacrificial death on the cross (Phil. 2:6–8). His
for himself. If, however, a child fails to learn hu- prayer in the garden of Gethsemane, “Father, if
mility in the home, he will someday learn it the You are willing, remove this cup from Me; yet not
hard way from the police officer, the judge, a My will, but Yours be done,” poignantly expresses
tough drill sergeant, a demanding coach, or an His voluntary acceptance of God the Father’s
exacting employer. authority and plan (Luke 22:42, italics added).
Genuine humility develops when a person Without our Lord’s humility, there would be no
becomes self-motivated—responsive from the salvation. Now, during His absence from the
volition of his own soul—to accept authority and earth, believers represent Christ to the world by
instruction. With this honorable mental attitude, following the command to “have this attitude
the genuinely humble person does not shy away [of humility] in yourselves which was also in
from responsibility but embraces opportunity, Christ Jesus” (Phil. 2:5).
aims for excellence by means of self-discipline, See also arrogance complex of sins; virtue.
and accepts the outcome of his personal For further reference, Christian Integrity.
decisions. He advances through life inside the Lessons 443:45; 728:38; 412:773–74; 361:14–15.
boundaries of his own abilities and limitations
and makes no demands for equality with others. hypostatic union The theological description
The ongoing demonstration of this humility is of Jesus Christ as undiminished deity and true
a relaxed mental attitude toward all people and humanity in one person forever.
circumstances, in addition to poise and courage “Hypostatic” is derived from the Greek hupo-
under pressure. stasis, meaning “essence, substantial nature.”
The essential Christian virtue. Humility is the At the birth of Christ, the essence of God and
basic ingredient for happiness and blessing in the essence of man were united to form a new
the spiritual life. The biblical mandate, “Humble essence, a new hupostasis, called the hypostatic
yourselves in the presence of the Lord,” is a union. This means that God the Son took upon
charge to all believers to be oriented to grace Himself true humanity and became a new
(James 4:10). This is not a command to demean Person—the unique God-man (Rom. 1:2–4; Phil.
oneself but to understand one’s own helpless- 2:5–11; 1 Tim. 3:16). The infinite and eternal
ness and appreciate what God’s infinite grace and Creator lowered Himself to the level of His own
power can provide. The believer with humility creation, becoming a member of the human race
submits to the authority of God and his right so that He could provide the means of salvation
 131 Hypostatic Union, Dispensation of

for fallen mankind (John 1:1–3, 14; Col. 1:22;

Heb. 2:14).
As undiminished deity, Jesus Christ is the exact
“image of the invisible God” (Col. 1:15). As true
humanity, “born . . . according to the flesh” (Rom.
1:3), He possesses a body (Heb. 10:5b; 1 Pet. 2:24),
soul (Matt. 26:38), and spirit (Luke 23:46). His
two natures—divine and human—are inseparably
united yet retain their separate identities, without
loss or transfer of properties. The characteristics
of one nature are never attributed to the other
nature, but the attributes of both natures con-
tribute to the Person. This explains how, during
the Incarnation, our Lord could be both weak
and all-powerful, increasing in knowledge and
all-knowing, finite and infinite. In the cradle the
Baby was helpless, while the omnipotence of His
deity continued to hold the universe together
(Col. 1:17). Young Jesus “kept increasing in
wisdom” by learning doctrine (Luke 2:52), while
His omniscience never ceased to be absolute. As
a man Christ underwent fatigue (John 4:6), hun-
ger (Matt. 4:2), thirst (John 19:28), testing (Heb.
4:15), suffering (Heb. 2:18), and death (Phil. 2:8;
Heb. 12:2; 1 Pet. 3:18), even as “all the fullness
of Deity” dwelt within Him (Col. 2:9). In hypo-
static union, Jesus Christ’s divine and human
attributes are combined but never changed or
compromised.
Our Lord is the unique person of the universe,
different from God in that He is man, and
different from man in that He is God. The union
of His undiminished deity and sinless humanity
qualifies Him as the “one mediator also between
God and men” (1 Tim. 2:5). After accomplishing
His salvation mission on the cross, the humanity
of Christ rose from the dead (Matt. 28:5–7), was
seated in glory “at the right hand of the Majesty
on high” (Heb. 1:3), and will forever exist as the
glorified God-man in resurrection body (Heb. 1:8).
See also communion of attributes; impeccability
of Christ; kenosis.
For further reference, Christian Integrity; King of Kings
and Lord of Lords.
Lessons 412:1156–59; 376:928.

Hypostatic Union, Dispensation of

See Dispensation of the Hypostatic Union.
 Ii
ICE (a) Acronym for isagogics, categories, and exe- accurately interpreted.
gesis, three analytical tools that form one overall For further reference, Daniel Chapters One through Six.
method for interpreting Scripture and reaching Lessons 102:27, 30.
doctrinal conclusions; (b) a threefold biblical
hermeneutic that allows those with the gift of iconoclastic arrogance [from Gk. eikonoklastes,
pastor-teacher to accurately study and teach image breaker] A worshipful preoccupation with
God’s Word (2 Tim. 2:15). another person that places the person on a
The Bible is neither a product of man’s literary pedestal and then reacts when expectations are
invention nor a textbook of history or science not met. The term “iconoclastic arrogance” draws
(though every reference within is accurate). The its meaning from the word iconoclast—a person
Bible is the divinely inspired record of God’s who destroys icons or images. This brand of
plan for human history. This divine inspiration, arrogance eventually destroys the very image it
however, applies only to the original text in the creates. Synonyms: feet-of-clay syndrome; role-
original languages. For accurate understanding model arrogance.
and communication of God’s Word, a diligent, The iconoclastic believer, deluded by idealism
“precept upon precept; line upon line” study of the or romantic fantasy, idolizes someone he should
original text is necessary on the part of the pastor- at most respect or admire. He takes an ordinary
teacher (Isa. 28:10, kjv). Under the guidance mortal and fashions in his mind an icon of
perfection: a glamorous or honorable image, an
of the Holy Spirit, correct interpretation of any
image of greatness or success. The trouble is, the
portion of Scripture requires the following:
idol has ‘feet of clay’—that is, a sin nature. When
Isagogics. Interpretation of the text within its
some failure exposes that sin nature, idealism
historical context or prophetical setting. Isagogics
is shattered and the iconoclast reacts with
demands consideration of the time in which a
disillusion and disenchantment. In an irrational
passage was written, as well as the background
state of mind, he transfers the blame for his own
and customs of the author’s intended audience.
fantasizing to the idol he created. Malice replaces
Categories. Classification of biblical doctrine
idolatry, and the perpetrator attacks his once-
according to its subject matter. In order to deter-
beloved idol through gossip, slander, conspiracy,
mine the doctrinal category, Scripture must be
even violence.
compared with Scripture and dispensational dis-
Empowered and exhilarated from tearing down
tinctions considered. Categorical analysis takes
his idol, the iconoclast often transitions to evil
a doctrine located in a passage and relates it to obsession—an all-consuming desire to control or
other passages dealing with the same doctrine eradicate any person, group, or system that does
to progressively build truth upon truth, complex not live up to expectations.
doctrine upon basic doctrine.
See also cosmic system (arrogance complex); role-
Exegesis. Grammatical, etymological, syntacti- model arrogance.
cal, and contextual analysis of Scripture from the Lessons 412:892–93; 376:458–61.
original Hebrew (OT), Aramaic (OT), and Greek
(NT). Every verse must be correctly translated idealization
in order for the verse and its passage to be See defense mechanisms.
image of God 134

image of God The phrase that describes man’s performed without the use of an intervening
immaterial being, the soul, as created by God in agency (i.e., apart from human reproduction)
the likeness of God’s own nature. (Gen. 1:26–27; 2:7; Job 27:3; 33:4; Isa. 42:5). Human
When the Father said to the other members life results when, at the moment of birth, God im-
of the Trinity, “Let Us make man in Our image, putes His creation of soul life to biological life.
according to Our likeness” (Gen. 1:26), He was See also mediate creation; origin of human life;
not speaking of creating man as a duplication soul life.
of Himself, to share either His deity or physical
appearance. The Hebrew word for image, tselem, imminency of the Rapture The doctrine
refers instead to a “shadow image” and connotes which recognizes that the Rapture can occur at
a resemblance or representative form of some- any moment, that its future occurrence is certain
thing unseen. The statement “in Our image” de- though its timing is unknown.
scribes the parallel between God’s own essence Rapture prophesied. The New Testament re-
and the formation and design of the human peatedly confirms the imminent Rapture (exit
soul. God’s essence is real yet invisible; man’s resurrection) of the Church. Paul reveals the
soul—his essence—is real yet invisible. Man’s soul, order and details of our impending rendevous
as patterned after divine essence, is immaterial, with the Lord in the air (1 Thess. 4:16–17), and
spiritual, rational, moral, and relational. Man’s he frequently reiterates the conviction that
self-consciousness, conscience, volition, and the Church will be transformed to the state of
mentality are characteristics also possessed the resurrected Christ (1 Cor. 15:52; Phil. 3:11;
by the Trinity. Created “in the [shadow] image Col. 3:4). Both James and the writer of Hebrews
of God,” human beings are inferior to God but instruct believers on the nearing of the great day
distinguished from the lower creatures and (Heb. 10:25; James 5:8), and the Lord Himself
guaranteed supremacy over them (Gen. 1:27–28). announces to the Church, “I am coming quickly
See also soul; soul life. [suddenly]” (Rev. 3:11a; 22:7a, 12a, 20). Christ’s
resounding statement is a reminder of His
immanence and transcendence Theological immutable promise to “come again and receive
terms that describe God’s omnipresence, His eter- you [Church Age believers]” and spare the Church
nal existence within and beyond the limitations from the Tribulation (John 14:2–3; Rev. 3:10).
of space and time. No interim prophecy. Imminency means that
God is immanent—His entire essence is always no prophecy will be fulfilled between the start
present everywhere, in every point throughout and end of the Church Age. The next item on the
His creation (Jer. 23:23–24; Acts 17:27–28). Simul- prophetical agenda is the Rapture, yet the timing
taneously, He is transcendent—existing indepen- is unrevealed to man. It could occur tonight, to-
dently of the created universe so that no particular morrow, or a thousand years from now. If world
place exclusively contains Him (Deut. 4:39; Ps. conditions during the Church Age seem to paral-
113:4–6; Isa. 55:8–9; John 8:23). God’s immanence lel biblical descriptions of the Tribulation, these
and transcendence exist in balance, so that “the should not be viewed as ‘signs’ that the Rapture
whole earth is full of His glory,” while at the same is near. All we know from Scripture is that the
time He is “holy” and “lofty and exalted” infinitely coming of the Lord is impending, and that its
above the universe (Isa. 6:1–3). The combination arrival will come with no advance warning.
of immanence and transcendence also means Preparation. The resurrection of the Church
that God is free to be local, to have a presence is the wise and sovereign decision of God, not
at a particular location (Ex. 19:18, 20; 40:34; Lev. subject to man’s timetable, desires, or specula-
16:2; John 1:14). See also divine essence. tions. Searching for clues and praying for the
Rapture’s arrival are not part of God’s purpose
immediate creation When describing the for this current age. Instead, Christians are
origin of mankind, refers to God’s direct creation commanded to prepare by living every day
of individual soul life—the act of divine creation alike, patiently anticipating the Lord’s arrival
 135 impeccability of Christ

but never neglecting to enrich their souls with Perfect God. As God, the Lord Jesus Christ is
His truth and grace (1 Cor. 1:4–8; Titus 2:12–13; perfect righteousness. He cannot sin, solicit to
James 5:7–8). The Rapture is coming. And in the sin, compromise with sin, or have anything to
meantime, every believer has the opportunity do with sin except to judge it. The divine nature
to fulfill the plan of God and qualify for eternal of Christ cannot even be tempted to sin: “for
rewards at the post-Rapture evaluation throne God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself
of Christ (Rev. 3:11b; 22:12b). does not tempt anyone” (James 1:13b). Therefore,
See also Rapture. the phrase non posse peccare—not able to sin—
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History. describes the deity of Christ.
Lessons 877:2; 457:690; 412:1027. Perfect Man. As true humanity living on earth,
Christ was free from all three categories of hu-
immoral degeneracy man sinfulness: the sin nature, Adam’s original
See degeneracy. sin, and personal sins. The first two categories
were eliminated from our Lord’s life through
immortality (a) The state of not being subject the virgin birth, but personal sin remained an
to death or termination; (b) a term used in Scrip- issue throughout the Incarnation. Scripture con-
ture to distinguish the believer’s future resur- firms that our Lord can “sympathize with our
rection body from his temporal physical body weaknesses,” because He “has been tempted in
(1 Cor. 15:53–54). all things as we are, yet without sin” (Heb. 4:15).
At birth, God bestows on every person immor- The temptation to personal sin did not come
tal soul life. When the soul leaves the body at from within, because the humanity of Christ had
the point of death, this soul life lives on forever, no inherent sin nature. He did, however, receive
whether the person’s eternal abode is heaven or temptation from outside His person—even be-
hell. The mortal body, however, returns to dust ing tempted by Satan himself. The temptations
(Gen. 3:19). recorded in Matthew 4:1–10 are but a few of
Immortality is not to be confused with eternal the traps that Satan ruthlessly and incessantly
life, which is God’s very own life imputed at laid in the Lord’s path. By constantly relying
salvation. During his time on earth, the believer on the provisions of the spiritual life (the same
is a “mortal” who possesses eternal life (1 Cor. provisions available to us), Jesus Christ was able
15:53; 1 John 5:11–12). And it is this eternal life to resist every temptation and remain perfect
that guarantees a future exchange of the mortal, (1 John 3:3, 5). Therefore, the phrase posse non
“perishable body” for the immortal, “imperishable peccare—able not to sin—describes the humanity
body”—the resurrection body (1 Cor. 15:42–54). of Christ.
Presently, there is only one person with an
immortal, resurrection body—the glorified Lord CHRIST AND SIN
Jesus Christ, “who alone possesses immortality
and dwells in unapproachable light” (1 Tim. 6:15– The doctrine of Christ’s impeccability is summarized
16; 2 Tim. 1:10). in two Latin theological phrases: non posse peccare,
meaning “not able to sin,” and posse non peccare, “able
See also resurrection body.
Lessons 840:90–94. not to sin.”

immutability Impeccable God-man. The deity of Christ was

See essence of God. neither temptable nor peccable; the humanity
of Christ was temptable and peccable but chose
impact, invisible not to sin. Putting these characteristics together,
See blessing by association; invisible hero. the incarnate God-man was temptable but
impeccable. “Unblemished and spotless,” Jesus
impeccability of Christ The sinless perfection Christ was qualified to bear and be judged for
of the divine and human natures of Jesus Christ. mankind’s sins and provide eternal salvation for
impeccability of Christ 136

all who believe in Him (1 Pet. 1:19; cf. 2 Cor. 5:21; liever’s virtue toward other people.
Heb. 10:14). Unlike personal love, which emphasizes the
See also hypostatic union; prototype spiritual attractiveness of the object of love, impersonal
life; temptation. love emphasizes the capacity and integrity of
For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Integrity
the one who loves. Whereas personal love is
of God.
an intense and subjective attitude toward a few,
impersonal love is a relaxed and objective mental
impersonal love, divine God’s love directed
attitude toward everyone—friend or enemy,
toward spiritually dead mankind, an uncondi-
worthy or unworthy, pleasant or obnoxious.
tional love based entirely on His own integrity
and expressed through His policy of grace. Impersonal love solves problems in personal
All members of the human race are born fallen relationships. The believer with impersonal love
from God, having nothing within themselves to is able to accept all people as they are, without
commend them to God or make them worthy of demands for reciprocation, without reaction or
His love. Yet this does not mean that God ceases retaliation, without incurring mental attitude sins.
to love His undeserving creatures. Toward spiritu- Whether encountering love and admiration or
ally dead mankind, God extends His impersonal hatred and reproach, this unconditional attitude
love—an unconditional love that depends exclu- is stable and enduring (Col. 3:12–14; 1 Pet. 3:8–9).
sively upon His own absolute, perfect character.
Divine impersonal love emphasizes who and
I LOVE YOU
what God is, not who and what we are. In this (subject) (transitive verb) (object)
love, God’s grace toward us is revealed.
Because “God so [unconditionally] loved the Impersonal Love Personal Love
world,” He initiated a plan of grace to save fallen Emphasizes subject Emphasizes object
man without violating His own integrity (John
Demands integrity Demands attractiveness
3:16). At the cross, the Father judged His impec- in subject in object
cable Son for all the sins of human history. The
Requires no personal Requires personal
judgment endured by Christ was the penalty that acquaintance acquaintance
rightfully belonged to every person except Christ,
Directed toward all Directed toward few
a penalty required in order to satisfy divine
righteousness and justice (Rom. 5:8; 2 Cor. 5:21). Unconditional Conditional
All three members of the Godhead were involved
in this expression of divine impersonal love. The In the sentence I love you, “love” is the verb,
Son became true humanity in order to die as “I” is the subject, and “you” is the object. The
man’s substitute, and the Holy Spirit sustained subject is the one who loves; the object is the
the humanity of Christ while Christ bore the sins recipient of that love. This distinction between
imputed to Him and judged by the Father (1 Pet. subject and object helps to explain the difference
2:24). between impersonal love and personal love.
Until the end of human history, divine im- Impersonal love emphasizes the honor and virtue
personal love is extended to every unbeliever. of the subject, the one who loves. Personal love
Anyone in any generation who desires to know emphasizes the attractiveness, capacity, and
God is offered the free gift of salvation through response of the object, the one who is loved.
the message of the Gospel.
Figure 18 IMPERSONAL VS. PERSONAL LOVE
See also personal love, divine.
For further reference, The Integrity of God; The Un-
failing Love of God. God does not command His children to have
personal agreement or admiration for all people
impersonal love for all mankind (a) An un- (an impossible task among imperfect creatures),
conditional, relaxed mental attitude toward the but He does command them to demonstrate
entire human race; (b) the function of the be- virtue toward all, believer and unbeliever, known
 137 imputations

and unknown. Impersonal love in the soul is imputation, because the soul finds its home in
the only way to fulfill the divine mandates to the genetically formed biological life. See also
“love one another” (John 13:34–35), “love your soul life.
neighbor” (Lev. 19:18; Rom. 13:9; Gal. 5:14), and (2) Adam’s original sin to the sin nature. The
even to “love your enemies and pray for those second imputation occurs at the same moment
who persecute you” (Matt. 5:43–46). Moreover, soul life is imputed, with the result that every
unconditional love is the professional obligation person is born physically alive but spiritually
of all members of God’s royal family, who are to dead. This is a real imputation because there
honorably represent Christ in the devil’s world is affinity between Adam’s original sin and the
(Eph. 5:1–2). Such love is nurtured, motivated, corrupted nature that sin caused in him.
and strengthened by the believer’s ever-increasing Adam’s original sin, his deliberate disobedi-
knowledge of the Word and personal love for God. ence to God in the Garden, had repercussions
See also integrity envelope; royal law; virtue for all mankind. His sin was officially charged
love. to the entire human race, and the sin nature he
For further reference, Christian Integrity.
Lessons 376:675–708.
acquired is passed down to his progeny. At every
person’s birth, God imputes Adam’s original sin
imputations [from Lat. imputare, to impute or to its genetically formed home, the sin nature.
ascribe, to credit to an account] Actions by the Consequently, all are born in the same status as
justice of God in which something is charged, Adam at the Fall—spiritually dead, condemned,
attributed, or credited to a member of the human in need of salvation (Rom. 5:12–21; 1 Cor. 15:22).
race. In this condemnation God is perfectly fair:
God’s plan for humanity contains seven impu- cursing must precede salvation, and spiritual
tations, designed to benefit imperfect man with- death at birth makes each person an immediate
out compromising God’s perfection. Some are candidate for God’s saving grace. See also Adam’s
imputations of blessing and others are of cursing, original sin; federal headship of Adam.
but all are flawlessly executed by the justice of (3) Mankind’s sins to Christ. On the cross, the
God. Each successive imputation builds on the justice of God the Father imputed all the sins of
previous one, forming the framework of man’s mankind to His beloved Son, Jesus Christ (1 Pet.
entire relationship with God from birth to salva- 2:24). This was a judicial imputation because sin
tion to eternity. has no affinity with the impeccable humanity of
The divine imputations are classified as either Christ, no home in Him. To complete the judicial
real or judicial. A real imputation credits to a action, the Father’s justice immediately judged
person something that is antecedently his own. every one of those sins in Christ.
Because there is affinity (harmony or agreement) Our personal sins are never imputed to us for
between what is received and the one who re- judgment. Rather, the perfect humanity of Christ
ceives it, a real imputation goes to a home where was “pierced through for our transgressions,”
it rightfully belongs. On the other hand, a judicial taking upon Himself the penalty that rightfully
imputation is credited where it does not rightfully belonged to all men (Isa. 53:5). This substitu-
belong—there is no affinity or home in the person tionary work satisfied God’s righteousness and
to whom it is given. When there is no affinity, justice and made possible our so-great salvation
the emphasis is on the source—the justice of (2 Cor. 5:21; 1 John 2:2). See also substitution-
God—rather than any connection between what ary spiritual death.
is imputed and the person who receives it. (4) Divine righteousness to the believer. Because
(1) Soul life to biological life. At each individ- the imputation and judgment of sins satisfied
ual’s physical birth, God imputes soul life to the divine holiness, God is free to impute His perfect
existing biological life of the fetus. The combi- righteousness to the believer at the moment of
nation of soul life and biological life results in a faith in Christ (Gen. 15:6; Rom. 3:22; 4:3–5). This
physically alive human being, a person for whom is a judicial imputation because divine right-
God has a plan and purpose. Soul life is a real eousness is credited where it does not rightfully
imputations 138

belong—no affinity exists between the absolute have received the sixth imputation in time will
righteousness of God and the total depravity of receive the seventh (2 Cor. 5:10). God is glorified
mankind. The judicial action is made complete by what He gives in this final imputation—honors,
when the justice of God recognizes His own decorations, and privileges that distinguish the
righteousness in the believer and pronounces winner believer throughout the eternal state
him justified, acceptable, vindicated (Rom. 3:24; (Phil. 4:1; 2 Tim. 2:12a; 4:8; James 1:12; Rev. 2:26–
Phil. 3:9b). By this imputation and justification, 28; 3:5a). See also crowns.
divine justice is free to sustain the believer with For further reference, The Integrity of God.
logistical grace and impute special blessings Lessons 665:79–80; 840:98–99, 103–6.
without compromising divine essence (Rom. 5:1;
Titus 3:7). See justification; righteousness. imputed righteousness
(5) Eternal life to the believer. God is eternal See imputations; righteousness.
life, and to live eternally with God one must also
possess His life. Another salvation imputation, Incarnation [from Lat. incarnari, to be made flesh]
therefore, is the imputation of eternal life. God (1) Refers to Jesus Christ, the Second Person of
the Holy Spirit sets up the affinity for this real the Trinity, being “revealed in the flesh” (1 Tim.
imputation when, in His ministry of regeneration, 3:16) and dwelling on earth as undiminished
He creates in the believer a human spirit. To this deity and true humanity in one person (John 1:14;
divinely prepared home the justice of God im- 10:30). In His incarnation, the Son of God took on
putes eternal life, assuring the believer of a never- a flesh-and-blood body that experienced normal
ending relationship with Him. The believer’s growth, human limitations like hunger, pain,
soul and spirit abide in heaven forever because and fatigue, death by crucifixion, and resurrec-
he shares God’s own eternal life (1 John 5:11–12; tion (Matt. 16:21; Luke 2:52; John 19:33; Heb. 2:9).
cf. John 3:16, 36; 6:47; 20:31). See also eternal See hypostatic union.
security; human spirit; regeneration. (2) The approximately 33-year period (ca. 4 B.C.
(6) Blessings in time to the mature believer. The to A.D. 30) during which God the Son lived on
sixth imputation occurs whenever the justice earth as the God-man. Synonyms: Dispensation
of God pours special blessings to the righteous- of the Hypostatic Union; First Advent. See Dis-
ness of God in the spiritually mature believer. pensation of the Hypostatic Union.
Affinity between divine blessings and divine
righteousness makes this a real imputation. indwelling of the Trinity The personal pres-
Through maximum doctrine resident in the soul, ence of all three members of the Godhead within
this believer possesses capacity for these special the Church Age believer.
blessings—he has enough maturity to appreciate At the moment of salvation, the Father, Son,
abundance without being distracted (Prov. and Holy Spirit take up residence inside the Chris-
8:18). The supergrace bounties include spiritual tian’s body, a spiritual phenomenon that makes
blessings, temporal blessings, blessings that this age unique. In this dispensation the ordinary
overflow to his personal and historical periphery, believer is extraordinary, because God’s personal
blessings connected with undeserved suffering, presence enables a more intimate relationship
and eventually, dying blessings (Eph. 1:3; 3:20; with God than in any other time in history. The
1 Cor. 2:9). See also capacity, spiritual; indwelling Trinity is compelling motivation for
supergrace. the believer to prioritize relationship with God
(7) Blessings in eternity to the mature believer. over relationships with people, and indwelling
The special blessings God imputes on earth are also serves as the basis for unprecedented bless-
parlayed into even greater blessings in heaven. ings and glorification of God.
The home of this real imputation is the resur- Indwelling Father. The scriptural phrase “Father
rection body, sinless and immortal. When Jesus of all who is over all and through all and in all”
Christ evaluates believers in heaven for their indicates His function as planner, sovereign ruler,
execution of the spiritual life, only those who and indwelling presence for every member of
 139 inner beauty

His royal family, the Church (Eph. 4:6). Because by the Spirit, but it does command the believer
the Father is revealed indirectly—through Christ to “be filled with the Spirit” (Eph. 5:18; cf. Gal.
by the power of the Spirit—Scripture presents 5:16). The Spirit’s filling ministry is a conditional
little beyond the arresting fact that He does experience that allows the believer to progress in
indeed dwell inside every believer of this age the spiritual life, so that “Christ is formed in you”
(John 14:23; Phil. 2:13). The Father’s indwelling and glorified (Gal. 4:19; cf. 2 Cor. 3:18). See also
is related to the glorification of His unique plan filling of the Holy Spirit; spirituality.
and provision for the spiritual life of the Church For further reference, The Divine Outline of History.
(Eph. 1:3, 6, 12). He indwells as assurance that Lessons 412:312–28; 376:913–15.
a treasure of spiritual assets and blessings are
prepared for each of His children, and that each inner beauty (a) Attractiveness projected from
has equal opportunity to execute His plan and the soul of the Christian woman who is oriented
receive those assets for time and eternity. See to grace and doctrine; (b) the mental attitude of
also portfolio of invisible assets. spiritual femininity derived from divine view-
Indwelling Son. The Second Person of the Trin- point resident in the female believer’s soul.
ity is the special divine presence (i.e., Shekinah A woman’s external beauty may be determined
Glory) who is revealed and glorified among men by facial features, bodily symmetry, coloring
(John 1:18). The presence that guided and pro- of skin and eyes, even choice of clothing and
tected Old Testament Israel and dwelt in human accessories. Some women naturally have better
form during the Incarnation now dwells inside features or symmetry than others, and some
every believer (Lev. 26:11–12; John 1:14; 14:20). have more resources with which to groom and
The indwelling of Christ guarantees the believer’s adorn themselves. But with regeneration, being
eternal life in the presence of God. Christ’s born again, every woman has equal opportunity
inner presence also guarantees that blessings to make herself beautiful. First Timothy 2 states
on deposit from eternity past will be distributed, that the female believer can have a most fantastic
and that Christ’s glory will be reflected if the beauty that more than compensates for any exte-
believer executes God’s will and plan (2 Cor. 13:5; rior defects (verses 9–10, 15b). Beauty in the soul
Gal. 2:20; Col. 1:27). By advancing to maturity, is what Scripture commands of the Christian
the Christian is “transformed into the same woman. Attaining this inner beauty is tantamount
image” and glorifies the resurrected Christ in his to executing the spiritual life, for it is a reflection
body (2 Cor. 3:18). See also Shekinah Glory. of the woman’s obedience to the plan of God and
Indwelling Holy Spirit. The purpose of the the doctrine in her soul (Prov. 31:30).
indwelling of the Holy Spirit is twofold: (1) The The grace beauty of the female soul is described
Spirit’s presence provides a temple for the by the Greek sophrosune (1 Tim. 2:15b). Trans-
indwelling of Christ, called in Scripture the lated “self-restraint,” the word means virtuous
“temple of the Holy Spirit” (1 Cor. 6:19; cf. 3:16; conduct that is first and foremost associated with
2 Cor. 6:16). Because the sin nature continues humility and authority orientation. The female
to reside in the temporal body, the believer believer learns doctrine in the local church by
himself is incapable of creating an acceptable quietly submitting to the teaching of her right
dwelling place for Christ. Only the “renewing pastor (1 Tim. 2:11–12). With consistent advance
by the Holy Spirit” makes the temple fit for the in the spiritual life, she honors other authority,
Shekinah Glory to occupy (Titus 3:5; cf. Rom. including her husband, and exhibits stability,
8:10–11). (2) The Spirit indwells to form a base sound judgment, and self-control (Eph. 5:24, 33b;
of operations for His experiential ministry in the Col. 3:18). Virtue, integrity, and honor are the
believer’s life, the filling of the Spirit. Whereas spiritual adornments she wears in all walks of
the indwelling of the Spirit is a constant reality, a life (Prov. 31:10–31). And unlike the charms of
permanent position established at salvation, fill- youth, the radiance of the “gentle and quiet spirit”
ing is intermittent. Scripture, therefore, does not does not fade with time (1 Pet. 3:4).
command the Church Age believer to be indwelt The biblical command for the woman to make
inner beauty 140

herself beautiful in the soul does not forbid In the end, the only true and genuine security
making herself outwardly attractive. Passages is provided by the grace of God, never by the
like 1 Timothy 2:9 and 1 Peter 3:1–6 simply em- efforts of mankind. God’s answer to an insecure
phasize that outer appearance cannot be com- civilization is twofold: (1) the laws of divine
pared with the woman’s inner beauty, that the establishment, which define biblical principles
reflected glory of God in the soul is far greater of freedom for believers and unbelievers, and (2)
than genetic or cultivated beauty, and that phys- the spiritual truths that reveal Jesus Christ and
ical attractiveness will never make up for lack of sustain the believer through time and eternity.
beauty in the soul. See also cycles of discipline; divine institu-
See also marriage. tions; nationalism.
Lessons 467:27–28; 457:652; 376:1974–75.
inspiration The principle and doctrine under
insecurity, doctrine of Explains the progres- which the Word of God was revealed to and re-
sive self-destruction of a society that rejects the corded by the human writers of Scripture. The
divine solution. Instability begins in the family Greek word theopneustos, translated in 2 Timothy
and works its way into the highest echelons of 3:16 as “inspired by God,” literally means “God-
government as follows: breathed.” The doctrine of inspiration guarantees
(1) Insecure husbands result in insecure wives. the infallibility of Scripture, though only in the
(2) Insecure parents result in insecure children. original languages of the autograph. See verbal
(3) Insecure children result in an insecure gen- plenary inspiration.
eration.
(4) An insecure generation demands security. integrity envelope Terminology used for the
(5) In demanding security from government, tandem operation of two spiritual problem-
an insecure generation becomes an entitled solving tools—personal love for God the Father
generation. and impersonal love for all mankind—which
(6) Entitlements are offered to an insecure gener- function together to provide protection, stability,
ation by insecure politicians; the insecure gen- and honor to love in a close personal relationship.
eration elects and re-elects these insecure Personal love between two human beings, a
politicians. devotion motivated by attractiveness, attachment,
(7) The vehicle for entitlement becomes some and agreement, has no honor in itself. Even
form of socialism, offered by an insecure gov- toward the closest of loved ones, a stable personal
ernment. love is nearly impossible to maintain through
(8) To finance the pseudosecurity of socialism, the human flaws of subjectivity, hypersensitiv-
the insecure government gains power and se- ity, frustration, disappointment, and anger. But
curity for itself by confiscating wealth through when the believer has the virtues of personal
unjust taxation and redistributing that wealth love for God and impersonal love for man in his
in the name of the greater good. soul, he can function honorably in a personal
(9) A demagogic government offers pseudosecu- love relationship with another human being.
rity to an insecure generation through public lies Regardless of the other person’s failures, the
and false promises, destroying individual and believer can rise above and remain stable in his
national freedom. love, because that love resides inside the integrity
(10) Instead of government being the servant of envelope.
the people, the entitled, insecure people become See also impersonal love for all mankind;
slaves to big government. Absolute power in the personal love for God the Father; virtue love.
hands of the insecure and incompetent rulers— Lessons 412:1048–49; 376:533–34.
whose power lust feeds on a populace demanding
something for nothing—always results in inse- integrity of God The immovable strength of
cure people selling their heritage of freedom for character that backs up all God’s dealings with
a mess of pottage. mankind. Integrity is expressed by the Greek
 141 interim body

noun dikaiosune, an abstract term meaning both with Christian doctrine. In the twentieth and
“righteousness” (as a principle leading to correct twenty-first centuries, the Church has been con-
thought and action) and “justice” (as the objective taminated by socialism, existentialism, liberation
thinking of a judge, treating others equitably theology, and various other humanistic philo-
before the law). Synonym: holiness of God. sophies that replace true biblical doctrines with
The integrity of God is composed of His right- man’s own ideas.
eousness and justice. In every action God takes See also cosmic system; empiricism; humanism;
toward man, these two attributes work together rationalism.
to ensure perfect fairness and prevent any com- For further reference, The Angelic Conflict.
Lessons 431:85, 89–90; 429:28; 412:895.
promise to His character. God’s perfect, inviola-
ble righteousness is the principle, or standard,
intercalation of the Church The insertion of
behind His integrity, while absolute justice is
the Church Age into human history.
the function, or execution, of His integrity. What
In the wake of Christ’s victory on the cross, the
the righteousness of God demands, the justice
divine administration of history underwent a
of God must execute. See essence of God
dramatic change. The Jewish Age was set aside,
(righteousness, justice). See also adjustment to
the promised kingdom postponed, and a new
the justice of God.
era begun. Israel had rejected her Messiah, but
For further reference, The Integrity of God. through a new body of believers, the Church, God
would glorify the victorious Christ forever (John
intellectual arrogance (a) A vanity that gives 13:31–32). The present Church Age began on the
precedence to human intelligence and academic day of Pentecost A.D. 30, when the apostles were
achievement over spiritual wisdom from doc- baptized by the Holy Spirit, and will terminate
trinal advance; (b) an arrogance that glorifies with the Rapture, when the Church is transferred
human speculations to the exclusion of divine to heaven. At that point in history, the interrupted
absolutes. Synonym: rational arrogance. Age of Israel will resume for its final seven years,
Intellectual arrogance generally afflicts be- known in eschatology as the Tribulation.
lievers whose superior IQ or educational back- Intercalation of the Church was unknown
ground fosters a false sense of elitism and to Old Testament believers. Writers of the He-
superiority. Enamored with all things scholarly, brew Canon prophesied key points of Israel’s
the intellectual reversionist attempts to reconcile future—her fall, her time of intense tribulation,
man-centered philosophical and scientific and the kingdom inauguration—but they were
assertions with Scripture. Because God’s truths silent on doctrines related to the Church. In pas-
cannot be understood through rationalism sages where the Church Age would have been
and empiricism, he accepts academic theories mentioned chronologically, there is a distinct pa-
regarding human existence: he chooses evolution renthesis of time. Examples are found between
over creationism, socialism over free enterprise, Psalm 22:22 and 23; Daniel 2:40 and 41; 7:23 and
psychology of environmental influence over the 24; 11:35 and 36; and in Isaiah 61:2. Doctrines
doctrine of volitional responsibility. He uses his pertinent to the Church Age are made known in
erroneous conclusions to further compromise the New Testament Scriptures, particularly the
subjects like history, anthropology, sociology, or Epistles (Rom. 16:25–26; Eph. 3:1–6; Col. 1:25–26).
psychology and all too often to distort orthodox See also Church Age; mystery doctrine; royal
Christian doctrine. family of God.
The trends of intellectual arrogance are Lessons 467:6; 457:222.
evident in Church history. During the first and
second centuries, Gnostics imposed mystical and intercessory prayer
philosophical concepts upon Scripture and then See prayer.
claimed to possess a knowledge superior to that
of orthodox Christians. Medieval Scholasticism interim body Temporary home of the human
tried to merge the theories of Plato and Aristotle soul between physical death and resurrection.
interim body 142

of the believer. Physical death does not separate in God’s Word, reaches spiritual maturity, and
the believer from God. At the instant of death, becomes an invisible hero. As God bestows
the believer’s soul and spirit leave the earthly special blessings upon this mature believer, an
body, the body of corruption, and are united in an overflow of prosperity and protection benefits his
interim body “face to face with the Lord” in heaven periphery and beyond. Loved ones, businesses,
(2 Cor. 5:8, corrected translation). While awaiting communities, and even entire generations
the eternal resurrection body, all believers enjoy become unknowing beneficiaries of God’s grace.
perfect happiness in their temporary imma- In this way, the course of history is changed
terial bodies, which are free from sin and pain, through an unseen but powerful spiritual impact:
for “the first [old] things have passed away” (Rev. the influence of invisible heroes quietly thriving
21:4). Because the interim body is also recog- under God’s plan.
nizable in heaven, this interlude of blessing See also blessing by association; pivot of mature
includes reunion with loved ones. believers; winner believer.
of the unbeliever. After physical death, the souls For further reference, The Divine Outline of History;
of the unsaved reside temporarily in Torments, The Unfailing Love of God.
a compartment of Hades (Luke 16:23–24). There
they remain, each in an interim body that feels isagogics
total agony and suffering, until the end of human See ICE.
history, at which point they are resurrected to
stand before Jesus Christ at the Last Judgment isolation of sin The process in which the believer
(Rev. 20:13). Having rejected the Savior, every assigns confessed sins to the past and continues
unbeliever will be condemned to the lake of to advance in the spiritual life.
fire (John 3:18; Rev. 20:14–15). In this place of The Apostle Paul expresses isolation of sin
final punishment these souls will be conscious as “forgetting [epilanthanomai] what lies behind
of eternal separation from God, and their final and reaching forward to what lies ahead” (Phil.
bodies, not specifically described in Scripture, 3:13b). Notice what this does not say: cry over
will experience excruciating pain forever. past failures, defend yourself, justify your actions,
See also death; resurrection; resurrection body. feel guilty. All of this is eliminated by the word
“epilanthanomai,” which means to disregard, to
interlocking system of arrogance never look back. The believer who names his
See cosmic system (arrogance complex). failures to God is instantly forgiven. By assigning
those forgiven sins to oblivion, he avoids sinful
interlocking system of hatred reactions and presses on toward the “prize of
See cosmic system (hatred complex). the upward call of God” (Phil. 3:14). Failure to
isolate confessed sins results in the self-induced
interlocking system of love misery of chain-sinning and diverts the believer
See divine dynasphere. from the goal of spiritual maturity.
See also chain-sinning; rebound.
internationalism For further reference, Isolation of Sin.
See nationalism.
Israel
invisible assets See Dispensation of Israel; Jewish race.
See portfolio of invisible assets.
Israel and the Church God’s two representative
invisible hero The Church Age believer whose bodies of people on earth, each fulfilling unique
spiritual advance has an unseen, positive impact missions in different periods of history. “Israel” is
on other people, his nation, and history. the chosen race that began with Abraham in the
Remaining anonymous and unheralded in this Old Testament, and “the Church” designates all be-
life, the ordinary Christian steadily advances lievers living between Pentecost and the Rapture.
 143 Israel and the Church

Scripture upholds Israel and the Church as two

distinct peoples with different roles and destinies
in the plan of God. Israel is distinguished by
ethnicity, nationality, and spiritual regeneration,
whereas the Church is a spiritual body of all
ethnicities of any nation. The Jews are citizens of
the first and last client nation of history; Church
Age believers are citizens of heaven living as am-
bassadors in the devil’s world. Because Israel as
a nation rejected the incarnate Jesus Christ, her
time as God’s earthly agent has been temporarily
set aside. In her place is the Church, presently
being formed as a new creation “in Christ” (2 Cor.
5:17) and given unprecedented spiritual assets
for glorifying the resurrected Lord. In a future
age, unbelieving Jews will have a final opportun-
ity to receive their Messiah and represent God
as His chosen people on earth. Jesus Christ will
ultimately return to rule all regenerate Jews in
their promised kingdom, in which the Church
will fulfill a separate yet glorified role.
The relationship between Israel and the Church
is a critical doctrine for believers today. All too
often, misinformed Christians blend Israel with
the Church as one regenerate, chosen people of
God. Some assume the Church has replaced Is-
rael and therefore inherited her covenants, and
some even harbor hostility toward the Jews as
a people they believe God has permanently cast
out. These and other misconceptions are re-
solved with the correct dispensational approach
to Scripture [see dispensations]. Israel has
a future in God’s plan, and “the Lord will not
abandon His people [the Jews] on account of His
great name” (1 Sam. 12:22).
For more teaching on Israel, see anti-
Semitism; covenants to Israel; diaspora;
dispensation of Israel; Jewish race;
Mosaic Law; theocracy. For doctrines related
to the Church, see church; Church Age;
intercalation; mystery doctrine; new
spiritual species; politeuma metaphor;
royal family of God; sanctification.
For further reference, Anti-Semitism; The Divine Out-
line of History.
 Jj
jealousy A mental attitude sin that demands the See also arrogance complex of sins; emotional
complex of sins.
exclusive devotion of another or resents the bless-
For further reference, Daniel Chapters One through Six.
ings and advantages of another. (Jealousy is used Lessons 594:12; 422:27–28; 458:33; 361:2, 7, 60.
in conjunction with God simply to illustrate His
demands for believers. See anthropopathism.) Jehovah A name for God, synonymous with
The Hebrew noun qinah indicates not only Yahweh. See Tetragrammaton.
envy or fear of rivalry but also intense zeal, em-
phasizing jealousy as a vicious manifestation Jeshurun A title of high rank in the Old Testa-
of the sin nature. According to Proverbs 27:4,
ment, applied to those who reflect or represent
jealousy is the most dangerous mental attitude
the integrity of God. The proper noun Jeshurun,
sin, because it is part of a complex of sins related
coined by Moses and later used by Isaiah, is
to both arrogance and emotion. Jealousy always
derived from the Hebrew yashar, which desig-
involves self-centeredness, bitterness, and fear,
nates something righteous, equitable, pleasing,
and it quickly takes on anger, self-righteousness,
upright (Ex. 15:26; Deut. 6:18; 1 Sam. 18:26; Ps.
vindictiveness, and inordinate competition to
33:4; Prov. 3:6; 4:25).
form the ingredients for evil (Prov. 6:34; James
Title for Israel as God’s chosen nation. Deuter-
3:14, 16; 4:2). Jealousy motivates the desire to
onomy 32:15 describes how “Jeshurun [Israel]
destroy others (Dan. 3:12–15; 6:6–13; Acts 7:9; cf.
grew fat,” or prospered as a client nation, yet
Gen. 37:5, 23–28), opposes the teaching of biblical
became distracted from the source of blessing.
truth (Acts 13:45; 17:5; 1 Tim. 6:3–4), stimulates
As used here, Jeshurun emphasizes that Israel,
legalism and religious tyranny (Matt. 12:14;
15:10–14; 22:15; 27:18; Mark 15:10; Acts 5:17; though apostate, remained a representative
23:12), rejects authority and incites revolution nation before God and was disciplined according
(Isa. 11:13), and intrudes upon the freedom and to the standard of His perfect integrity. In
privacy of others by demanding loyalty. Deuteronomy 33, the titles “king in Jeshurun”
Jealousy is “cruel as the grave,” smothering (verse 5) and “God of Jeshurun” (verse 26) refer
true love between man and woman, and where to Jesus Christ as King and God of Israel.
jealousy exists, “there is disorder and every evil Designation of honor. “Jeshurun” also distin-
thing” (Song of Sol. 8:6, kjv; James 3:16). No guishes a small group of ultra spiritually mature
form of relationship or organization—including Jews (Isa. 44:2–4). In this context, the word can
marriage, friendship, business, and the local be interpreted “the upright ones.” The spiritual
church—can withstand its destructive power lives of such believers reflect the righteousness of
(Prov. 27:4; 1 Cor. 3:3; 2 Cor. 12:20; Gal. 5:26; God and glorify Him to the maximum. Old Testa-
Phil. 1:15). The jealous and resentful believer will ment Israel bore a unique fraternity of Jeshurun
never know the inner tranquillity of virtue love believers, composed of men like Moses, Caleb,
and occupation with Christ. Unless he rebounds and Joshua (Num. 14:24; Deut. 34:9). By living
and recovers his spiritual advance, he will have against the trend of apostasy and persevering
a life of misery outside the plan of God, possibly in the plan of God, these three had tremendous
even suffering loss of physical and mental health invisible impact on the wilderness generations
(Job 5:2; Prov. 14:30). and the future nation. The Jeshurun roster also
Jeshurun 146

includes Isaiah, Micah, Hosea (750–700 B.C.); will, Christ administers righteous judgments
Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego (the Chal- that determine the overall destiny of man—indi-
dean Empire, early sixth century B.C.); Haggai, viduals who live in accordance with God’s plan
Zechariah, Zerubbabel (538–516 B.C.); Ezra, Ne- and design are blessed; those who reject the
hemiah (458–422 B.C.). Even when Israel lacked divine plan are punished. Nations of the world
a sufficient pivot of mature believers, God used rise and fall according to the same principle of
the impact of the Jeshurun fraternity to preserve blessing and discipline (1 Sam. 2:6–10; Ps. 33;
His Word and sustain the nation for His purpose. Dan. 2:21). Indeed, the circumstances of history
He will do the same in the future Tribulation and shift constantly, but the One who controls history
Millennium.
is “the same yesterday and today and forever”
The principle of the Jeshurun believer carries
(Heb. 13:8), shaping all events into the fulfillment
on into the Church Age, yet without any distinc-
of His will and purpose.
tion between Jew and Gentile. Pleroma, the status
of the Christian who is “filled up [pleroō] to all Lessons 631:116, 254–57; 457:103.
the fullness [pleroma] of God” (Eph. 3:19; cf. 4:13),
is synonymous with the status of the Old Testa- Jew
ment Jeshurun believer [see pleroma]. See Jewish race.
Lessons 376:1055–58.
Jewish Age
Jesus Christ See Dispensation of Israel.
See Christology; God of Israel; hypostatic
union; Trinity. Jewish evangelists The 144,000 Jews, “twelve
thousand . . . from every tribe of the sons of Israel,”
Jesus Christ controls history Expresses the who will spread the Gospel during the Tribulation
fact that Jesus Christ works all events of time (Rev. 7:4–8). They are also referred to as “first
for His victorious purpose, despite the existence fruits to God,” meaning the first redeemed people
of opposition and evil in the world. in the Tribulation (Rev. 14:4).
As the “Alpha…the first…the beginning,” Jesus This group of evangelists are those who will
Christ is the author of history. As the “Omega… recognize the dramatic events of the Rapture of
the last…the end,” He is the terminator of his- the Church, believe in Christ, and serve as God’s
tory (Rev. 22:13; cf. 1:8, 17b). He is infinite and primary missionary agency amidst the period of
eternal God who created the universe and every- unrestrained evil. So great is their mission that
thing in it (Isa. 37:16; John 1:2–3; Col. 1:16–17),
they will sacrifice the typical functions of life, like
and He alone sustains His handiwork by the
marriage, to devote themselves to the Lord’s work
“word of His power” (Heb. 1:3). No event ever
(Rev. 14:4). Angels will assist in the worldwide
escapes His notice. While catastrophe, depres-
presentation of the Gospel (Rev. 14:6–7), and at
sion, wars, evil, and disease are permitted to
the Second Advent, the 144,000 evangelists will
occur in the world, these disasters always remain
stand with Christ in triumph on Mount Zion (Rev.
within the boundaries of divine providence.
Until Christ terminates human history at the 14:1).
designated time, His divine care and interven- Note that the 144,000 are Jewish believers—
tion ensure the protection of humanity on earth not Gentiles, not Christians—who accept Christ
(2 Pet. 3:7, 10–12). and preach His message during the Tribulation.
Jesus Christ controls the course of history Unfounded is the claim of Jehovah’s Witnesses
directly, through His divine essence; indirectly, that the number refers to a specially chosen
through man’s voluntary compliance with His group, presently being formed, who alone will
established laws; and permissively, by allowing reign with Christ in the kingdom of heaven.
the angelic conflict and negative volition to See also Tribulation.
run their course. Without interfering with free Lessons 457:254–56, 505–10.
 147 Jewish race

Jewish priests 2:2; John 2:13; 4:9; Acts 18:2, 24).11

See Jewish religious leaders; priesthood.
oRigin of the RaCe
The Jewish race is unique among all races
Jewish race (a) In the ethnic sense, refers to all in that it originated through a supernatural act
persons who possess the genes of Abraham, Isaac, of God; therefore, the biblical concept of a true
Jacob, and one of the twelve patriarchs; (b) in Jew combines both racial and spiritual factors. At
the biblical perspective of the true Jew, refers to age seventy-five, the born-again Gentile named
ethnic Jews who are born again through faith in Abram (renamed Abraham) was separated by
the Savior, i.e., the special people founded by God from his Mesopotamian homeland and
God for the purpose of receiving His Word and promised tremendous divine blessings for him-
communicating it to the world. self and his future descendants (Gen. 12:1–5;
designations 15:6; Acts 7:2–3). At ninety-nine years, Abraham
(1) Hebrew. After Abram left Ur of the Chaldees was circumcised as a sign of the new race that
and until he became a citizen of Salem, he was God would multiply through him and his elderly
a man without a country, called “Abram, the wife Sarah (Gen. 17:10–19). God then confirmed
the line through which the new race would
Hebrew [Ibri]” (Gen. 14:13). Ibri is derived from
descend—Isaac was the chosen son of Abraham;
the verb abar, meaning “to cross over.” Therefore
Jacob was the chosen grandson. Both followed
“Abram, the Hebrew” means “Abram, the one who
Abraham’s pattern of salvation, faith in the Sav-
crossed the river.” This translation is confirmed
ior as He was then revealed, and for that reason,
by Joshua 24:2–3, which states that Abraham and
both were qualified to inherit the unique cove-
his ancestors once “lived beyond the [Euphrates]
nant blessings (Gen. 21:12; 25:23; 26:3–4; 35:10–
River.” Throughout the generations, descendants
12; Mal. 1:2–3; Rom. 9:9–13). From that point on,
of Abraham were called “Hebrews” (Gen. 39:14;
anyone descended from Abraham, Isaac, Jacob,
Ex. 2:6–7; 7:16; 1 Sam. 29:3; Jer. 34:9; Phil. 3:5).
and any of Jacob’s twelve sons belongs, at least
(2) Israel. The title “Israel [prince of God]” (Gen.
ethnically, to the new race. But since the race
35:10), Jacob’s God-given name, was passed
was founded on regeneration, the challenge to
down to his progeny, who were called “children
all racial Jews is to become true Israel through
of Israel” (Deut. 1:3). Later records designate
personal faith in the Second Person of the Trinity,
them as “Israelites” or “Israel.” Biblically, the who calls Himself “the God of Abraham, Isaac
designation applies to all the tribes and their and Jacob” (Ex. 3:16).
descendants, including the half tribes of Ephraim
and Manasseh. puRpose of the new RaCe
(3) Jew is a designation derived from the He- God formed this special people for the pur-
brew yehudah (praised, celebrated), the name of pose of furthering His plan for mankind. The
Jews were to be God’s distinguished representa-
Jacob’s fourth son, called in the English “Judah.”
tives on earth. They were the chosen recipients,
The Hebrew yehudi, “Jehudite,” was used for
custodians, and communicators of the doctrines
descendants of the tribe of Judah and subjects
of salvation, sin, and God’s plan for human his-
of the Kingdom of Judah (i.e., the Southern King-
tory. As such, they were responsible for evange-
dom). The shortened term “Jew” came into use
lizing the world. That distinguished position and
after the destruction of the Northern Kingdom
duty was to be passed down to every generation.
and more prominently after the Babylonian
By divine appointment, Israel was promised to be
captivity of the Southern Kingdom (Neh. 1:2–3;
a blessing to the entire human race (Gen. 12:2–3;
Esther 3:13; Jer. 40:11–12; 52:28). Since by that
Amos 9:12; cf. Acts 15:16–17).
time members of the tribe of Judah largely
composed the remnant of God’s chosen people, 11. Merrill F. Unger, The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary (The
Jew became a synonym for all Israelites (Matt. Moody Bible Institute of Chicago, 1988), s.v. “Jew.”
Jewish race 148

assets foR the new RaCe dynasty would come the promised Messiah, who
As the means of fulfilling their distinguished would accomplish salvation and then rule, in
mission, the Jews were blessed above all other person, the Jewish kingdom on earth (Ps. 89:20–
nations in the Age of Israel (Ex. 33:16; Deut. 7:6; 37; Luke 1:32; Acts 2:29–30).
Rom. 9:4–5). The following provisions, privileges, (5) A restored Jewish nation. Despite the Lord’s
and protective measures are a testimony to God’s crushing discipline to what remained of Israel
grace toward His people. in A.D. 70, scriptural prophecy confirms the
(1) A chosen national entity. God’s covenant Jews’ future as a restored millennial kingdom.
with Abraham defines the Jewish race as citizens Following the Second Advent, Jesus Christ will
of a nation set apart and protected for God’s rule earth from the throne in Jerusalem. Peace
purpose. One distinction between Israel and all and prosperity will flow freely to all redeemed
other nations of the world is that Israel began as Jewry, for all of her enemies will have been
a regenerate theocracy: Jesus Christ, the “Lord defeated, and those who once despised her will
God of Israel” (Luke 1:68), ruled personally over bow at her feet (Isa. 27:6; 40:10–11; 60:14; Jer.
the nation for the first four hundred years of her 31:31–34; Zech. 14:16).
existence. This chosen national entity would be (6) Eternal inheritance. The privileges and
blessed through obedience to God’s Word and inheritance enjoyed by born-again Jews during
have the opportunity to manifest God’s character the Millennium will be extended and amplified
as never before in history (Deut. 4:6–8, 32–40). forever in the eternal state. There, Abraham and
See also client nation to God; theocracy. his spiritual progeny will occupy the eternal
(2) Land of residence. So that His chosen people promised land of the new universe. Abraham,
could function as a chosen nation, the Lord guar- who chose to live on earth as a transient, “dwell-
anteed Abraham and his descendants a section ing in tents with Isaac and Jacob,” will receive
of the earth’s real estate (Gen. 13:14–15; 15:18– his very own city built by God (Heb. 11:9–10),
21). The specified Middle East territory is much the eternal capital called the “new Jerusalem”
larger than what the Jews have yet to occupy, (Rev. 21:2–3, 10–27).
but God’s promise secures a restoration of Israel (7) Promise of protection and perpetuation. The
throughout this land when Christ returns to rule Jews are the one race that God has promised to
His kingdom (Isa. 11:11–12). See also covenants preserve. God blesses those who bless the Jews
to Israel (Palestinian). and curses those who curse them, ensuring that
(3) Policy for function as a nation. Israel’s heritage, Satan’s anti-Semitic schemes will never com-
both spiritual and national, was delineated in the pletely eradicate the Jewish race (Gen. 12:3a).
Mosaic Law. This collection of statutes revealed God has not rejected His people (Rom. 11:1–2).
by God to Moses established policy for the civil Until the end of human history He will perpetu-
life and morality of all citizens, believers and ate the race, always providing opportunity for
unbelievers, and defined the spiritual life for be- racial Jews to be saved and thus inherit the spir-
lievers. The Law’s advanced standards of health, itual blessings of the unconditional promises.
diet, and agriculture elevated Israel above her See also anti-Semitism.
comparatively primitive Gentile neighbors, and all isRael is not isRael
the superior moral code and equitable system From the gene pool of Abraham, Isaac, and
of justice formed a charter of human freedom Jacob have come extraordinary talent, intellect,
that would influence the world’s great nations and many other characteristics that indicate a
throughout history. For Israel, to whom the Law superior genetic factor. But God’s specific calling
was exclusively given, obedience to these statutes out of Isaac and Jacob declares to the entire race
ensured spiritual and financial prosperity, along that their superiority means nothing without re-
with military success for the protection of the generation (Gen. 17:19; 21:12b; Mal. 1:2–3; Rom. 9:6–7,
nation. See also Mosaic Law. 10–13). The genes of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob
(4) A royal dynasty through the line of David was are of no benefit without the God of Abraham,
ordained for the client nation Israel. Through this Isaac, and Jacob—who is Jesus Christ (Ex. 3:6).
 149 Jewish religious leaders

Old Testament Israel often struggled to distin- Jewish religious leaders Priests, scribes,
guish between her physical and spiritual heritage. Pharisees, and Sadducees in Israel at the time of
Over time, many Jews departed from grace and Christ.
instead placed their confidence in ancestry and During the postexilic period, particularly in
religious tradition. The abandonment of spiritual the three centuries before Christ, the people of
heritage was evident during the Incarnation, Israel struggled to maintain a national identity
when many failed to recognize Christ as the under Greek and Roman conquests. Out of this
long-promised Messiah. Paul, the “Hebrew of dynamic environment emerged distinctions, divi-
Hebrews” himself (Phil. 3:4–7), deeply solicitous sions, and aberrations among Jewish leadership.
for the salvation of his countrymen, urged Some authorities became focused on the political
them to see the true issue, declaring “they are and social conditions of the nation; others were
not all [spiritual] Israel who are descended from more concerned with spiritual issues. Political
Israel” (Rom. 9:6). Divine blessings to Israel, in- and religious sects were born, and a governing
cluding salvation, are not the birthright of the body of representatives from divergent factions
racial Jew. That is, not the “children of the flesh came together to control a partially scattered and
[racial Jew]” but the “children of the promise Gentile-dominated people.
[regenerate Jew]” are heirs to the unconditional When Israel’s Messiah arrived in the person of
covenants (Rom. 9:8). To inherit the eternal Jesus Christ, the majority of Jews did not accept
spiritual blessings, a physical Jew must possess Him. Israel’s authorities in particular, despite
the imputed righteousness and eternal life of their knowledge of the Old Testament, rejected
God (Gen. 15:6; Rom. 4:3, 13; Gal. 3:6). The real three years of miraculous messianic evidence
Jew, then, is the racial Jew who is born again, and at the site of crucifixion mocked, “Let Him
and real Israel—true Israel—is regenerate Israel, now come down from the cross, and we will
by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as He is revealed. believe in Him” (Matt. 27:41–42). The following
Persistent rejection of Christ and His work is a brief survey of these first-century Jewish
on the cross is why the client nation was taken leaders within Roman-occupied Judea, the var-
out in A.D. 70 and Israel’s future put on hold. ious people and facets of power that conspired to
Generations of Jews since have practiced the put Jesus Christ on the cross.
legalistic tenets of Judaism, futilely clinging to
the pRofessions
the Mosaic Law and rituals of the past with no
Priests. Jewish men who, primarily by lineage
reality of relationship with God. Israel’s present
of Aaron, were qualified to perform Levitical
discipline and the failure of the individual Jew
sacrifices and administer in the Temple, the
does not, however, neutralize the promises of
highest institution in Judea.
God for regenerate Israel.
By the start of the New Testament period (ca.
Jewish RaCe duRing the ChuRCh age 4 B.C.), the Levitical priesthood had become
The Jew who accepts Christ as Savior in the involved with secular issues and had lost sight of
Church Age is unique, because in this dispen- its divine ordination as messengers of the Lord
sation race is not an issue. The Jew, just like the (Mal. 2:7). Temple duties continued to be carried
Gentile, is entered into union with Christ and out, but the rituals and ceremonies held no
becomes a member of the royal family of God spiritual reality. The high priest still functioned
(Gal. 3:28–29; Col. 3:11; 1 Pet. 2:9). All share the as the premier religious official among the Jews,
eternal blessings related to ultimate sanctifica- but the sacred office had become political—
tion rather than the unconditional covenants to more subject to Roman appointment than to
Israel. traditional qualifications prescribed by the
See also covenants to Israel; diaspora; Dis- Mosaic Law. High-ranking priests, along with
pensation of Israel; Millennium; seed of their families, formed a wealthy and powerful
Abraham; Tribulation.
aristocracy and aligned themselves with the
For further reference, Anti-Semitism; The Divine Out-
line of History. Sadducees, the party of the Jewish upper classes.
Lessons 458:75, 568–71; 412:177–84; 840:1–19. Sadducean priests held prominent seats in the
Jewish religious leaders 150

Sanhedrin governing council and hence exer- include that of teacher, interpreter, legislator,
cised much authority, both civil and religious, in and judge of controversies. By the time of Christ,
Jerusalem and its surrounding areas. “scribes formed a finely compacted class, holding
The Gospels reveal the evil extent to which undisputed supremacy over the people.”13
power politics drove the first-century priesthood. Most scribes associated themselves with the
When social unrest threatened the nation’s Pharisees, the party of religious legalism (Mark
standing with Rome, the high priest claimed 2:16; Acts 23:9). Pharisaic scribes composed a
this “one man [Jesus Christ] should die for the portion of the Jewish governing body (the San-
people” (John 11:49–50, kjv). And when Pilate hedrin) that denounced the Lord and thus were
asked the people, “Shall I crucify your King?” it the targets of His stinging rebukes (Matt. 12:38–39;
was the chief priests who answered, “We have 23:13–33; Mark 7:5–13). Having rejected the grace
no king but Caesar” (John 19:15). These were the message of the cross, these Jewish theologians
Temple leaders, regularly performing rituals that placed their confidence in knowledge and obser-
depicted Christ yet blind to the fact that He was vance of the Law and exemplified the folly of
standing right in front of them. As such, they religion. Paul later condemned their intellectual
were key facilitators of our Lord’s crucifixion arrogance, saying, “Where is the scribe? . . . Has
(Matt. 20:18; 21:45–46; 26:3–5, 59; 27:1; Mark 14:1, not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?”
10, 53–65; 15:1–15; Luke 22:2; 23:10, 13–25; John (1 Cor. 1:20).
11:47–57; 18:3–35). Following Christ’s resurrec- By the second century A.D. the word scribe fell
tion and ascension, they just as fiercely opposed out of use, as scholars of Jewish law took on the
His representatives in the early Church (Acts 4:1– titles of sage, wise man, and rabbi in the practices
3; 9:13–14, 21; 23:12–15; 25:2, 15). of rabbinic Judaism.
Destruction of the Temple in A.D. 70 left the the paRties
Jewish priesthood without a platform of power, Pharisees. The religious sect mostly known for
religious influence, or social position. However, a pious adherence to the legal precepts of Juda-
the Levitical priests descended from Aaron ism, including oral traditions. Membership was
will once again operate as a priesthood in the composed of scribes as well as middle class
Millennium (Ezek. 40—48). merchants and tradesmen.
Scribes. Scholars, expositors, and recognized The Pharisaic party likely grew out of the
authorities of Jewish law, as it existed in written Hasidim, a Jewish sect opposed to Hellenistic
Scripture as well as in oral and recorded traditions. influences in the early second century B.C. The
Unger’s Bible Dictionary explains that as the original Pharisees were guardians of Jewish
Hebrew Canon became more comprehensive orthodoxy, determined to preserve Israel’s loyal-
and complex, “there arose the necessity of its sci- ty to the Word of God. Sometimes described as
entific study and of a professional acquaintance separatists, they encouraged separation from all
with it.”12 Scribes were theological scholars dedi- that would defile body and soul. Throughout
cated to the study and preservation of the sacred their history, Pharisees believed in the existence
Scriptures. Eventually their field of study came of angels and demons, in the immortality of the
to include not only the written Word but also soul and resurrection of the dead, and in
the expansive regulations and oral traditions reward and retribution after death. To their
added to it. These additions, viewed by many detriment, however, Pharisees paid excessive
as authoritative, were erroneously claimed to regard to scribal commentaries and the oral
be divine revelation given to the wise men of traditions of the elders. This massive legal code
Judaism. The scribes’ expertise in this legal code strove to reinterpret God’s Law in a way that
brought them great prestige among the reli- would enable Jews to live ‘righteously’ in an
gious community, and their role broadened to increasingly secular world, but it succeeded only
in creating a tyrannical system of commands
12. Merrill F. Unger, The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary (The Moody
Bible Institute of Chicago, 1988), s.v. “Scribes, Jewish.” 13. Ibid.
 151 Jewish religious leaders

and prohibitions. Pharisees held the conviction membership drew from wealthy landowners,
that “Judaism’s future was to be the holy people high-ranking priests, and noble families. This
of God through keeping the law, written and privileged class, though disliked by the public,
oral, to the minutest detail,”14 and they pursued exerted tremendous influence in Jerusalem
this end with zealous sanctimony. by holding the most prominent seats in the
The Pharisees were the religious party of the Sanhedrin. Devoted to maintaining their own
masses, from whom they garnered considerable power and status, the Sadducees were known to
esteem. Even Herod the Great, Rome’s appointed compromise their principles in order to remain
king over Judea (37– 4 B.C.), ruled with attention on good terms with Gentile rulers.
to the threat the Pharisees posed to stability in For the Sadducees, the Temple was the focal
his domain. At the time of Christ’s ministry, the point of Jewish life. Among their chief concerns
Pharisees wielded most of their power through were the preservation and perpetuation of the
presence in the synagogues and representation Temple’s hierarchical priesthood, ancient
in the Sanhedrin council. traditions, and daily rituals—in contrast to the
Our Lord opposed these religious zealots be- Pharisees, who stressed the Law’s moralistic
cause their legalism had blinded them to grace. interpretations. In religious beliefs the Saddu-
He called them out for “neglecting the com- cees prided themselves as rationalists. They were
mandment of God” and holding “to the tradition unwilling to accept ideas that lay beyond human
of men” (Mark 7:7–9; cf. Matt. 15:1–14). While understanding, such as the existence of angels
the Pharisees meticulously kept details of the and resurrection to a future life (Matt. 22:23; Mark
Law regarding purity, almsgiving, and Sabbath 12:18; Acts 23:8). They also rejected the Pharisees’
observance, they rejected the Law’s spiritual approval of oral laws and scribal commentaries:
message—particularly that which pointed toward only the written Scriptures, particularly the
salvation through faith in Christ. Furthermore, books of Moses, were considered authoritative.
underneath their religious piety dwelt a mul- Historically, the Sadducees and Pharisees
were bitter enemies, yet a mutual antagonism
titude of mental attitude sins (Matt. 15:19–20).
toward Christ brought the two parties together
The Lord exposed their hypocrisy and arrogance,
(Matt. 16:1, 6, 12). While the Pharisees feared
describing them as “whitewashed tombs which
Christ’s threat to their religious power, the
on the outside appear beautiful, but inside they
Sadducees feared that He would become ruler
are full of dead men’s bones” (Matt. 23).
and overthrow their political power. Their fear
The New Testament reports occasions of Phar-
of Christ carried over toward His apostles, whose
isees accepting Jesus Christ as Savior (John 3:1–3;
authority, miraculous works, and persuasion of
12:42; 19:38–40; Acts 15:5), though most referen-
the people could not be refuted by the apostate
ces describe the Pharisees as unbelieving ene-
priestly hierarchy (Acts 4:1–21; 5:14–18). The Sad-
mies of Christ (Matt. 9:34; 12:14; 21:45–46; 22:15;
ducean party disappeared from history after the
Luke 11:53; John 11:46–50, 57; 12:42; 18:3). After
fall of Jerusalem.
the fall of Jerusalem and the Temple (A.D. 70),
the Pharisees’ scholarship and religious formula- the goveRning CounCil
tions, as well as their teaching in the synagogues, Sanhedrin. The political-religious council that
continued as a defining influence on Judaism. governed the Jewish nation. The New Testament
Sadducees. The aristocratic sect that repre- Greek refers to this ruling body as sunedrion,
sented the political and more worldly wing of translated “Council” (Matt. 26:59; Acts 4:15; 5:21;
postexilic Judaism. 6:12–15; 22:30) and “supreme court” (Matt. 5:22);
Whereas the Pharisees were the religious party also presbuterion, translated “Council of elders”
of the middle class, the Sadducees were the (Luke 22:66).
political party of the social elite. Sadducean Composed of either seventy or seventy-one
men, the assembly of the Sanhedrin met in
14. John Bright, A History of Israel (Philadelphia: Westminster Jerusalem. Presiding over the council was the
Press, 1959), 450. reigning high priest; next in rank were the chief
Jewish religious leaders 152

priests (officers in the Temple and former high capital. See Dispensation of Israel. See also
priests, Sadducean party), the elders (laymen Babylonian captivity.
from aristocratic families, Sadducean party), and
the scribes (Pharisaic party). judging A sin of the tongue practiced by believers
When Judea became a Roman province in who self-righteously assume the role of evaluat-
A.D. 6, Roman authorities granted the Sanhedrin ing and condemning others.
an extensive amount of power over the region’s In the act of judging, someone states or im-
internal affairs. The council had authority to plies something derogatory about someone else.
intervene in any case that could not be settled in Behind this spoken criticism is a sinful moti-
a lower Jewish court and stood as the final court vation—a feeling of bitterness, envy, hatred,
on matters concerning the Mosaic Law (Acts 5:21; fear, arrogance (James 3:16). Scripture warns
22:30). While the council’s jurisdiction was tech- repeatedly to stop judging, stop slandering, stop
nically limited to Judea proper, its orders were complaining against one another (Matt. 7:1–2;
considered binding wherever Judaism existed. 1 Cor. 4:5; James 4:11–12; 5:9; 1 Pet. 2:1). Whether
The New Testament reveals this supreme court or not the accusations are accurate, judging
of Jewish law acting in violation of the law on unjustly attacks a person’s character, violates
several occasions. Slavery to religion—as well as the sanctity of human privacy and freedom, and
sins of power lust, envy, prejudice, contempt—led blasphemes God by presuming the divine right
members of the Sanhedrin to plot and secure the of evaluation.
death of Jesus Christ (Matt. 26:3–4, 59–68; Mark Judging—in its various forms of gossip, malign-
14:53–65; John 11:47–53). Further transgressions ing, complaining, slander, vilification—indicates
of justice were evidenced in the cases of Peter a soul filled with arrogant self-righteousness.
and John (Acts 3:1—4:33), Stephen (Acts 6:8—7:60), Under the pretense of superiority, the judgmental
and Paul (Acts 21:4; 23:1–15; 24:1–21; 25:1–11). believer observes the weaknesses of others and
The Sanhedrin, in its first-century form and feels justified in expressing contempt; yet all the
authoritative scope, was dissolved after the fall of while he remains blind to his own sins. Romans
Jerusalem. 2:1–3 calls out this hypocrisy: “Everyone of you
See also Talmud; Torah. who passes judgment . . . you condemn yourself;
For further reference, King of Kings and Lord of Lords. for you who judge practice the same things.” All
Selected Bibliography: Evangelical Dictionary of The- verbal sinning is heavily disciplined, for “in the
ology (2001), s.v. “Priests and Levites” by P. C. Craigie. way you judge, you will be judged” with a three-
The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (1988),
fold liability (Matt. 7:2) [see divine discipline
s.v. “Priesthood in the NT” and “Sanhedrin” by W. J.
Moulder. The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary (1988), s.v. (triple compound)].
“Pharisees,” “Sanhedrin,” and “Scribes, Jewish.” The Jesus Christ is the “only one Lawgiver and
Zondervan Pictorial Encyclopedia of the Bible (1977), Judge” (James 4:12) with the “authority to execute
s.v. “Pharisees,” “Sadducees,” and “Sanhedrin” by judgment” (John 5:27). Our Lord evaluates us
D. A. Hagner. constantly, and, as Paul stressed to the self-
righteous Romans, we will all stand before Him
joy [Gk. chara] The inner happiness, enthusiasm, for the ultimate evaluation at the judgment seat.
and animated thinking—far greater than outward So “why do you judge your brother?” (Rom. 14:10–
emotion—that characterize the believer whose 13). We are all imperfect creatures, unqualified
soul is filled with the Word of God (Neh. 8:10b; and unauthorized to judge one another. We
Rom. 15:13; Phil. 2:1–2; James 1:2; 1 John 1:4). See have, however, been mandated to judge our-
sharing the happiness of God. selves in the light of the Word of God. It is our
Lessons 376:787–90. responsibility to self-evaluate according to
the standards of Bible doctrine. And from this
Judah A name for the Southern Kingdom of the spiritual wisdom and maturity comes the ability
divided nation Israel. The territory of Judah in- to impersonally love and tolerate other believers
cluded the city of Jerusalem, the Jewish nation’s while leaving judgment to God. Psalm 34:12–13
 153 justification

confirms that the one who restrains his tongue awarded are the uniform of glory and the honor
from sin will live a long and wonderful life of of ruling with Jesus Christ during the Millennium
prosperity. (Rev. 2:26; 3:4, 18, 21).
See also degeneracy (moral). The issues of salvation and personal sin are not
Lessons 458:37–39; 665:81–83; 412:573; 361:16–20, related to the judgment seat of Christ. All those
62–63. who stand before the Lord at the bema seat will
possess eternal security, and their sins, which
judgment, divine were judged at the cross, will not be addressed.
See Supreme Court of Heaven. See also crowns; divine good; escrow blessings;
human good.
judgment seat of Christ (a) New Testament For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; The Divine
Outline of History.
term for the place where Christ will sit to evaluate
the resurrected Church; (b) the eschatological
event in which Jesus Christ assesses the spiritual
justice
See essence of God; integrity of God.
life of all Church Age believers (1 Cor. 4:5; 2 Cor.
5:10). Synonyms: bema seat; evaluation throne of
Christ.
justification [from Gk. dikaioō, to justify, to
vindicate, to declare righteous] A judicial act
The Greek noun bema, literally meaning “step,”
of vindication that occurs at salvation, when
was used in the ancient world to portray a raised
God sees His own perfect righteousness in the
platform from where a judge adjudicated a case,
believer and declares him justified (Rom. 3:20–28;
an official distributed awards to Olympic athletes,
4:3–5; 5:1). (For self-justification, see arrogance
or a Roman officer handed out judgment on
skills.)
soldiers’ battle performances.
Anyone who expresses faith alone in Christ
New Testament writers utilize bema and its
alone is instantly justified before the bench of
concepts in revealing Christ’s future evaluation of
God’s justice. The mechanics of justification
the Church. Immediately following the Rapture,
follow three logical steps, though they all occur
the Lord will convene court and summon every
simultaneously. First, the person believes in
Church Age believer to “give an account of
Christ; second, God the Father credits, or im-
himself” (Rom. 14:10–12). From the “judgment
putes, His righteousness to that person; and
seat [bema] of Christ,” the King of kings will eval-
third, God recognizes His righteousness in
uate the deeds of each believer and distribute
the believer and pronounces him “justified”—
rewards based on that person’s execution of the
vindicated, righteous (Rom. 5). The believer is
unique spiritual life of this age (2 Cor. 5:10).
“justified as a gift by His grace” (Rom. 3:24), made
Deeds of divine good—the good performed
acceptable to God not by works but “through
under God’s grace power system—are the “gold,
faith in Christ Jesus” (Gal. 2:16). Justification
silver, precious stones” that will be rewarded.
is a legal pronouncement and position rather
The production of human good—benevolent
than an experiential condition of perfection.
deeds performed apart from divine power—are
Justification is also the basis for all of the be-
the “wood, hay, straw” that will be destroyed by liever’s subsequent blessings from God.
fire (1 Cor. 3:8, 12–15; cf. Eph. 2:10).
See also grace pipeline; imputations; relative
To the believer who advances to spiritual righteousness.
maturity, God will present at the bema seat the For further reference, The Barrier; The Integrity of God.
most fantastic decorations and privileges. These Lessons 458:97–98, 104, 109.
include the “crown of righteousness” and “crown
of life,” revealed by Paul and James as the victory
wreaths awarded to “the man who perseveres
under trial,” to those who have “finished the
course” (2 Tim. 4:7–8; James 1:12). Other “sur-
passing riches of His grace” (Eph. 2:7) to be
 Kk
kardia as His perfect humanity bore the divine judgment
See heart; right lobe of the soul. for sin (Phil. 2:8). “Though He was rich [in eternal
deity], yet for your sake He became poor,” so that
kenosis The theological term that describes how anyone who believes in Him may receive the gift
Christ, the eternal Son of God, laid aside the of salvation (2 Cor. 8:9). The self-imposed limi-
function of His deity and became a true member tation of kenosis ended with the glorification of
of the human race. Christ—His resurrection, ascension, and session
Kenosis takes its name from the Greek verb at the Father’s right hand—after His mission for
kenoō, “to deprive oneself of a rightful function, the First Advent was accomplished (John 19:30;
to debase oneself.” As stated in Philippians 2:6–7, Phil. 2:9–11; 1 Tim. 3:16; Heb. 2:6–10; 10:12).
“although He [Christ] existed in the form of God,” See also hypostatic union; impeccability of
He “emptied [kenoō] Himself, taking the form of Christ.
a bond-servant.” The Son of God humbly took For further reference, Christian Integrity.
Lessons 454:42–43; 412:536; 376:941, 950–53.
upon Himself the form of a servant, becoming
true humanity in order to reveal God’s grace to
the world and pay the penalty for human sin. knowledge, academic
See gnosis.
In becoming man, the Lord’s eternal deity, His
preincarnate glory (John 17:5), was veiled but
never surrendered. knowledge, full
Voluntary obedience. The doctrine of kenosis See epignosis.
affirms that while not relinquishing any attribute
of His deity, Jesus Christ willingly restricted the
independent use of certain divine attributes in
compliance with the Father’s plan and purpose
for the First Advent. By His own volition, the Son
subordinated Himself to the Father’s authority
and mandates (Heb. 10:5–7). Even under intense
pressure and testing, Jesus Christ concentrated
on the doctrine in His soul and relied exclusively
upon the ministry of the Holy Spirit to sustain
and guide Him in the devil’s world (Matt. 4:1–10;
John 3:34). The humanity of Christ never used
His divine nature to benefit Himself, provide for
Himself, or glorify Himself. In Matthew 4:3–4,
for example, Jesus refused to satisfy His hunger
by turning stones into bread, as this would have
been a violation of kenosis.
From humiliation to glorification. Jesus Christ,
“becoming obedient to the point of death, even
death on a cross,” suffered the lowest degradation
 Ll
lag time The period immediately following and brimstone [sulfur]” is not presently occupied
salvation, when the believer has the option to because the time has not yet come for the con-
express positive or negative volition toward ad- demned to be sent there (Rev. 20:10; 21:8). The
vance in the plan of God. Lag time continues until first to enter will be the two most evil dictators of
decisions regarding spiritual growth are made. history, the beast and the false prophet, who will
In lag time, the believer is neutral. He under- be “thrown alive into the lake of fire” at the end
stands enough to have accepted Christ as Savior of the Tribulation (Rev. 19:20). The two will reside
but has not yet established an attitude toward there alone until Satan and the fallen angels
God’s plan. Often the newly born-again person is join them at the end of the Millennium. Then,
unaware that he is the possessor of a new life, a all human unbelievers of history, temporarily
spiritual life, through which he can capitalize on residing in Torments, will be resurrected to the
the riches of grace and glorify God in time (Eph. Last Judgment and cast into the fiery lake.
1:3–14). Positive volition and self-motivation Unbelievers who presently reside in Torments
are critical at this stage; he must recognize the are already eternally condemned, because they
importance of learning basic Bible doctrine. died physically without accepting Jesus Christ
If the new believer desires the “pure milk as Savior. To spurn the One who died on the
of the word” (1 Pet. 2:2), like a newborn baby cross is to reject the only path to salvation and
hungers for milk, he moves out of lag time and eternal life (John 14:6; 1 John 5:11–13). These
begins to transform his thinking with divine unbelievers, already suffering in the temporary
viewpoint [see postsalvation epistemolog- “place of torment” (Luke 16:19–30), will ultimately
ical rehabilitation]. If, however, he has no meet the agony of the second death—perpetual
motivation to begin his spiritual life, he stalls spiritual death and separation from God in the
in spiritual infancy. The longer he stays in lag lake of fire (Rev. 20:14–15).
time, the greater his likelihood of being carried Note that the lake of fire, or gehenna, or hell, is
away with false doctrine, substituting arrogance not a place of annihilation, since both the beast
for grace, and missing out on the grace-oriented and false prophet are alive when Satan and his
Christian life. Of course, all believers, regardless angels join them (Rev. 20:10). Every unbeliever
of their choices made in lag time, are supported will live there forever with human life in the soul
by logistical grace on earth and will spend and in some type of indestructible body designed
eternity in heaven. for maximum suffering. They will not lose
Lessons 376:148, 164, 200. consciousness once they reach their destination
but instead “will be tormented day and night
lake of fire The final abode for unbelievers, Sa- forever and ever” (Rev. 20:10b; cf. 14:11). Anyone
tan, and fallen angels, who are all condemned to who has heard the screams of people burning in
eternal separation from God. Synonyms: eternal fire on earth can imagine the agony. For instance,
fire; gehenna; hell. some World War II soldiers report rushing to the
While the lake of fire was originally “prepared scene of a crashed bomber to find the wreckage
for the devil and his angels,” it is also the place ablaze and the crew trapped inside begging and
of eternal punishment for the unbelieving dead shrieking, “kill me,” “shoot me,” before finally
(Matt. 25:41). This locale of unquenchable “fire burning to death. The difference in the lake of fire
lake of fire 158

is that the screams never stop. There is no dying, order to resolve the prehistoric angelic conflict
no relief for these souls that live on forever in the and bring many sons into glory. See also angelic
place “where their worm does not die, and conflict.
the fire is not quenched” (Mark 9:48). (2) Decree to permit man to fall through the
The descriptions of the lake of fire are starkly function of his own self-determination, a fall
horrific. Without a doubt, the terrible reality of that resulted in spiritual death and condem-
eternal judgment emphasizes the importance of nation from God.
faith in Christ during this lifetime: “Behold, now (3) Decree to provide the means of eternal
is ‘the acceptable time,’ behold, now is ‘the salvation for the fallen—all mankind—through
day of salvation’” (2 Cor. 6:2). Christ. See also unlimited atonement.
See also eternal condemnation; Hades; Last (4) Decree to leave the reprobate (those who
Judgment. reject Christ and remain in spiritual death) in
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; A Matter of
Life & Death.
their just condemnation.
Lessons 457:517, 661, 675–76; 412:825. (5) Decree to provide election and predestina-
tion, simultaneously, for all who would choose
Lamb of God A designation for the Lord Jesus to accept Christ. (Election means that God sets
Christ, emphasizing His sacrificial role as the apart for privilege those who believe. Predesti-
spotless, unblemished substitute for our sins. nation indicates God’s grace provision of every-
See Passover. thing necessary for the believer to execute God’s
plan, purpose, and will. The scope of this decree
lapsarianism Theological term used to explain is the basis for equality for all believers in all
the logical order of God’s elective decrees made in dispensations.)
eternity past. The word lapsarianism, taken from (6) Decree to apply salvation to everyone who
the Latin lapsus (lapse or fall), refers to the fact believes in Christ (to save the elect through
that man is a fallen being. The doctrine particu- nonmeritorious faith alone in Christ alone).
larly relates God’s decree to permit the Fall with Various schools of interpretation. Historically,
His decree to save some and condemn others. theologians have developed opposing views re-
Elective decrees. The elective decrees consist of garding lapsarianism, with many schools of
God’s sovereign choice in eternity past regarding thought interpreting and arranging the elective
creation, the fall of Adam, the cross, election, and decrees differently. Supralapsarianism, for instance,
salvation. While the entirety of the decrees was asserts that God first of all decreed to elect some to
one instantaneous thought in the mind of God, be saved and to reprobate all others. This position
the principle of cause and effect is used to facil- fails to recognize the coexistence of the sover-
itate human understanding. Lapsarianism, then, eignty of God and the free will of man. Supralap-
considers cause and effect to derive a logical sarians also argue—erroneously—that the decree to
ordering of the elective decrees. elect comes before the decree to create man (thus
Biblical lapsarianism. The biblically correct alleging that God elects a non-existent entity) and
view of lapsarianism provides a rational frame- that salvation was provided only for the elect (i.e.,
work for the decrees, consistent with all of God’s atonement on the cross was limited, so that Christ
eternal attributes, and clearly allows for the died only for the chosen elect). Infralapsarianism,
function of human freedom. While God exercises a more moderate position, accurately maintains
His sovereign right in election, He does not that God decreed to create man and permit the Fall
violate human volition by coercing or interfering before He decreed to provide salvation through
with man’s choices. Salvation and election, fur- Christ and elect those who believe. Some infralap-
thermore, are recognized as the expression of sarians limit Christ’s atonement to the elect while
God’s grace to the person who believes, apart others correctly state that He died for all.
from every form of human works. The biblical
See also divine decree; election; predestination.
ordering of the elective decrees is as follows: For further reference, The Integrity of God.
(1) Decree to create mankind with free will, in Lessons 412:87–88, 1377.
 159 law of double punishment

lasciviousness (a) Indulgence in bodily lusts, imputed to Christ and judged at the cross (2 Cor.
often to the point of sexual promiscuity, perver- 5:21; 1 Pet. 2:24).
sion, or obscenity; (b) a by-product of the sin This judgment scene will center around the
nature trend toward antinomianism. See anti- opening of two books: the Book of Life, which
nomianism. includes the names of believers, and the Book
of Works, which lists the good deeds of all un-
Last Adam A scriptural title for Jesus Christ, used believers of human history. Unbelievers, whose
to compare and contrast the God-man Savior with names were blotted out of the Book of Life when
the “first man, Adam” (1 Cor. 15:45). they died without accepting Christ, will be
Romans 5:14 declares the first Adam to be “a evaluated “according to their deeds” found in the
type of Him who was to come.” Adam in the Book of Works (Rev. 20:13). Because they rejected
Garden was created a perfect human being, which God’s grace work for salvation, they must rely on
foreshadowed the birth of the perfect humanity their own work, their acts of human good, as a
of Jesus Christ. Like Adam, Jesus Christ entered substitute. This forms the basis of indictment.
the world trichotomous—with body, soul, and God will address their deeds to prove that no
human spirit. The first Adam also foreshadowed matter how good man’s work may be, it is not good
the Last Adam from the standpoint of headship of enough for a relationship with God (Isa. 64:6a;
the human race: Adam is the representative head Titus 3:5). Relative human righteousness can
with respect to man’s physical birth and spiritual never measure up to God’s perfect righteousness.
death, and Christ is the representative head with And man can receive God’s righteousness in
respect to the new birth and spiritual life (Rom. one way only: by imputation at the moment he
5:12; 1 Cor. 15:22; cf. Eph. 2:5). believes in Christ as Savior (Rom. 3:22; 4:3–5;
In the analogous relationship are also signi- Phil. 3:9). Otherwise, he remains unqualified for
ficant contrasts. Adam, through disobedience heaven.
to God’s mandate, brought sin and death upon What God’s righteousness rejects, His justice
the human race; Jesus Christ, through perfect must condemn. Everyone lacking the imputation
of divine righteousness will be declared guilty
obedience to the Father’s will, brings justification
(Matt. 25:46). There will be no second chance,
and eternal life to fallen man. Because of the
no opportunity for plea bargaining for those
transgression of the first Adam, the justice of God
who refused the free gift of salvation (Rom. 5:15–
condemns man; because of the saving work of
16; 6:23; Eph. 2:8–9). Like their fallen angelic
the Last Adam, the justice of God is free to save
counterparts, all unbelievers will be cast into the
and bless man (Rom. 5:15–19; cf. 2 Cor. 5:21).
lake of fire, separated from God for all eternity
See also seminally in Adam; typology.
For further reference, The Integrity of God.
(Matt. 25:41; Rev. 20:14–15).
Lessons 458:147–50. See also Book of Works; lake of fire; relative
righteousness; unpardonable sin.
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; The Integrity
Last Judgment The culminating judgment of God; Slave Market of Sin.
of human history in which the Lord confronts Lessons 458:46; 457:671–76.
all unbelievers, pronounces their final condem-
nation, and executes their eternal sentence. Last Supper The final meal shared between
Synonym: Great White Throne Judgment. Jesus Christ and His disciples, occurring on the
After the Millennium, once Satan is transferred evening prior to His crucifixion. During this
to the lake of fire, unbelievers will be resurrected ceremony, the Lord instituted the new ritual
to face the Lord Jesus Christ before the great for the Church by converting the traditional
white throne (Rev. 20:10–12). No believer will Passover feast into the ceremonial Eucharist.
be present, for only rejection of Jesus Christ as See Eucharist.
Savior puts a person on the docket of this tribunal
(John 3:18; Rom. 8:1). Furthermore, no personal law of double punishment The twofold sys-
sins will be mentioned, because all sins were tem that goes into effect after a believer commits
law of double punishment 160

sin. Under the law of volitional responsibility, leaven (a) A substance used to produce fermenta-
the believer makes decisions to succumb to tion in dough or liquids; (b) used biblically to
temptation and thus creates his own suffering. represent the concept of impurity.
Under the law of divine discipline, God applies Hebrew food tradition. The ancient Hebrews
corrective measures to get the carnal believer leavened their bread by adding a lump of soured
back into His plan (Prov. 22:8; Hosea 8:7; Rev. leftover dough to the fresh batch they prepared
3:19). The two laws work in tandem: if the pain for baking. The leaven permeated the fresh
of his own making does not remind the believer dough, breaking down its organic state and
to rebound and resume the spiritual life, God causing it to rise into a light, sour-tasting loaf. In
applies divine discipline to hasten his recovery. contrast, baking dough without a leavening agent
See also divine discipline; volitional respon- produced a sweeter-tasting flatbread, which the
sibility, law of. Hebrews referred to as matstsah (sweet, unsoured).
Lessons 840:211–12; 376:1410–13. The leaven itself was called seor, from shaar (to
be left over, to remain), and any food leavened or
law of spirituality “The law of the Spirit of life in fermented was typically called chamets (soured).
Christ Jesus” (Rom. 8:2), referring to the Church Leaven prohibited. The first significant use of the
Age believer’s standard of operation enabled by term “unleavened” occurs in Exodus 12, where
the filling of the Holy Spirit. the Lord instructs Moses and Aaron that the
In the Church Age, believers are not subject to initial Passover lamb was to be eaten with “unleav-
the Mosaic Law but are instead under the higher ened bread [matstsah] and bitter herbs” (verses
law of spirituality (Gal. 5:18, 23). Where the 5, 8). Once the Hebrews were freed from Egypt,
Mosaic Law was “weak,” limited by the presence they were to memorialize their deliverance with
of man’s inherent sin nature, the “law of the an annual Passover feast (verse 14). All traces of
Spirit of life” frees believers from the power of leaven had to be removed from their houses, and
the sin nature (Rom. 8:2–3). The source of this for the next seven days they would observe the
new law is the Holy Spirit, who permanently Feast of Unleavened Bread. Anyone eating leav-
indwells every Church Age believer from the ened food during that time was to be separated
point of salvation. For the law of spirituality to from the congregation of Israel (verses 15–19).
be operational, believers must walk “according Since leavening of foods involved fermentation
to the Spirit,” not “according to the flesh [sin and souring, the prohibition of leaven in the
nature]” (Rom. 8:4). They must be filled with Passover symbolized purity—the perfect, sinless
the Spirit, in the status of spirituality, which re- humanity of the Messiah. The seven days of
quires consistent use of rebound to be purified memorial following the annual Passover feast
from postsalvation sins (Gal. 5:25; 1 John 1:9). symbolized the believer’s relationship with God,
using the absence of leaven to remind the people
See also filling of the Holy Spirit; rebound;
spirituality. to confess their sins and remain in fellowship.
For further reference, God the Holy Spirit vs. The Sin The Mosaic Law also forbade leaven in the sacri-
Nature; Isolation of Sin. ficial grain offerings to God (Lev. 2:11).
Lessons 461:11; 102:25. Leaven metaphor. In the New Testament, the
word “leaven” (Gk. zume) is often used for the per-
law of volitional responsibility vasive, corruptive power of sin, the sin nature,
See volitional responsibility, law of. and evil. Jesus Christ Himself likens leaven to the
infiltration of religion by the Pharisees, Sadducees,
laws of divine establishment and other apostates (Matt. 13:33; 16:6, 11–12). He
See divine establishment. also compares it to the power lust demonstrated by
Herod (Mark 8:15). Paul uses leaven to depict the
laws of expediency, liberty, love, supreme licentious sins of the Corinthians, reminding them
sacrifice to put away their old way of life (“clean out the old
See doubtful things. leaven”) and embrace the unique spiritual life of
 161 logistical grace

the Church Age (“a new lump”) (1 Cor. 5:1–2, 6–8). Levitical offerings
A similar illustration is used to warn the Galatians See ritual plan of God.
against the pervasiveness of legalism (Gal. 5:6–9).
See also Passover; ritual plan of God. Levitical priesthood
For further reference, Levitical Offerings. See priesthood.
Lessons 408:17; 665:5; 376:813.
licentiousness
left lobe of the soul (a) Designated in the See antinomianism.
Greek text as nous and in the English as “mind,”
refers to the staging area of the soul where living grace
academic knowledge is stored; (b) the part of the See logistical grace.
soul’s mentality where biblical information is
understood rationally yet has no spiritual value locked-in negative volition
for application to the Christian life. See reversionism.
A believer whose academic knowledge of
God’s Word remains staged in the left lobe is de-
logistical grace God’s supply of life support,
scribed as “always learning and never able to
protection, and spiritual resources to every be-
come to the knowledge of the truth” (2 Tim. 3:7).
liever. The blessings of logistical grace extend
Only Bible doctrine transferred through faith
from God’s perfect love and integrity to His own
from the left lobe to the right lobe of the soul is
righteousness residing in all believers, ensuring
edifying and rightly applicable to the believer’s
that they receive divine support regardless of
experience (Col. 1:10; 2 Pet. 3:18).
their spiritual capacity. Synonym: living grace.
See also gnosis; Operation Z; right lobe of the soul. From the moment of salvation, God faithfully
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Reversionism.
supplies everything required for believers to
legalism (a) Man’s attempt to gain the approba- advance in His plan (Rom. 8:32; 2 Cor. 9:8; Phil.
tion of God by conforming to a strict code of 4:19). Logistical grace furnishes basic necessi-
ethics, morality, or religious ritual or by abstain- ties such as air, food, shelter, clothing, means
ing from legitimate pleasures of life; (b) the of income, and transportation (Ps. 37:25; Matt.
trend of the sin nature toward self-righteousness, 6:25–33); security measures including guardian
antithetical to the trend toward antinomianism. angels and the laws of divine establishment
Motivated by arrogance, legalism rejects grace (Ps. 4:8; Rom. 13:3–4; Heb. 1:14; 1 Pet. 1:5); and
while trying in vain to deserve divine approval. provisions for spiritual growth, including the
The legalistic unbeliever seeks to earn salvation canon of Scripture, ministry of the Holy Spirit,
through human works, even though the Bible is and doctrinal teaching from a prepared pastor-
clear that God saves “not on the basis of deeds teacher (Matt. 4:4; John 17:17; Eph. 4:11b–12).
which we have done in righteousness, but ac- Logistical grace emphasizes the principle of
cording to His mercy” (Titus 3:5a). The legalistic living one day at a time, each day as unto the Lord,
believer seeks spirituality apart from the filling with confidence that no believer can have a need
of the Spirit (Gal. 5:18, 25; 1 John 1:6) and sub- unfulfilled or be removed from earth except by
stitutes works for growth in the grace of God God’s will (Ps. 68:19–20; Matt. 6:11, 34). David, in
(Col. 2:20–23). While Bible doctrine is ignored or the face of scarcity and danger, confirmed, “The
rejected, the Christian legalist engages in overt Lord is my shepherd [the One who keeps on
service or rituals in hopes of receiving divine shepherding me], I shall not want [cannot lack
blessings. God’s grace, however, excludes all anything]” (Ps. 23:1). Jeremiah also recalled the
forms of human merit, and the arrogance of doctrine in his soul and proclaimed his confidence
legalism positions the believer not for blessing in the Lord’s unfailing daily provision: “The Lord’s
but for divine discipline (Luke 14:11). lovingkindnesses [logistical grace functions] in-
See also asceticism; Christian service; human deed never cease, For His compassions never fail.
good; pseudospirituality; self-righteousness. They are new every morning; Great is Your faith-
logistical grace 162

fulness” (Lam. 3:22–23a). Christ Himself demand- Ho Logos tou Theou (The Word of God) is a title
ed that the disciples not be anxious over material for Jesus Christ in an age yet to come. When the
needs such as food, water, and clothing, because Lord returns at the Second Advent, to wipe out
for those who believe in Him, “all these things His enemies and depose Satan as world ruler,
will be added to you” (Matt. 6:25–33). “His name is called The Word of God [Ho Logos
See also grace pipeline. tou Theou]” (Rev. 19:11–13). This title represents
For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Integrity the ultimate glorification of Jesus Christ and His
of God. triumph in the angelic conflict.
Lessons 637:5–6; 412:1032–33, 1086.
See also Christology; Word of God.
Lessons 424:1; 429:3–4; 376:1203–5.
logos Greek noun generally meaning word,
message, revelation, understanding through lan- Lord of hosts Translation of the Hebrew phrase
guage. In theological context, logos expresses Yahweh tsaba, an Old Testament title for Jesus
the fact that God’s person, work, and plan are Christ. Synonym: Lord of the armies.
revealed and communicated to mankind, and The biblical title “Lord of hosts” designates the
that languages of words are required in order for Lord Jesus Christ as Supreme Commander over
man to understand that revelation. His angelic and human creatures, in heaven and
The canon of Scripture is called logos tou Theou, on earth. The title is more accurately translated
the “word of God,” which is “alive and powerful “Lord of the armies,” since “armies” best describes
and sharper than any two-edged sword” (Heb. those under the Lord’s command. “Armies” signi-
4:12, corrected translation). Contained within its fies discipline, authority, protocol, and rank in
pages is the revelation of God and, specifically, the spiritual realm. It also reveals that the Lord
the very mind and thinking of Christ (1 Cor. authorizes military force in His plan for human
2:16). Jesus Christ is the revealed member of the history. In fact, the Lord Himself is the ultimate
Godhead, the living logos. Each of the following combat soldier—the great warrior who brings
titles emphasizes Christ as logos in a particular deliverance and victory to His people (Zeph. 3:17).
phase of God’s plan. Angelic armies. In the heavenly realm, Jesus
Ho Logos (the Word), as used in John 1:1, is a title Christ commands the elect multitudes, from the
for Jesus Christ in eternity past: “In the beginning highest ranking archangels down to the rank-and-
which is not a beginning, there always existed the file angels (Ps. 91:11–12; 148:2; Isa. 6:1–3). When
Word [ho Logos] . . . and the Word [ho Logos] was the Lord was born to earth as true humanity,
God” (expanded translation). Ho Logos in John 1:1 these elect supernatural troops passed in review
designates the eternally existent Christ, coequal (Luke 2:13–15). In the future, these same troops
with God the Father and God the Holy Spirit. In will battle victoriously in heaven against demon
John 1:14, the same title links the eternal Christ forces (Rev. 12:7).
to the incarnate God-man, revealing that “the Human armies. Throughout the Old Testament
Word became flesh, and dwelt among us.” are references to the Lord’s command over the
Logos tou zoe (Word of Life) and logos tou stauros army of Israel. The Book of Numbers reveals
(word of the cross) are titles for Jesus Christ in His mobilization and war plan for the Jewish na-
hypostatic union, dwelling on earth as God and tion’s military (Num. 1—4; 10; 13; 26; 31), orders for
man in one Person. First John 1:1–3 speaks of the Joshua’s attack on Jericho came directly from
One whom the disciples saw, heard, and touched the Lord (Joshua 6:1–21), and David’s victory over
as the “Word of Life.” Jesus Christ is the source Goliath was accomplished “in the name of the
of life who also has life in Himself. In 1 Corin- Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel”
thians 1:18, the “word [logos] of the cross [stauros]” (1 Sam. 17:45). Many times, to attain or preserve
identifies the Lord of glory with His inglorious Jewish freedom after the Exodus, the heavenly
death at Calvary. The One who was the highest Commander in Chief gave orders for Israel to
became the lowest, suffering death on the cross “utterly destroy” the enemy (Deut. 7:2, 16; 20:16–17;
so that we might have eternal life. Joshua 11:20–21; Jer. 50:21). When Sennacherib
 163 loser believer

attempted an attack on Jerusalem in 701 B.C., negative toward the spiritual life, recognition of
the Lord of hosts Himself “struck 185,000 in the the Lordship of Christ cannot occur until they
camp of the Assyrians” (Isa. 37:36–37; cf. 10:24–26). are face to face with Him in eternity (Phil. 2:11).
The mighty conqueror at Armageddon. Jesus See also position in Christ; salvation.
Christ will return at the Second Advent to end Lessons 412:667; 376:438.
the most devastating war of history (Isa. 13:4; Rev.
19:11–13). Prophecy describes troops of angels Lord’s Table
and resurrected believers following in procession See Eucharist.
under His authority. Here, these “armies which
are in heaven” will observe from white horses loser believer The person who is eternally saved
(Rev. 19:14), as the Lord of hosts demonstrates through Christ but continues to live under the
that He alone has the power to vanquish His influence and control of his sin nature, neglect-
enemies and establish world peace (Rev. 19:15– ing and eventually rejecting God’s will for his life.
21; cf. Isa. 9:7; 63:1–6). God provides equal opportunity for every
Scriptural references. Verses citing “Lord of believer to advance to victory in His Word, yet the
hosts” include 1 Samuel 1:11, 2 Samuel 6:2, Psalm loser believer renders himself a spiritual casualty
84:1, Isaiah 14:22–27, Zechariah 7:12–13, and by failing to live the plan of God. Because he is
many others. Variations of the title are “Lord God perpetually carnal, out of fellowship with God,
of hosts” (Jer. 50:31), “Lord God, the God of hosts” he deprives himself of the power and guidance of
(Amos 3:13), and “the Lord, the God of hosts” the Holy Spirit. Wrong priorities emerge from a
(1 Kings 19:10; Hosea 12:5). Additionally, “Lord mind occupied with “the things that are on earth”
of hosts” is used in conjunction with “God of instead of “the things above” (Col. 3:2), and the
Israel” (1 Chron. 17:24; Isa. 37:16), “God of Jacob” sin nature trends—legalism or antinomianism—
(Ps. 46:11), “King of glory” (Ps. 24:10), and “King become his avenue for seeking happiness.
[of Israel]” (Zech. 14:16). The New Testament Emotion and human viewpoint dominate his
equivalent, “Lord of Sabaoth,” appears in Romans thinking, and any interest in Bible doctrine
9:29 and James 5:4. consists of destructive twists and distortions
See also God of Israel; peace (cessation of armed (2 Pet. 3:16).
conflict). Even if this believer refuses to recover his spir-
For further reference, Freedom through Military Victory;
In Harm’s Way.
itual momentum and remains “hostile toward
Lessons 457:131, 211, 655–56; 376:1218. God” to the point of death (Rom. 8:7), he is
ensured perfect happiness and eternal life in
Lordship The doctrine that expresses the fact heaven. God’s grace gift of salvation cannot be
that Jesus Christ is Lord of everyone who believes canceled (John 10:28; 2 Tim. 2:11–13). The loser
in Him. Christ becomes the believer’s Lord at in life, however, forfeits his special blessings for
the point of salvation—not through commit- time and eternity, which remain permanently on
ment or any form of human works, but because deposit in heaven as a memorial to lost oppor-
God the Holy Spirit makes nonmeritorious faith tunity (Eph. 1:8; Heb. 10:35–36; 1 Pet. 1:4). At the
effective and instantly unites that person with judgment seat of Christ, he will experience
Christ. Scripture confirms that “no one can [truly] a moment of shame as he stands before his
say, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ except by the Holy Spirit” Savior, the almighty King of kings, and is held
(1 Cor. 12:3b). accountable for his decisions after salvation
Christians are eternally and irrevocably unit- (2 Cor. 5:10; cf. 1 Cor. 3:12–15; 1 John 2:28). While
ed with Christ, the “Lord of lords” (1 Tim. 6:15), winner believers—those who persevered on earth
which means they belong to Him forever (Rom. to spiritual maturity—receive heavenly estates
8:16–17; 2 Cor. 5:17). They learn to recognize and a decorated uniform of glory, there will be
and appreciate the fact that Jesus is their Lord no awards or decorations for believers who
through consistent function under the filling squandered their grace opportunity (Matt. 25:21;
ministry of the Holy Spirit. For those who are 2 Tim. 4:7–8; James 1:12; Rev. 2:7; 22:12–14).
loser believer 164

See also carnality; lukewarm believer; rever- yourself,” agapao emphasizes the unconditional
sionism; winner believer. respect that believers are to demonstrate toward
For further reference, Christian Suffering; Rebound
Revisited; Reversionism. all people (Rom. 13:9; Gal. 5:14). This is a virtue
built on fellowship with God and not contingent
love Among mankind in general, love is the soul’s on the merit of the recipient.
expression of devotion, passion, affection, or Phileo is a Greek verb derived from the noun
admiration toward God or other people. God’s philos, which designates a friend or someone
love is infinitely greater than human love, being dearly loved. Phileo means “to have strong affec-
an inherent quality of His perfect nature. The tion for, to be a friend to, to regard someone as
following words for “love,” each with a special one’s own, to love based on close personal attach-
emphasis, are found in the original languages of ment and harmonious rapport.” When God is
Scripture: the subject of phileo in the New Testament, the
Chesed is a Hebrew noun used throughout the objects of His love are believers only. John 16:27
Old Testament, particularly the Psalms, to indi- uses phileo to emphasize the Father’s selective
cate divine love. Sometimes translated “mercy” love for the disciples so closely associated with
or “lovingkindness,” the divine attribute of chesed His Son. In Revelation 3:19, phileo indicates God’s
is best conveyed as “unfailing love,” a perfect intimate love toward all members of His royal
love that is steadfast and enduring. The love of family—phileo, rather than agapao, is used here to
God is unfailing because He never fails. The emphasize that even while believers repeatedly
bulwarks of God’s love are His perfect right- fail and require discipline, they are the constant
eousness and justice, the stability behind every objects of God’s personal love. The use of phileo
demonstration of His love (Ps. 33:4–5a). to describe love between God and believers does
Psalm 33:5b declares that “the earth is full of not exclude the virtue of agape; it simply under-
the unfailing love of the Lord.” God expressed scores the intimacy and harmonious rapport of
chesed, the most dynamic power in the universe, that relationship.
when He prepared the planet as the stage for See also impersonal love, divine; impersonal
His grace plan for human history. There never love for all mankind; royal law; virtue love.
was or will be a time when God does not have
this perfect, wondrous love (Ps. 136). Chesed is love complex A designation for the divine
what motivated David to bow down and celebrate support system given to believers in the Church
the name of the Lord (Ps. 138:2), and that same Age—a designation that emphasizes love as
divine love is the source of abundant happiness a cohesive system of power designed by God.
for the believer today (Ps. 100:2, 5). See also Synonyms: divine dynasphere; interlocking sys-
essence of God (love). tem of love.
Agape is a Greek noun used across the New By definition, a “complex” is a group of inter-
Testament to indicate a mental-attitude love related elements making up a single whole. God’s
characterized by benevolence, honor, esteem system for the believer is designated the love
toward another. Its companion verb is agapao. complex because love, the supreme Christian
Distinguished from emotional, feeling-based virtue, is in fact a dynamic unity of interlocking
love, agape is a product of virtuous thought in spiritual assets. Jesus Christ’s mandate, “abide
the soul of the initiator. Agape describes the in My love,” invites all believers to reside in the
love demonstrated by God toward all mankind love complex, as He did throughout His time on
when He “gave His only begotten Son” to die on earth (John 15:9). This single command involves
the cross (John 3:16), as well as His love toward many other commands: “be filled with the Spirit”
believers in divine discipline (Heb. 12:6; cf. Prov. (Eph. 5:18), “humble yourselves” (1 Pet. 5:6),
3:11–12). Agape also describes the attitude of “love the Lord your God” (Mark 12:30), “love
mature believers who personally love God above one another” (1 John 3:23), “grow in the grace and
all others (Rom. 8:28). And in the recurring knowledge of our Lord” (2 Pet. 3:18), all of which
command, “you shall love your neighbor as combine to form one divine system of perfect
 165 lying to the Holy Spirit

efficacy and strength for the Christian life. temperature metaphor to describe the Laodicean
The Lord’s instructions are clear: “If you keep believers, who had been positive but then became
My commandments, you will abide [remain, arrogant in their prosperity and turned away
persist] in My love [the love complex]” (John from doctrine. He describes them as “neither
15:10a). The believer residing in the love complex cold nor hot,” cold representing the unbeliev-
faithfully obeys God’s Word, learns to personally er, and hot representing the positive believer
love God above all else, demonstrates the virtue executing the spiritual life. Lukewarm always
of impersonal love toward others (1 Cor. 13:4–8a; indicates that something was formerly hot.
1 John 2:5a; 4:19–20), and advances to a completed If an advancing believer loses his doctrinal
state of happiness (John 15:11; 1 John 1:4). See priorities, he abandons spiritual advance and
divine dynasphere. languishes in a state somewhere between the
unbeliever and the positive believer. Though
Lucifer [Lat. lux, light + ferre, to bear or bring] the lukewarm believer is positionally a child
The common theological name for the most of God with eternal security, experientially he
beautiful and exalted angel who, from his post of thinks and acts no differently than an unbeliever.
guardian of the heavenly throne room, coveted The Lord had previously taught His disciples
God’s sovereignty over angelic creation and that those who are in Him “are the salt of the
rejected God’s authority. Lucifer then became earth; but if the salt has become tasteless . . . it
known as Satan, the adversary of God. is no longer good for anything, except to be
The word lucifer is the Latin Vulgate translation thrown out and trampled under foot” (Matt.
of the Hebrew noun helel, which means “bright 5:13). Maturing believers who revert to sustained
and shining one.” As the fourth-century Latin carnality must be disciplined. Now, in less poetic
text established a foothold in Western churches, tones toward the “wretched and miserable”
Christian tradition adopted lucifer as a proper Laodiceans, He declares to “spit [emeo] you out
name for the chief angel, hence the King James of My mouth” (Rev. 3:16–17). The Greek emeo lit-
English translation of Isaiah 14:12b, “O Lucifer, erally means “to vomit” and refers here to the sin
son of the morning.” Later English versions unto death for these reversionists. Jesus Christ
capture the Hebrew text more descriptively with sometimes controls history by gathering luke-
“star of the morning, son of the dawn” (nasb) or warm believers and removing them en masse.
“morning star, son of the dawn” (niv). See also loser believer; reversionism.
Lucifer’s magnificent original existence is de- For further reference, Reversionism.
scribed by Ezekiel (through analogy with the king Lessons 457:176–77; 376:1507–26.
of Tyre) as one of divine favor: “full of wisdom,”
having the “seal of perfection,” covered in “every lust pattern The illicit and often insatiable de-
precious stone,” and “anointed . . . on the holy sire that motivates sin toward either trend of the
mountain [throne] of God” (Ezek. 28:12–15a). sin nature. See sin nature.
Isaiah details the arrogance that transformed
this super-angel from highest-ranking splendor lying to the Holy Spirit (a) Biblical termi-
to eternal condemnation (Isa. 14:13–14). In abject nology used to describe a seemingly good deed
revolt against the Creator, the preeminent angel performed under sinful motivation (Acts 5:3);
of light became the Prince of Darkness, yet he (b) the sinful act of using the pretense of glori-
retained his glamorous veneer to deceive and fying God to glorify oneself, which is a deception
win the allegiance of mankind (2 Cor. 11:14). See tantamount to blasphemy toward God.
Satan. To perform divine good, the believer must
operate on divine power, the filling of the Holy
lukewarm believer The once doctrinally ori- Spirit. But if the motivation behind a ‘good deed’
ented believer who has become distracted by life is arrogant self-righteousness, the believer oper-
and moved into reversionism. ates on the power of the sin nature. Aside from
In Revelation 3:15–16, the Lord uses the water- deceiving himself and others, he lies against the
lying to the Holy Spirit 166

power of the Holy Spirit by claiming to produce

divine good when he actually produces dead
works. He professes to serve God when he serves
only himself. Giving money to the church, for in-
stance, is generally considered good (2 Cor. 9:7).
However, if the giving results from competitive
jealousy, approbation lust, or any other false mo-
tives, it is an act of lying to the Holy Spirit.
Biblical example. The New Testament illustrates
the “lie to the Holy Spirit” with the scheme of
Ananias and his wife Sapphira (Acts 4:33—5:10).
Jealous of Barnabas, who had given all of his land
proceeds to destitute Christians and apparently
received much praise (Acts 4:36), Ananias and
Sapphira concocted a plan to outdo their fellow
believer. Unlike Barnabas, their intent was not
to share their possessions but to be recognized
as superior Christians. So they sold a piece of
land, presented only a portion of the proceeds
to the apostles, and professed to have given the
entire amount. Peter, aware of the facts, called
them to task. Clearly, Ananias and Sapphira
were under no obligation to contribute any or
all of their earnings (Acts 5:4a). It would have
made no difference before the Lord had they
given five or one hundred cents on the dollar.
The issue was their false motivation and attempt
to deceive. As Peter’s rebuke confirmed, they
had “not lied to men but to God” and had “put
the Spirit of the Lord to the test” (Acts 5:4, 9).
The couple carried out the scheme as if God the
Holy Spirit did not know everything and could
actually be fooled.
The overly ambitious Ananias, the instigator,
was a believer under the influence of satanic
thinking (Acts 5:3). For lying to the Holy Spirit
and refusing to acknowledge their sin, Ananias
and his wife both died immediately under divine
discipline (Acts 5:9–10).
See also Christian service; dead works; divine
good.
For further reference, God the Holy Spirit vs. The Sin
Nature; Reversionism.
Lessons 402:18–19; 376:1528–34.
 Mm
machaira A general Greek designation for a sword. toward Christ. He draws unbelievers to the Gospel
Technically and historically, the term machaira and believers to the Word, and his utilization of
can refer to any of the various swords used in grace impacts loved ones, associations, his client
the ancient world. In the context of Ephesians nation, and the angelic realm (Matt. 5:13–16;
6:11–17, Paul’s discourse on Christian warfare, 1 Cor. 4:9b; 1 Pet. 1:12).
machaira indicates the double-edged Roman See also blessing by association; invisible hero.
sword called gladius in the Latin. While under For further reference, The Unfailing Love of God.
house arrest in Rome, Paul observed the soldiers Lessons 376:1831–32.
of the Praetorian Guard carrying this classic
short sword, which historian Vegetius describes manna The bread-like food provided by God to the
as a “two-foot blade, about four inches wide, Exodus generation, a nutritional provision that
two-edged, pointed, carried by a belt.”15 By symbolized God’s logistical grace and spiritual
divine inspiration, Paul used the mighty weapon nourishment for His children.
to portray the defensive power of “the sword Six weeks into the Exodus journey, when over
of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” The two million Jews grumbled in fear of starving in
writer of Hebrews likewise borrowed the image, the desert, the Lord supplied the perfect food to
describing the Scriptures as “living and active and sustain them day by day (Ex. 16:1–4; cf. Deut. 8:3;
sharper than any two-edged sword” (Heb. 4:12). Ps. 78:24–25). “Bread from heaven” (Ex. 16:4), a
See also armor of God (sword of the Spirit). never-before-seen substance, prompted the
question “what is it?” expressed by the Hebrew
magnetism (a) The ability or power to attract, to word man (Ex. 16:15). Israel named the miracu-
charm, to exert an influence; (b) in the spiritual lous food man, which was brought into the Greek
realm, refers to the power of God that attracts and English as “manna” (Ex. 16:31a).
the believer to His riches in grace, and also desig- The small white flakes or granules, similar to
nates the enriched believer’s ability to influence coriander seed, could be ground into flour, baked
others toward the Lord. into cakes, boiled into porridge, or eaten raw.
The depth of God’s love is so compelling that the Its taste was comparable to “wafers with honey”
believer is powerfully pulled toward “the riches (Ex. 16:14, 31b) or “cakes baked with oil”
of His glory” (Eph. 1:18; 3:16). And when the be- (Num. 11:7–9). According to God’s instructions,
liever is drawn toward God’s incalculable grace, the people were to gather enough manna each
he receives assurance of the greatest wealth ever morning to furnish the day’s need (Ex. 16:16–
known, the power and assets to represent Jesus 18). Any manna remaining on the ground after
Christ to the world. As he executes the unique the gathering session melted with the sunrise.
spiritual life, God’s magnetism emanates through Manna stored in the tent for more than one day
him. In other words, the positive, maturing “bred worms and became foul” (Ex. 16:19–21).
believer attracts others and influences them The exception was the Sabbath. Since there was
to be no work on the seventh day, they were to
gather a double portion on the sixth day. The
15. Flavius Vegetius Renatus, The Military Institutions of
the Romans, trans. Lieutenant John Clark (Harrisburg, excess portion, set aside, remained fresh to enjoy
Pennsylvania: Stackpole Books, 1960), 20. on the Sabbath (Ex. 16:22–26, 29–30).
manna 168

Beyond its basic subsistence, this miraculous God’s logistical grace to His chosen people as well
provision from heaven illustrates the following: as the Exodus generation’s sinfulness in rejecting
(1) Logistical grace to all believers. God’s faithful, that perfect grace provision.
daily supply of nourishment demonstrates His See also logistical grace.
unlimited blessing of life support for each of His For further reference, Creation, Chaos, & Restoration.
children. The Exodus generation failed the Lord Lessons 457:98–99; 412:1309–10; 376:985–87.
continually, but through the forty-year wandering
He never failed to provide for them (Ex. 16:35). marriage (a) The legal union of one man and
Manna was, after all, given in the midst of Israel’s one woman; (b) the second divine institution,
“grumblings against the Lord” (Ex. 16:7–8), so designed by God to stabilize and perpetuate the
this was grace all the way, neither earned nor human race.
deserved. oRigin and oRdeR
(2) Primary importance of taking in God’s Word. In the first marriage, which took place in the
Deuteronomy 8:3 declares God’s ultimate purpose Garden of Eden, God brought the woman to
in providing the daily bread from heaven: “He Adam and immediately joined them as husband
humbled you . . . and fed you with manna . . . and wife (Gen. 2:21–25). The order of creation
that He might make you understand that man established specific roles for the man and woman
does not live by bread alone, but man lives by in marriage: Man came first and more directly
everything that proceeds out of the mouth of the
from God and was designated as the ruler over
Lord.” Manna exemplified spiritual food, God’s
nature; he was an office-holder, one who carried
gracious provision of His Word, His own thinking,
authority. The woman, “taken out of Man” (Gen.
for every believer (Jer. 15:16a). Jesus Christ, at
2:23), was created as a “helper [ezer],” a perfectly
a later time, reiterated that God’s Word is more
suited counterpart designed to fulfill and com-
important than physical food (Matt. 4:4).
plete the man (Gen. 2:18; cf. 1 Cor. 11:8–9). Then,
(3) Obedience to God’s instructions. Divine
as now, the man carries the responsibility to
directives regarding the gathering of manna were
lead, protect, and initiate love toward his wife,
specific. There were consequences for greediness
while the woman is to respond to her husband’s
or laziness on the part of the Jews, and failure to
leadership and love. These equally important
follow God’s instructions meant that the grace
yet distinct roles create an extraordinary inter-
provision melted in the sun, or spoiled, or was
relationship of correlation and cooperation, not
insufficient for the Sabbath day. Moreover, in
forceful servitude or competition (1 Cor. 11:11).
order to satiate hunger and give nourishment, the
manna had to be eaten. In the same way, God’s sex in maRRiage
spiritual food, His Word, must be taken into Immediately following the announcement of
the believer’s soul and metabolized to provide the first marriage, God issued a command meant
spiritual sustenance. to safeguard the alliance. Husband and wife are
Manna sustained the children of Israel for forty to “leave [azab]” the influence of parents and “be
years in the desert, but once they reached the joined [dabaq]” to one another (Gen. 2:24a). In this
Promised Land and could partake of the “yield context, dabaq includes sexual interaction—the
of the land of Canaan,” the miraculous supply man and woman uniting in a new relationship of
ceased (Joshua 5:11–12; cf. Ex. 16:35). However, soul and body. Physical intimacy, in addition to
the original Exodus generation—those who had providing sensual satisfaction, creates invisible
scorned God’s physical and spiritual food—did walls that isolate the couple and protect against
not live to see this “land flowing with milk and outside interference, seductions, and distractions
honey” (Ex. 3:8; Num. 14:22–23, 29; 21:5–6). The (1 Cor. 7:1–4). These figurative walls do not imply
Lord’s final manna instruction to Moses was withdrawal from family and society but instead
to place a jarful inside the ark of the covenant emphasize privacy, devotion, interdependence,
(Ex. 16:33–34; cf. Heb. 9:4). For future generations and exclusivity of the union.
of Israel, the preserved manna would represent God specifically designed the male and female
 169 marriage

bodies for coalescence: husband and wife and the Church. The husband’s leadership in
“become one flesh” (Gen. 2:24b) as an expression marriage is analogous to Christ’s rule of the
of their unique alliance in marriage, as a form Church; his love for his wife must reflect Christ’s
of marital recreation, as a vacation from leader love and sacrifice for the Church (Eph. 5:23,
and subordinate roles, and as the means of 25–29). The Christian husband is to initiate an
procreation. Male-female marriage, then, is the environment of love, protection, loyalty, and
only relationship in which physical intimacy is stability in the marriage. Beyond this, he must
bona fide. According to the Word of God, every guard the wife’s soul, provide the spiritual tenor
other form of sexual activity, between man and of the home, and lead the spiritual advance of
woman or otherwise, is a sin that damages both the family. The Christian wife’s subordination
soul and body (Ex. 20:14; Lev. 18:6–17; 20:10–23; to the authority of her husband parallels the
Rom. 1:26–27; 1 Cor. 5:17; 6:9, 18; Heb. 13:4). subjection of the Church to Christ (Eph. 5:24);
she responds to him in obedience “as to the
Role of maRRiage in Civilization
Lord,” “as is fitting in the Lord” (Eph. 5:22; Col.
Marriage is a stabilizing structure of society,
3:18). With this response comes the highest
a divine institution to be respected by believers
form of love—respect (Eph. 5:33b; cf. 1 Pet. 3:1).
and unbelievers alike. God’s design of marriage,
From the virtue and freedom of her own soul, the
with its perfectly ordered system of leadership
wife willingly submits to her husband and does
and response, safeguards civilization. The institu-
not seek to undermine his leadership.
tion establishes the concepts of authority, order,
The key to a successful Christian marriage is
protection, and tranquillity in the home. It also
virtue love. Romantic love alone is not enough
preserves legitimacy and virtue in sexual relations,
to hold a marriage together: it is conditional,
provides the platform for rearing children to
unstable, and vulnerable to failure; it cannot
become responsible adults, and secures the
resolve marital problems or withstand difficulties.
family unit for the benefit of the nation.
Virtue love, developed by faithfully learning and
Despite the opinions of today’s permissive
applying God’s Word, provides consistency, stay-
culture, the structure and boundaries of marriage
ing power, and permanence in the relationship
are set by God for everyone’s benefit. Rejected
(1 Cor. 13:4–7). With virtue love, the Christian
in the divine design are the modern trends of
husband and wife rely on their own relationship
promiscuousness, communal living, frivolous
with God and fulfill the mandate to “be kind to
divorce, reversal of male and female roles. For
one another . . . forgiving each other, just as God
both believer and unbeliever, forsaking the
in Christ also has forgiven you” (Eph. 4:31–32).
divine blueprint guarantees personal confusion
See also integrity envelope; virtue love.
and unhappiness. And regarding the national
Corporate witness. The term “corporation,” from
entity, as goes the sanctity of marriage, so goes
the Latin corpus, defines any group of persons
the nation. See also divine establishment;
united by law in one body or entity. “Corporate
divine institutions.
witness” figuratively describes the Christian hus-
ChRistian maRRiage band and wife who together serve as an invisible
Christian marriage refers to the union of one testimony before God, Satan, and the angels.
born-again man and one born-again woman Marriage was the first corporation in human
during the Church Age. Individually, each spouse history, and it was also the first to come under
is a member of the Church, the royal family of satanic attack: Adam and Eve, in falling for Sa-
God, with access to unprecedented spiritual tan’s scheme in the Garden, departed from their
assets. Joined in matrimony, the two have an divinely ordained roles and showed that perfect
opportunity to glorify the Lord together, in environment does not prevent failure in marriage
tandem, as they advance in the spiritual life. (Gen. 3:1–17; 2 Cor. 11:3). Today, however, two
Elevating Christian marriage above the divine Christians united in matrimony can succeed
institution, God assigns to the husband and wife where the first couple failed. Their marriage can
the same relationship that exists between Christ become a corporate witness against Satan.
marriage 170

The believing husband and wife, advancing for remarriage. The innocent victim, after such a
in Bible doctrine together, are a favorite target traumatic experience, is not qualified to handle
of Satan. He seeks to distract and deter the another marriage and needs time and spiritual
spiritual advance of each spouse, knowing that growth to recover. If the guilty party dies or
the spiritual life determines the condition of the remarries, the innocent party is permitted to
marriage. So how do the born-again husband and remarry but should proceed with caution.
wife defend against the concentrated assault of Adulterous marriage. Being divorced and
the cosmic system? They persist in their tandem subsequently remarried outside of biblical
advance to spiritual maturity while remaining guidelines creates an adulterous marriage (Matt.
within their divinely ordained roles. As they 5:27, 32; 19:9; Mark 10:11; Luke 16:18). Believers
support each other in spiritual growth, problem who find themselves in such a situation should not
solving, and rearing children in the ways of the seek to terminate the present marriage. Instead,
Lord, they testify to the efficacy of God’s grace the party or parties involved should confess the
assets and provide evidence against Satan. Hence, transgression to God and move forward in the
the Christian marriage itself wins a supreme Christian life, understanding that every sin is
victory in the angelic conflict. See also strategic forgiven and the adulterous marriage is purified
and tactical victories; witness for the by God’s grace (Phil. 3:13–14; 1 John 1:9).
Prosecution. Violation prior to salvation. Any sin or failure
divoRCe and RemaRRiage regarding marriage or divorce that precedes
God’s Word recognizes that marriages can be salvation is blotted out the moment the person
dissolved under certain circumstances. When the expresses faith in Christ (Ps. 103:12; Isa. 43:25).
Bible uses the word “divorce,” it implies the true In other words, a divorced unbeliever who is
and divine dissolution of the marital bond and, subsequently born again has the right to remarry.
in most cases, the right of remarriage for one or See also right man–right woman.
both parties. For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Freedom
through Military Victory.
The New Testament provides guidelines for
Lessons 696:1–12; 412:1038–1119; 376:525–658, 777–82.
divorce and remarriage under the following
conditions: Adultery and desertion are legitimate
Mary, mother of Jesus
reasons for divorce and remarriage for the
See virgin pregnancy and birth.
innocent party; the guilty party does not have
the right of remarriage unless the innocent party
remarries (Matt. 5:32; 19:9; 1 Cor. 7:15). Victims mataiotes Greek noun meaning emptiness, void,
of the divorce gimmick (divorced on a false accu- vacuum. See vacuum in the soul.
sation by a spouse who wants to marry someone
else) have the right of remarriage; the guilty party mature believer
does not have the right of remarriage unless See spiritual adulthood; winner believer.
the innocent party remarries. Death of a spouse
automatically dissolves the marriage bond and mediate creation When describing the origin
allows for remarriage (Rom. 7:2–3; 1 Cor. 7:39). of mankind, refers to God’s indirect creation of
A mixed marriage—union of believer and physical, biological life—the act of divine creation
unbeliever—does not give the right of divorce, performed through intervening agents, the mother
unless the unbelieving spouse chooses to desert and father. Through the reproductive process set
the marriage (1 Cor. 7:13–15) [see also unequally in motion by God after the Fall, biological life
yoked]. is created mediately at conception and formed
Scripture is silent on issues of brutality, chemical in the mother’s womb (Gen. 4:1–2; Ps. 139:13).
addiction, sexual abuse, insanity, and criminality in Individual soul life, however, results from God’s
the marital relationship. While divorce in these direct, immediate creation at the point of birth.
cases is legitimate and necessary for protection, See also biological life; immediate creation;
Scripture’s silence implies that there is no basis origin of human life.
 171 millennialism

Mediator Designation for the Lord Jesus Christ, reflects divine grace.
emphasizing His role in establishing peace God, “being rich in mercy,” understands the
“between God and men” (1 Tim. 2:5). A mediator helpless, lost condition of humanity, and He is
removes disagreement between two opposing the wellspring of lovingkindness and compas-
parties so that they can reach a common goal. sion toward His creatures (Eph. 2:4). God’s policy
Since a mediator must be agreeable to both for relating to all mankind is grace, and mercy
parties, Jesus Christ in hypostatic union—deity is the active expression and outpouring of that
and humanity in one unique person—was qual- unmerited grace. First and foremost, God’s grace
ified to resolve the hostility between God and in action accomplished the work of atonement for
mankind (Gal. 3:19–20; Heb. 9:12–15, 26). the human race and eternal salvation for those
See also barrier; hypostatic union; reconcil- who accept His free atoning gift (Rom. 6:23; 11:32;
iation. 2 Cor. 5:21; Eph. 2:4–5; Titus 3:5; 1 Pet. 1:3). Toward
Lessons 467:24; 376:838–51. those who are His own, God extends grace and
forgiveness every time they confess their personal
Melchizedek, order of sins to Him (1 John 1:9; 2:12); He administers
See priesthood. perfectly timed mercy when they approach the
throne of grace in prayer (Heb. 4:16); and upon
memory center those He calls “vessels of mercy” He pours
See stream of consciousness. out the “riches of His glory”—unlimited divine
support and blessings for representing Jesus
mental attitude sins Christ in the fallen world (Rom. 9:23). See grace.
See personal sin. A merciful believer is one who lives by divine
grace (Matt. 5:7). Additionally, the spiritual
mentorship of the Holy Spirit A part of the gift of mercy is bestowed upon certain Church
Spirit’s filling ministry for Church Age believers. Age believers, giving them a special capacity
The word “mentor” originates with the name of for helping the persecuted and afflicted. See
a famous character in Homer’s Odyssey. Mentor is spiritual gifts (permanent).
the wise and trusted friend of Odysseus, and when
Odysseus leaves to fight the Trojan War, he gives mercy seat
Mentor charge of his son Telemachus. During See ark of the covenant.
Odysseus’ long absence, Mentor excellently
trains and educates Telemachus. This literary Messiah [Heb. meshiach, the Anointed One]
relationship, introduced in the seventh century Title for the prophesied Savior, emphasizing His
B.C., eventually inspired adoption of the word offices of prophet, priest, and king to Israel. For
“mentor” into the English language. the Old Testament Jew, this was the royal title of
“Mentor” in the English means a wise advisor, the One who would pay the penalty for sin (Isa.
counselor, and teacher to someone less knowl- 53). The Greek of the New Testament translates
edgeable. Our Lord Jesus Christ was mentor to this title as Christos, “Christ” (John 4:25–26). See
the disciples during His earthly ministry. Short- Christology; God of Israel; seed of the
ly before He departed, He assured them that they woman.
would receive from the Father “another Helper,”
meaning God the Holy Spirit as mentor (John metabolized doctrine
14:16). The Holy Spirit instructs the “sons of God” See epignosis; spiritual metabolism.
(Gal. 3:26) in all doctrines and brings these truths
to mind for application (John 14:26; 16:13). millennial civilization
See also God the Holy Spirit; parakletos. See civilizations, biblical; Millennium.

mercy The function of a gracious mental atti- millennialism Theological term used to explain
tude, expressing unconditional compassion that the chronology and character of events at the end
millennialism 172

of human history, namely Christ’s return and the Other millennial views. In the centuries since
millennial period. John penned the prophetic “thousand years” (Rev.
A careful interpretation of Scripture reveals the 20:1–6), various theologies have debated over the
Millennium as a future, literal “thousand years” nature and timing of the millennial kingdom.
of Christ’s physical rule on earth, with His return Viewpoints that run counter to the biblical and
at the Second Advent occurring just before the dispensational form of premillennialism include
reign begins (Rev. 19—20:7). Theologically, this historic premillennialism, postmillennialism, and
overall view of the end times is called premillen- amillennialism. If ever Scripture is interpreted
nialism, because the Second Advent precedes the within the wrong historical framework, or if
Millennium. A more thorough, precise picture is the fundamental distinctions between Israel
revealed through dispensational premillennialism, and the Church are blurred, then God’s true
which properly separates the Rapture from the plan regarding Christ’s future reign cannot be
Second Advent, details a tribulational period that understood. Christ’s return cannot be expected
excludes the Church, and maintains the distinc- to come through human effort of any kind, and
tion between Israel and the Church throughout above all, God must keep His covenants with the
Christ’s millennial reign. flesh-and-blood nation of Israel.
Dispensational premillennialism recognizes See also dispensations; Millennium; Rapture;
that, at the present time, the Jewish Age has been Second Advent; Tribulation.
temporarily halted and the Church Age inserted
into the divine time line. The Jewish Age will Millennium The future thousand-year period
resume for its final seven years in the Tribula- beginning with the establishment of Christ’s
tion, but before this occurs the Church will be earthly reign and terminating with the Last Judg-
instantly transferred to heaven (i.e., pretribula- ment and destruction of the present universe
tional Rapture). At the Second Advent, Christ will (Ps. 72; Isa. 11; 35; 62; 65; Zech. 14:9–11; Rev. 20).
return to destroy all opposition at Armageddon, Synonyms: Dispensation of Christ; Dispensation
regather and restore believing Israel, and estab- of the Millennium.
lish His millennial kingdom, ruled from the Inaugurating the kingdom. Upon Christ’s return
throne in Jerusalem. The Lord will reign supreme at the Second Advent, the almighty King of kings
on the earth for one thousand years of universal will depose the devil as ruler of the world and
peace and perfect environment. See Figure 19. commence His own reign over the earth. Enter-
Significant to dispensational premillennialism ing the new civilization will be believers only,
is the recognition of Israel’s future in the plan since all living unbelievers are removed in the
of God. The Abrahamic, Palestinian, Davidic, baptism of fire (Matt. 25:31–46; Rev. 11:15–19).
and New Covenants to Israel are fulfilled under The Lord will begin His reign in fulfillment of
Christ’s reign, demonstrating God’s faithfulness the unconditional covenants to Israel: regener-
to honor the unconditional promises to His cho- ate Jews will be regathered and returned to the
sen people (2 Sam. 7:8–16; Isa. 11; 14:1; Jer. 32:40– Promised Land as citizens of restored client na-
44; Ezek. 11:16–21) [see covenants to Israel]. tion Israel (Isa. 10:19–23; 11:11–16; 14:1–4; 65:19;
Throughout the Millennium and in eternity, Joel 2:16; Zech. 10:6–12), and Jesus Christ, the
Israel will enjoy a glory she has never yet known. Son of David, will ascend David’s throne in

Rapture Second Advent Last Judgment

CHURCH AGE TRIBULATION MILLENNIUM Eternal State

(7 years) (1000 years)

Figure 19 CHRONOLOGY OF END TIMES

 173 mirror in the soul

capital city Jerusalem (Luke 1:32; Acts 2:29–30; Father,” destroy the present earth and universe,
Heb. 1:8b). There the universal “government will and transfer all believers to the new eternal state
rest on His shoulders,” to be administered with (1 Cor. 15:24, 28; 2 Pet. 3:10, 13).
righteous jurisprudence (Isa. 9:6–7; 11:4; Rev. 2:27). See also covenants to Israel; Gog and Magog
Revolution; Operation Footstool.
WILL WE BE THERE? For further reference, The Divine Outline of History.
Lessons 536:11, 36, 39; 457:143, 662–67.
In the Millennium, resurrected believers from all pre-
vious dispensations will share in the blessings of the mind [Gk. nous] In biblical usage, refers to the left
kingdom alongside millennial citizens. lobe of the mentality of the soul. See left lobe
of the soul.
Environment in the kingdom. Even the deserts
will be transformed into a veritable Eden (Isa. mind of Christ The thinking of the Second Per-
35:1–2, 7) as the earth enjoys one thousand years son of the Trinity and the entirety of the divine
of perfect environment: peace and prosperity viewpoint of life.
among all the nations (Ps. 72:16; Isa. 2:4; Hosea All that is revealed of God’s eternal nature and
2:18; Micah 4:3); religion and false doctrine His plan for humanity was in the mind of Jesus
eradicated and replaced by worship of the one Christ from eternity past (Prov. 8:22–31; Isa. 55:8–
true God (Isa. 29:19–20; Hosea 2:17; Joel 2:28– 9). Scripture commands believers, “Let this mind
29); nature no longer cursed (Isa. 11:6–8; 35:1; be in you” (Phil. 2:5, kjv). We can have this mind
Rom. 8:19–22); disease, affliction, and starvation through daily study and metabolizing of God’s
unknown (Isa. 35:5–6; 65:20); violence alleviated Word. We have the mind of Christ because the
(Isa. 60:18); injustice forgotten (Isa. 9:7). And “as Bible is His thinking expressed in written form
the waters cover the sea,” knowledge of the Lord (1 Cor. 2:16). As we learn who and what Christ
will cover the earth (Isa. 11:9). is from Scripture, Bible doctrine saturates our
Sin in the kingdom. Despite pristine conditions, souls so that His mind becomes our frame of
sin will exist. Believers who survive the Tribula- reference, our viewpoint on life, our value system
tion will live in the Millennium in their earthly, and means of problem solving. We think God’s
not resurrection, bodies. The inherent sin nature thoughts, apply His truths to life’s experiences,
will continue to be passed down to their descen- and, following the precedent set by the humanity
dants. Even among an unprecedented presen- of Christ, execute the divine plan for our lives.
tation of truth, some across the generations will See also logos; Word of God.
reject Christ as Savior and nurture degeneracy in
their souls. minus H (-H) Designation for pseudohappiness,
End of the kingdom. When the thousand years the category of happiness based on emotional
are complete, incarcerated Satan will be released stimulation derived from circumstances. See
to enlist unbelievers in a last-ditch revolt against happiness.
Christ (Rev. 20:7–8). The futile “Gog and Magog”
revolution, however, will be instantly suppressed minus R (-R) Designation for the relative,
by a great fire from heaven (Rev. 20:9), and Satan imperfect righteousness inherent in the human
will be “thrown into the lake of fire” for eternity race. See relative righteousness.
(Rev. 20:10). All unbelievers of history will then be
assembled for the Last Judgment to be eternally mirror in the soul A metaphor for God’s Word
condemned and consigned to hell along with the accumulated in the right lobe of the believer’s
devil and his demons (Rev. 20:11–15). With no soul, allowing him to make objective, accurate
angelic revolutionaries or unbelievers remaining, self-evaluation.
and with all believers now in resurrection bodies, Mirrors in the ancient world were made out of
human history will come to a close. Jesus Christ flattened metal and had to be polished frequently,
will hand the kingdom back to “the God and a task that is analogous to the daily perception
mirror in the soul 174

and metabolism of Bible doctrine (James 1:22–25). centuries monasticism spread across the Christian
A well-polished mirror in the soul is what allows world, and while some adherents continued the
the believer to see himself in the true light of the solitary isolation tradition, many joined the trend
Word of God. As Bible doctrine is increasingly of cloistered communal living. In monasteries,
learned, metabolized, and circulated throughout monks and nuns lived under vows of poverty,
the soul’s stream of consciousness, the reflection chastity, and obedience; the latter vow included
becomes more and more clear. Without metab- strict devotion to communal rules and duties, daily
olized doctrine in the soul, the reflection is cloudy, ritualistic worship, and the mission of aiding the
distorted, and the believer cannot see or evaluate sick and impoverished. Even the young Martin
himself accurately. Luther sought a relationship with God through
See also right lobe of the soul; stream of austere life in a cloistered monastery. Thankfully,
consciousness. this tenacious Christian discovered in the Scrip-
tures that “man is justified by faith apart from
Mishnah works” and eventually protested the legalism and
See Talmud. apostasy the Church had fallen into (Rom. 3:28b).
By influence of the Protestant Reformation,
mixed marriage Describes a believer and much of modern Christianity has abandoned the
unbeliever joined together in matrimony. See formal practice of monasticism. The thinking
also marriage; unequally yoked. that characterizes monasticism, however, still
exists. Legalistic believers isolate themselves
momentum compartment from secular society to fast and pray, considering
See stream of consciousness. themselves highly spiritual for doing so. Some
take the phrase “old things passed away” (2 Cor.
momentum testing 5:17) to mean cease all worldly pleasures, say
See suffering (for blessing). goodbye to current friends, and live a monastic-
type life confined to church attendance. Even
monasticism (a) A system of pseudospirituality more tragic, many churches neglect their mission
practiced through a lifestyle of minimal subsis- to teach the Word and set up their own ‘Christian
tence and seclusion from society; (b) the medie- societies’—acres of facilities providing believers
val Christian movement that produced secluded with everything from friends and recreation to
orders of monks and nuns, whose ascetic and marriage opportunities and service missions,
humanitarian accomplishments became a false along with a false sense of spiritual living.
measure of holiness in the Church. Sometimes While believers should and must separate from
used as a synonym for asceticism. the evils of the devil’s world, the emphasis must
Monasticism in the Church had its formal be separation unto God, not separation from the
beginnings with the “desert fathers,” third-century world. The confines of a church building are
hermits who embraced an isolated life of fasting for one purpose—to hear the teaching of Bible
and prayer in the deserts of Egypt, Syria, and doctrine from a pastor-teacher. With doctrine
Palestine. These early monastics took the lifestyle in the soul, believers are equipped to interact
of John the Baptist and the command by Christ to with the world, face all problems in life from a
“go and sell your possessions . . . and come, follow position of inner strength, and fulfill the purpose
Me” and distorted them into legalistic methods for for which God keeps them alive under grace.
sanctification (Matt. 19:21). Simeon Stylites, the See also asceticism; pseudospirituality; separa-
most famous of the desert hermits, spent thirty- tion, doctrine of.
seven years living on an unsheltered platform set
atop a pillar. The structure attracted thousands moral courage (a) The ability to stand firm
to its base to witness the monk’s extreme ascetic on one’s virtuous convictions; (b) the spiritual
devotion and was gradually raised to symbolize his strength to do a right thing in a right way, despite
growth toward God. Between the fourth and sixth external opposition and challenges.
 175 morality

Moral courage should not be confused with yet graciously appealed to the official server,
physical courage, such as that found in battle. refused to accept defeat, and allowed the will of
While battle courage deals with tangible threats, God to play out in the situation (Dan. 1:12–15).
like an approaching enemy or incoming fire, Shortly after this, Daniel’s three friends went
moral courage overcomes intangible challenges on to defy the Chaldean order to worship a statue,
to one’s personal integrity and standards. choosing instead to be thrown into the furnace.
To a limited degree, moral courage can be Later, Daniel entered the lion’s den rather than
found in any person whose virtue and values are renounce his worship of the one true God. The
rooted in divine establishment truth. If principles Bible reveals that only Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach,
of freedom, responsibility, and humility shape and Abednego had the courage to take a stand
their character, human beings are capable of against the pagan decrees. Spiritual strength
displaying admirable courage under stress. For from divine viewpoint in their souls allowed
the believer in Christ, moral courage has even these faithful servants to place their confidence
greater dynamics because it is based on the entire in God and let Him handle the consequences.
realm of spiritual truth. A believer equipped with Another illustration, recorded in the Gospels,
Bible doctrine has the ability to persist in the shows a deficit of moral courage. Pontius Pilate
divine viewpoint of life, no matter what the cost. was the Roman governor of Judea who sentenced
He thinks clearly and independently, “standing Jesus Christ to crucifixion (Luke 23:23–24).
firm” on his own doctrinal applications (2 Cor. When Jesus was brought before him, Pilate was
1:24b), and observes the command to “be strong convinced of Jesus’ innocence and knew that He
and courageous . . . for the Lord your God is should be released. But public pressure, along
the one who goes with you” (Deut. 31:6). Moral with the threat of losing his political prestige,
courage overcomes any doubts or apprehensions overcame Pilate’s objectivity and sense of justice.
the believer may have when doing what integrity He failed to think independently based on prin-
demands, because confidence in the Lord rules ciples of law. In an act of moral cowardice he
out fear, arrogance, and hypersensitivity. sought a compromise, offering the Jewish leaders
Paul stated it well in his sharp note to Timothy, an option between releasing Jesus and the
who had become intimidated by congregational criminal Barabbas. The compromise backfired,
bullying: “For God has not given to us a lifestyle of as the Jews chose the criminal (Matt. 27:11–25).
fear, but of power and love and sound judgment” In the end, Pilate regarded the innocence of Jesus
(2 Tim. 1:7, corrected translation). “Sound and administration of true justice as relatively
judgment” includes moral courage—thinking unimportant compared to his own political
under pressure, making decisions compatible ambition.
with doctrine, and not allowing emotional sins See also faith-rest drill; fear.
to conquer the soul. For further reference, Daniel Chapters One through
Six; Freedom through Military Victory; King of Kings and
Biblical illustrations. In the Book of Daniel, we Lord of Lords.
find not one but four young men with moral Lessons 424:97–99, 101–3; 508:3, 13, 24–25.
courage, in addition to physical courage. These
Jewish teenagers, held as captives in the Chaldean moral degeneracy
Empire, were truly oriented to doctrine and able See degeneracy.
to maintain principles through tremendous
pressure and persecution. It all began when morality Right conduct and the function of
Daniel made up his mind that he would not human virtue in conformity with the principles
partake of the king’s food and wine (Dan. 1:8). of divine establishment.
The refusal to eat could have easily meant brutal Moral responsibility belongs to all, whether
death for him and his three friends, but each of believer or unbeliever, because upholding an
them knew it was more important to obey the objective moral code serves to guard human
mandates of God concerning Jewish dietary laws freedom and the fundamental rights to privacy,
(Lev. 7:22–27; Deut. 32:38). Young Daniel boldly property, and life. Manifestations of morality
morality 176

include but are not limited to self-restraint and that would represent Him to the world. The cho-
self-discipline; honesty, thoughtfulness, and sen people were given a divine legacy in writing,
good manners; respect for authority and law; and designed to serve several explicit purposes: to
support for and service to the national entity. regulate life in God’s unique client nation, to
Morality is a vital, necessary component for expose man’s sinfulness, to demonstrate man’s
human civilization, though one that must be kept need for a Savior, and, primarily, to anticipate
in proper perspective. While God has designed the coming of Christ. Therein lies its true
morality for mankind’s stability and protection, greatness. Far more than a superior code of moral
morality is not a means to salvation nor is it instruction, the Law is fundamentally messianic.
equivalent to living the spiritual life. No human For Old Testament Israel, the spiritual mandates
behavior, however meritorious, will reconcile depicted the person and work of Christ, and the
the unbeliever to God (Rom. 3:28; Gal. 2:16; Eph. civil and establishment statutes protected the
2:8–9). And for those who have received Christ as genetic line of Christ until His time of arrival in
Savior, advance in the spiritual life requires not the flesh.
just morality but Christian integrity—the genuine Because God ruled Israel directly, as a theo-
humility, love, and virtue derived from residence cracy, every aspect of national life had spiritual
in God’s plan and made possible by the filling significance—the Mosaic Law did not distinguish
of the Holy Spirit (Matt. 22:21; John 15:10; 2 Cor. between spiritual and secular issues. Obedience
5:17; Eph. 5:18). False doctrines of salvation by to divine establishment principles was part of
morality, spirituality by morality, and blessing by the spiritual life of Jewish believers, and, as part
morality amount to blasphemy and serve only to of national life, observance of holy days and
perpetuate the sin of morality arrogance (Matt. sacrificial rituals was required of all citizens,
5:20; 23:27; Rom. 3:20; Gal. 3:2–3; Titus 3:5). including unbelievers (although these rituals
See also Christian responsibility; divine estab- were fully meaningful to believers only).
lishment; divine good; human good. To best communicate its wide scope, the
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Freedom Law’s ordinances, ceremonial instructions, and
through Military Victory.
punitive orders can be categorized into three
Lessons 458:658; 665:131, 133; 412:886.
legal codes:
Codex I: The Freedom Code (Ex. 20:1–17; Deut.
morality arrogance
5:6–21); also called the Decalogue. This code,
See degeneracy (moral).
composed of the Ten Commandments and in-
struction on their importance, defines freedom
Mosaic Law (a) The body of rules and regula-
in terms of morality, privacy, property, sanctity
tions that established policy for ethical, spiritual,
of life, and authority. It also defines freedom in
and civil life within the Old Testament nation of
relation to God. The Ten Commandments do not
Israel; (b) the divine authorization for the found-
cover the entire doctrine of sin, as some might
ing and function of the first client nation to
assume, but instead identify sins that destroy
God; (c) the one conditional, temporal covenant
freedom. In every dispensation, believers and un-
between God and Israel (Ex. 19:3–6; Joshua 1:7–
believers can preserve freedom by avoiding sins
8). The Mosaic Law is recorded in the books of
such as murder, stealing, adultery, dishonoring
Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy,
God, disrespecting parents, and coveting what
with some supporting details recorded by other
belongs to another. See also freedom (human);
prophets in later books of the Old Testament.
morality.
Synonyms: law of Moses (1 Kings 2:3; 2 Kings
Codex II: The Spiritual Code (e.g., Ex. 25—31; 35—
23:25); book of the covenant and covenant to
40; Lev. 1—6; 23). God gave man free will for the
Moses (Ex. 24:7; 34:27–28; Deut. 8:18; 9:9, 11; cf.
ultimate purpose of coming to know the Savior.
Jer. 11).
Accordingly, the ordinances and instructions in
puRpose and Contents of the law this portion of the Law form a complete shadow
At the Exodus, God founded Israel as a nation Christology and soteriology (Col. 2:17; Heb. 8:5;
 177 Mosaic Law

10:1). These messianic doctrines are the spiritual (Gal. 3:5), cannot give or sustain life (Gal. 3:21),
heritage of Israel. From the furniture in the cannot justify (Acts 13:39, kjv; Rom. 3:20, 28; Gal.
Tabernacle to the graphic animal sacrifices to 2:16; 3:11; Phil. 3:9), cannot save (Heb. 7:19).
the intricate priestly garments, the ceremonial
fulfillment of the law
worship rituals dramatically prophesied the
The centuries-old purpose of the Mosaic Law
saving work of the coming Messiah. See ritual
was achieved by the incarnate Jesus Christ.
plan of God.
When He arrived in the flesh, anticipation and
Codex III: The Establishment/Civil Code (e.g.,
shadows were replaced by reality. By His sinless
Ex. 21—23; Lev. 11—15; Num. 1—5; 18; Deut.
life and substitutionary death for the sins of
12—26). The civil statutes and judgments were
mankind, the God-man fulfilled every jot and
designed to amplify freedom principles related
tittle of the code that perfectly expressed the
to government and private citizens. Contents
perfect character of God (Matt. 5:17–18). This
of the establishment code emphasized to Israel
magnificent heritage, the ritual plan of God for
that every member of the human race, believer
or unbeliever, had certain responsibilities Israel, was made suddenly obsolete (Rom. 10:4;
regarding his own volition and the institutions Heb. 8:13). A new code was required, and a new
that preserved law, order, life, and freedom. In code was provided.
addition to setting standards for diet, sanitation, pResent puRpose and appliCation
agricultural practices, and marriage and family The protocol plan of God, the new code of divine
life, the Law provided for the following: mandates for the Church, defines the believer’s
(a) National judicial system. Details of juris- way of life during the current dispensation. The
prudence set standards for legal proceedings Church is “not under [Mosaic] law but under
and assigned just punishment for violations of grace” (Rom. 6:14), “for the law of the Spirit of
law. For instance, in criminal cases one could life in Christ Jesus” has set the believer free
not be convicted apart from multiple witnesses (Rom. 8:2; Gal. 3:23–25; 5:3–4, 18; Heb. 8:13; 10:9).
presenting the same facts before the court. See also law of spirituality.
Criminals were punished immediately, and the With that said, both the Law and the protocol
severity of punishment fit the severity of the plan come from God Himself. Therefore, conti-
offense (e.g., capital crimes received capital nuities exist between the two as a reflection of
punishment). God’s unchangeable divine essence. Phrases like
(b) Military establishment. The census of the “Lamb of God” and “blood of Christ” are carried
sons of Israel during the Exodus was a military over into the New Testament to declare that
mobilization for the client nation, complete Christ’s saving work fulfilled what the Law fore-
with instructions for deployment and division shadowed (John 1:29; 1 Pet. 1:18–19). And while
of plunder in victory. See also peace. no longer valid for worship, the details of the
(c) Taxation. Under a system called tithing, sacrificial rituals teach Church Age believers to
every income-earning citizen of Israel, believer appreciate the Savior. Even the statutes on health
or unbeliever, was required to pay one-tenth and agricultural practices in Israel testify to the
portions of his assets for the purpose of main- care and faithfulness of God in guiding His own.
taining the nation. See tithing. Beyond the spiritual examples and encour-
limitations of the law agement, the Law’s principles of establishment
Though the Mosaic Law was a comprehensive apply for the preservation of mankind in general.
plan for governing Israel and demonstrating The Ten Commandments, with the exception of
man’s need for a Savior, the Law is inherently Sabbath observance, still function to preserve
limited (Gal. 3:24; 4:4–5; James 2:10). For Israel human freedom. And the Law’s pervasive
or anyone in subsequent dispensations, keeping endorsement of authority, rule of law, equitable
the Law cannot solve the problems of sin and the taxation, and free enterprise, accompanied by
sin nature (Rom. 7:18; 8:7), cannot provide the systematic rejection of criminality, form the
Holy Spirit (Gal. 3:2), cannot produce miracles pattern for governance that reflects the character
Mosaic Law 178

of God. Honorable statesmen in the Church Age mysticism The erroneous spiritual practice
will apply the Law’s establishment principles that bases relationship with God on subjective,
to the objectives of their own nation, without unverifiable experiences.
imposing the literal details designed specifically Mystics often claim that God speaks directly to
for Israel. them or that God, angels, or divine beings have
See also Dispensation of Israel; divine estab- appeared to them, offering previously unrevealed
lishment; Pentateuch; ritual plan of God. insight or information. Islam and Mormonism,
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History;
Levitical Offerings.
for example, both derive from alleged appari-
Lessons 419:96, 113; 412:514–15, 965–68; 840:209. tions of angels claiming new divine revelation.
Mysticism also shapes the New Age movement,
motivational virtue which promotes ‘higher spiritual consciousness’
See virtue. through practices like meditation, attempted
contact with spirits, and communion with ‘di-
mystery doctrine The truths of God’s Word vine energy’ in nature. Even Christianity, from
specific to the Church Age, whose existence, pur- its beginnings, has felt the pervasive influence of
pose, and doctrines were unknown and unre- mysticism: First-century Gnosticism corrupted
vealed to previous eras of history. Church teachings by mixing in ‘sacred’ incanta-
The Koine Greek noun musterion (mystery) tions and declarations of extrabiblical revelation.
originally referred to the secret doctrines of During the third- and fourth-century monastic
ancient religious organizations. Only those movement, ascetic monks isolated themselves
in the desert and awaited the voice of God. Today,
persons initiated into the cult of Dionysus, for
mysticism continues to influence the Church
example, knew its mysteries. Under the ministry
with meaningless rituals, religious superstitions,
of the Holy Spirit, the Apostle Paul took this well-
and alleged apparitions of historical Christian
known pagan term and gave it a biblical definition
figures.
(Eph. 3:1–9; 1 Cor. 2:6–8; Col. 1:25–28). In Paul’s
As with any attempt to derive spiritual truth
usage of musterion, the initiates are Church Age
apart from Scripture, mysticism is an empty
believers, and the doctrines are specific to the
religious form whose followers unknowingly
Church and its unique function during the period
worship the “god of this world” (2 Cor. 4:4). The
when Israel is set aside. These divine truths are
mystic who claims to hear the voice of God or
defined as “mystery” because they were “kept
other divine beings is either hearing the voices
secret for long ages past” (Rom. 16:25–26). Old
of demons or deluding himself (2 Thess. 2:11–
Testament prophets, communicating the events
12). Since the close of the canon of Scripture, ca.
of Israel’s future, had no knowledge of the age
A.D. 96, God speaks to mankind only through
that would occur prior to the promised Jewish
His written Word (Heb. 4:12), made perceptible
kingdom.
through the teaching ministry of the Holy Spirit
Jesus Christ was the first to announce doctrines
(Eph. 5:18). This is the age when all divine
related to the mystery age (John 14—17; Acts 1:4–
revelation comes directly from the Bible and when
8). Writers of the New Testament epistles fully
angelic protection, including the “ministering
developed these doctrines to reveal the special
spirits” assigned to every believer (Heb. 1:14), is
advantages, assets, and responsibilities unique to
strictly silent and unseen.
the Church Age believer. By utilizing the “riches
See also demonism; occult.
of the glory of this mystery” (Col. 1:27), the ordi- For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Satan and
nary believer learns and applies the spiritual Demonism.
truths of this unprecedented age to glorify Christ
on earth (Eph. 1:4–12; Col. 2:2; 1 Tim. 3:16).
See also Church Age; royal family of God.
For further reference, Daniel Chapters One through Six;
The Divine Outline of History.
Lessons 467:39; 412:591–94.
 Nn
nationalism (a) God’s design that organizes the children in the family unit, freedom to advance
world into multiple sovereign entities for the according to individual ability, to own property,
purpose of maintaining order and perpetuating and to conduct legitimate business apart from
the human race; (b) deference to the principles governmental interference. Any nation sustained
that ensure the endurance, prosperity, and vir- by these principles is marked by an official
tuous function of the national entity, the fourth language, along with a common culture that
divine institution. eclipses race and ethnicity and reflects the integ-
To protect mankind from self-destruction, rity, morality, patriotism, esprit de corps, and
God decrees that the human race be divided spiritual life of its citizenry. Most importantly,
into compartments marked by geographical this nation affords the environment of freedom
borders and languages. Each region is to function necessary for communicating the Gospel and
independently so that freedom and overall secu- Bible doctrine. Even when other countries func-
rity of its population can thrive (Gen. 10:5; Deut. tion under the influence of evil, the nation
32:8). God’s ultimate purpose in determining operating on principles of divine establishment
“the boundaries of their habitation” is that man guards against evil infiltration and stands as a
“would seek God” and be saved (Acts 17:26–27). beacon of truth and liberty. To further preserve
Origin of national entities. Dividing the world His Word throughout history, God appoints
into geographical regions began after the Flood certain nations as client nations, His protected
with the descendants of Noah (Gen. 10:32). When representatives on earth [see client nation to
man later disregarded this design and attempted God].
a one-world state at Babel, divine judgment con- Evil of internationalism. The antithesis of
fused the language of the people and scattered nationalism is internationalism, the Satan-
them over the face of the earth (Gen. 11:1–9). The inspired scheme of a universal state. Advocates
result was the formation of distinct populations of internationalism believe a unified world will
and, eventually, self-contained nations based on bring equality, peace, security, and prosperity
racial, geographic, and linguistic boundaries. for all. In their crusades to make the world a
Function of the ideal national entity. To maintain better place, they promote the evils of national
independence, prosperity, and strength among disarmament, appeasement, worldwide leader-
the many nations of the world, the national ship coalitions, and wealth redistribution on an
entity must function under the laws of divine international scale. Whether clothed in politics
establishment—principles designed by God or religion (e.g., United Nations or World Council
for the benefit of believers and unbelievers of Churches), this one-world agenda is Satan’s
alike. Authority in the nation should rest in a insidious attempt to undermine God’s laws and
government operating under restrained power, control the fallen world. The Tribulation will
so as not to destroy freedom and opportunity prove that global consolidation of power and
but to provide honorable jurisprudence, law ecumenical religion transform humanity not
enforcement for internal safety, and a strong to harmonious existence but to lawlessness,
military for protection from external forces. persecution, famine, and the ravages of world
Within the boundaries of civil law, citizens enjoy war (Dan. 9:26; Zech. 14:2; Matt. 24:21–22; 2 Thess.
freedom of individual volition, freedom to rear 2:3–4; Rev. 6:1–11; 12:17; 16:13–14; 18:2–3).
nationalism 180

The need for separation. First, God’s Word is clear Scripture designates necromancy as “abomi-
that neither war nor poverty will be abolished nations” (2 Kings 23:24), “detestable things”
from earth until the millennial reign of Jesus (Deut. 18:9), and “evil . . . provoking Him to anger”
Christ (Ps. 72:7, 16; Hosea 2:18; Micah 4:1–3; (2 Kings 21:6). Isaiah warned Israel to consult
Matt. 24:6; 26:11). Second, the total depravity the Word of God rather than necromancers and
of man guarantees that he cannot rule others mediums (Isa. 8:18–20), as the Lord had long
without protection against an innate propensity warned to “set My face against that person” who
for tyranny. To limit the range of human arro- turns to these devices of demonism (Lev. 20:6;
gance, God outlawed the one-world state and cf. 19:31). The Southern Kingdom of Israel was
“set the boundaries of the peoples” (Deut. 32:8). eventually destroyed because unfaithfulness to
Geographic separation, independent govern- the Lord led to entanglement in these and other
ments, and multiplicity of languages act as occult-type activities (Isa. 29:1–8).
deterrents to the spread of evil and prevent man See also demon influence; demon possession;
from uniting to a destructive degree. Nation- demonism; divination.
alism—with its related principles of divine For further reference, Satan and Demonism; Tongues.
Lessons 748:18; 631:88–93.
establishment—allows for maximum freedom
while cultivating the humility necessary to recog-
nize man’s need for God. This is the design that negative volition
guarantees effective evangelism throughout the (1) Regarding the unbeliever, describes the think-
earth and furthers God’s plan of grace for man- ing of a person who contemplates but rejects the
kind. Even when the Lord Jesus Christ rules the evidence that God exists, or who hears the Gospel
earth during the Millennium, His kingdom will message but refuses to believe in Jesus Christ
retain “all the peoples, nations, and men of every as Savior. In either case, the individual exercises
language” (Dan. 7:14; cf. Isa. 2:4; Rev. 2:26–27). his free will to deny the eternal salvation that
only faith alone in Christ alone can provide.
See also divine institutions; ecumenical reli-
gion; utopianism. (2) Regarding the believer, describes the rejec-
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Freedom
tion of God’s Word and plan, either through
through Military Victory.
Lessons 201:19–20; 402:78; 624:16–17; 458:563. apathy or outright antagonism. When negative
volition is present, the believer isolates himself
necromancy [from Gk. nekros, dead body + from fellowship with God and cannot grow
manteia, divination] A type of divination that spiritually. Characteristics of negative volition
attempts to gain insight or foretell the future include indifference toward Bible teaching,
through alleged contact with the dead. preoccupation with the details of life, personality
Practitioners of necromancy are mediums clashes with a church pastor, mental attitude
whose purpose is to interact with the spirit world sins toward fellow believers, and failure to apply
on behalf of others. Traditional private séances doctrinal rationales.
center around a medium who attempts to contact See also heathenism; volition.
the dead and listen to their messages, while the
popular New Age channeling involves a medium Nephilim [from Heb. naphal, to fall; hence, “fallen
or trans-channeler who permits the spirit to ones”] The antediluvian superrace of Genesis 6,
possess his own body and speak directly to an made up of half-human, half-angelic creatures.
audience. Since contact with the dead cannot In the time before the Flood, demons invaded
be accomplished, demons often impersonate the earth and carried out a satanic plot to
the dead in these events [see engastrimuthos corrupt human genetics. The invading “sons
demon]. Some mediums and channelers are of God” took the form of human males and
indeed contacting such demons, though many sexually intermingled with human females, “the
practitioners are scammers who utilize mechan- daughters of men,” to create the hybrid offspring
ical trickery to prey upon the curious, gullible, called “Nephilim” (Gen. 6:2, 4). If left to continue,
and spiritually destitute. procreation between angels and women would
 181 new covenants

have contaminated the entire human race and Testament passages to refer to the soul life given
made it impossible for the Savior to be born as by God to mankind. See soul life.
true humanity.
The period of the Nephilim was fraught with neutral H Designation for the category of
immorality. Cross breeding with fallen angels happiness based on divine establishment truth.
gave mankind remarkable strength, brilliant See happiness.
intellect, and extranatural power, intensifying
the function of the sin nature and making the new covenants
superrace exceedingly warlike and brutal. Soon (1) New Covenant to Israel, which will commence
“the Lord saw how great man’s wickedness on at the Second Advent, guarantees eventual ful-
the earth had become” (Gen. 6:5, niv). After a fillment of all unconditional covenants to Israel
grace period of 120 years, God’s justice destroyed and establishes the mode of spiritual operation
the Nephilim and the degenerate population for regenerate Israel in the Millennium (Jer.
through a worldwide flood. Preserved to con- 31:31–34; Heb. 8:8–12; 10:15–17). See covenants
tinue the pure human lineage were Noah and
to Israel.
his family, the only ones to remain uncorrupted
and faithful to God (Gen. 6:6–18; 1 Pet. 3:20; 2 Pet. (2) New Covenant to the Church is the sum total of
2:5). As part of the judgment, God also removed God’s gracious, unique promises and provisions
sexual ability from all angels. The fallen angels for believers in the Church Age.
who produced the Nephilim were consigned to At the Last Supper, Jesus Christ announced to
Tartarus, where they await ultimate transfer to His disciples that the “cup which is poured out for
the lake of fire (2 Pet. 2:4; Jude 6). you [His substitutionary sacrifice on the cross]
is the new covenant in My blood” (Luke 22:20; cf.
ANOTHER NEPHILIM Matt. 26:28; 1 Cor. 11:25). His completed saving
work on the cross, followed by His resurrection
The reference to “Nephilim” in Numbers 13:32–33 ap-
and session, inaugurated a new way of life for
plies not to the superrace but to human beings, the sons
of Anak, who were giants living in the land of Canaan. believers (Heb. 10:20). Shadow rituals that had
long anticipated the true sacrificial Lamb were
once and for all fulfilled; the victorious Savior
Though all Nephilim were destroyed in the was eternally glorified. Hence, the old covenant of
Flood, their stories echo throughout Greek, the Mosaic Law was replaced by new provisions
Roman, Phoenician, Canaanite, and German and blessings for the Church.
mythology. This ancient literature is filled with The new covenant to the Church authorized
accounts of gods descending to earth to cohabit the royal family of God to accompany the King of
with beautiful women, and their half-human kings and established a universal priesthood with
offspring—like Orpheus, Minos, Hercules, the Lord Himself as High Priest (Heb. 4:15–16;
Perseus, Bacchus, Apollo, and so forth—reflect 1 Pet. 2:5, 9). Scripture calls this new covenant a
the antediluvian demigods of supernatural power “better hope, through which we draw near to God,”
and intellect. Such legends are dim recollections because every believer, Jew and Gentile alike,
of “the mighty men who were of old, men of now has a better and unprecedented spiritual
renown” (Gen. 6:4), which, over time, were trans-
life, including the filling of the Holy Spirit, the
formed by vivid imagination.
completed canon of Scripture, the privilege to
See also civilizations, biblical; Hades; victo- represent oneself before God, and the ability to
rious proclamation.
For further reference, Victorious Proclamation. demonstrate the virtues of Jesus Christ to the
Lessons 201:14; 527:62–63; 412:827–29. world (Heb. 7:18–19, 22; cf. 2 Cor. 3:6). See also
priesthood; protocol plan of God; royal
neshamah Hebrew noun meaning “breath.” family of God.
Neshamah is used in Genesis 2:7 and other Old Lessons 419:106–7, 122–23; 376:805–6, 820.
new heaven and new earth 182

new heaven and new earth oneself in relation to God’s unique plan and
See eternal state. purpose. The child of God finds himself not by
finding a certain job, church, or relationship
New Jerusalem but by growing in grace and in the knowledge
See eternal state. of God. Consistent good decisions—to be filled
with the Holy Spirit, acknowledge personal sins
new racial species to the Father, and study Bible doctrine—orient
See Jewish race (origin). the believer toward his individual niche. With
confidence gained from doctrine in the soul,
new spiritual species Describes the Church he identifies his true personality and adjusts
Age believer as an entirely new creation in union to his strengths and weaknesses. He comes
with Jesus Christ (2 Cor. 5:17; Eph. 2:10a). to know God’s will for his life and establishes
Through the baptism of the Holy Spirit at sal- right priorities accordingly. The key objective
vation, all Church Age believers instantly belong is no longer an impressive résumé, nor is it
to a unique and distinctive class of human be- superior talent, intelligence, or attractiveness,
but “godliness . . . accompanied by contentment”
ings—the new spiritual species. “If anyone is
(1 Tim. 6:6–8). Building his nest strand by
in Christ, he is a new [kainos] creature” (2 Cor.
strand through doctrinal application, the niche-
5:17a). The Greek adjective kainos means new in
oriented believer learns to make right choices
kind, new in species, and describes something
in all areas of life: social life, marriage, academ-
remarkable that has never existed before—
ic pursuits, business and professional life, and
a totally unprecedented relationship with God.
every other area in which he represents and
Church Age believers are reborn into the royal
serves the Lord.
family of God and hold an exalted position as
The closer a believer moves toward spiritual
joint heirs with Christ (Rom. 8:17). Set apart
maturity, the more capacity he develops for every
from believers of all other dispensations, each
aspect of his God-designed niche, including
“new creature” is indwelt by all three members
his “greater grace” blessings (James 4:6). Once
of the Trinity, which, among many privileges,
reaching maturity, he is perfectly situated and
guarantees availability of divine power for exe-
content inside all that God designed specifically
cuting the Christian way of life (John 14:20, 23;
for him in eternity past.
1 Cor. 2:12–13). Within the new spiritual species,
See also spiritual adulthood (spiritual self-esteem).
also known as the universal Church, all cultures, Lessons 412:45, 83, 1193.
classes, genders, and races are “one in Christ”
(Gal. 3:26–28). norms and standards
See also great power experiment; position in See stream of consciousness (conscience).
Christ; royal family of God.
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History.
Lessons 412:176–78, 453–56, 486–93. Northern Kingdom
See Dispensation of Israel.
niche [Lat. nidus, nest] A unique place, condition,
status, and role designed by God in eternity past nous
to suit the capabilities, personality, and merits See left lobe of the soul.
of an individual believer. Each member of the
family of God has a niche designed uniquely for
him, one that will fit no one else.
Just as an animal’s nest is built of many
materials, the believer’s niche consists of many
different strands, all of which are interwoven
into a life of genuine self-confidence and content-
ment. Finding that niche requires identifying
 Oo
objectivity A mental perspective free from Scripture views the occult as evil—the realm
personal prejudice, opinions, or feelings and of demons. Involvement in demonic pursuits is
directed toward something outside of oneself, strictly forbidden by God (Lev. 19:26; 20:6; Deut.
namely absolute truth and eternal principles. 18:10) and can result in demon influence or, for
Antonym: subjectivity. the unbeliever, demon possession. In the case of
Objectivity goes hand in hand with humility, King Saul, rejection of God’s Word for the counsel
the virtue that orients a person to values greater of a medium finally met divine discipline of death
than his own desires. God’s basic design for (1 Chron. 10:13–14). For the ancient Canaanites,
protecting the human race is, in fact, a system of fascination with the powers of darkness led to
objectivity, for His laws of divine establishment collective divine judgment in the form of national
challenge all individuals to set aside innate destruction (Deut. 20:17; cf. 18:9–14).
arrogance and adhere to a code of authority and See also demon influence; demon possession;
freedom. From the basic function of objectivity demonism.
comes responsibility and good decision making, For further reference, Satan and Demonism.
along with tolerance and respect for others.
For believers in Jesus Christ, objectivity is what occupation with Christ Maximum personal
the Book of Romans speaks of when it exhorts love, devotion, and respect for the Savior, an
them to “think in terms of sanity . . . without intense concentration on Him above all else.
illusion,” meaning they must think according At the moment we believed in Jesus Christ,
to God’s standard rather than their own human we responded to God’s call to have “fellowship
standard (Rom. 12:3, corrected translation). Ob- with His Son” forever—Christ is to be our closest
jective believers set aside preconceived ideas companion throughout time and eternity (1 Cor.
and prejudices in order to pursue the systematic 1:9). It is the Father’s purpose that the Son “will
teaching of absolute truth—Bible doctrine come to have first place in everything” (Col.
(Ps. 25:8–9). With eyes on the Lord and off of 1:18b), that we follow the model Christ set on
themselves, they eliminate self-centered arro- earth, think the way He thinks, and set Him
gance and subjectivity, view life through the apart as more valuable than anything else in life
perspective of divine grace, and resolve problems (1 Cor. 2:16; Phil. 2:5; Heb. 12:2; 1 Pet. 3:15). But
with sound judgment and doctrinal wisdom. in order to make Christ preeminent and enjoy
See also humility; moral courage; subjectivity. harmonious rapport with Him, we must come to
know and love Him through what He reveals of
occult (a) Refers to the realm of the mysterious, Himself.
the unseen, the supernatural or paranormal, the The believer who organizes his life around the
powers of darkness; (b) practices that seek to intake of Bible doctrine and his thinking around
subject such powers to human will or to engage divine viewpoint increasingly concentrates on
their aid for solutions to problems, meaning Christ. In this spiritual process, described as
of life, or hope for the future. Practices of the Christ being “formed in you” (Gal. 4:19), the
occultist may include idol worship, phallic cult written Word causes the Living Word to influence
activities, astrology, divination, Eastern mystical every thought and action and be the motivator
meditation, voodooism, witchcraft, or wizardry. of life. The believer keeps advancing through
occupation with Christ 184

spiritual adulthood to recognize Christ not only Against the devil and his fallen legions, how-
as his role model but as his best friend residing ever, Christians in the postcanon period of the
at home in his soul (Eph. 3:17). Occupation with Church are never commanded to take offensive
Christ replaces preoccupation with self, people, action. We are not authorized to launch an attack
and things (Phil. 3:7–8). Dependence on Christ on demons, to cast out demons, to rebuke Satan,
for encouragement replaces dependence on or to eradicate his influences in the world around
people for love, happiness, and support (Ps. us. God fights Satan and fallen angels without our
118:8). Even in circumstances like disaster or assistance. Where Satan’s armies are concerned,
death, the mature believer has contentment and the Lord is on the offensive and we are on the
stability from constant awareness of the Lord. defensive.
The Apostle Paul, despite unyielding pressure Defensive action. Since our invisible foe seeks
and persecution, demonstrated and defined the to hinder spiritual advance, God supplies Church
ultimate in occupation with Christ: “With all Age believers with the spiritual equipment
boldness, Christ will even now, as always, be needed to take the defensive and “resist the devil”
exalted in my body, whether by life or by death” (James 4:7b; cf. 1 Pet. 5:8–9). We are to follow
(Phil. 1:20b). Maximum occupation with Christ the command to “put on the full armor of God”
is maximum worship and love for God. (Eph. 6:11, 13). Fortified with the principles of
As the tenth and most advanced problem- the Word and the power of the Holy Spirit, we
solving device, occupation with Christ is the stand firm against cosmic doctrines and temp-
priority solution to any adversity in life. When tations. By taking the defensive, we avoid being
the Lord is preeminent, all other problem-solving defeated by the enemy of God. Moreover, this
devices are functioning smoothly, and the soul defensive posture clears the field of fire for God
to take the offensive on our behalf.
of the mature believer reflects the very image
and glory of Jesus Christ (2 Cor. 3:18; 1 Pet. 1:8). See also armor of God; Christian activism;
exorcism; high ground.
See also problem-solving devices; spiritual For further reference, The Angelic Conflict.
adulthood. Lessons 361:9; 412:1257, 1283; 376:250–51.
Lessons 412:866–71.
old sin nature
offensive and defensive action in the See sin nature.
Christian life A military metaphor used to
convey the procedures for victory in the plan omnipotence, omnipresence, omniscience
of God. Battlefield wisdom states that offensive See essence of God.
action brings victory, while defensive action can
only avoid defeat. Analogous to military oper- one hundred and forty-four thousand
ations, the soul of the Church Age believer is (144,000)
designed for both types of action. See Jewish evangelists.
Offensive action. The objective of the Christian
life is to seize and hold the high ground of spir- operational death
itual maturity. To attain this goal the believer See death.
must be aggressive, not passive, in pursuing the
spiritual life—a forward action achieved solely by operational spiritual life The unique system
utilizing God’s grace provisions. In other words, of divine power and resources designed to sup-
the offensive is carried out on God’s power, not port and advance the Church Age believer to
human power (Zech. 4:6b). “Submit therefore to maturity, patterned after the same power and
God” is the biblical mandate for offensive action, resources that sustained Christ’s humanity.
which is accomplished through daily decisions to Synonym: operational divine dynasphere.
learn, think, and apply divine truth (James 4:7a). Throughout His life on earth, Jesus Christ relied
By taking the offensive, the believer enters into on a system of spiritual dynamics designed by
the sphere of victory and serves to glorify God. God the Father and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
 185 Operation Footstool

This divine system, the first of its kind, was tested See also dichotomous / trichotomous; tree of
by Christ, proven effective, and passed down the knowledge of good and evil.
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; The Integrity
to the Church as the operational spiritual life of God.
(John 15:9–11; 1 Cor. 1:24). By following Christ’s Lessons 527:9–12; 412:1082–83; 376:650–51.
precedent, we advance to maturity and emulate
the virtues of His humanity (Eph. 3:19–20; 5:1–2; Operation Footstool The series of future events
Phil. 2:5; 2 Pet. 1:4; 1 John 2:6). Executing the that will crown Christ’s triumph in the angelic
spiritual life means residing inside the sphere conflict.
of divine power: remaining filled with the Holy When the victorious, resurrected Jesus Christ
Spirit, having God’s Word resident in the soul, and arrived in heaven, the Father ushered Him into
applying that Word to the circumstances of life. His presence and said, “Sit at My right hand /
See also divine dynasphere; prototype spiritual Until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your
life. feet” (Ps. 110:1; Luke 20:42–43; Acts 2:34–35; 1 Cor.
15:24–25; Heb. 10:12–13). The glorified King of
Operation Boomerang kings, currently seated at the Father’s side, will
See reversionism. return in the future—at the Second Advent—to
reign over earth and forever remove His enemies.
Operation Fig Leaves The original salvation-by- Satan, fallen angels, unbelievers, even death
works attempt, in which Adam and the woman itself, will in effect lie prostrate at the Lord’s feet,
tried to correct their fallen condition by covering and in victory He will stand upon them (Eph.
themselves with fig leaves (Gen. 3:7). 1:20–22a; Col. 2:15).
Once Adam and his wife—both created as Phase I. At the height of the Armageddon cam-
sinless, innocent beings—disobeyed the one paign, when all of Israel’s enemies are gathered
divine prohibition in the Garden (Gen. 3:6), they against her, Jesus Christ will descend from
were instantly severed from relationship with heaven and commence Operation Footstool.
God. In the newfound state of spiritual death, Christ alone will slay, with sword and flesh-eating
“the eyes of both of them were opened” (Gen. 3:7a), plague, all those aligned against Israel, while
opened, that is, to the fact that they were sepa- His accompanying troops of elect angels and
rated from God (Gen. 2:17). Nakedness, which resurrected believers observe (Zech. 14:12; Rev.
previously had been a natural, wonderful part 19:11–19). In the wake of resounding conquest,
of their marital relationship, suddenly seemed total subjugation of His enemies will begin: all
a problem. Ashamed and vulnerable, now cor- unbelievers will be cast into the fire of Torments
rupted by a nature of sin, they succumbed to to reside until their final judgment, the two
guilt, bypassed the real issue in the soul, and tribulational beasts will be cast into the lake of
concluded that clothing was necessary to make fire (Rev. 19:20), and Satan, along with his fallen
themselves right with God. They fashioned gar- angels, will be bound in the Abyss (Rev. 20:1–3).
ments of fig leaves as a remedy for their fallen Phase II. Jesus Christ will establish the mil-
state. In essence, they reasoned, “If we adjust to lennial kingdom and reign supreme over all
each other and improve our human condition, the nations for one thousand years (Isa. 2:4;
certainly God cannot condemn us.” These loin Zech. 14:9; Matt. 25:31; Heb. 1:8). At the end of
coverings represented the couple’s vain effort to the Millennium, Satan will be released from
merit salvation, to satisfy God through their own the Abyss only to reignite his conspiratorial
works. Their self-righteous act defined Operation tactics (Rev. 20:7). Fire from heaven will in-
Fig Leaves as the first historical example of stantly suppress his futile revolution (Rev. 20:9).
human good. Accordingly, the exercise proved With Satan’s battle against God utterly lost,
short-lived and useless: when the Lord entered the sentence of condemnation will become a
the Garden, leaf-clad fallen man, still helpless reality—the devil and his fallen legions will be
and incapable of rapport with God, could only cast into the lake of fire (Matt. 25:41; Rev. 20:10).
hide himself among the trees (Gen. 3:8–9). Immediately, all unbelievers of human history
Operation Footstool 186

will be judged before the great white throne and objective perception of doctrine in the left lobe.
consigned to the fires of hell, eternally separated The believer understands the spiritual phe-
from God (Rev. 20:11–15). With all enemies nomena—the principles, names, dates, places,
crushed beneath His feet, Jesus Christ will hand and categories taught—but he has not yet accepted
the kingdom back to the Father (1 Cor. 15:24, 28). or rejected the information as truth. Gnosis in the
Complete destruction of the present universe will left lobe qualifies the believer as a hearer, but not
make way for the new heavens and new earth, a doer, of the Word (James 1:22–25).
which elect angels and regenerate man will enjoy Stage 4. The believer makes a positive decision
with the Lord for eternity (2 Pet. 3:10; Rev. 21:1). to believe what he understands, and the Holy
See also angelic conflict; Millennium; Trib- Spirit converts that gnosis into epignosis (full
ulation. knowledge) and instantly transfers it to the
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Armageddon.
Lessons 412:156; 376:1139–43. right lobe of the believer’s soul. The believer has
exercised faith perception—“I understand the
Operation Grace Synonym for the plan of God information and I believe it”—and the doctrine
for the human race, designed in eternity past. has been metabolized to reside in the right lobe
The term “Operation Grace” underscores the fact as useable, beneficial spiritual nourishment for
that everything man receives—from salvation, to application and continued growth.
relationship with God in time, to life in the eter-
nal state—is all the exclusive work of God. There
is no place for legalism or human good, and God Pastor- TEACHING MINISTRY OF Pneumatikos
Teacher THE HOLY SPIRIT Human Spirit
receives all the glory. See grace; plan of God.
E
TH
Operation Z Terminology for the process by

L
Y

U
B

SO
ER
which biblical information is communicated to,

E
SF

TH
N
understood, and made useable by (1) the positive A

TO
TR
IC IT
believer filled with the Spirit and studying God’s
IR
AT
SP

M
Word, or (2) the spiritually dead person at the
LY

TO
O

U
H

A
point of Gospel hearing.
For Learning God’s Word. For believers in Gnosis TRANSFER BY FAITH Epignosis
Jesus Christ, Operation Z describes the divinely Left Lobe THROUGH THE HOLY SPIRIT Right Lobe

empowered mechanics of the grace apparatus for

perception (GAP), through which spiritual truths Figure 20 OPERATION Z FOR LEARNING GOD’S WORD

become Bible doctrine understood, believed, and

applicable in the soul (1 Cor. 2:12–13; 2 Pet. 3:18). At Gospel Hearing. The “Z” diagram, with some
The process of Operation Z occurs in four stages: modification, also illustrates the mechanics
Stage 1. The believer with positive volition of salvation (see Figure 21). The unbeliever,
listens to Bible doctrine communicated from spiritually dead and lacking a human spirit, has
the pulpit by a qualified pastor-teacher. What no capacity to understand spiritual phenomena
the rightly prepared pastor speaks is “the word,” (1 Cor. 2:14). But when the spiritually dead person
called logos in the Greek (Col. 1:25; 2 Tim. 2:15; is willing to listen to the Gospel message, the
Heb. 4:12). Holy Spirit acts as the missing human spirit to
Stage 2. The Holy Spirit teaches the logos to make the information comprehensible. This is
the believer’s human spirit. There, the content His ministry of common grace. The unbeliever
becomes understandable as spiritual phenom- must then use his volition to express privately to
ena (pneumatikos). God the Father his faith in Christ. Where there
Stage 3. Pneumatikos is automatically trans- is a positive response of faith, God the Holy
ferred by the Holy Spirit to the left lobe of the Spirit takes that faith and makes it effective for
believer’s soul, where it resides as gnosis, or salvation (Eph. 1:13). This is the Spirit’s ministry
knowledge academically understood. This is of efficacious grace. Once a person accepts Christ
 187 origin of human life

as Savior, he gains his own human spirit, as well of the morning star include (1) a new title in
as the filling of the Holy Spirit, and becomes ca- the eternal heraldry (Rev. 2:17); (2) presentation
pable of learning and understanding the entire before God the Father in the court of heaven
realm of doctrinal information. (Rev. 3:5); (3) return with Christ at the Second
Advent in decorated glory (all believers in heaven
accompany Christ, but Church Age winners are
HOLY SPIRIT MAKES Holy Spirit recognized by their decorated uniform) (Col. 3:4;
Gospel Acts as
GOSPEL UNDERSTANDABLE
Human Spirit 1 Thess. 3:13); (4) presentation before the entire
earth during our Lord’s second advent coronation
S Y
L
(Rev. 19:5–6); (5) ruler and judge over nations
B

U
O
TH R
E

during the Millennium (Luke 19:17–19; 2 Tim.

TO S F

E
N
IR RA

2:12a; Rev. 2:26; 20:4a); (6) eternal access to the

S CT
IT
LY AT I

tree of life in the Paradise of God (Rev. 2:7; 22:14);

P
M
TO

and (7) history of spiritual life displayed in the

TH AU

O
H

heavenly hall of records (Rev. 3:12).

E

Regeneration:
Soul
HOLY SPIRIT MAKES FAITH
Creation of See also judgment seat of Christ; uniform of
EFFECTIVE FOR SALVATION
Human Spirit glory.
Lessons 457:119, 124, 136–39, 693–95; 376:324.

Figure 21 OPERATION Z AT GOSPEL HEARING

orientation envelope Terminology used for
See also dichotomous / trichotomous; faith the tandem operation of two spiritual problem-
perception; God the Holy Spirit; grace appa- solving tools—grace orientation and doctrinal
ratus for perception; human spirit; spiritual orientation—which function together to advance
metabolism.
For further reference, Mental Attitude Dynamics;
the believer from basic faith of spiritual child-
Reversionism; Witnessing. hood to the virtue of spiritual adulthood.
In the Church Age, the filling of the Holy Spirit
order of the morning star The highest deco- empowers the believer for spiritual advance,
ration awarded to Church Age believers at their but actual momentum comes from orientation
post-Rapture evaluation. to the plan of God and perception of His Word.
In Revelation 2:26–28, the Lord declares that The believer who consistently grows in grace
“he who overcomes . . . I will give him the morning and knowledge of God comes to understand
that he has a destiny in the plan of God (2 Pet.
star.” This is a promise to distinguish the mature
3:18). At that point, he has progressed from basic
believer with the symbol of His own victorious
problem-solving tools to advanced problem-
royal title: Christ is the “star” that came forth
solving tools: he has walked through the door
from Jacob to defeat sin and death (Num. 24:17;
that signifies confidence in his spiritual destiny
cf. Matt. 2:2), and now, as the glorified King, He
and objective, and he has found the beginning
is the “bright morning star” seated at the right
of joy and peace. Function of the orientation
hand of the Father (Rev. 22:16; cf. 2 Pet. 1:19).
envelope emphasizes that no one is promoted
When believers appear before the “judgment
through the door of confident expectation on
seat [bema] of Christ” (2 Cor. 5:10), the Lord
anything but God’s agenda.
will award a distinguished badge of honor—the
See also doctrinal orientation; grace orien-
order of the morning star—to those who have tation; problem-solving devices.
achieved supergrace status in the Christian Lessons 376:693, 699, 764.
life. These are the invisible heroes who glorify
Christ to the maximum on earth. As part of their original sin
commemoration in heaven, they will receive See Adam’s original sin.
a uniform of glory, a radiant robe on which to
wear the highest decoration. origin of human life (a) The process by which
Supreme privileges that accompany the order human biological life becomes a living person;
origin of human life 188

(b) the point in time when human biological life

receives soul life.
Only God has the power to create human life,
and only when God imputes soul life to biolog-
ical life is human life created. Adam, whose bio-
logical life was formed from dust of the ground,
“became a living soul” when God “breathed into
his nostrils the breath of life [neshamah chayyim,
soul life]” (Gen. 2:7, kjv). “Living soul” is trans-
lated from the Hebrew nephesh chay and refers in
this verse to human life.
Since Adam’s fall, every person is conceived
as biological life through human procreation
(Gen. 4:1–2). The mother-dependent fetus, inside
the womb, is strictly biological life, a potential
human life that does not come into being until
God unites it with soul life. The translation of
the Hebrew prepositional phrase mibeten, “out
from the womb,” defines the precise stage in
the life-forming process at which God creates
and imputes this soul life (Job 1:21a; Ps. 22:9–10;
Isa. 44:2, 24). God forms man separated from
the womb, outside the womb, after leaving the
womb. When the fetus enters into the world,
God breathes into the nostrils the “breath of
life” (Gen. 2:7), and with that soul life the newborn
is now a living being. The exhale, as demonstrat-
ed by the baby’s first cry, confirms the beginning
of human life.
See also biological life; format soul; soul life.
For further reference, Creation, Chaos, & Restoration;
The Integrity of God; The Origin of Human Life.
Lessons 412:1120–27; 840:70–108.

overt sins
See personal sin.
 Pp
parable A short, allegorical story that illustrates a fire, just prior to the Millennium (Matt. 13:25–
point of doctrine. Characters and locations within 30, 36–40; 25:1–12); parable of the wedding
the narrative are fictional and nonspecific—a invitation from a king, portraying the Father’s
certain man, a householder, a field, a city—and call for unsaved Israel to accept His Son and
the circumstances described are typical of the also illustrating the baptism of fire for those who
storyteller’s time period. reject the call (Matt. 22:1–13).
The term “parable” is derived from the Greek For further reference, The Prodigal Son.
noun parabole, which denotes “setting alongside” Lessons 438:39–40, 56–57, 68; 631:263; 457:646.
and comparing one thing to another. In biblical
parables, the narrative analogy is set alongside Paradise
principles of doctrinal truth. All who hear the See Hades.
story can grasp its literal meaning, but only the
believer with a mental inventory of Bible doctrine parakletos Greek noun generally meaning “help-
can uncover the doctrinal message. To grasp the er,” used in the writings of John to designate the
spiritual aspect, one must match the fictitious Holy Spirit and, on one occasion, Jesus Christ.
story elements to the appropriate biblical figure, God the Holy Spirit. The word parakletos is used
event, or doctrine they represent and then in classical Greek to indicate someone called to
deduce the overall doctrine. For example, in the the aid of another, particularly in the legal pro-
parable of the prodigal son, the father represents cess. Scripture’s use of the word regarding the
God the Father and the two sons are analogous to Holy Spirit connotes ability, enablement, and
carnal believers, whose sins trend toward either assistance. The eternal Third Person of the Trin-
licentiousness or legalism (Luke 15:11–32). God’s ity was sent by the Father to empower and sus-
grace is the overall doctrine illustrated, for our tain the humanity of Christ in the devil’s world.
heavenly Father forgives His children’s sins and This same omnipotent member of the Godhead
restores them to fellowship the moment they is, in turn, sent by the Father and the Son to be
return to Him through rebound (1 John 1:9). the source of power and assistance for Church
Additional examples include the famous Old Age believers (John 14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7). Christ
Testament parable of the poor man’s ewe lamb, prophesied that the parakletos would teach and
through which Nathan delivers his artful rebuke guide us in the truths of God and empower us to
of King David (2 Sam. 12:1–13), and numerous represent Christ on earth. Therefore, the English
New Testament parables taught directly by Jesus words Helper, Enabler, Mentor, even Energizer,
Christ. The Lord’s narratives include the parable are appropriate translations of parakletos in ref-
of the mustard seed, which presents the Church erence to the Holy Spirit, better than “Comforter”
as a tree and false religion as birds nesting in (kjv), which implies merely the assuaging of
its branches (Matt. 13:31–32); parable of the pain or distress. See also God the Holy Spirit;
sower, which illustrates the Gospel as seed sown mentorship of the Holy Spirit.
on various types of soil (Luke 8:5–15); parables God the Son. First John 2:1 uses parakletos in
of the wheat and tares and of the ten virgins its judicial sense to designate Jesus Christ as our
(bridesmaids), both depicting the separation defense attorney. John assures believers that “if
of unbelievers from believers at the baptism of anyone sins, we have an Advocate [parakletos]
parakletos 190

with the Father.” The English “advocate” derives an annual Passover. Ceremonies involving the
from the Latin advocatus, which, in the Roman lamb, all of which depicted salvation, were to
Empire, became the equivalent of parakletos. Ad- be immediately followed by a weeklong ritual
vocate, like parakletos, indicates someone who involving unleavened bread, which depicted
pleads the cause of another in court. Every time fellowship with God (Ex. 12:15–19).
Satan uses our sins to accuse us before the court Christ, our Passover. When the promised Savior,
of heaven, Jesus Christ defends our case (Job Jesus Christ, finally arrived in person, those who
1:6–11; Zech. 3:1–2; Rev. 12:9–10). And since all had heeded the Passover lessons recognized
sins have already been judged in “Jesus Christ “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the
the righteous” on the cross, Satan’s charges are world” (John 1:29, 36; 1 Pet. 1:19; cf. Isa. 53:7b).
thrown out (1 John 2:1–2). The disciples celebrated the last official Passover
feast watching the Lamb Himself use bread as
Passover The divinely directed event that marked the sign of His spotless nature and the cup as
the Jews’ deliverance from Egyptian slavery and the sign of His impending substitutionary death
depicted the person and work of their Deliverer (Matt. 26:18, 26–28). Before twilight on the day
(Ex. 12:1–13). “Passover” also designates the an- of Passover, Jesus Christ was sacrificed for all
nual ritual instituted to memorialize that initial humanity, fulfilling the reality behind the Old
event of 1441 B.C. Testament shadow rituals (John 19:14; 1 Cor. 5:7).
The young male lamb without blemish was Now believers look back at the cross in memo-
the center of what God named “the Lord’s rial to God’s saving grace. The Eucharist, the new
Passover” (Ex. 12:5, 11b). Per God’s instructions to ritual instituted for the Church, replaces the
Moses and Aaron, the yearling was killed before ancient Passover feast and ceremonies.
twilight on the appointed day and its blood For many Jews who through the years memori-
painted on the doorposts and lintels of the alized the first Passover but forgot about the
houses (Ex. 12:6–7, 21–22). The Jews, dressed and necessity of the cross, ritual replaced reality. The
ready for departure, then ate the roasted lamb true Lamb of God was unrecognizable. To this
with unleavened bread (Ex. 12:8–11). Later that day, Judaism keeps the Passover and Feast of Un-
evening, the angel of the Lord struck down the leavened Bread, not as the Lord’s Passover but as
firstborn of every Egyptian household, while “the Passover, the feast of the Jews” (John 6:4; Acts
He “passed over” and spared from judgment the 12:4).
houses with bloodstained doorways (Ex. 12:12– See also Eucharist; leaven; ritual plan of God.
13, 23, 27). Finally overwhelmed by the God of Lessons 689:9–10; 438:70.
Israel, the Egyptians begged the Jews to exit their
country (Ex. 12:33). pastor-teacher [Gk. poimen, pastor, shepherd;
Even more than securing the Jews’ freedom didaskalos, teacher] A spiritual gift given to certain
from Egypt, the Passover vividly prophesied the male believers for the purpose of teaching the
One who would be sacrificed for their spiritual Word from the pulpit of the local church (Rom.
freedom and redemption. The unblemished 12:7b; Eph. 3:7–12; 4:11b; James 3:1). Pastor-teacher
lamb represented the impeccable, innocent hu- is the highest-ranking permanent spiritual gift
manity of Jesus Christ. The blood of the animal and the highest authority in the local church.
painted on the crossbeams of the doorways For the present period of history, the Bible is
symbolized Christ’s saving work on the cross, His the textbook, the local church is the classroom,
substitutionary spiritual death and judgment and the pastor is the instructor. Although the
(1 Pet. 1:19). Finally, eating the lamb was a picture Word holds absolute dominion over the believer,
of nonmeritorious faith in God’s salvation gift. the pastor is responsible for interpreting and
The Jews were also instructed that “this night conveying God’s instruction so that believers can
is for the Lord, to be observed by all the sons of live according to God’s standard.
Israel throughout their generations” (Ex. 12:42, cf. Identification and preparation. What separates
14). As a memorial to His grace, God instituted this spiritual gift from others is that it requires
 191 Patriarchs

identification and preparation before it can people what to do but instead teaches what
operate. God the Holy Spirit bestows the gift they need to know in order to grow in grace and
of pastor-teacher at the moment of salvation, execute God’s plan. By the ministry of the Holy
though the recipient becomes aware of his gift Spirit, the pastor “diligently labor[s]” through
only by way of his own spiritual growth. Follow- disciplined study (1 Thess. 5:12), rightly divides
ing this discovery, a time of intense spiritual and the Word of truth, and conveys spiritual wisdom
academic preparation is essential. Authority ori- from the pulpit (2 Tim. 2:15). Members of his
entation and self-discipline, acquired in military, congregation take it in and become spiritually
corporate, or academic settings, prepare him for self-sustaining—able to counsel themselves from
a rigorous life of studying and teaching. Exten- the doctrine metabolized in their souls. Whether
sive training in the original languages of Scrip- that teaching occurs face to face, in written form,
ture, systematic theology, ancient history, and or through audio or visual media, the power is in
various other subjects allows him to exegete communication of divine truth.
the Scriptures, interpret the Spirit’s meaning With regard to his leadership role, the pastor is
within the historical context, continue his own a policy maker, not an administrator. He ensures
spiritual growth, and accurately communicate that church policy lines up with divine view-
the doctrinal message. point and appoints deacons, also gifted for their
Not the man but the message! Pastor-teachers position, to enforce that policy through church
come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities, from administration. The pastor’s primary role, study-
all social backgrounds and with various talents
ing and teaching, is in fact supported by spiritual
and achievements. They are not necessarily
gifts distributed throughout his congregation.
brilliant or original in their thinking, though
Faithfulness honored. God uses and promotes
some might happen to be. Nor does every pastor
prepared men. For the pastor faithful to teaching,
necessarily possess a dynamic speaking ability.
God provides the hearers where positive volition
Moreover, pastors are not sinless icons but
exists. In times of apostasy, when demand for
flawed human beings like everyone else. They
pastors is minimal, God still honors the gift.
are endowed with the gift of pastor-teacher not
The mission field, theological seminaries, and
on their own merit but “according to the gift of
Christian schools and service organizations are
God’s grace . . . according to the working of His
some of the additional platforms used by God to
power” (Eph. 3:7–8). Their lifestyles, popularity,
exercise the pastor’s communication gift.
even the size of their congregations, are not
Men only. This gift is not bestowed upon
qualifiers or indicators of credibility. The only
qualification for successful function of the gift women, who instead are commanded to “receive
is faithfulness to the God-designed appointment instruction with entire submissiveness” to the
as didaskolos (teacher). authority of the pastor-teacher (1 Tim. 2:11),
Objective and function. The pastor’s profes- and who are not allowed “to teach or exercise
sional objective is to train, equip, edify the Body authority over a man [in the local church], but to
of Christ, all to the standard of maturity that remain quiet” (1 Tim. 2:12). Women are, however,
belongs to Christ (Eph. 4:11b–13, 29). Fulfilling well suited to fulfill the biblical command to
this objective requires the pastor to “preach the teach doctrine to children, inside and outside the
word; be ready in season and out of season; local church (Deut. 4:9; Prov. 22:6).
reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and See also church; ICE; spiritual gifts.
instruction” (2 Tim. 4:2). The pastor, therefore, is Lessons 412:101–18, 841–42.
not a spiritual mediator or personal counselor
but a dedicated voice and single-minded spokes- patriarchal priesthood
man for the written Word. Since he establishes See priesthood.
his authority through faithful Bible teaching,
he does not violate the privacy or volition of Patriarchs
his congregation (1 Pet. 5:2). He does not tell See Dispensation of the Gentiles.
peace 192

peace Translation of the Old Testament Hebrew attitude that remains stable through adversity
shalom (safety, well-being, prosperity) and New and prosperity; thus he lives and dies in “perfect
Testament Greek eirene (tranquillity of mind, peace” (Isa. 26:3; Phil. 1:20–21). See also relaxed
wholeness, well-being). The English word “peace,” mental attitude; sharing the happiness of
derived from the Latin pax (state of truce, quiet, God.
calm), generally designates harmony among indi- Supergrace blessings. The corrected translation
viduals, communities, or nations, or a personal of Romans 5:1, “having been justified by faith,
state of tranquillity. As used in Scripture, “peace” let us have peace [eirene] face to face with God,”
communicates the following doctrinal concepts: reveals an urgent plea for believers to advance
Reconciliation. Removal of the barrier between spiritually and partake of the divine blessings
God and man—accomplished through Christ’s in store. While Paul’s use of eirene does include
work on the cross—brought peace where enmity tranquillity of mind and harmony among be-
formerly existed. The ritual “peace offerings” lievers, it also indicates the prosperity, both
for Old Testament Israel foreshadowed this rec- spiritual and temporal, that God has reserved for
onciling work with the sacrifice of innocent the consistently grace-oriented, mature believer.
animals (Lev. 3:1–17). The New Testament reveals See also supergrace.
that it was the Father’s plan “to reconcile all Cessation of armed conflict. “Peace” used in
things to Himself, having made peace through the context of national safety reveals the divine
the blood of His cross [Christ’s substitutionary viewpoint on warfare and world order (Deut.
spiritual death]” (Col. 1:19–21). “For He Himself 20:10–12; Joshua 11:19; 1 Sam. 7:14; 1 Kings 4:24;
[Christ] is our peace, who . . . broke down the Luke 14:32). Peace in this sense means “rest
barrier . . . by abolishing in His flesh the enmity” from war” (Joshua 11:5–8, 23; 14:15), confirmed
(Eph. 2:14–15; cf. 2 Cor. 5:18). This is the peace by Solomon’s declaration, “A time for war and a
that “He came and preached” during the First time for peace” (Eccl. 3:8b). Given Satan’s current
Advent, and through Him all have “access in one world rulership and the depravity of mankind,
Spirit to the Father” (Eph. 2:17–18). The news lasting peace among all nations cannot be estab-
of Christ’s reconciling work is what Paul calls lished; therefore, armed conflict is a reality of
“the gospel of peace” (Eph. 6:15), drawn from human history.
Isaiah’s teaching that the one who announces the Scripture is clear that to enjoy substantial
message of salvation indeed “announces peace” periods of peace, a nation must be prepared for
(Isa. 52:7). See also reconciliation. war. The Lord established “peace in the land”
Absence of personal conflict among believers. All by commanding and preparing Israel’s armed
members of the Body of Christ have been recon- forces (Lev. 26:6–8; Num. 1—2; 10; 13; 26; 31).
ciled to God, so it follows logically that they Only by military strength and decisive defeat of
should be reconciled to one another (Rom. 7:4; the enemy, sometimes carried out directly by
Eph. 6:23a). Believers should utilize what has the Lord Himself (Isa. 37:35–36), did Israel have
been provided in grace, “being diligent to pre- periods of peace in which the nation could
serve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” thrive and serve God’s purpose (2 Sam. 10:19;
(Eph. 4:3). The bond of peace emphasizes that 1 Chron. 22:9). Furthermore, Jesus Christ prom-
there is no place for disunity or personality con- ised that there would be “wars and rumors of
flicts in the Christian way of life. wars” until His return at the Second Advent (Matt.
Inner tranquillity of the mature believer. One who 24:6; Mark 13:7; Luke 21:9; Rev. 6:4; cf. Dan. 9:26b).
is reconciled to God can also have “the peace of Not until Christ deposes Satan and establishes
God, which surpasses all comprehension” (Phil. His millennial reign will all nations be at peace
4:7). The peace of God is inner contentment that (Isa. 2:4; cf. Micah 4:3). See also nationalism;
is not attained from the details of life but from utopianism.
utilizing God’s power to execute His plan (1 Cor.
For further reference, The Barrier; Freedom through
1:3; Gal. 5:22–23; 1 Thess. 1:1). The believer Military Victory; Mental Attitude Dynamics.
faithful to that plan gradually acquires a mental Lessons 458:93; 412:781, 1209, 1395.
 193 Pentecost

penalty of sin holy days, everything involved in evangelizing

See barrier; expiation. the client nation to God and teaching doctrine.
Numbers is in fact a mobilization plan for the
Pentateuch The standard Church designation for client nation; the census of Israel served to
the first five books of the Old Testament—Genesis, assemble “whoever is able to go out to war” (Num.
Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy— 1:2–3; 26:2), and the entire book delineates the
recorded by Moses under divine inspiration. After principles of national freedom through military
Moses’ death, Joshua completed Deuteronomy 34, preparedness and victory. Deuteronomy (meaning
the final chapter. second giving of the law) reiterates certain facets
Title. The first portion of the Hebrew Canon, of the law in order to teach the purposes of divine
what the Jews originally named Torah (law), was establishment and the spiritual life, to reinforce
viewed as one connected historical work, yet the the necessity of freedom in the human race, and
text was divided into five parts, perhaps for ease to inform the young generation of the blessings
of scroll reading. Once the five parts of the law and discipline associated with accepting and
were translated into Greek, the term pentateuchos, rejecting God’s Word.
meaning five-part implement or scroll, came See also Mosaic Law; Torah.
into use. The Greek pentateuchos was eventually For further reference, Canonicity.
adapted into ecclesiastical use as the Latin
pentateuchus and, later, the English Pentateuch. Pentecost [from Gk. pentekonta, fifty]
(1) A Jewish feast and festival celebrated on the
fiftieth day of the annual harvest season. Scrip-
“The Pentateuch is not history in the strict sense of ture refers to this event as “Feast of Weeks” (Ex.
the term, however, but a highly specialized history 34:22) and “Feast of the Harvest” (Ex. 23:16), since
of redemption. . . . It has an all-pervading purpose the celebration marked the end of the seven-
to include only such historical background as is week harvesting period, beginning the day after
essential for introducing and preparing the stage for the sabbath of the Passover (Lev. 23:15–22; Num.
the Redeemer. . . . It is history wedded to prophecy, a 28:26–31; Deut. 16:9–12). In the post-exilic period,
Messiah-centered history combining with a Messiah- when the Jews became increasingly scattered
centered prophecy.”
throughout the Roman world, Pentecost became
Merrill F. Unger, The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary, 1988, s.v. one of the great feasts celebrated by pilgrimage
“Pentateuch.”
to Jerusalem.
(2) The Pentecost Sunday of June A.D. 30, when
Content. While the Pentateuch consists largely the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles in
of the Mosaic Law, its content and teaching en- Jerusalem, marking the beginning of the Church
compass much more. The five books span the Age (Acts 2:1–8).
beginning of history to the death of Moses (ca. Fifty days after Christ’s resurrection, just ten
1400 B.C.) and, as a whole, form the foundation days after His ascension, thousands of Jews were
for the entire realm of Scripture. converging on the Jerusalem Temple to celebrate
Genesis reveals in embryonic form the doc- the Feast of Pentecost. These Jewish travelers,
trines of human life, sin, marriage, death, re- descendants of the multi-century diaspora, had
demption, civilization, nationalism, and God’s made the pilgrimage from their homes in Asia
grace toward undeserving man. Exodus, in Minor, Europe, and North Africa (Acts 2:5, 9–11a).
revealing how God freed His people from the They spoke the Gentile languages of their na-
bondage of slavery, foreshadows redemption tive lands and were not conversant in Hebrew or
from sin by the bloodshed of the spotless Lamb; Aramaic, the languages of Israel.
Exodus also shows how God made one group of On the same day these unsaved Jews observed
people the instrument of His salvation plan for their outmoded ritual, a roar reverberated
all humanity. Leviticus reveals the function of throughout the city to announce a new dispen-
the specialized priesthood—animal sacrifices, sation and a new source of power for a unique
Pentecost 194

spiritual life. Eleven apostles of Jesus Christ The baptism of the Holy Spirit is a phenomenon
received the baptism of the Holy Spirit and the unique to the Church Age. From that day of Pen-
divinely bestowed spiritual gift of tongues. The tecost until the Rapture of the Church, anyone
instant the Spirit descended to indwell them, who believes in Christ for salvation is baptized
they began speaking the Gospel in Gentile foreign by the Spirit and identified with Christ forever.
languages, languages previously unknown to The gift of tongues, however, was phased out by
them yet familiar to the visiting Jews (Acts 2:1–4). A.D. 70, when it was no longer necessary to warn
The events of Pentecost A.D. 30 involved two the Jews of impending judgment or to herald the
prophecies, one for Israel and one for the Church: dawn of the Church Age.
Israel. Down through the centuries, Israel had See also baptism (real); diaspora; spiritual gifts
been warned that the sound of a foreign lan- (temporary).
For further reference, Tongues.
guage in the Land was a sign of imminent divine
Lessons 402:5–7, 33, 40, 45; 376:1624.
judgment (Deut. 28:49; Isa. 28:11; Jer. 5:15). On
Pentecost A.D. 30, God warned His people once people testing
again with foreign languages in Jerusalem—this See suffering (for blessing).
time spoken by the Jewish apostles wielding the
spiritual gift of glossolalia (speaking in tongues). personal love, divine God’s love directed to-
The apostles, by means of the Holy Spirit, spoke ward His own perfect righteousness.
the languages of Parthia, Egypt, Media, Pontus, Personal love is a conditional love, requiring
and other regions, in order to evangelize the vis- merit on the part of its recipient. For God to per-
iting Jews in languages native to their homelands. sonally love a member of the human race, the
Moreover, the bestowal of the Holy Spirit was object of His love must possess perfect righteous-
made known by the appearance of “tongues as ness. Man acquires that righteousness simply by
of fire” (Acts 2:3–4). Fire represents judgment accepting the free gift of salvation. At the moment
in Scripture (2 Thess. 1:7–9; Rev. 19:11–15; 21:8), anyone expresses faith alone in Christ alone, God
and this visual miracle was another sign of the imputes His own righteousness to that person
holocaust on the horizon. By the end of August (Rom. 3:22; 4:3). God is free to do so because
A.D. 70, Jerusalem would be “trampled under foot” Christ paid the full penalty for human sins at the
by Roman legions (Luke 21:24). cross (Rom. 3:24–26; 2 Cor. 5:21). From the point
After the initial day of Pentecost in A.D. 30, of salvation through all eternity, the believer is
the period of warning and intense evangelism the object of God’s personal love, not because of
extended over the first four decades of the early anything he is or does but because he possesses
Church. An entire generation of Jews was alerted the imputed righteousness of God.
by hearing the Gospel in Gentile languages. For
those who accepted salvation, the cursing of
national discipline was turned to individual Personal Love Impersonal Love
blessing as they received the baptism of the Holy Emphasizes object Emphasizes subject
Spirit and became members of the Body of Christ.
Demands attractiveness Demands integrity
The Church. For the followers of Jesus Christ, in object in subject
that Sunday in June A.D. 30 fulfilled Christ’s Requires personal Requires no personal
prophecy of the baptism of the Holy Spirit acquaintance acquaintance
(John 7:39; 14:26; Acts 1:5; 11:15–17). Before His
Directed toward few Directed toward all
ascension, the Lord had commanded the eleven
disciples to remain in Jerusalem and “wait for Conditional Unconditional
what the Father had promised” (Acts 1:4)—the
Figure 22 PERSONAL VS. IMPERSONAL LOVE
Father had promised that once the Son was
glorified in heaven, the Spirit would come into
See also impersonal love, divine.
the world to teach and guide them in the entire For further reference, The Integrity of God; The Un-
realm of doctrine (John 14:16–17, 26; 16:7, 13). failing Love of God.
 195 personal sin

personal love for God the Father (a) The personal sense of destiny The believer’s spir-
respect and gratitude for God that develops in the itual orientation and confidence toward God’s
advancing believer and provides the motivation plan, will, and purpose for his life.
and problem-solving skills for perseverance to Romans 8:28 reveals the key to a personal
maturity; (b) the foundational virtue of the spir- sense of destiny: “And we know that God causes
itual life that provides capacity for all other all things to work together for good to those who
relationships. Personal love directed toward God love God” (italics added). Knowing the reality
is the only form of human personal love that has of God’s predetermined plan gives the believer
inherent virtue, because only God is worthy of a sense of his own destiny. With genuine self-
unlimited trust and reverence. confidence from doctrinal knowledge in the soul,
Every believer of every dispensation is com- he eagerly submits to God’s will and lives in the
manded to love God (Deut. 6:5; Matt. 22:37). Yet light of an eternally secure future. This believer
in the Church Age, loving God with “all your soul” no longer relies on human abilities, talent, or
takes on an added significance. We have received status for self-esteem, because his self-worth
the power of the Holy Spirit for understanding becomes inseparably united with Jesus Christ,
the full knowledge of God and glorifying Him whose very destiny he shares (Rom. 8:30). Eyes
to the maximum. It is through “spirit and truth,” on the goal, never looking backward, he applies
the filling of the Spirit and Bible doctrine, that this understanding of God’s plan to himself and
we come to love God (John 4:24; 16:13–14). As his circumstances without being plagued by
we discover His perfect essence, the love that doubt or uncertainty. This assurance of a per-
motivated Him to sacrifice His Son, and the sonal destiny marks the dividing line between
remarkable spiritual assets He has provided to spiritual childhood and spiritual adulthood.
execute His plan, we respond with respect, ap- Peter uses the Greek verb prosdokao, mean-
preciation, and an inexpressible happiness (1 Pet. ing “to anticipate or look forward with hope,” to
1:8; 1 John 4:10, 19). This love for God motivates express this sense of confidence that motivates
us to think His thoughts, apply His viewpoint to the adult spiritual life. “But according to His
every aspect of life, and remain oriented to His promise we are looking forward [prosdokao] to
matchless grace. As our capacity to love God in- new heavens and a new earth, in which perfect
creases, so does our confidence in the fact that He righteousness lives” (2 Pet. 3:13, corrected trans-
directs even the problems of life for our benefit lation). In every season of living and dying, a
and blessing (Rom. 8:28; 1 Cor. 2:9). personal sense of destiny sees beyond this life,
First John 2:5 confirms that “whoever keeps beyond this present earth with its fading splendor,
His word, in him the love for God has truly been to the glorious eternal future that awaits (2 Cor.
brought to completion” (corrected translation). 4:16–18).
Maximum doctrine in the soul equals maximum
See also spiritual adulthood.
love for God, “because the love for God has Lessons 376:326–513.
been poured out within our hearts through the
agency of the Holy Spirit” (Rom. 5:5b, corrected
personal sin Any mental, verbal, or overt activity
translation). Every Church Age believer is em-
that violates the perfect character and standards
powered to love the Father just as the humanity
of God (Rom. 3:20; 7:7; 2 Tim. 3:2–7). Personal
of Jesus Christ loved Him. And no believer can
sin is distinguished from Adam’s original sin,
truly love and respect himself or anyone else
which caused the fall of the entire human race,
until he attains that love for God (1 John 4:20–21).
and also from the sin nature, which is the genetic
In this virtue is the basis for all true worship,
legacy of Adam’s sin residing in each of his
all Christian service, all glorification of Christ,
descendants.
and all personal relationships in life.
The word “sin” is the English translation of the
See also integrity envelope; reciprocal love; Hebrew chattath and the Greek hamartia, both of
virtue love.
For further reference, Christian Integrity. which denote “missing the mark, erring, falling
Lessons 376:514–17. away from.” The English text describes personal
personal sin 196

sin with several synonyms: transgressions (Ps. divine discipline (triple compound).
51:1), acting unfaithfully (Joshua 22:20), trespass- (3) Overt sins. Sins of outward immoral be-
es (Eph. 1:7), lawlessness and rebellion (1 Tim. havior, including adultery, fornication, sexually
1:9–11), and unbelief (John 8:24; 16:9). Man’s sin perverse acts, drunkenness, drug abuse, and
is disobedience to, or falling away from, God’s theft, murder, and other forms of criminality
perfect standard and expressed will. Regardless (Ex. 20:13–15, 17; Rom. 13:9; Gal. 5:19–21a). The
of the sinner’s action or intent, all sin is ultimately overt sinner perpetuates mental sins like arro-
directed against God (Gen. 39:9; Ps. 51:4). The gance or anger to the point of open rebellion,
temptation for sin comes from the sin nature, but lasciviousness, even lawlessness (Mark 7:21–23),
only when volition consents is the sin committed. as he violates, in whole or part, the divinely es-
Knowingly or unknowingly, man transgresses tablished sanctity of freedom, property, privacy,
divine standards because he wills to do so. and human life.
There are three categories of personal sin, See also Adam’s original sin; carnality; sin
all of which can be committed by believers and nature.
unbelievers, since the sin nature remains in For further reference, Isolation of Sin; Rebound & Keep
Moving!; Slave Market of Sin.
everyone’s temporal body until physical death
(Rom. 7:15, 20; Gal. 5:19–21a; 1 John 1:8).
(1) Mental attitude sins. Sins committed in the Pharisees
mind, in thought, including arrogance, jealousy, See Jewish religious leaders.
fear, anxiety, bitterness, hatred, vindictiveness,
implacability, self-pity, and guilt reaction (Prov. phileo / philos
8:13; 27:4; Song of Sol. 8:6; Isa. 41:10; Rom. 12:3; See love.
Gal. 5:26; 1 Pet. 2:1; 1 John 2:9, 11). Arrogance,
making an issue of self, is the basic mental atti- physical death
tude sin at the center of all other sinful attitudes, See death.
bitterness being the most vicious (Heb. 12:15; cf.
Job 10:1; Acts 8:23; James 3:14, 16; 1 Pet. 5:5; 2 Pet. pillar of fire and cloud (a) The visible form in
2:18). Often overlooked by legalistic Christians, which the preincarnate Christ guided, protected,
mental attitude sins are the mainstay of failure and dwelt with the Exodus generation during
in the Christian life. These sins obstruct the in- their desert wanderings; (b) the way in which the
take and application of Bible doctrine and are residing glory of God, the Shekinah Glory, was
the motivation behind the other two categories manifested to the Jews as they journeyed toward
of sin (Prov. 23:7a). the Land.
(2) Verbal sins (sins of the tongue). Sins commit- Scripture links the pillar of fire and cloud with
ted in speech, including lying, complaining, “the angel of God”—a manifestation of the second
boasting, maligning, judging, vilification, vitu- person of the Trinity as the dwelling presence
peration, and gossip (Matt. 7:1–2; Rom. 2:1; with Israel (Ex. 14:19; cf. 23:20; Isa. 63:9). This
2 Thess. 3:11–12; James 5:9, 12). Fueled by mental pillar was a constant indicator that Jesus Christ,
attitude sins of arrogance and emotional reaction, the God of Israel, was present, and that everything
the sinful tongue becomes a most devastating in this new nation would be tied to Him as the
weapon, “a restless evil and full of deadly poison” source of life, security, rulership, and blessing.
(James 3:5–8; cf. Ps. 5:9; 12:2–4; 52:2–4; Prov. The pillar of fire and cloud assisted the Israelites
26:28; Jer. 9:8). Verbal sins such as judging and in the following ways:
gossiping, common among self-righteous Chris- (1) A navigational aid in the desert (Ex. 13:21–22).
tians, sow destruction upon the character and In order “that they might travel by day and by
privacy of the victim, usurp the Lord’s position night,” the pillar was visible as a cloud against
as rightful Judge, and ultimately reap severe the sunlit sky and as fire against the darkness of
discipline upon the perpetrator (Rom. 11:33–34; night. This presence of God guided the Israelites’
12:19; 14:4, 10; James 4:11–12). See also judging; path and found places for them to pitch their
 197 plan of God

tents. Once the people were asleep, the fiery pillar to ‘Christianize’ society through public action,
stood sentinel over the encampment. ultimately becoming part of the degeneracy that
(2) A protective barrier between the Israelites and warrants judgment upon the land.
the Egyptian army (Ex. 14:8–10, 19–27). While the A believer in the pivot recognizes that there is
Israelites were trapped on the banks of the Red no greater system for serving God and country
Sea, they looked in fear upon the approaching than executing the unique spiritual life of this
Egyptian army. “The sons of Israel cried out to age. With doctrine in the soul, the pivot believer
the Lord,” and the pillar that had been going reflects the glory of God upon a lost and dying
before them “moved . . . and stood behind them,” world (Matt. 5:14–16), and the blessings he re-
stretching down to the ground like a curtain. ceives from the Lord benefit his nation. This is
The dividing wall of fire and cloud held back the invisible, spiritual impact on history for
Pharaoh’s chariots while Israel made her way which the Church is designed. A large pivot of
through the parted sea. invisible heroes means strength and prosperity
(3) A sign of the Lord’s dwelling presence inside in the government, law enforcement, military,
the Holy of Holies (Ex. 40:34–38). The guiding economy, culture, and social life of the entire
pillar stopped when and where the Tabernacle, nation. But if the pivot shrinks beyond a certain
the portable “tent of meeting,” was to be set up. point, impact is lost; the client nation declines
Once the Tabernacle was assembled according and is eventually destroyed through the cycles
to God’s instructions, the thick cloud would of divine discipline (Hosea 4:1–3). Unbelievers
settle upon the tent—a divine indication of the and reversionists in the land are caught up in the
dwelling glory of Christ (Shekinah Glory) inside waves of historical disaster, while the remaining
the sacred Holy of Holies. Every Israelite could pivot members are shielded by the unfailing care
look toward the Tabernacle, see the cloud by of God (Ps. 33:18–22; 46:1–11; Isa. 37:31–38).
day and fire by night, and know they were under See also Antonine caesars, age of the; Christian
divine blessing and protection. The cloud’s as- activism; client nation to God; Ephesus.
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History;
cendance from the tent signaled the people to Freedom through Military Victory; In Whom Do You Trust?
resume their journey (Num. 9:15–23). Lessons 809:46–48; 457:307–8; 412:329–32.
See also Shekinah Glory; theophany.
Lessons 412:315–16. plan of God God’s entire design and provision
for man’s salvation, spiritual growth in time, and
pivot of mature believers (a) Within a national life in the eternal state.
entity, an accumulation of believers whose spir- The plan of God unfolds in three phases. Phase
itual advance determines client-nation status; one begins at the cross, where Christ died for
(b) the nucleus of spiritual heroes that furthers the all mankind. Fallen man enters God’s plan at
plan of God for mankind, influences the course phase one the moment he accepts the gift of
of human history, and provides prosperity and salvation by faith alone in Christ alone. Phase
protection to the client nation through blessing two is the believer in time—God provides every-
by association (Matt. 5:13a). The illustrative term thing necessary for His children to appropriate
pivot is the counterpart to the Old Testament term divine grace and glorify Him by learning and
“remnant,” used in reference to faithful believers applying His Word. The believer can utilize
of Jewish nations (2 Kings 19:30; Isa. 10:20–22). these provisions to fulfill God’s plan, or he can
As a national citizen, the Christian is respon- reject God’s plan by pursuing his own agenda.
sible for becoming part of the pivot. It is his ob- In either case, phase three is the believer in eter-
ligation to live by the power of the Holy Spirit; nity, face to face with the Lord and in a resurrec-
advance to spiritual maturity through perception, tion body forever.
metabolizing, and application of Bible doctrine; God’s will and overall plan is the same for
and become an invisible hero who contributes to believers in every dispensation, in every period
national blessing and preservation. Pivotism is of biblical history. The way of salvation, for
the opposite of activism, which arrogantly tries example, remains unchanged from the time
plan of God 198

of Adam through the Millennium. However, at pneumatology The branch of theology that
certain points in history, God’s plan introduces studies doctrines related to God the Holy Spirit,
dispensational changes in divine mandates, pro- the Third Person of the Trinity. See God the
cedure, and postsalvation assets (Joel 2:28–29; Holy Spirit.
2 Cor. 5:17; Eph. 3:4–6; Col. 1:25–26).
Grace is the policy that defines the plan of politeuma metaphor Imagery used in Philip-
God. Mankind gets no credit or glory. Further- pians 3:20 to illustrate the highly coveted position
more, the entire plan of God operates under per- and unprecedented privileges held by Church Age
fect divine integrity, cannot fail at any point, believers.
and, despite man’s sin and failure, will inevitably Politeuma (citizenship), derived from the an-
triumph. cient Greek word polis (city-state), came into use
See also protocol plan of God; ritual plan of with the Athenian system of colonization a few
God; will of God. hundred years prior to Paul’s writing of Philip-
pians. Citizens of Athens were settled in foreign
pleroma Greek word literally meaning “a state of colonies and granted the rights and privileges
fullness, completion,” used figuratively to desig- of their powerful home state. The Greek system
nate the status of the ultramature Church Age of colonization made such an impression that
believer. the Romans eventually adopted it in expanding
Pleroma indicates spiritual fulfillment, a full their empire. By rights, privileges, and protection
utilization of grace and doctrine for maximum of Roman law, Roman citizens residing in an
happiness, blessings, and glorification of God. established colony were elevated far above
Just as the Father was pleased for “all the fullness their neighbors—their status was equivalent to
[pleroma] to dwell in Him [the Son]” (Col. 1:19), that of a citizen residing within Rome itself. As
it is His purpose that the Church Age believer the politeuma concept grew more and more
also be “filled up to all the fullness [pleroma] of familiar, the word came to designate the body
God” (Eph. 3:19). This is the highest spiritual of privileged residents in the colony, the colony
honor bestowed, even greater than the status itself, or the advantages associated with this type
of citizenship.
of “friend of God” held by Abraham (James 2:23),
Paul used the term figuratively, drawing on
because the pleroma believer has executed the
all its connotations, to address the Philippian
same spiritual life that brought Jesus Christ to
congregation, because most residents of Philippi
victory at the cross.
at that time understood the politeuma signifi-
See also high ground; Jeshurun; winner believer.
cance. This city in Macedonia had been the
battleground on which the forces of Antony and
plus H (+H) Designation for the enduring state Octavian, in 42 B.C., defeated the forces of Brutus
of happiness, called “sharing the happiness of and Cassius. There, Octavian commemorated
God,” enjoyed by the mature believer. See sharing the victory by establishing a Roman colony. By
the happiness of God. the time of Paul’s ministry, much of Philippi’s
population was composed of veterans from the
plus R (+R) Designation for the perfect right- Roman army, enjoying retirement in this foreign
eousness of God, which He imputes to the believer land while retaining all privileges of Roman
at salvation in order to make him acceptable, citizenship. Paul utilized the politeuma imagery to
justified in God’s sight. This designation depicts emphasize that believers in Jesus Christ, though
the contrast between God’s absolute righteousness, born citizens of earth, are reborn citizens of
plus R, and man’s relative righteousness, minus R. heaven. The earth, the devil’s world, is the foreign
See righteousness. territory in which we as believers temporarily
reside, but “our citizenship [politeuma] is in heav-
pneumatikos en” and our eternal homeland is the source of
See spiritual phenomena. unprecedented wealth and advantages. While
 199 position in Adam

Roman politeuma privileges were impressive, they tion and predestination are part of a larger illus-
only begin to suggest the magnificent riches of tration called “computer of divine decrees,” they
“every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places” are sometimes referred to as “computer assets.”
available to every Church Age believer (Eph. 1:3). See election; predestination. See also divine
See also Church Age; portfolio of invisible decree.
assets.
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History.
seCondaRy assets—added to the portfolio in re-
Lessons 412:639–46. sponse to the believer’s positive attitude toward
God’s will.
portfolio of invisible assets Illustrative lan- Volitional assets refer to the strengthening of
guage for the spiritual wealth designed by God in positive volition itself. For the believer growing in
eternity past for each Church Age believer (Eph. grace, the desire to know and love God becomes
1:3–8). its own asset and a driving force in life. Confi-
In financial terms, a portfolio is a group of dence from his own cumulative experience of
securities held for investment; “portfolio” desig- God’s grace strengthens the believer’s determi-
nates the holdings of an investor and is a synonym nation—his positive volition—to keep on fulfilling
for those riches. By analogy, God has lavished God’s purpose. See also volition.
the riches of His grace upon all members of His Production assets highlight the availability of
royal family. Every believer in the Church Age, God’s own strength for serving Him. Legitimate
without exception, is made fabulously wealthy. Christian service—empowered by the filling of
The more the believer advances in the knowl- the Holy Spirit and motivated by Bible doctrine—
edge of God and His plan, the more real and is performed through a wide range of activities,
useable his invisible assets become and the including witnessing, working in the local church,
charitable giving, foreign missionary service, and
more fully he executes God’s purpose for his life.
others. See Christian service.
Holdings that compose the believer’s portfolio are
Assets for undeserved suffering allow the believer
categorized as follows:
to benefit from God-designed pressures in his
pRimaRy assets—prepared for every Church Age life. God graciously provides the right type and
believer. degree of suffering to stretch the advancing be-
Escrow blessings are the special, supergrace liever beyond his human resources, compelling
blessings on deposit in heaven, to be distributed him to rely solely upon the grace of God and to
by Jesus Christ as the believer attains spiritual learn the all-sufficiency of God. See suffering
maturity. The distribution of escrow blessings (for blessing).
brings glory and praise to God (Eph. 1:3, 6). See Personnel assets are designed for the coordinated
escrow blessings. function of the Body of Christ, particularly in the
Election and predestination are the acts of God operations of the local church. At the moment
in eternity past that established His sovereign of salvation, God the Holy Spirit bestows at least
will and provision for Church Age believers (Eph. one spiritual gift upon the believer. The more
1:4–5). By electing believers, God has expressed the believer advances toward spiritual maturity,
His will for them to receive His highest and the more effective is the function of his partic-
best—particularly, the conveyance of their es- ular gift. Spiritual gifts, in all their variety, unite
crow blessings in time and eternity. Through the Church into a team of mutually supportive
predestination, God has provided everything nec- believers (1 Cor. 12). See spiritual gifts.
essary for them to execute His will and receive For further reference, The Divine Outline of History.
those escrow blessings. The assets of election Lessons 412:79–80, 269–75, 344–55.
and predestination guarantee that all Christians
have the same privileges (e.g., royal priesthood, position in Adam The presalvation status of all
positional sanctification) and opportunities mankind, resulting from Adam’s fall and spiritual
(e.g., logistical grace, the unique spiritual life) death that spread to his progeny (Rom. 5:12).
to fulfill their destiny in Christ. Because elec- All members of the human race, except Jesus
position in Adam 200

Christ, are born “in Adam,” which means that God’s plan, he thinks and acts from a position
every person is genetically derived from the of strength. The enabling power of the Holy
first man and shares his corrupted nature (1 Cor. Spirit and the Word of God in his soul produce
15:22a). This position in Adam necessitates con- wisdom and clarity and sustain him amid the
demnation and death, both spiritual and phys- pressures of life. Equipped with doctrinal norms
ical, and alienates man from God (Gen. 2:17b). and standards, he can establish right priorities,
Man’s position in Adam is resolved by man’s apply divine viewpoint accurately to experience,
position in Christ, “for as in Adam all die, so also and make decisions compatible with the will
in Christ all will be made alive” (1 Cor. 15:22; cf. of God. Good decisions include those to learn
Rom. 5:15–21). Bible doctrine daily, to rebound quickly when
See also Adam’s original sin; position in Christ; out of fellowship, and to utilize divine assets
seminally in Adam. in all matters of guidance and problem solving.
For further reference, The Barrier. The more decisions the believer makes from a
position of strength, the more spiritually mature
position in Christ The personal and eternal he becomes and the more capacity he develops
union with the Lord Jesus Christ that belongs to for life, love, and happiness.
every Church Age believer. Synonym: union with See also position of weakness; spiritual adult-
Christ. hood; winner believer.
Through the baptism of the Spirit at salvation, For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Divine
Outline of History.
every believer of this age is removed from his
position in Adam and secured in his position “in
position of weakness The status of the believer
Christ” (1 Cor. 15:22; Eph. 2:5–6; cf. Gal. 3:27).
who is out of fellowship with God, in a state of
The believer, no longer spiritually dead, is made
carnality, and living under the influence of sin,
a “new creature” with a totally unprecedented
human good, and evil.
relationship with God (2 Cor. 5:17a). The “old
When the believer chooses to sin, he relin-
things” that once kept him alienated from God
quishes the strength and inner resources of God’s
have passed away; phenomenal “new things”
plan and places himself in a position of weak-
have come by virtue of his position in Christ
ness. His soul, controlled by the sin nature, is
(2 Cor. 5:17b). The believer shares Christ’s
weakened by arrogance, lust, human viewpoint,
eternal life (1 John 5:11–12), His righteousness
subjectivity, emotionalism. Erroneous norms and
(2 Cor. 5:21), His election (Eph. 1:3–4), His destiny
standards impair his judgment, and bad decisions
(Eph. 1:5), His sonship (John 1:12; Gal. 3:26;
become a pattern of life. By refusing to rebound
1 John 3:1–2), His heirship (Rom. 8:16–17), His
and resume God’s plan and instead choosing to
sanctification (1 Cor. 1:2, 30), His kingdom (2 Pet.
remain in a position of weakness, such a believer
1:11), His priesthood (Heb. 10:10–14), and His
becomes his own worst enemy—he keeps making
royalty (2 Tim. 2:11–12). This new position can
poor decisions and dedicates himself to a life of
never be forfeited. Nothing, not even God Him- self-induced misery and divine discipline (Gal.
self, can remove the believer from his permanent 6:7b; 1 Tim. 1:19; Heb. 12:5–6).
union with Christ.
See also carnality; position of strength.
See also adoption; new spiritual species; sanc- For further reference, Christian Integrity; Christian Suffering.
tification (positional).
For further reference, The Barrier; The Divine Outline
of History. positional death Synonym for retroactive po-
Lessons 408:50; 412:99, 160. sitional truth. See positional truth.

position of strength The status of the believer positional righteousness

who is in fellowship with God, sustained by the See righteousness.
power of the Holy Spirit, and guided by standards
of the Word of God. positional sanctification
When the believer approaches life from inside See sanctification.
 201 postsalvation epistemological rehabilitation

positional truth Term that describes the Church of new life and usefulness. In the spiritual realm,
Age believer’s eternal identification with Christ, epistemological rehabilitation describes the pro-
established at the moment of salvation through cess of renewing the mind with the knowledge
the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Synonyms: position of God and His absolute truth. Epistemological
in Christ; union with Christ. Positional truth is rehabilitation is how we as believers obey the
categorized as follows: command to “not be conformed to this world,
Retroactive positional truth identifies the believer but be transformed by the renovation of your
with Christ in His substitutionary spiritual death, thinking” (Rom. 12:2a, corrected translation).
physical death, and burial. Such identification At salvation, we instantly become a new spiri-
signifies that the rulership of Satan, his corrupt tual species with an entirely new basis for knowl-
policy of good and evil, and the sovereignty of the edge and a whole new method of thinking. There
sin nature are broken in the life of the believer is a new language, a new vocabulary, and a new
(Rom. 6:1–14; Col. 3:3). Synonym: positional death. system of cognition to learn. God’s declaration,
Current positional truth identifies the believer “My thoughts are not your thoughts,” means there
with Christ in His resurrection, ascension, and is no place for human viewpoint in His plan (Isa.
session. Whereas retroactive positional truth 55:8–9). Nothing of our presalvation thinking—no
frees the believer from the authority of the human philosophy or intellectual understanding—
sin nature, current positional truth allows the will aid us in living the postsalvation spiritual
believer to live experientially unto God (Rom. life. By replacing human viewpoint with divine
6:10; Eph. 2:5–10; Col. 2:12; 3:1). In other words, viewpoint, we renovate our thinking. We adopt
through his identification with the exalted King God’s thinking and goals as our own and “prove
of kings, the believer can now “walk in newness what the will of God is, that which is good and
of life” (Rom. 6:4b)—he has the privilege of ad- acceptable and perfect” (Rom. 12:2b, corrected
vancing to spiritual maturity by relying entirely translation).
upon divine resources. To learn God’s viewpoint, we must learn Bible
See also baptism; God the Holy Spirit; position doctrine. With the Bible in hand, the very text-
in Christ; sanctification. book of the “mind of Christ” (1 Cor. 2:16), we
For further reference, The Integrity of God; Isolation of Sin. must concentrate on learning how the many
Lessons 405:33; 458:196–97; 412:327. principles of His truth work together to become
our thinking, motivation, application, and ac-
positive volition tion. We must learn these doctrines in detail,
See volition. study and restudy them, so that our “inner man
[the soul] is . . . renewed day by day” (2 Cor. 4:16).
postcanon period If a Christian is ignorant of God’s revelation of
See Church Age. Himself, of the standard of thinking God has
designed for His children (Rom. 12:3), then no
postdiluvian civilization matter how intelligent, accomplished, famous, or
See civilizations, biblical. respected that believer may be, he will lose out
on the most important aspect of his life on earth.
postmillennialism Keep in mind, however, that no believer can
See millennialism. understand the entire realm of doctrine, learn
his place in the plan of God, and attain spiritual
postsalvation epistemological rehabilitation maturity simply by reading the Bible for himself.
The development of a new way of thinking, a view- God designed His Word and the spiritual life of
point based on God’s Word, for life after salvation. this age to be learned under authority, and that
“Epistemology” is the study of knowledge itself, authority is vested in the spiritual gift of pastor-
addressing the question of how man knows what teacher. The prepared pastor is guided by the
he knows. “Rehabilitation” is the process of re- Holy Spirit to communicate to his congregation
newing, of bringing something into a condition the doctrinal details that produce a renovated
postsalvation epistemological rehabilitation 202

mind. The believer’s consistent positive volition believer’s requests and provide the response He
interacts with that communicated truth, and knows is best. God’s answer may be obvious or
the grace ministry of the Holy Spirit makes the obscure, may come quickly or slowly. Sometimes
information understandable (1 Cor. 2:4–16). By He answers the desire behind the petition but
utilizing this grace process, the believer replaces not the specific petition, and other times He
ignorance with cognizance and moves forward grants the specific petition in order to emphasize
to spiritual maturity. the illegitimate desire behind it (1 Sam. 8:6–7).
See also human viewpoint; Operation Z; spir- In any case, He answers in ways that perfectly
itual metabolism; Word of God. fulfill His will and plan.
For further reference, Mental Attitude Dynamics; The A new mandate and ministry. Prayer was integral
Plan of God.
Lessons 412:204, 727–28. to the Old Testament spiritual life (Gen. 25:21;
Ex. 33:13; 2 Chron. 6:34–35; Ps. 5:2; 116:1–2; Jer.
power options Two divinely ordained functions 29:12), but the New Testament presents a man-
provided to every Church Age believer for exe- date specifically for the Church: “Pray without
cuting the spiritual life: the filling of the Holy ceasing,” which means to pray consistently, to
Spirit and Operation Z, made operational by the make prayer a habit of life, whether scheduled
believer’s positive volition toward God’s grace pro- or spontaneous (1 Thess. 5:17). Every believer in
visions (Eph. 5:18; 2 Pet. 1:3; 3:18). See filling of this dispensation is a priest, in full-time service
the Holy Spirit; Operation Z. See also rebound. to God and with direct access to Him. Through
the ministry of consistent, prevailing prayer,
prayer The believer’s instrument of communi- believers uphold each other before the throne
cation with God to express gratitude, intercede for of grace, “find grace to help in time of need”
others in need, and petition for his own personal (Heb. 4:16), and keep the Church advancing (Acts
needs. 12:5; 2 Cor. 1:11).
While God communicates with man through Protocol in prayer. All prayer must be directed
His Word, He has given believers in Jesus Christ to the Father (Matt. 6:6, 9; Eph. 3:14), in the name
a gracious means of communicating with Him. of the Son (John 14:13–14), and accomplished in
Through prayer, believers on earth have a direct, the power of the Holy Spirit (Eph. 6:18). Christ
instantaneous connection to the throne room of and the Holy Spirit both make intercession for
God (Heb. 4:16). Prayer is a powerful instrument believers (Rom. 8:26–27; Heb. 7:25); therefore,
provided by God to meet the needs, adversities, prayers are never addressed “Dear Jesus” or “O
temptations, and dilemmas of life beyond the Holy Spirit.”
specific commands and doctrines revealed in Prayer can be made silently or audibly, indi-
Scripture. By offering prayer the believer vidually or in assembly, in a private or public
expresses his helplessness, his recognition of setting. Prayers made in public, however, should
God’s grace, and his total confidence in and be shorter and mindful of those gathered (Matt.
dependence on Him. God listens to the prayers 6:6–7). Most importantly, the key issue in prayer
and responds by His silent, invisible works and is thought—concentration on God and His
power, always compatible with His essence and grace—not physical posture or the ability to recite
purpose (Isa. 65:24; Jer. 33:3). repetitious religious language.
Divine power and integrity in prayer. Since Logical sequence in prayer.
prayer is a privilege and extension of divine grace, (1) Confession of sins to the Father (1 John 1:9).
it is impossible to approach God on the basis of The believer must be filled with the Holy Spirit,
human goodness, strength, or merit. Instead, the free from the status of carnality and in fellow-
believer approaches the throne of grace on the ship with God, in order to be heard in the throne
basis of our High Priest, Jesus Christ, and His room (Ps. 66:18). The confession, or “rebound,”
saving work and merit (Heb. 4:15–16). Answer prayer is the only prayer that God will hear and
to prayer is strictly a divine decision. God alone answer when the believer has unconfessed sin in
has absolute power and integrity to hear the his life.
 203 predestination

(2) Thanksgiving. Gratitude expressed is a form and then relaxing in His ability to answer (Matt.
of worship motivated by love for God (Eph. 5:20; 21:22; Heb. 4:1–2; 1 John 3:21). The believer must
Col. 4:2). The believer is to express thanksgiving subject himself to the mandates of God, learn the
for everything, for the good as well as the bad will of God, then pray in conformity with God’s
circumstances (1 Thess. 5:18). will (1 John 3:22; 5:14). Mental attitude carnality
(3) Intercession. Praying for others is a Christian (pride, self-righteousness, lack of compassion)
service that supports those in need (Eph. 6:18–19; (Job 35:12–13; Ps. 66:18; Prov. 21:13) and selfish
2 Cor. 1:11). Intercession should be made for motivation (James 4:3) guarantee that prayers
authority figures and workers in the church; for go no higher than the ceiling. Scripture also
missionaries, the sick, loved ones, and friends; warns that the prayer life of a husband or wife
for our nation, its leaders, and its defense and is hindered by discord in marriage (1 Pet. 3:7b).
service personnel; for protection of national See also faith-rest drill; grace orientation;
Israel; for unbelievers—that God will direct will of God.
For further reference, Prayer.
circumstances to bring their attention to Christ;
Lessons 419:254–55; 412:51–52, 677; 376:1098–1106,
and even for enemies, those who oppose or seek 1112–14.
to harm us (Luke 6:28; cf. Matt. 5:44).
(4) Petition. The believer has the privilege of precanon period
praying for his own needs, namely, under cir- See Church Age.
cumstances where Scripture does not present a
direct answer or solution. predestination (a) The precreation act of God
Effectiveness in prayer. Prayer is a weapon for that determined the certainty of future events
the spiritually strong, not an expedient for the and provisions related to believers; (b) God’s
spiritually weak. Prayer does not constitute the predetermined, sovereign provisioning of every
spiritual life nor is it a spiritual problem solver. believer for the purpose of executing His plan,
Anyone can pray, but the true function of prayer purpose, and will in time (Eph. 1:4–6, 11). Like
results from persistent doctrinal and grace the doctrine of election, predestination applies to
orientation. The more the believer knows and believers only. Synonym: foreordination.
understands God, the more he knows how to com- In eternity past God decreed, or established
municate with Him (John 15:7). In other words, with certainty, the believer’s destiny for time
effectiveness in prayer increases with spiritual and eternity. However, the divine act of pre-
growth and reaches its peak in the hands of destination is never to be confused with the ideas
the spiritually mature. No matter what the cir- of kismet or any other human-viewpoint system
cumstance, regarding himself or others, and no of fatalism. God did not negate free will or force
matter how many times he has failed the Lord, anyone into a course of action. Rather, He only
the mature believer continually presents himself decreed and provisioned what He knew would
before the heavenly throne (Ps. 116:1–6). Such a actually happen. He predestined believers based
believer, filled with the Spirit and metabolized on His eternal knowledge that they would, by
doctrine, never doubts that when he bows his their own free will, accept Jesus Christ as Savior.
head in prayer, he is heard and the grace and Long before human history began, sovereign
power of God are available to him. Christian God determined that every Church Age believer
warriors who utilize this most powerful weapon would be united with the resurrected Jesus
can change the course of history, sometimes with Christ, the King of kings. Those who believe are
just one prayer (Ex. 32:11–13; 1 Kings 18:42b–44; predestined as heirs of God and joint heirs with
Eph. 1:15–23; 3:14–21). the Son of God—sharing the eternal destiny of
Why prayer is not heard. Prayer cannot be Jesus Christ Himself (Eph. 1:5). Furthermore,
operative unless the believer is first in fellowship God predestined believers with everything nec-
with God through the filling of the Holy Spirit essary to fulfill His plan in time. No Christian is
(Eph. 6:18a). In addition to that basic requirement, dependent upon human energy, personality, or
prayer demands faith—believing God’s Word human effort, because God established a grace
predestination 204

way of life and furnished the divine means of priesthood to come, this royal king and priest
execution (2 Tim. 1:9). Every believer in this age was the type that the humanity of Christ would
has equal opportunity to either accept or reject fulfill as the antitype.
God’s predestined provision. Regardless of per- In comparison with the patriarchal priesthood,
sonal failure or success in time, all believers the superiority of Melchizedek’s priesthood is
are predestined to be completely “conformed to noted by the fact that Melchizedek ministered
the image of His Son” in resurrection bodies in to and blessed Abraham (Gen. 14:18–19; Heb. 7:1,
heaven (Rom. 8:29). 9–11): “Without any dispute the lesser is blessed
See also divine decree; election; portfolio of by the greater” (Heb. 7:7). Abraham recognized
invisible assets. Melchizedek’s superiority and gave tithes to him
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History; (Heb. 7:2).
The Integrity of God.
(3) Old Testament Levitical priesthood. The
priesthood authorized under the Mosaic Law
premillennialism
See millennialism. and made up of the sons of Aaron from the tribe
of Levi (Ex. 28:1–4; Num. 18:1, 7–8). Aaron was
prevenient grace appointed as the first high priest. Levitical priests
See antecedent grace. represented client nation Israel before God by
offering, according to the Law’s prescribed rit-
priesthood An order of human beings who uals, the people’s gifts and sacrifices and by
represent themselves or other members of the orally communicating God’s written message
human race before God (Heb. 5:1). Scripture re- of salvation and blessing to the Jewish people.
veals the following four categories of priesthood In everything from their ceremonial clothing
authorized and ordained by God: to their sacred tasks before the altar, Levitical
(1) Old Testament patriarchal priesthood. Op- priests taught of the coming Messiah and His
erating from the time of Adam to Moses, the future work on the cross.
priesthood in which the father of the family This specialized priesthood was based on
represented the entire family before God. These genealogy and physical qualifications. Any men
priests (e.g., Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob) revealed of Aaron’s offspring who had a physical defect
doctrine, built altars, and offered sacrifices for were disqualified (Lev. 21:17–23).
themselves and their households (Gen. 8:20; The Levitical priesthood began with Aaron’s ap-
12:7; 13:18; 26:25; 35:1–2; Job 1:5). Also called the pointment (ca. 1444 B.C.) and continued, at least
“family priesthood.” in form, until the destruction of the Temple in
Abraham was a Gentile patriarchal priest until A.D. 70. With the completion of Christ’s work on
age ninety-nine, when he became the first Jewish the cross (ca. A.D. 30), the priesthood and rituals
patriarchal priest. This form of representation authorized by the Mosaic Law were abrogated
continued until the Jews’ Exodus from Egypt, and made defunct. Only in the Millennium, when
when the patriarchal priesthood was replaced by Christ returns to reign over the restored nation
the more specialized Levitical priesthood. Israel, will the Levitical priesthood be reactivated
(2) Old Testament king-priest, order of Melchizedek. (Ezek. 40—48; Zech. 3). So, too, will the Levitical
The priesthood represented by Melchizedek, a offerings be resumed as memorials to the cross.
Gentile believer in the time of Abraham. Mel- See also ritual plan of God.
chizedek was both the king and priest of Salem, (4) New Testament royal priesthood. A holy,
which later became Jerusalem (Gen. 14:18–20). universal priesthood in which each individual
As king-priest he ruled his nation and also repre- believer in the Church Age represents himself
sented the nation’s people before God. Scripture before God the Father (1 Pet. 2:5, 9).
presents Melchizedek as a man “without gene- Every Church Age believer is made a royal
alogy,” with no line of recorded descent, to show priest through union with Christ, the High Priest
that his position was not based on physical of the royal priesthood. By divine decree Jesus
birth (Heb. 7:3). Setting the pattern for the royal Christ was appointed “a priest forever / Accord-
 205 problem-solving devices

ing to the order of Melchizedek” (Ps. 110:4; Heb. wisdom from God and solve problems in the
6:20; 7:1–3, 21). To fulfill His priestly function privacy of the soul. There is no problem in life
and represent man before God, the Son of God that does not have a divine solution from the
became true humanity (Heb. 2:17). He offered Word of God. And the problem-solving devices
Himself—“holy, innocent, undefiled, separated are the means of accurately and objectively
from sinners”—as the substitutionary sacrifice applying God’s solutions to experience. As the
for the sins of the human race (Heb. 7:26–27; believer metabolizes Bible doctrine, these ten
9:14;10:14). Currently seated at the right hand devices are progressively formed as a line of
of the Father in the heavenly throne room, the strength and defense on the soul. From there,
resurrected God-man makes intercession on be- they establish right priorities and spiritual values,
half of “those who draw near to God through protect against infiltration of outside pressures
Him” (Heb. 7:25). Church Age believers, united and false doctrines, and empower spiritual
with Christ, are appointed to function in their advance (Rom. 12:2–3; 1 Cor. 15:10; Eph. 5:18;
own priestly capacity. The royal priesthood can James 2:8; 1 Pet. 1:8; 2 Pet. 3:18).
be rightly called a better priesthood, superior The first three problem-solving devices are
to the former family and Levitical priesthoods, available for use in spiritual childhood; the
for it is based on a “better hope” that results in fourth and fifth, in spiritual adolescence; and
a better spiritual life designed to glorify God to the last five become fully operational when the
the maximum (Heb. 7:19; Rev. 1:6). And this believer reaches spiritual adulthood. Together
royal priesthood, unlike the priesthoods of old, they form a dynamic, harmonious system that
endures forever because the resurrected High is reinforced and strengthened as the believer
Priest “holds His priesthood permanently” (Heb. grows to maturity. See each of the ten problem-
7:23–24). solving devices: (1) rebound, (2) filling of the
Holy Spirit, (3) faith-rest drill, (4) grace
While the Levitical priesthood ministered in
orientation, (5) doctrinal orientation,
shadows pointing to Christ, the royal priesthood
(6) personal sense of destiny, (7) personal
ministers in the realities fulfilled in Christ (Col.
love for God the Father, (8) impersonal
2:16–17; Heb. 10:1–3). Royal priests do not offer love for all mankind, (9) sharing the
gifts and sacrifices for sins because the once- happiness of God, (10) occupation with the
and-for-all sacrifice at the cross was complete person of Jesus Christ.
and efficacious (Heb. 9:1—10:25). The only ritual
Lessons 412:752–63; 845:2–4.
mandated for the royal priesthood is the Eucha-
rist, in remembrance of our great High Priest’s
substitutionary work. See also royal priest.
O
10 PR BLEM-S
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History; OL
V O
IN U
Levitical Offerings. G
T

Lessons 419:75–125; 376:791–830.

S
ID
D

E
E
V

PR
IC

9
priests, Jewish 8
ES

10
ES

SU

7
See Jewish religious leaders.
- L

RES
INE
ME

6
problem-solving devices (a) Ten spiritual tools
TA B O

5
OF DEFE

that strengthen the soul and equip the believer

LIZED

4
with biblical answers to life’s circumstances; (b) 3
the aggregate of God’s provision and wisdom sup-
BI

2
B

NS

E
L

plied to the Church Age believer for the purpose DO

CT 1
E

RINE
of accomplishing His plan and glorifying Him.
Believers are not designed to rely on secular
guidance to solve the dilemmas of life. They are
designed, rather, to perceive and apply spiritual Figure 23 10 PROBLEM-SOLVING DEVICES
production assets 206

production assets orientation to Bible doctrine.

See portfolio of invisible assets. Prosperity testing comes in two categories. In
individual prosperity testing, some form of personal
projection success or affluence challenges the believer to
See defense mechanisms. maintain correct priorities. If doctrine ceases to be
first in his life—if he becomes so wrapped up in
PROM chip pleasant circumstances that he forgets about God
See ROM and PROM chips. and God’s plan—then he flunks the prosperity test
and is a slave to the details of life (Deut. 8:11–14;
prophecy, gift of 2 Pet. 2:19). But if the believer remains faithful to
See spiritual gifts (temporary). the plan of God, not relying upon prosperity for
happiness and fulfillment, then he gains further
propitiation [Gk. hilasmos, an offering to appease capacity to enjoy even greater blessings in time
and eternity (Ps. 1:2–3). In collective prosperity
or satisfy; hilasterion, the place or means of atone-
testing, a group, city, or nation flourishes through
ment] Describes the work of Christ on the cross
cultural, economic, or military success. Failure to
that satisfied the demands of God’s holiness.
pass the prosperity test occurs when the populace
While Jesus Christ hung on the cross, God the
succumbs to complacency and self-indulgence,
Father imputed to Him all the sins of mankind
pursuing pleasure to the exclusion of truth and
and judged them. The impeccable humanity of
virtue. Believers especially are challenged to
Christ, “unblemished and spotless,” was an of-
maintain their spiritual focus while sharing in
fering acceptable to the righteous requirements
the advantages of national prosperity (Matt. 6:24;
of God (1 Pet. 1:19). Christ’s payment for human
1 Tim. 6:17).
sins on the cross propitiated, or satisfied, the
See also capacity, spiritual; details of life.
righteousness and justice of God, allowing God to
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Mental
save sinful man without any compromise to His Attitude Dynamics.
perfect integrity (Rom. 3:25–26; 1 John 2:2; 4:10). Lessons 457:177–78, 184; 840:217–18, 224.
See also ark of the covenant; barrier; blood
of Christ. protocol plan of God The way of life designed
For further reference, The Barrier; The Blood of Christ. for Church Age believers, characterized by precise
Lessons 458:100–102; 412:1139–43.
procedure and objectives.
With the inauguration of the Church in A.D. 30,
prosperity testing The challenges to spiritual a unique system of protocol replaced the rituals
growth that occur when experiencing pleasant, and ordinances of the Jewish Age. Believers in this
advantageous circumstances. age are to function under protocol because they
The blessings of prosperity are a subtle yet belong to a spiritual dynasty—a family of spiritual
dangerous test in life, since favorable circum- royalty—founded by the resurrected King of kings,
stances can easily distract the believer from the Jesus Christ. The way of life for spiritual royalty
plan of God. In order to enjoy and appreciate tem- requires the highest standards of thinking and
poral blessings, the believer must first be able behavior (1 Thess. 2:12). God’s protocol, therefore,
to recognize and appreciate God as the source offers clear-cut instructions and guidelines,
(Ps. 62:10b; Jer. 9:23–24). Anyone who has the allowing believers to know precisely how to
details of life (e.g., wealth, status, professional think and act in any given situation. Jesus Christ
promotion, possessions, fame, romance) apart Himself set the standard for this superior lifestyle
from having the necessary capacity will be just during His time on earth, and now the entire
as miserable in fortune as in poverty (Rev. 3:17– system of protocol is available for each member
20; cf. James 1:10–11). The capacity to appre- of the royal family to learn and master.
ciate God’s blessings depends upon doctrine in Delegation of divine power. God provides
the soul; therefore, the more prosperous one everything necessary for executing His protocol
becomes, the greater the need for humility and plan. Inside God’s system, the believer functions
 207 prototype spiritual life

under the enabling power of God the Holy Spirit why He provides believers with His power for
(Eph. 5:18; Gal. 5:16) and the dynamic power of executing the protocol plan and with His Word for
the Word of God (Heb. 4:12). With these power- truth and guidance. Precisely correct procedure
ful assets overcoming all human frailties, he means that a right thing becomes wrong when
is able to solve problems, serve God, impact done in a wrong way (Acts 5:1–11), a wrong thing
others, and gain rewards in time and eternity. is still wrong when done in a right way (1 Cor.
No contradictions exist inside God’s system. 6:4–8), and obviously a wrong thing done in a
Either a believer will utilize the delegated divine wrong way remains wrong (Col. 3:25). Everything
omnipotence and execute God’s protocol plan, or the believer does to fulfill God’s plan must be the
he will use human energy and ability to execute right thing done in the right way, God’s protocol
an inferior plan of his own. way (1 John 2:29; 3:7). See also divine good;
Protocol defined. The word “protocol,” formally will of God.
defined, is “a rigid, long-established code pre- See also aristocracy, spiritual; divine dyna-
scribing complete deference to superior rank and sphere; royal family honor code.
strict adherence to due order of precedence and For further reference, Christian Suffering; The Divine
Outline of History.
precisely correct procedure.”16 Each element of Lessons 728:1–4; 412:37.
this definition applies to God’s plan and deserves
a closer look: prototype spiritual life The system of divine
“Long-established code.” Although new to history power and resources that sustained the humanity
at the beginning of the Church Age, the code of Jesus Christ throughout the Incarnation and
of divine mandates is “long-established” in the on the cross. The term “prototype” refers to the
mind of omniscient God. Before time began, God fact that this system was modeled by the human
created for each believer a portfolio of spiritual nature of the incarnate Christ and then passed
assets and set up the protocol for conveying the down, as the operational spiritual life, to the
blessings of His glory (Rom. 9:23; Eph. 1:3–4a). Church. Synonym: prototype divine dynasphere.
See also portfolio of invisible assets. During His thirty-three years on earth, the God-
“Deference to superior rank.” Sovereign, omni- man voluntarily restricted the use of His deity
potent God holds infinitely superior rank. The and resided inside a sphere of divine resources
protocol plan requires obedience to God’s ultimate designed by the Father, empowered by the Holy
authority and also to His delegated authority in Spirit, and based on maximum Bible doctrine
the temporal and spiritual realms: namely, the resident in the soul (Matt. 4:1–10; Luke 4:1; John
laws of divine establishment and Bible doctrine 3:34). The humanity of Christ tested and proved
communicated by the gift of pastor-teacher. See every aspect of this unprecedented support sys-
also authority. tem. Instead of relying on His own divine attri-
“Strict adherence to due order of precedence.” Estab- butes, He relied on the omnipotence of the
lishing precedence means establishing priorities Holy Spirit and magnified God’s Word above
for a superior way of life. The highest priority in His person (Ps. 138:2b; Matt. 3:16; 4:4). The
the believer’s scale of values must be learning ministry of the Spirit and personal love for God
God’s Word. By consistently learning and apply- the Father guided and motivated our Lord to
ing Bible doctrine, believers come to know God, remain fully subordinated to the Father’s plan
relate to Him, obey His will (Eph. 5:17; 2 Tim. (Matt. 4:1; Luke 4:1; Acts 10:38; Phil. 2:6–8). He
2:15), and enjoy virtuous and right relationships won every battle in the devil’s world by utilizing
in all other aspects of life (Acts 20:32; Phil. 3:15– spiritual problem-solving devices such as grace
16). See also doctrinal orientation. orientation, impersonal love for all mankind,
“Precisely correct procedure.” Perfect God has one and awareness of His personal destiny. Not only
way of doing everything: the right way. This is did the prototype divine system take Jesus to the
cross as the sinless sacrifice, but it also enabled
16. Webster’s Third New International Dictionary of the English Him to remain there and endure the greatest suf-
Language Unabridged, 1976, s.v. “protocol.” fering and shame in human history (Heb. 12:2).
prototype spiritual life 208

Having set the precedent with His life on earth, 3:2–6). Even the biblically mandated activities
our Lord mandated the same system of strength, of prayer, witnessing, partaking of communion,
inner resources, and divine operating assets for and giving are not the means to spirituality. They
believers in the Church Age (John 15:9–11; 2 Cor. are the result of the filling of the Holy Spirit and
4:7; Eph. 3:20). require proper motivation from doctrine in the
See also divine dynasphere; great power exper- soul.
iment; operational spiritual life. See also asceticism; degeneracy (moral); ecstat-
ics; emotion; legalism; monasticism; morality;
providential preventive suffering spirituality; tabooism.
Lessons 665:8–9; 412:1196, 1199–1200.
See suffering (for blessing).
psychological living vs. spiritual living
pseudohappiness Literally, “false happiness,” The choice between utilizing human resources
because it is based on emotional stimulation
or utilizing divine resources in the postsalvation
derived from circumstances. See happiness.
life. Through daily decisions, a born-again person
can either continue the lifestyle of an unbeliever
pseudospirituality (a) Describes any form of or take advantage of the new lifestyle offered by
human effort used to attain fellowship with God’s grace.
God; (b) the systems of human power and self- Psychology can often provide legitimate sys-
righteousness used as substitutes for the filling of tems of self-improvement, but no amount of
the Spirit and spiritual advance. self-improvement can further a believer’s under-
Believers who do not understand the ministry of standing of God or advance him in the plan of
the Holy Spirit and the biblical remedy for carnal- God. The child of God who chooses psychological
ity (i.e., rebound, 1 John 1:9) fall into the greatest living over spiritual living has chosen to live by
trap in the Christian life—pseudospirituality. The inherently flawed human dynamics instead of
source of pseudospirituality is legalism, specif- perfect divine empowerment. He replaces the
ically, legalism emphasizing the external (that filling of the Holy Spirit and intrinsic strength
which is seen, felt, or heard) to the exclusion of of Bible doctrine with emotion, personality,
the internal (the condition of the soul). talent, intellect, and human opinion. Without
False systems of spirituality include dedica- spiritual problem-solving tools, he adjusts to
tions and reaffirmations of faith, personality the problems of life with psychological devices
imitation (copying another’s speech or manner- like rationalization, self-justification, and subli-
isms), tabooism (refraining from practices mation. Flaws and bad habits are explained in
forbidden by culture and society), respectability terms of environmental or genetic handicaps,
and overt morality (considering one’s own sins while a sense of self-worth and happiness is
to be more respectable than others’), rituals (e.g., assumed to derive from accomplishments, posses-
baptism, fasting), service programs (over- sions, status, and comparison and competition
emphasizing works in a local church or com- with others. Relationships with people are
munity), asceticism (extreme sacrifice and self- always emphasized over relationship with God.
denial), emotionalism and ecstatics (excessive If he attempts a spiritual life at all, the believer
stimulation and excitement in worship). Used in psychological living typically seeks churches
as a means of fellowship with God, these are that provide entertainment, emotional exper-
all heresies, because they all reject the doctrine ience, approbation, and false doctrine.
that the Christian way of life is a supernatural God has supplied the Church with the most
way of life, a grace way of living that demands fantastic spiritual assets in history. Because
a supernatural means of execution. The filling of this, His royal family can live on something
of the Spirit is the work of God, not of man. And far superior to human dynamics. At salvation,
the filling ministry of the Holy Spirit is the only the Holy Spirit creates a “new creature” for the
means by which believers can utilize divine purpose of spiritual living (2 Cor. 5:17). “New
power to execute the plan of God (Rom. 8:4; 2 Cor. things have come” from the unique life that
 209 punitive suffering

includes the indwelling presence of all three

members of the Trinity. “New things have
come” from a lifestyle of wisdom—consistent
perception and application of Bible doctrine
under the teaching ministry of the Holy Spirit.
With advance toward spiritual maturity, the
believer breaks away from the “old things” of
psychological living. Environmental and genetic
handicaps are no longer an issue; all human
standards of superiority and inferiority are
set aside. The believer’s sense of self-worth,
strength, and happiness derive from confidence
in a personal sense of destiny, in his love for
God, and in the spiritual resources God has
provided. Whereas psychological living never
fully satisfies, the utilization of divine power
in spiritual living ensures lasting blessing and
happiness.
See also divine dynasphere; human viewpoint;
postsalvation epistemological rehabilitation.
Lessons 412:403–12.

psychopathic arrogance
See cosmic system (arrogance complex).

punitive suffering
See suffering (punitive).
 Qq
qorban Hebrew noun used in the Age of Israel given to God)” (Mark 7:11). He was able to use the
for a gift or sacrifice brought to the altar and religious Corban gimmick to justify neglecting
dedicated to God. The English text translates destitute parents, as well as obligations to debtors
qorban as “offering.” and country. Jesus chastised the Pharisees for
Old Testament Jewish believers brought to the promoting such evil distortions of the Law: “You
Tabernacle their “offering [qorban] to the Lord” hypocrites . . . ‘Teaching as doctrines the
(Lev. 1:2), affirming that the animal or food item precepts of men.’ . . . You no longer permit him
now belonged to God. The offering was then used to do anything for his father or his mother; thus
in a ritual depicting the Messiah and His future invalidating the word of God by your tradition”
work on the cross. As such, qorban signified the (Mark 7:6–7, 12–13).
only means of approach to God, through Christ’s For further reference, The Blood of Christ; Levitical
spiritual death on behalf of sinful mankind. Offerings.
Animals—from “the herd,” “the flock,” or “of Lessons 438:43; 458:63.
birds”—sacrificed for the burnt offerings were
slaughtered and burned to illustrate the various quenching the Holy Spirit [Gk. sbennumi, to
aspects of the saving work of Christ (Lev. 1:2– stifle, suppress, quench, squelch] Biblical lan-
17). Offerings involving grain and oil, correctly guage used to describe the believer’s suppression
translated as “gift offering” (minchah), were of the teaching ministry of the Holy Spirit, a
cooked in rituals that emphasized the person suppression that results from carnality.
of Christ (Lev. 2). Both offerers and bystanders Both grieving and quenching the Holy Spirit
observed these ceremonial rituals designed to refer to the believer controlled by the sin nature.
evangelize unbelievers and teach believers the However, the context of 1 Thessalonians 5:15–19
grace plan of God. See also ritual plan of God indicates that quenching, or suppressing, the
(Levitical offerings). Spirit is specific to the sin nature’s influence over
Corban gimmick. By our Lord’s day, the doctrinal understanding and application. When
ancient ritual had been lifted from its scriptural the believer grieves the Holy Spirit—forfeits the
context and was being used to raise money for filling of the Spirit through sin—he lacks the
the Temple. Jesus exposed this new “Corban” divine power to understand and execute the
(from the Greek korban) as a blatant example of mandates for the spiritual life, and he therefore
religious hypocrisy (Mark 7:1–13). Jewish leaders, quenches the Holy Spirit’s teaching ministry.
like those Jesus addressed, allowed people of Paul elaborates on this concept in his second
means to pronounce their entire estates “Corban.” epistle to Timothy: he describes this type of
The person would pay a fee to the Temple priests believer as “always learning but never able to
and then submit a written intent to dedicate come to a full knowledge of the truth” (2 Tim.
his estate upon death. In the meantime, he 3:7, corrected translation). The believer who
was allowed to freely spend his money yet was suppresses the Holy Spirit substitutes his own
exempted from taxation and family obligations. arrogance for the Holy Spirit’s mentorship,
For instance, if his aging parents made a plea distorts the doctrine that he hears, and lives by
for financial support, he would say, “Whatever I human viewpoint. Having “denied its power,” he
have that would help you is Corban (that is to say, is “adhering to a superficial form of the spiritual
quenching the Holy Spirit 212

life” (2 Tim. 3:5, corrected translation).

See also carnality; grieving the Holy Spirit;
mentorship of the Holy Spirit.
Lessons 376:436, 1420–22.
 Rr
-R See minus R. Church, now transformed to His Bride (2 Cor.
11:2b; Rev. 19:7–9), will convene before the judg-
+R See plus R. ment seat of Christ for evaluation and reward
while the Tribulation unfolds on earth (Rom.
rapport with God 14:12; 1 Cor. 1:7–8; 2 Cor. 5:10; cf. Rev. 22:12).
See fellowship with God.
RAPTURE VS. SECOND ADVENT
Rapture (of the Church) The resurrection
At the Rapture the Lord meets us “in the air,” in the
of all Church Age believers from the earth to
atmosphere above the earth. This is in contrast to His
forever be with the Lord (1 Thess. 4:13–17). The
return to earth at the Second Advent, when “His feet
Rapture marks the end of the Church Age and will stand on the Mount of Olives” to end the Tribulation
the beginning of the Tribulation. Synonyms: exit and deliver Israel (Zech. 14:4).
resurrection; resurrection of the Church.
The theological title “Rapture” derives from the
Latin rapio, used in the Latin Vulgate to translate Since no prophecy will be fulfilled before
the Greek harpazo (1 Thess. 4:17). Both of these the Rapture takes place, the date of the event is
terms indicate being caught up and taken away, unknown. No one, including the divinely inspired
carried off suddenly, to meet the Lord. When the authors of Scripture, can pinpoint the time of its
Rapture takes place, all Church Age believers, occurrence. We know simply that the Rapture is
alive and dead, will rendezvous with the Lord imminent, and that it will happen suddenly and
somewhere above the earth. At the sound of quickly once the royal family—“those who are
the trumpet, “in the twinkling of an eye . . . we Christ’s”—is fully formed (1 Cor. 15:23).
will be changed” from a body of corruption to See also Bride of Christ; imminency of the
a body of incorruption (1 Cor. 15:51–53; cf. Phil. Rapture; resurrection body.
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History;
3:20–21). First Thessalonians 4:15–17 gives the Dying Grace.
order of events: “The Lord Himself will descend Lessons 458:314; 412:611–16; 376:387–90.
from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the
archangel . . . and the dead in Christ [departed rational and irrational arrogance
Church Age believers] will rise first” with their See cosmic system (arrogance complex).
eternal resurrection bodies (verse 16). “Then we
who are alive and remain [Church Age believers rationales, doctrinal
still on earth] will be caught up [harpazo] together See faith-rest drill.
with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the
air” and receive resurrection bodies (verse 17a). rationalism A basic means of perception that
The Rapture will be followed by a period of uses human intellect, logic, and reasoning to
fantastic happiness and celebration, a ‘reunion’ understand reality.
of the entire royal family, assembled for the Although rationalism is often used to contem-
first time in spontaneous mass recognition of plate the existence of God or examine biblical
the Lord Jesus Christ (Rom. 14:11). He will lead information, its dependence upon human ability
the procession into heaven, and the resurrected means it cannot establish absolute truth. Man
rationalism 214

through his worldly wisdom cannot come to eousness [unknown and forgotten sins].”
know perfect and infinite God or comprehend His The filling of the Holy Spirit, the unseen em-
thinking (Isa. 55:9; 1 Cor. 1:18–21; 2:14). In direct powerment for Church Age believers, is cut off
contrast to rationalism, perception by faith relies by sin but recovered through rebound. Without
exclusively on God’s grace and is therefore man’s rebound, the Christian’s spiritual life comes to
sole means of grasping spiritual phenomena. a halt, since the Spirit is grieved and quenched
See also empiricism; faith perception; intel- (Eph. 4:30; 1 Thess. 5:19). With rebound, the
lectual arrogance. spiritual life is refreshed, the believer is renewed,
For further reference, Christian Integrity.
the empowerment of the Holy Spirit is recovered
(Eph. 4:23).
rationalization
Forgiveness by grace alone. All sins of mankind
See defense mechanisms.
were paid for by Christ’s work at the cross. Noth-
ing can be added to faith in Christ for salvation,
reaction and distraction
and in the same way, nothing can be added to
See reversionism.
the grace procedure of rebound for forgiveness
of postsalvation sins. In 1 John 1:9, the Greek
rebound (a) Confession, or acknowledgment, of
known personal sins directly to God the Father; word homologeo, translated “confess,” carries the
(b) the grace procedure by which carnal be- judicial connotation of citing, admitting, confess-
lievers are forgiven of postsalvation personal ing a crime in a court of law. The believer simply
sins, restored to fellowship with God, and able to admits his guilt, and the presiding Judge of the
resume the spiritual life. Supreme Court of Heaven renders a decision
When the believer chooses to commit personal based on precedence established at the cross. No
sin, the sin nature gains control of his soul and he matter how great the failure or how many times
enters a state of carnality, out of fellowship with the believer has sinned, God faithfully renders
God. Simply by naming his known sins directly the same righteous decision because Christ’s work
and privately to the Father, the believer rebounds— is complete. Emotional reaction and activities,
he ‘bounces back’ and is restored to fellowship, such as feeling sorry for sins, engaging in pen-
forgiven of all known and unknown sins. ance, or vowing to never again commit certain
Rebound in Old and New Testaments. Old Testa- sins, are not a part of the rebound procedure.
ment passages describe rebound as “confess Adding works and restitution to the simple re-
their iniquity” (Lev. 26:40), “my iniquity I did not bound procedure merely perpetuates carnality.
hide” (Ps. 32:5), and “confesses and forsakes them A license to serve. Rebound is not a license to sin
[transgressions]” (Prov. 28:13). King David, after but a license to serve the Lord. God provides these
prolonged and painful carnality, recorded that “I grace mechanics not to encourage His children to
acknowledged my sin to You, . . . And You forgave indulge the sin nature but as a way to neutralize
the guilt of my sin” (Ps. 32:5). By acknowledging its control over their lives. Only by remaining
their sins to God, Old Testament believers were in fellowship, utilizing divine power, can one
able to resume the spiritual life of faith-rest (Ps. break free from the sin nature’s corrupting influ-
32:1–5; 38:18a).
ence and advance in God’s plan (Gal. 5:16). The
New Testament descriptions of rebound include
believer who ignores God’s recovery provision
“judged ourselves rightly” (1 Cor. 11:31), “lay aside
intensifies his self-induced misery and suffers
the old self” (Eph. 4:22), “arise from the dead”
divine discipline until he decides to rebound (Lev.
(Eph. 5:14), “putting aside all filthiness” (James
26:40–42; Ps. 38:18; 1 Cor. 11:27–32; Heb. 12:6).
1:21), and “make straight paths for your feet” (Heb.
12:13). First John 1:9 expresses the mechanics of See also enduement; filling of the Holy Spirit;
isolation of sin; personal sin.
rebound most distinctly: “If we confess our sins, For further reference, Rebound & Keep Moving!; Re-
He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our bound Revisited.
[known] sins and to cleanse us from all unright- Lessons 102:2–5; 429:18–22; 412:983–85; 376:83–90, 465–89.
 215 redemption solution

reciprocal love The believer’s love response to reciprocal love to stay on the cross and bear our
the immeasurable and unfailing love of God. sins, so too must we be motivated by reciprocal
New Testament revelation. The doctrine of recip- love to advance spiritually and execute God’s will
rocal love is summarized in John’s statement, for our individual lives (1 Cor. 11:1; Eph. 5:1–2;
“We love, because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19). 1 Thess. 1:6).
The love of God, expressed from eternity past, See also personal love for God the Father;
motivates the believer to respond with love simultaneous advance to the high ground.
toward Him. This concept comes out in the Greek For further reference, The Unfailing Love of God.
Lessons 376:1666–70.
phrase he agape tou theou, which can be translat-
ed either “the love of God” or “the love for God.”
reconciliation Describes the sum total of all
If the Greek grammar and context show that
that Christ did on the cross to remove the natu-
God is producing the action implied by the noun
ral barrier of antagonism between God and
“love,” then the phrase is correctly translated the
mankind. Christ’s work on man’s behalf replaced
love of God (Rom. 8:35, 39; 2 Cor. 13:14; Eph. 3:19).
enmity with peace, allowing every person the
If God is receiving the action, then the phrase
opportunity to have an eternal relationship with
refers to love for God (Rom. 5:5; 2 Thess. 3:5;
God (Rom. 5:11; 2 Cor. 5:18–19).
1 John 2:5; Jude 21). “The love of God” indicates
Mankind is reconciled to God through unlim-
the eternal love that God expresses to the believ-
ited atonement, expiation, propitiation,
er through His grace. “The love for God” refers to
and redemption provided by Christ on the
the believer’s reciprocation of God’s love through
cross. Now, only unbelief separates an individ-
a harmonious relationship with Him.
ual from eternal salvation. For the person who
Developing reciprocal love to completion. Romans
expresses faith in Jesus Christ, God accomplishes
5:5, in corrected translation, states that the “love
regeneration, imputation of righteousness,
for God has been poured out within our hearts
justification, and positional sanctification.
through the agency of the Holy Spirit.” In other
See each of these soteriological terms.
words, the believer’s love for God is accomplished
See also barrier; peace.
through the filling of the Spirit and His enabling For further reference, The Barrier; Slave Market of Sin.
ministry. When we come to know God through Lessons 412:510–17, 1293–94.
His Word, we respond with respect, deference,
and worship; we accept His authority and obey redemption [Gk. apolutrosis, release effected by
His mandates (1 John 4:16). And the more we payment of ransom] Describes the work of Christ
obey Him in response to His love, the more we on the cross that purchased every human being
are motivated to advance all the way to the high from the slave market of sin (Rom. 6:22; 1 Pet.
ground of spiritual maturity, where our “love 1:18–19). Christ paid the price of redemption
for God has truly been brought to completion” through His substitutionary spiritual death,
(1 John 2:5, corrected translation). when “He Himself bore our sins in His body on
Model for reciprocal love. The humanity of the cross” (1 Pet. 2:24a; cf. Eph. 1:7; 1 Tim. 2:6).
Jesus Christ demonstrated reciprocal love to the Anyone who expresses faith alone in Christ alone
highest degree. As the God-man, Jesus tested and is redeemed from the slave market of sin and
proved every aspect of the unique spiritual life delivered to the freedom of grace (Rom. 3:24;
bestowed on Him by the love of God the Father. 1 Cor. 6:20a).
Filled with the Holy Spirit, He increased in divine See also barrier; substitutionary spiritual death.
wisdom and reached spiritual maturity at a For further reference, The Barrier; Slave Market of Sin.
young age (Luke 2:52). Bible doctrine and love for
the Father so dominated Jesus’ thinking that He redemption solution The only answer to the
was able to resist temptation, remain in sinless universal condemnation of mankind. Because
perfection, and stay focused on the Father’s plan God the Father was “not wishing for any to
of redemption (John 14:31; 15:9–10). Just as the perish” (2 Pet. 3:9b), He sent His Son to become
humanity of Christ was motivated by perfect “sin on our behalf, so that we might become the
redemption solution 216

righteousness of God in Him” (2 Cor. 5:21). With values against another; (b) the only righteousness
the purchase price of redemption paid, man that man is capable of exhibiting outside of a
is free to accept the redemption solution by personal relationship with God. Synonym: minus
expressing faith in Jesus Christ (John 3:16; Acts R (-R). Antonym: plus R (+R).
16:31; Rom. 5:8). See also redemption. Many people are moral, noble, generous, and
respectable citizens who rarely display outward
reflex motility The involuntary neuromuscular signs of sinfulness. Compared with others who
movement of a developing fetus within the womb. are noticeably selfish, irresponsible, or immor-
Because the fetus is mother dependent, its al, these people appear admirable and ‘good’ ac-
movement is often in harmony with the mother’s cording to human standards. But all mankind
physiological state, which is easily varied by is inherently flawed (Rom. 5:12). Man’s right-
metabolic processes or emotional changes (Luke eousness is therefore relative, capable only of
1:41, 44). Fetal movement in utero should never producing various levels of imperfect goodness
be mistaken for the independent volitional action among the rest of humanity. God’s righteous-
of a living human being. The activity within the ness, in contrast, is absolute and perfect—an
womb is a natural function of biological life, not infinitely high standard that no one but God can
soul life. meet. From God’s view, even though one man’s
See biological life; origin of human life. righteousness may surpass another’s, “all have
For further reference, The Origin of Human Life. sinned and fall short of the glory [integrity] of
God” (Rom. 3:23b). The only way man can meet
regeneration (a) The salvation work of the Holy God’s standard is to possess a righteousness
Spirit that transfers an individual from spiritual equal to His (Matt. 5:20b).
death to spiritual life; (b) theological term for the Man’s relative righteousness, the “minus R”
act of being “born again” (John 3:3). Synonyms: that separates every unbeliever from God, is
second birth; spiritual birth. removed when he accepts Christ as Savior. At
Since all members of the human race inherit that moment God graciously imputes His own
Adam’s corrupt nature, all are born physically righteousness (“plus R”) to the believer and pro-
alive but spiritually dead, separated from God. nounces him justified, vindicated, acceptable to
The Lord clearly taught Nicodemus that in order the divine standard (Gen. 15:6; Rom. 3:19–30; 4:3).
to enter the kingdom of God, one “must be born See also barrier; justification; righteousness.
again,” or reborn into spiritual life (John 3:3–7). For further reference, The Barrier; The Integrity of God;
What is absent at the physical birth—a human Slave Market of Sin.
spirit and relationship with God—is gained
through the new birth called regeneration. When relaxed mental attitude (a) The state of inner
a person expresses faith alone in Christ alone, the tranquillity that exists when the believer is filled
Holy Spirit creates in him a human spirit to which with the Holy Spirit and free of mental attitude
God the Father imputes eternal life. Previously sins; (b) a way of thinking that orients to God’s
spiritually dead, the person is instantly reborn plan of grace and respects the volition and
into the family of God and made spiritually alive privacy of others.
in Christ (Eph. 2:1, 4–5). He is saved, not on the A relaxed mental attitude can be described as
basis of his own works but “by the washing of inner peace or contentment, a restful state of
regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit” mind gained from the filling ministry of the Holy
(Titus 3:5). Spirit (Isa. 26:3; Rom. 5:5; Gal. 5:22, 25; Phil. 4:11).
By learning and applying God’s Word to live the
See also dichotomous/trichotomous; human spirit.
For further reference, The Barrier. spiritual life, the believer maintains confidence
Lessons 101:3; 458:188. and stability regarding God, himself, and others.
He does not question the plan of God, nor does
relative righteousness (a) A comparative right- he blame God or others for his own decisions or
eousness that pits one set of human morals and predicaments. Regardless of circumstances, he
 217 remnant

orients to grace and rests in his faith. When he out Scripture. Jeremiah reveals God’s judgment
loses fellowship through carnality, he quickly upon a nation for its involvement in idolatrous
recovers and avoids anxiety, frustration, and guilt religion (Jer. 8:10a, 13, 17; 9:9–14; 17:1–4). When
(1 John 1:9). When praised or prospered, he as- the citizens of Judah “rejected the word of the
signs the glory to God; when maligned or afflicted, Lord” and embraced the teaching of false pro-
he casts his cares upon the Lord and awaits His phets and apostate priests (Jer. 8:8–11; 9:3), the
deliverance (Ex. 14:13–14; 2 Cor. 6:4–10; 1 Pet. 5:7). nation was eventually destroyed, the population
This relaxed mental attitude enables the taken captive by the Chaldeans (Jer. 17:1–4;
believer to “love [agapao] your neighbor as 39:1–10). The Gospel of Matthew records one of
yourself” (Mark 12:31; James 2:8). By thinking the strongest denunciations of religion: Christ,
with an attitude of love, the believer rises above addressing the crowd in the Temple, excoriated
sins like anger, jealousy, bitterness, vindictive- Israel’s religious leaders for their phony façade
ness. And by following the principle of live and of righteousness, stating, “Woe to you, scribes
let live, he exhibits the virtue of impersonal love, and Pharisees, hypocrites!” (Matt. 23:1–33). In
which is an attitude of patience, kindness, and the Book of Romans, the Apostle Paul laments
forgiveness toward all (Eph. 4:2). the tragedy of his people whose legalistic zeal
See also faith-rest drill; impersonal love for
for religion blinded them to the truth (Rom.
all mankind. 10:1–4; 11:8, 25). They readily accepted the Law,
For further reference, Mental Attitude Dynamics. which demonstrates the sinfulness of man and
his need of a Savior (Rom. 3:20), but rejected the
religion (a) Any system of faith and worship that only One who fulfilled the Law perfectly (Matt.
includes human works as the means to salvation, 5:17; cf. Rom. 8:3–4).
spirituality, or divine approval; (b) the Satan- Religion is the devil’s most insidious ploy—the
inspired counterfeit of God’s grace plan. ace trump in his objective to make himself “like
Religion is built on the quicksand of human the Most High” and deceive the human race
arrogance, the idea that man can reach God by his (Isa. 14:13–14). Each of Satan’s imitations in the
own efforts. It is antithetical to Christianity, for field of religion are noted in the New Testament:
Christianity is a relationship with God based on counterfeit gospel (2 Cor. 11:3–4; Gal. 1:6–8), coun-
the saving work of Jesus Christ. Whereas religion terfeit ministers (2 Cor. 11:13–15), counterfeit
emphasizes what man does for God, Christianity doctrine (1 Tim. 4:1), counterfeit communion
emphasizes what God in grace does for man. table (1 Cor. 10:20–21), counterfeit righteousness
Unbelievers immersed in religion bypass (Matt. 19:16–28), counterfeit spirituality (Gal.
the perfect righteousness of God and attempt 3:2–3), counterfeit modus operandi (Matt. 23),
to establish their own relative righteousness counterfeit power (2 Thess. 2:8–10), and coun-
(Rom. 9:31; 10:3; cf. Isa. 64:6). Believers distort terfeit gods (2 Thess. 2:3–4). At the end of the
Christianity into a religion by replacing Bible Tribulation, this arsenal of counterfeits will con-
doctrine and the Christian way of life with a verge into the massive weapon of ecumenical,
system of works and rituals (Gal. 3:2–3). The or universal, religion in Satan’s final attack on
many variations of religion range from moralistic the human race (Rev. 17—18).
legalism, as found in the misuses of the Mosaic See also Christian; ecumenical religion; legalism.
Law (Col. 2:20–23), to idolatry and licentiousness, For further reference, Anti-Semitism; Christian In-
tegrity; Daniel Chapters One through Six; King of Kings
as found in the practices of the phallic cult (Ex. and Lord of Lords.
34:12–17). Whatever the form, religion keeps man Lessons 438:60–62; 422:12; 457:590–98.
in confusion about the person and work of Christ.
Its empty human dynamics bypass divine power remnant With respect to the Age of Israel, refers
and protocol, obscure man’s need for God, and to a nucleus of mature believers through which
cultivate self-righteousness, intolerance, even God established, preserved, and perpetuated the
tyranny and violence. Jewish client nation (2 Kings 19:30; Ezra 9:8–9;
The evil of religion is condemned through- Isa. 37:4; Hag. 1:14). Remnant is the counterpart
remnant 218

to the term “pivot,” used to describe the nucleus idols, and return to God (1 Kings 8:47–50; Ezek.
of mature believers in Church Age client nations. 14:6; 18:30b). Throughout the New Testament,
In the future Tribulation, when Israel’s final seven the Greek verb metanoeo (to change one’s mind,
years are played out, a “remnant” of born-again reconsider) likewise demands that Christians
Jews will arise again to withstand the rampant change their thinking about the spiritual life.
apostasy, survive Satan’s anti-Semitic fury, and be The carnal Ephesians, for example, are told to
delivered by the Lord into His millennial kingdom “repent [metanoeo]” after abandoning their love
(Isa. 11:11–12; Jer. 23:3–5; Micah 4:7; Zech. 8:12; for the Lord (Rev. 2:4–5a). To make a full recov-
13:8–9; 14:4–9; Rom. 9:27). ery from reversionism, they must start making
See also client nation to God; Dispensation of repeated decisions to rebound and take in
Israel. doctrine regularly (2 Tim. 2:25; Heb. 6:1). For the
For further reference, Anti-Semitism; Armageddon; reversionist who refuses to repent, God admin-
Daniel Chapters One through Six.
isters severe divine discipline (Ps. 7:12; Jer. 15:7;
Ezek. 18:30, 32; Rev. 2:5b; 3:3, 19).
repentance In most biblical contexts, indicates Misconceptions. Many Christians today interpret
the change of mind that occurs (1) in the
repentance exclusively as emotion and remorse—
unbeliever upon acceptance of the Gospel, or
feeling sorry for sins or making an agonizing
(2) in the carnal believer who returns to God’s
commitment to change one’s sinful ways. Even
plan through rebound and spiritual recovery.
worse, the emotion assigned to repentance is
(Repentance ascribed to God simply illustrates
often taught as a requirement for salvation or
His judgments demanded by man’s changing
spiritual recovery. However, repentance (meta-
attitudes. See anthropopathism.)
noia) in 2 Corinthians 7:10 specifically excludes
Repentance for the unbeliever. When Scripture
emotion: “repentance without regret [emotion].”
declares that angels in heaven rejoice over “one
Whether describing the unbeliever’s attitude
sinner who repents,” it describes the unbeliever
toward Christ or the believer’s attitude toward
who changes his mind about Jesus Christ (Luke
doctrine, repentance connotes rational thinking
15:7, 10). Salvation repentance occurs when the
and decision making. Even if emotional response
unbeliever hears the Gospel, understands it, and
accompanies the change of mind, the emotion
makes a decision to accept Christ’s saving work
itself is in no way efficacious.
(Luke 13:3, 5; Acts 17:30; 2 Pet. 3:9). Believing
Another Greek verb, metamelomai, does have
in the Gospel message and repenting inherent-
the connotation of remorse, sorrow, or being sor-
ly operate together (Acts 20:21; Mark 1:14–15).
ry for wrongdoing. Though sometimes written
Peter’s command to “repent” in order to receive
in English Bibles as “repent,” this word is more
the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38) is synony-
accurately translated “regret.” In Matthew 27:3
mous with Paul’s command to “believe” in order
Judas Iscariot “felt remorse [metamelomai] and
to be saved (Acts 16:31). The result is always the
returned the thirty pieces of silver” used to betray
same: the spiritually dead person believes that
Jesus Christ, but his extreme anguish was strictly
Jesus Christ is his Savior and is instantly granted
emotional, a penitence incompatible with the
eternal life. Regardless of his past or current
grace of God.
lifestyle, the unbeliever does not repent regarding
See also emotion; rebound; salvation.
his sins but changes his mental attitude toward
For further reference, The Prodigal Son; Rebound
Christ, the only solution to sin (Matt. 12:41). Revisited.
Repentance for the believer. The believer who Lessons 458:42; 457:64; 412:275.
turns away from God’s will, choosing instead
a lifestyle of sin and rejection of truth, must representative analogy A comparison made
change his mind about rebound and the value between physical and spiritual concepts in order
of doctrine. In the Old Testament, “repent” trans- to illustrate a parallel between the two. In contrast,
lates the Hebrew verb shub (to turn back, return, a real analogy draws a parallel between either two
bring back), which encourages the Israelites to physical concepts or two spiritual concepts.
acknowledge their iniquities, stop worshiping The work of Christ on the cross, for example,
 219 resurrection

is depicted in Scripture through a representa- God the Holy Spirit warming and moving over
tive analogy. In the Old Testament sacrificial the uninhabitable wasteland, melting the frozen
offerings, the literal blood and physical death of waters to prepare the earth for restoration and
the animal represented the figurative blood and habitation (Gen. 1:2b).
spiritual death of Christ. While the shedding of On the first day of restoration, God command-
animal blood graphically portrayed the future ed light to come into existence. He took the
sacrifice of the coming Savior, there is no real previously darkened, ruined earth and separated
analogy between the blood of animals and the the darkness from the light (Gen. 1:3–4).
blood of Christ (Heb. 9:13–14; 10:1). The term On the second day, God formed the atmosphere,
“blood of Christ” in the New Testament is a figura- the “expanse, and separated the waters which
tive expression for His substitutionary spiritual were below the expanse from the waters which
death (Eph. 1:7; 2:13; Col. 1:20; 1 Pet. 1:18–19). See were above the expanse” (Gen. 1:6–7).
blood of Christ. See also type and antitype. On the third day, God concluded His work of
separation and designation by establishing the
repression seas and oceans. He restricted the waters to spe-
See defense mechanisms. cific areas and dry land appeared (Gen. 1:9–10).
Then, He “let the earth sprout vegetation, plants
resisting the Holy Spirit (a) The unbeliever’s yielding seed, and fruit trees . . . bearing fruit
rejection of the Holy Spirit’s ministry at Gospel after their kind with seed in them” (Gen. 1:11).
hearing (Acts 7:51); (b) the term used to describe On the fourth day, God restored the light-
rejecting Jesus Christ as Savior during the Church bearing bodies that divide the day from night and
Age, comparable to “blasphemy against the Spirit” indicate seasons, days, and years. The sun would
during the Incarnation (Matt. 12:31). provide light to the earth during the day, and the
God the Holy Spirit is the sovereign executive of moon and stars would illumine the night (Gen.
all evangelism. Through the ministry of common 1:14–18).
grace, the Holy Spirit takes Gospel information On the fifth day, God created the water-dwelling
and makes it perspicuous to the hearer. When creatures, everything from plankton to whales,
the unbeliever expresses negative volition toward and every species of flying creature. These living
the Gospel, he resists and rejects the work of the creatures would fill the two newly restored
Holy Spirit, and this is tantamount to committing earthly habitats: the crystalline ocean depths
the unpardonable sin. He has resisted by saying and the luminous atmosphere (Gen. 1:20–22).
no to the divine invitation to accept Christ. God commenced His sixth day of restoration
See also blasphemy against the Holy Spirit; by dotting the lush landscape with animals, each
God the Holy Spirit (ministries at Gospel hearing); species created “after their kind” and possessing
unpardonable sin. the ability to reproduce within their own species
(Gen. 1:24–25). God then made man in His shadow
restoration of the earth The six-day period image and gave man dominion over the restored
in which God renewed planet Earth from its earth and its creatures (Gen. 1:26–31).
state of chaos and carried out His full creative See also angelic conflict; chaos.
measures that included the human race. For further reference, Creation, Chaos, & Restoration.
God’s judgment against fallen angels had en- Lessons 526:1–12.
shrouded the planet in darkness. Without light
or heat, the raging waters of the “deep” had frozen resurrection [Gk. anastasis, a standing or rising
into an ice pack (Gen. 1:2a). Before human history up again] Biblical term that describes being
could begin, restoration of the earth was necessary. physically raised from the dead to receive an
Everything man would ever need, including the immortal body (1 Cor. 15:42). Resurrection is in
animal, mineral, and vegetable kingdoms, had to contrast to resuscitation, in which a physically
be provided. The grace of God thus transformed dead person is restored to life in his mortal
chaos into order. The transformation began with body but subsequently dies again. Revelation
resurrection 220

20 describes two resurrections, the first for the eternal state. The believer’s new body will be
“blessed and holy,” or believers (verse 6), and the like that of the resurrected Christ: eternal, im-
second for “the dead,” unbelievers (verses 12–13). perishable, free from sin and evil, never again
subject to the limitations of the mortal body
The first resurrection occurs in four phases:
(1 Cor. 15:42–44, 53–54; Phil. 3:21; 1 John 3:2).
(1) As “the first fruits of those who are asleep,”
Biblical descriptions of the resurrected Christ,
Jesus Christ was “raised from the dead” on the
as He appeared prior to the ascension, reveal
third day (1 Cor. 15:20, 23), ascended into heaven
what resurrected believers will receive (Acts 1:3;
(Acts 1:2, 9), and is now seated at the right hand of
1 Cor. 15:5–7). Even after resurrection, Christ
the Father (Ps. 110:1; Eph. 1:20). The resurrection
was recognizable to the disciples (Matt. 28:9–10).
of Jesus Christ is the only resurrection to have
He presented Himself in a resurrection body
occurred thus far in human history.
of substance—flesh and bones—that could be
(2) Church Age believers, whether alive or dead,
touched and felt (Luke 24:39–40; John 20:17),
will “meet the Lord in the air” at the Rapture
and that also walked through stones and closed
(1 Thess. 4:13–17) and receive a resurrection body
doors (John 20:19, 26). In this imperishable body
like that of Christ (1 Cor. 15:51–57; Phil. 3:21).
He breathed and ate (John 20:22; Luke 24:42–43),
Residing in heaven while the earthly Tribulation
moved unaided in both vertical and horizontal
plays out, the resurrected Church will return with
planes (Matt. 28:9–10; Acts 1:9–10), and could
Christ in glory at the Second Advent (Eph. 5:27).
suddenly appear and disappear (Mark 16:12–14;
(3) Pre-Church Age believers and tribulational
Luke 24:31).
martyrs will be resurrected at the end of the
At the present time the victorious Jesus Christ
Tribulation and, along with the resurrected
is the only one in resurrection body (Luke 24:6–7;
Church, be ushered into the millennial kingdom
1 Tim. 6:16; 1 Pet. 1:3). All other resurrections will
(Isa. 26:19; Dan. 12:13; Matt. 24:3; Rev. 20:4).
follow, “each in his own order,” depending upon
(4) Believers who die during the Millennium
the dispensation in which the believer lives (1 Cor.
will be raised at the end of the thousand years
15:22–23). Church Age believers will receive their
and enter the eternal state with all other believers
resurrection bodies at the Rapture. Believers who
of history (Rev. 21:1–4).
died during the dispensations of Gentiles, Israel,
The second resurrection will occur at the end of and Hypostatic Union and future tribulational
the Millennium. At that time, unbelievers “who martyrs will be resurrected to receive immortal
sleep in the dust of the ground will awake . . . to bodies at the end of the Tribulation. And finally,
disgrace and everlasting contempt” (Dan. 12:2). millennial believers will receive their resurrec-
All persons of human history who never accepted tion bodies at the conclusion of the Millennium,
Jesus Christ as Savior will be raised to stand just before the eternal state begins.
before the “great white throne” of judgment (Rev. See also interim body; resurrection; sancti-
20:11–12). To live with God forever, one must have fication (ultimate).
God’s imputed righteousness and eternal life. For further reference, The Integrity of God.
Lesson 438:77.
The unbeliever has neither. Having only “their
deeds,” an inadequate accumulation of human
good works, all unbelievers will be declared
resurrection of the Church
See Rapture.
unqualified to live with God and condemned to
the lake of fire for eternity (Rev. 20:12–15; cf. John
5:24–29).
resuscitation The miraculous restoration to life
of a physically dead person, whose mortal body
See also interim body; resurrection body.
For further reference, Christian Suffering; The Divine
eventually dies again. Resuscitation is distinct
Outline of History. from resurrection, which describes the rise from
Lessons 408:57–62; 457:665–66, 674; 412:611–16. death to an immortal body.
Both the Old and New Testaments record
resurrection body The immortal, glorified instances of resuscitation: the widow’s son was
body given to believers for existence in the raised by the Lord through the intercessory
 221 reversionism

prayer of Elijah (1 Kings 17:17–22); Lazarus was loses objectivity, concentration, and motivation
raised directly by Jesus (John 11:43–44); Paul, to live the spiritual life (1 Tim. 6:3–4).
when he was stoned to death, was “caught up (2) Frantic search for happiness. Seeking an
into Paradise” and then returned to life (Acts antidote for self-induced misery, the believer
14:19–20; 2 Cor. 12:3–4). Other examples of resus- sets off on a desperate pursuit of happiness.
citation occurred through the spiritual gift of This futile endeavor follows one of the sin
miracles when Peter raised Tabitha (Acts 9:40–41) nature trends: either the self-righteousness of
and Paul raised Eutychus (Acts 20:9–12). legalism—which results in judging, tabooism, or
See also resurrection. Christian activism—or the self-gratification of
antinomianism—which results in anything from
retroactive positional truth chemical abuse to sexual perversion to crime
See positional truth. (2 Tim. 3:4). See also happiness.
(3) Operation Boomerang. The believer’s attempt
reverse-process reversionism to find happiness apart from doctrine backfires.
See reversionism. Failure to assuage his discontent intensifies dis-
couragement to a state of depression, loneliness
reversionism The progressive regression and to desolation, and frustration to rage. See also
degradation of the believer who turns away from volitional responsibility, law of.
God’s plan for his life and returns to a former (4) Emotional revolt of the soul. Rather than
viewpoint and lifestyle that eventually render responding to doctrine in the right lobe, emotion
him indistinguishable from an unbeliever. responds to mental attitude sins, lusts, or human
In his second epistle, Peter precisely describes good and assumes the role of aggressor, dictating
reversionists as those who after escaping “the to the right lobe (2 Cor. 6:11–12). In this state of
defilements of the world by the knowledge of the revolt, emotion takes control of the believer’s
Lord and Savior . . . are again entangled in them mentality, becomes a tool of the sin nature, and
and are overcome” (2 Pet. 2:20a). Other passages manifests such conditions as instability, wide
of Scripture designate this entangled believer mood swings, and irrationality. Doctrine in
as “an enemy of God” (James 4:4), shipwrecked the soul is neutralized, and, in seeking to ‘feel
(1 Tim. 1:19), not abiding in the truth (2 John 9), good,’ the believer’s capacity for true happiness
self-deluded (James 1:22, 24), a “backslider” (Prov. evaporates (Phil. 3:18–19). See also emotion.
14:14), “faithless” (Hosea 10:2; 2 Tim. 2:13). While (5) Locked-in negative volition. Indifference or
the reversionist has not lost his salvation, his hostility toward Bible teaching becomes complete
chosen lifestyle of sin and evil brings self-induced rejection of God’s Word, God’s grace, and His
misery and divine punishment during his life on divine provisions.
earth (Heb. 12:4–15). In fact, Peter warns that the (6) Blackout of the soul. The void of doctrine
temporal consequences for the reversionistic be- in the mentality creates a vacuum (mataiotes) in
liever are worse than the suffering in the life of an the soul that draws in satanic propaganda and
unbeliever (2 Pet. 2:20–21). doctrines (1 Tim. 4:1b). The believer’s thinking,
The perpetually carnal believer, refusing the “darkened in . . . understanding,” becomes dis-
rebound solution and remaining negative toward torted, apostate, and evil (Eph. 4:17–18). See also
Bible doctrine, descends through the following vacuum in the soul.
eight stages of reversionism that eventuate in (7) Scar tissue of the soul. Evil ideas saturating
maximum divine discipline, the sin unto death the believer’s mind produce an accumulation of
(1 John 5:17). scar tissue on the right lobe. Scar tissue describes
(1) Reaction and distraction. As the believer the “hardness of their heart” (Eph. 4:18), the point
reacts to people, circumstances, or doctrine, he at which truth stops circulating in the stream of
becomes susceptible to disillusionment, hyper- consciousness and false concepts are drawn into
sensitivity, boredom, loneliness, and frustration. the mind ever more rapidly (Ps. 95:7b–10; John
He rejects the authority of the Word of God and 12:40; Rom. 2:5, 8). At this stage, the believer
reversionism 222

slides into moral or immoral degeneracy and In the end, history’s supreme empire of evil
becomes indistinguishable from an unbeliever. will receive her due divine justice. Roman
See also hardness of heart. leaders and military will be the carnage of the
(8) Reverse-process reversionism. The believer is in Second Advent (Dan. 7:11, 26; Rev. 19:11–21).
the peak of degeneracy—characterized by the total The empire’s capital of satanic religion, called
influence of evil and the substitution of Satan’s in Scripture “Babylon the great,” will fall from
plan for God’s plan. Divorced from reality, this history by a swift judgment of pestilence, famine,
believer pushes aside all true values and reverses and fire (Rev. 18:2–10, 21; 19:2). As a memorial
his priorities to now accept everything worthless. to the power of God and His just punishment of
Like the Jews of Jeremiah’s day transferring their evil, a smoke cloud will hover above the desolate
love for the Lord to idols, he spurns true objects site throughout the Millennium (Rev. 19:3).
of love and enters into pseudolove fanaticism See also abomination of desolation; Armaged-
toward the false or inconsequential (Jer. 9:13–14; don; beast; ecumenical religion; Tribulation.
19:5; Eph. 4:18–19; Rev. 2:4). For further reference, Armageddon; Daniel Chapters
One through Six.
See also degeneracy; loser believer; sin nature.
For further reference, Reversionism; Satan and Demon-
ism. righteousness [Heb. tsedaqah; Gk. dikaiosune] In
Lessons 422:26–42; 412:934–37. general, the virtue of goodness and uprightness.
(1) The divine attribute. The absolute, incorrup-
Revived Roman Empire The western empire
tible perfection of God’s person and character
formed during the Tribulation to exert Satan’s
(Deut. 32:4; Ps. 11:7; 25:8; 119:137). See essence
power on the world, with Israel as the prime
of God (righteousness); integrity of God.
target.
In Revelation 17, John identifies seven empires (2) Righteousness in the believer exists in several
opposed to Israel throughout her history: the “five categories:
[that] have fallen” are the empires that existed a. Imputed righteousness is God’s own righteous-
prior to John (Egypt, Babylonia, Assyria, Media- ness attributed to every believer at the moment
Persia, Graeco-Macedonia); the “one [that] is” of salvation (Gen. 15:6; Rom. 3:22; 4:1–6, 21–25;
refers to the Roman Empire at the time of John’s Phil. 3:9). Not even the best efforts of fallen
writing; and the “other [that] has not yet come” man can produce a righteousness acceptable
is the future Roman Empire of the Tribulation to God, but the Lord Jesus Christ became “sin
(Rev. 17:10). Daniel describes this revived Roman on our behalf, so that we might become the
entity as “feet partly of iron and partly of clay” righteousness of God in Him” (2 Cor. 5:21).
(Dan. 2:33, 41–42): the ten toes of the feet repre- When a person believes in Christ as Savior, God
sent the ten member nations consolidated under the Father permanently imputes, or credits, His
a Gentile dictator (the “beast”), who is given world own absolute righteousness to that believer.
authority by Satan for the entire second half of The undeserving sinner, on the basis of this
the Tribulation (Rev. 13:1–2; 17:12–13). judicial imputation, is declared justified and
The future Roman Empire will unite church righteous in God’s sight—acceptable to the perfect
and state to create a religious-political dictator- divine standard (Rom. 3:24; 4:5; 5:1; Gal. 2:16).
ship (Dan. 7:25; Rev. 13:5–8a). By seducing the God is now free to personally love and bless the
international arena with satanic idolatry, this believer without compromise to His character.
imperial power will oppress the saints and Imputed righteousness, or plus R, forms the
incite conflict and devastation upon the entire receiving end of the grace pipeline, through
human scene (Dan. 7:21; Rev. 9:20–21; 17:2, 4, which flows every divine blessing of salvation,
6). In addition to inflicting persecution upon logistical grace, and supergrace prosperity (Matt.
the Jewish state, the beast and his armed forces 6:33). See also grace pipeline; imputations;
will wage war against the Lord Jesus Christ in relative righteousness.
the final battle of the Armageddon campaign b. Positional righteousness is one of the unique
(Zech. 12:3b, 9; 14:2; Rev. 19:19). benefits to Church Age believers, who, by virtue
 223 right man–right woman

of their exalted position “in Christ” (2 Cor. 5:17), right man–right woman The concept that God
share all that Christ has and is, including His has designed a perfectly suited man for each
righteousness (Rom. 8:29; 2 Cor. 5:21; Gal. 3:27). woman and a perfectly suited woman for each
See also position in Christ; sanctification man. (Exceptions include those with the spiritual
(positional). gift of celibacy or the call to supreme sacrifice in
c. Experiential righteousness is the integrity and Christian service.)
spiritual capacity developed by the believer in his The pattern for right man–right woman was
postsalvation life. The term is synonymous with established in the Garden. God brought to Adam
“godliness,” used in the New Testament to refer to the one woman who completed and fulfilled
the lifestyle of the believer living in obedience to him perfectly, and the two were joined together
God’s mandates, growing in grace and knowledge in the divine institution of marriage (Gen.
of Christ (1 Tim. 6:11; 2 Pet. 1:6–7; 1 John 2:29). 2:20–25). Through coalescence of soul and body,
right man and right woman become one. This
Experiential righteousness is potential, not
utterly unique relationship, with an ideal soul
assured, after salvation because the believer must
and physiological fit, can provide a lifetime of
make repeated decisions to learn and apply God’s
happiness even to unbelievers (Eccl. 9:9). Of
Word under the filling of the Holy Spirit (Rom.
course, for believers who share a love for God and
8:4; 12:2). See also godliness; sanctification
His Word, marriage of right man–right woman
(experiential).
becomes an exceeding blessing.
d. Ultimate or perfect righteousness is a result of
God protects the sacredness of the right
ultimate sanctification, the status of all regen- man–right woman relationship with divine
erate mankind in eternity (2 Pet. 3:13; Rev. 19:14). prohibitions against fornication, adultery, auto-
Facing an eternal future of great joy, every eroticism, polygamy, and homosexuality (Ex.
believer in Christ will be spotlessly clean and 20:14; Lev. 20:10–23; Rom. 1:26–27; 1 Cor. 5:11;
perfect with a resurrection body purified of sin Heb. 13:4). These sins actually destroy capacity
and human good. See also resurrection body; to either recognize one’s right opposite number
sanctification (ultimate). or to fully express love in marriage (1 Cor. 6:18).
For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Integrity Guidance for the unmarried. Aside from the
of God. decision to believe in Jesus Christ, the most
important decision in life is the choice of a
right lobe of the soul (a) Designated in the partner in marriage. The following are a few
Hebrew text as leb, in the Greek as kardia, and basic guidelines for recognizing one’s right mate
in the English as “heart,” refers to the dominant, and avoiding marriage to the wrong person:
thinking portion of the soul’s mentality; (b) the • A believer should not marry an unbeliever
soul’s residence for biblical information that is [see unequally yoked]. Similarly, a believer
believed and has spiritual value for application positive to Bible doctrine should not marry a
(Prov. 4:4; Eph. 1:18), as well as its residence for negative believer.
false standards and mental attitude carnality • Social status, physical gratification, and fi-
(Prov. 5:12–14; 18:12; Matt. 15:19). For the believer nancial security are not criteria for marriage.
in Jesus Christ, the right lobe is where success • Spiritual, mental, economic, and recreational
or failure in the spiritual life is determined (Prov. compatibility must be determined before
2:2–5). marriage.
The main component of the right lobe is the • No woman should marry a man she cannot
stream of consciousness, through which con- respect and willfully submit to, with body,
scious thoughts and applicable knowledge are soul, and spirit.
circulated. Also located in the right lobe is the • No man should marry a woman he cannot
subconscious, where suppressed reactions to lead.
adversity, sin, and failure reside. See stream of • A believer should not marry a divorced
consciousness; subconscious. person unless that person has the biblical
right man–right woman 224

right to remarry [see marriage (divorce and Heb. 9:2–3). Within the most holy sanctuary
remarriage)]. dwelt the Shekinah Glory, the glory of God local-
ized with His people (Ex. 25:8, 22; 40:34–38).
For married couples. It should be noted that the
Every prescribed article within and around the
concept of right man–right woman is no longer
Tabernacle spoke of the Messiah and His gracious
relevant to couples already joined in marriage.
gift of salvation (Ex. 25—27). For example, the
Even if wrong decisions were made, the respon-
golden lampstand in the Holy Place represented
sibilities and mandates regarding the divine
Christ as the “Light of the world” (John 8:12).
institution now take precedence. In other words,
The brazen altar in the courtyard pictured
failure to have chosen right man or right woman
the cross. The ark of the covenant, inside the
is not a legitimate reason for terminating a
Holy of Holies, depicted the unique God-man
marriage.
Savior and held items representing the people’s
See also marriage.
sins. Throughout the early history of Israel, the
Lessons 744:1–12; 601:1–18; 412:1046.
Tabernacle served as the center of worship and
instruction until a more permanent structure, the
ritual plan of God The way of life and worship
Temple, was built during the reign of Solomon
for Old Testament Israel, using tradition and
(1 Chron. 6:32; 2 Chron. 2—7). See also ark of
ceremony as a primary method of instruction.
the covenant; Day of Atonement.
Jews from the time of the Exodus to the Incar-
nation were under the ritual plan of God. levitiCal pRiesthood
Like most people in the ancient world, many Following the Exodus from Egypt, approx-
Israelites were illiterate. They learned not through imately two million Jews required the services
the written word but through visual illustrations, of priests to teach and perform the ordinances
ceremonial routine, and verbal communication. conveyed to Moses. The Mosaic Law instituted
For this reason, God gave Moses an elaborate the Levitical priesthood, descended from
system of rituals that portrayed His grace plan Aaron and the tribe of Levi (Ex. 28:1–4; Num.
for humanity. The rituals, a dramatic “shadow of 3:1–3; 18:1, 7–8). Throughout the Age of Israel,
what is to come,” were types and teaching aids por- Levitical priests were responsible for both the
traying Christ, salvation, and fellowship with God verbal communication of doctrine and the ritual
(Col. 2:17; Heb. 8:5; 10:1). By understanding illustration of that doctrine by means of the
the doctrinal meanings behind the rituals, un- Levitical offerings. See also priesthood (Old
believers could be evangelized and believers Testament Levitical).
could better understand their relationship with
levitiCal offeRings
God for both time and eternity.
The purpose of the sacrificial offerings was
The Mosaic Law contained the complete
to orient the Jewish individual to God’s plan
instructions for the Jews’ center of worship
for his life. Overall, these dramatic rituals sym-
(Tabernacle), the administration and leadership
bolically foreshadowed every aspect of Jesus
of the ritual plan (Levitical priesthood), the sac-
Christ and His substitutionary work on the
rifices and offerings (Levitical offerings), as well
cross (Col. 2:17; Heb. 8:5; 10:1). Every detail was
as the special holy days set aside for worship
a teaching aid for conveying the doctrines of
(feast days).
Christology, soteriology, and fellowship with God.
tabeRnaCle Most graphically, Christ’s future atonement was
The earthly Tabernacle, the portable “tent portrayed on the brazen altar by the unblemished
of meeting,” was a shadow depicting the reality sacrificial animals—their throats cut, bleeding
of heaven (Ex. 40; cf. Heb. 8:1–2, 5). Inside the to death in the sinner’s place (Heb. 9:13–14, 22).
sacred structure a great veil separated two rooms: The offerer, who stood by and watched a spotless,
the larger one was called “the holy place,” and vigorous animal die, was shocked into the
the smaller one, representing God’s throne realization of how the Savior would bear the sins
room, was called “the holy of holies” (Ex. 26:33; of the world. Numerous bystanders also watched
 225 ritual plan of God

and learned from the vivid ceremonies. The five believer out of fellowship is forgiven and cleansed
Levitical offerings can be categorized as follows: “from all unrighteousness” when he names his
Burnt (Lev. 1). An acceptable burnt offering known sins to God the Father (1 John 1:9). The
was “a male without defect” that came “from the rebound offerings portrayed the principles of
herd” (Lev. 1:2–9), “from the flock” (Lev. 1:10– confession and forgiveness through the work of
13), or “of birds” (Lev. 1:14–17). Israelites from Christ. Every Jewish believer could participate
every economic level could afford one of these in these offerings regarding postsalvation sins,
animals, emphasizing that all were included in but the instructions varied according to the spir-
the Messiah’s atoning work. itual condition of the nation and its spiritual
The Jew expressed positive volition toward leadership. In the sin offering, priests carried out
the Savior when he brought his offering to the elaborate rituals for their own unknown sins
doorway of the Tabernacle. There, on the brazen as well as for the collective unknown sins of
altar, the innocent animal was sacrificed in the congregation (Lev. 4). Sin offerings involved
the sinner’s place to foreshadow God’s perfect sacrificial animals whose blood was sprinkled
sacrifice. The offerer placed his hand on the ani- by the priest’s finger on specified areas and
mal’s head to symbolize the transfer of his sins items inside the Tabernacle. Since the rituals
to the coming Messiah. Then the slaughtered concerned unknown sins, no verbal confession
animal was wholly burned, except for the hide, was prescribed. The guilt offering pertained
atop the wood on the altar. Wood used for burn- to known sins, with certain sacrificial rituals
ing depicted sins, the burning depicted judgment assigned for certain types of sins (Lev. 5—6).
of those sins, and the burning’s “soothing aroma
holy days (feast days)
to the Lord” symbolized divine propitiation: God
According to their yearly time schedule, the
was satisfied with the offering and accepted it
Israelites were commanded to keep the appointed
as atonement (Lev. 3:5). The offerer understood
“holy convocations,” also called holy days (Lev.
that in God’s perfect time, the shadow would
23), some of which involved special sacrifices
become reality—the Savior would come to bear
and feasts. The appointed holy days include the
the judgment for his sins, as well as the sins of all
Sabbath, seventh day of every week, celebrated by
mankind (1 Pet. 1:18–19).
assembly worship and cessation from work [see
Grain or gift (Lev. 2). In contrast to the burnt
Sabbath]; Passover, sacrifice and feast involving
offering, which looked at propitiation from the
an unblemished lamb, celebrated in memorial to
standpoint of the Messiah’s work, the bloodless
the original Passover, which marked deliverance
grain offering viewed propitiation from the aspect
from Egypt [see Passover]; Unleavened Bread,
of His person. In view was the impeccability
immediately following Passover, involved the
of Christ’s humanity that qualified Him as the
removal of all leaven from the house and a week-
perfect sacrifice, emphasizing the fact that only a
long feast on unleavened foods to symbolize
perfect gift can satisfy a perfect Giver. Perfection
fellowship with God (1 Cor. 5:8) [see also leaven];
of the gift is seen in the offering of “fine flour.”
Day of Atonement, annual celebration in which the
Peace (Lev. 3). The peace offering represented
high priest made sacrifices in the Tabernacle for
the doctrine of reconciliation based on Christ’s
the sins of himself and the people (Lev. 16:7–10,
substitutionary work; therefore, a sacrificial
15–16; 23:26–32) [see Day of Atonement]. Other
animal was slaughtered and its blood sprinkled
regularly observed feast days include Pentecost
over the altar (Lev. 3:2). Specific parts of the inner
(Weeks or Harvest) (Lev. 23:15–21; 2 Chron. 8:13),
animal were burned on the altar as an offering to
Trumpets (Lev. 23:23–25), and Tabernacles (Booths)
God (Lev. 3:3–5, 9–11, 14–16; 7:31a), while portions
(Lev. 23:33–43; Zech. 14:9, 16).
of the flesh were given to the priests for eating
(Lev. 7:31b–34). The remaining flesh was for the Ritual plan fulfilled and abRogated foR a new age
offerer, yet whatever remained by the third day Old Testament Jews understood that these
had to be burned, but not on the altar (Lev. 7:17). rituals were figurative, and they looked forward
Rebound offerings (Lev. 4—6). Then, as now, a to the day the reality would be fulfilled (Heb.
ritual plan of God 226

10:1–4). When Christ finally arrived in the flesh, ROM and PROM chips Terminology borrowed
the reality fulfilled the shadows, making this from the computer industry to illustrate the
magnificent heritage of ritual suddenly obsolete coexistence of the sovereign will of God and free
(Heb. 8:13; 10:9). A new way of life, the protocol will of man. The chip analogy is part of a larger
plan of God, was provided for the Church. technology-inspired illustration of the divine
The ritual plan of God, however, remains an decree.
integral part of Scripture, documenting God’s Computer of divine decree. To better comprehend
faithfulness and describing Christ’s person and God’s decree made in eternity past and played out
work. Therefore, an in-depth study of the Age of in time, imagine a computer designed by God
Israel (Ex. 12—Mal. 4) is an essential part of every strictly for His use and purposes. As a means
Christian’s knowledge of God’s plan and thinking. of inputting into this computer His complete
knowledge of human history, God manufactured
See also Mosaic Law; protocol plan of God.
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History; two types of chips. Each chip was designed to hold
Levitical Offerings. a distinct type of information. Once information
was programmed onto the chips, it could be
road to ruin Describes the journey of prolonged retrieved and read but not altered.
carnality and divine discipline traveled by the God first manufactured a ROM (read-only
believer who rejects the spiritual life. See loser memory) chip on which He programmed every
believer; reversionism. detail of His sovereign will for all humanity. God
then manufactured a PROM (programmable
read-only memory) chip—a chip designed to
be programmed after the manufacturing stage.
Jealousy, Minus
Bitterness Rebound The omniscience of God took the manufactured
PROM chip, looked into all of human history for
Implacability, every freewill decision that would ever be made
Anger by mankind, then stored that information in its
Minus Hatred, entirety on the PROM chip.
Rebound Vindictiveness
Minus
All data on both chips—the sovereign will of
Three Rebound God and the freewill decisions of man—was then
Arrogance integrated into God’s vast computer to produce
Skills
Minus Malice, Revenge,
an output that amounts to every detail of human
Rebound
Vituperation, Vilification, history playing out in time. In other words, God
Violence, Abuse
knew in eternity past everything about His per-
Minus
LOSER Rebound fect, sovereign will as well as man’s response to
BELIEVER
it. God declared it all certain to occur by feeding
the details into His computer. Human history,
then, can be described as the output or expression
Figure 24 ROAD TO RUIN of everything God knew would occur and there-
fore decreed.
role-model arrogance The attitude that See also divine decree.
assigns customary functions (roles) to people in
certain positions in life and then reacts when royal ambassador
unrealistic expectations are not met. Role- See ambassador for Christ.
model arrogance makes heroes out of ministers,
professional athletes, executives, law enforcers, royal commissions The divine appointments
statesmen, even husbands and wives, and then of royal priest and royal ambassador granted
passes judgment on the object of admiration to every Church Age believer upon entrance
for any deviation from the perfect model. See into the royal family of God. Together, these
iconoclastic arrogance. two commissions define the seen and unseen
 227 royal family of God

aspects of the Christian life: the royal priesthood hood allows the believer to live and let live—no
is the believer’s invisible, private relationship gossip, judgment, or evil speculation (Rom. 14:2–
with God, while the royal ambassadorship is 3, 10–13). The royal honor code also obligates the
his visible, public relationship with people and strong believer to bear the shortcomings of less-
circumstances (2 Cor. 5:20; 1 Pet. 2:5, 9). Synonym: mature believers and to avoid activities that may
royal warrants. See ambassador for Christ; present stumbling blocks to the weak (Rom. 15:1;
royal priest. 1 Cor. 8:9). Always oriented to grace, the noble
ambassador for Christ remembers that giving is
royal family honor code The biblically man- a spiritual matter, to be performed as unto the
dated guidelines that allow every Church Age Lord with proper motivation from doctrine (Rom.
believer to live as spiritual royalty under God’s 15:26–27; 16:1–2; 2 Cor. 9:7). Such a lifestyle of
protocol plan. virtue is carried through all the way to the dying
As joint heirs with Christ and members of stage: the believer who lives by the honor code
a spiritual aristocracy, Church Age believers faces death the same way he faces everything else
are given a royal code of honor by which to in life, with an attitude of complete dependence
live. The code for the royal family requires not upon the Father’s perfect plan and provision
mere morality but integrity—Christian integrity, (Rom. 14:7–9; 16:3–4).
honor code integrity—attainable only through See also ambassador for Christ; aristocracy,
Bible doctrine and the enabling power of the spiritual; protocol plan of God; royal family
Holy Spirit. As the believer advances to spiritual of God; royal law.
For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Integrity
maturity, he more and more fully orients to God’s of God.
absolute, eternal essence and is rightly motivat- Lessons 458:409–10, 484–87, 518–22; 412:1006–11.
ed for right action (Rom. 12:2). The member
of the royal family who lives by this code of royal family of God The entire body of Church
elevated standards fulfills his noble obligation Age believers as it relates to our Lord’s kingly
to represent Jesus Christ, the King of kings, to lineage and third royal title, King of kings and
man and angels. Lord of lords.
Romans 12—16, along with other New When Jesus Christ ascended into heaven as the
Testament passages, prescribes the royal family victorious God-man, He was seated at the right
honor code. The driving characteristics are hand of God, the place of highest honor, and
respect for authority, personal love for God the awarded His third title of royalty (Acts 2:32–34;
Father, and impersonal love for all mankind. Phil. 2:9; 1 Tim. 6:15). To accompany the glorified
The believer who adheres to this superior code King of kings, a new royal family was initiated.
exhibits genuine humility in both the human God the Father set aside the Age of Israel and
and spiritual realms as he submits to the laws inserted the Age of the Church for the formation
of divine establishment and the spiritual laws of this unique spiritual dynasty.
of God’s Word (Rom. 13:1–10; 1 Pet. 2:13–18). With The royal family of God is formed through the
“virtue first” as his motto and love for God as his baptism of the Spirit, which at the point of sal-
motivation, the spiritual aristocrat keeps in mind vation enters all Church Age believers into union
that every person is someone for whom Christ with Christ, regardless of background, gender,
died (2 Cor. 5:14–16; 1 John 4:10–11). Impersonal race, or any other human factor. The entire royal
love becomes the foundation for tolerance, flexi- family is positionally in Christ and therefore each
bility, courtesy, thoughtfulness, and discretion member is a joint heir of God, sharing in all that
in all circumstances. The honorable Christian Christ is and has. All royal offspring in the spiri-
fulfills the command to “love your neighbor tual realm are specially provisioned to carry out
as yourself,” which rules out arrogance, self- their role as spiritual aristocracy. Their two royal
righteousness, and self-pity and leaves conflict commissions—the offices of royal priest and royal
and retaliation in the Lord’s hands (Rom. 13:9b; ambassador—allow them to represent themselves
James 2:8). Respect for the privacy of the priest- directly before God (1 Pet. 2:9) and represent
royal family of God 228

Jesus Christ before man and angels (2 Cor. 5:20). the spiritual life of Jesus Christ. Leviticus 19:18
The virtuous guidelines of the royal family honor was strictly a matter of faith-rest, putting conflict
code teach them to conduct themselves with before the Supreme Court of Heaven and leaving
integrity and honor. And by functioning under the outcome to the integrity of God, to His perfect
divine protocol—walking by means of the Spirit function of divine justice.
(Gal. 5:16), growing in grace and knowledge of (2) Age of Hypostatic Union. The complete fulfill-
the Lord (2 Pet. 3:18), and residing in love (John ment of the royal law occurred on the cross,
15:9–10)—spiritual aristocrats manifest the supe- when perfect royalty, the Lord Jesus Christ, was
riority of their eternal position. made “sin on our behalf” (2 Cor. 5:21). During
Upon its completion, the royal family will be His earthly ministry, Christ taught “love your
resurrected at the Rapture of the Church. Every neighbor as yourself” as the second greatest
member will receive a resurrection body, be eval- commandment, second only to “love the Lord
uated at the judgment seat of Christ, and then your God” (Matt. 22:37–39). His life exemplified
return with Christ at the Second Advent. these mandates. Even as He suffered betrayal,
Synonyms for the royal family of God are desertion, and slander and was “despised and
“church” (Matt. 16:18; Eph. 1:22), emphasizing forsaken of men,” He never once lowered Him-
the function of the royal family of God during self to meet sin with sin (Isa. 53:3). On the cross,
this dispensation; “body of Christ” (1 Cor. 10:16; the transgressions of the entire human race
12:27; Eph. 4:4–6, 12), emphasizing the unity and were imputed to His impeccable humanity and
common purpose shared by each member; and judged, yet our Lord bore no grudge and har-
“bride” of Christ (Rev. 19:7–9), emphasizing the bored no bitterness (Matt. 27:46; 1 Pet. 2:22–24;
royal family of God after resurrection. 3:18). Enduring what might be seen as the most
See also aristocracy, spiritual; protocol plan unfair act in all of history, He continued to love
of God; royal family honor code. all mankind with a maximum expression of
For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Divine
Outline of History; Follow the Colors.
impersonal love. Moreover, His personal love
Lessons 467:69–70; 412:117, 158–60. for the Father never waned and His reliance on
the Spirit never ceased. The spiritual dynamics
royal law The divine mandate for the believer that sustained Christ, unknown to previous
to love his neighbor as he loves himself. The ages, added a new dimension to the mandate
love referred to here is impersonal love, a non- contained in Leviticus 19:18.
emotional, unconditional regard for the entire (3) Church Age. James 2:8 designates the
human race. command from Leviticus as the “royal law,” be-
The general concept of this command—do cause the mandate was fulfilled by the King of
not meet sin with sin—was introduced in the kings and is now directed toward His royal family,
Mosaic Law, yet the designation as “royal law” the Church. Paul’s epistles recognize the mag-
did not occur until the New Testament period. In- nitude of this law for the Church: “For the whole
terpretation within the framework of the follow- Law is fulfilled in one word [one doctrine] . . . ‘You
ing three dispensations reveals the command’s shall love your neighbor as yourself’” (Gal.
significance and ultimate means of fulfillment: 5:14). “Neighbor” now applies to the entire human
(1) Age of Israel. The Mosaic Law instructed client race. Rather than solving conflict through sin or,
nation Israel, “Do not seek revenge nor bear any as with Israel, solely through faith-rest, a believer
grudge against your people or the sons of your in this age follows the precedent set by the royal
own people, but you shall love your neighbor Savior. By understanding and utilizing the same
[fellow Jews in Israel] as you love yourself” (Lev. spiritual dynamics Christ used on earth, the
19:18a, corrected translation). The Jews could believer can maintain a relaxed mental attitude,
fulfill this mandate only as far as the spiritual an attitude of thoughtfulness and graciousness
life of that age would allow. In the Age of Israel, toward all mankind, whether he is treated
Jewish believers did not have the filling of the Holy fairly or otherwise (Rom. 13:8–9; 1 Pet. 2:19–24;
Spirit, nor did they have the doctrines related to 1 John 3:11, 23; 4:7). This is impersonal love, draw-
 229 royal warrants

ing its strength not from the recipient of love royal priest The office of every Church Age
but from the virtue of the believer himself. To believer, who upon entrance into the royal family
genuinely love others “as yourself” requires the of God is granted the commission and privilege
filling of the Holy Spirit, personal love for God, of representing himself personally before God
and the inner confidence of spiritual self-esteem. the Father (1 Pet. 2:9).
See also impersonal love for all mankind; Unlike the Levitical priesthood, which was
personal love for God the Father; royal family based on physical birth, heredity, and physical
honor code. attributes, the sole qualification for a priest in
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Christian
Suffering. the Church Age is spiritual birth at salvation.
Lessons 376:1335–78. Through the baptism of the Holy Spirit, every
Church Age believer—whether Jew or Gentile,
royal palace slave or free, male or female—is brought into
See divine dynasphere. union with the great High Priest, Jesus Christ,
who forms from His royal family a kingdom of
royal patents Three exclusive categories of royal priests (Gal. 3:27–28; Heb. 7:23–28; Rev. 1:6;
royalty that belong to Jesus Christ and describe 5:10).
the nobility of His exalted person and position. Scripture refers to this kingdom of priests as a
Each royal patent holds a title and is comple- “holy priesthood” (1 Pet. 2:5), meaning separated
mented by a royal family. Synonym: royal unto God for His special purpose and mission.
warrants of Christ. Each individual member is blessed with direct
(1) Son of God, signifying divine royalty, held access to the Heavenly Father and the opportunity
by virtue of His eternal and infinite deity. As the to live a unique spiritual life with unprecedented
Son of God, His royal family is made up of God assets, superior to anything in the Age of Israel.
the Father and God the Holy Spirit (Rom. 1:4). The privacy of the royal priesthood ensures that
(2) Son of David, signifying Jewish royalty, the every believer-priest lives his own life before
royal lineage of His birth, related to the human- the Lord (Eph. 6:7–8; 2 Thess. 3:11–12). Priestly
ity of Christ as the prophesied heir to the throne functions—the “spiritual sacrifices acceptable
of David. The royal family for the Son of David to God through Jesus Christ”—take place not
is the Davidic dynasty (2 Sam. 7:12–13; Isa. 11:1; on a physical altar but on the altar of the soul
Matt. 21:15). (1 Pet. 2:5b; cf. Rom. 12:1; Heb. 13:15–16). The royal
(3) King of kings and Lord of lords, the Bright priest represents himself before God by acknowl-
Morning Star, signifying battlefield royalty, edging sins privately to the Father (1 John 1:9),
conferred upon Christ following His death, offering prayer directly before the throne of grace
resurrection, ascension, and session at the (Heb. 4:16), learning and applying Bible doctrine
right hand of the Father (Phil. 2:8–11; Heb.
(2 Pet. 3:18), and participating in the Eucharist
1:3–4; Rev. 17:14; 19:16; 22:16). At the time of
ritual (1 Cor. 11:23–26).
Christ’s victory, this third royal patent had no
See also priesthood; royal family of God.
accompanying royal family, so God inserted For further reference, Christian Integrity.
into history a new dispensation—the Church Lessons 443:16; 458:458; 429:203–4; 457:13; 376:852.
Age—and established a new dynasty. The royal
family designed to accompany the King of kings royal warrants
is the Church universal, the Body of Christ, See royal commissions; royal patents.
which includes every Church Age believer and
which is still in the process of being completed
(Gal. 3:28; Eph. 1:22–23; 4:12).
See also royal family of God; session of Jesus
Christ.
For further reference, Christian Suffering; The Divine
Outline of History.
Lessons 457:648–50, 697; 376:1132.
 Ss
Sabbath [Heb. v. shabath, to rest, relax; n. shab- rest and relaxation at week’s end helped maintain
bath, temporary period of repose] A specified physical and mental strength. For believers, the
period of rest from work, instituted for Israel to day of rest was a spiritual reminder that man
commemorate the grace of God. cannot work for salvation, daily provision, or any
The first biblical use of shabath occurs in Gen- form of blessing (Isa. 58:13–14). The Law extended
esis 2:2, which states that God “rested on the the test of grace orientation with the sabbatical
seventh day from all His work” of restoration year, in which the people of Israel, for the entirety
and creation on the earth. Omnipotent God, who of every seventh year, were to cease working
needed no rest, ceased His labor because His their lands and vineyards, cease marketing their
work was finished (Isa. 40:28). Man’s every need produce, and rely on the Lord to provide for their
had been met. Sabbath, therefore, is the recog- needs (Ex. 23:10–11; Lev. 25:3–5).
nition and illustration of God’s blessing freely
bestowed on man. God “blessed the seventh FEAST DAYS
day and sanctified it” to emphasize that under
In addition to regular weekly Sabbaths, the Jews
His plan, He does all the work and man is the
were instructed to cease from labor on several of
beneficiary (Gen. 2:3). the annual feast days (Lev. 23:6–8, 27–32, 34–36, 39).
Sabbath for Israel. Soon after the Exodus gen-
eration left Egypt, God introduced “a sabbath
observance, a holy sabbath to the Lord” in True Sabbath rejected. Observing the Sabbath
connection with their daily provision of food, was a ritual whose meaning could only be appre-
or manna (Ex. 16:23, 29–30). The Jews were to ciated by doctrine in the soul. Since Israel peri-
gather a single day’s portion of manna on the first odically rejected God’s Word, she also rejected
five days of the week, a double portion on the the Sabbath concept. Seventy times the Jews
sixth, and nothing on the seventh. As a regular failed to observe a sabbatical year, resulting in
reminder of God’s grace, the “bread from heaven” seventy years of divine judgment upon the na-
left over from the sixth day’s extra portion was tion (Lev. 26:33–36; 2 Chron. 36:20–21; cf. Dan.
miraculously preserved for the seventh day’s 9:2; Jer. 25:11–12; 29:10). Even after the nation was
meal (Ex. 16:4–5, 22–25). The weekly cessation restored, traditions and legalistic codes increas-
of labor signified reliance upon God, and God’s ingly overshadowed the truth of Scripture. By
preservation of the bread reminded the Jews the late centuries B.C., the Jews were following
that He alone supplies the physical and spiritual a system of so-called Sabbath regulations com-
sustenance of believers. See also manna. pletely antithetical to grace. The Mishnah records
The formal “sabbath day” was instituted in tedious prohibitions on carrying food, boiling
greater detail in the Mosaic Law (Ex. 20:8–11; Lev. eggs, extinguishing lamps, moving furniture,
23:3; Deut. 5:12–15). Jews in Israel were instructed handling farm animals, tending to wounds, and
to work six days and rest from all manual labor on many other petty activities. In order to drama-
the seventh, the day of the week we call Saturday. tize these nonbiblical demands, Jesus, during
The priests performed special offerings, and the His earthly ministry, healed the sick and lame
people assembled to hear the Word of God (Num. on the Jewish Sabbath and defied other taboos
28:9–10; Acts 15:21). For believers and unbelievers, (Matt. 12:1–16; Mark 2:23–28; John 5:6–18). When
Sabbath 232

questioned by religious hypocrites as to why He courage, strength, and capacity for life. These
was not keeping their man-imposed rules, Jesus onlookers, beckoned to follow the example, can
answered, “the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath” return the salute by advancing to spiritual ma-
(Matt. 12:8). He was the God-man, the Savior, the turity and anticipating their own promotion to
creator and sustainer of the world. The Sabbath eternity. In a final demonstration of dying grace,
was designed to recognize Him and to honor the salute from the grave resounds to the glory
the dynamics of His grace—not to be used as a of the Lord forever (Phil. 1:20).
weapon of legalism by a religious hierarchy. See also blessing by association (heritage impact);
Church Age. Divine mandates to the Jews regard- dying grace; winner believer.
For further reference, The Unfailing Love of God.
ing Sabbath observance do not carry over into
Lessons 376:1835–36.
the Church Age. The Church Age believer is to
regard every day alike; no one day is holier than
salvation The act of God that delivers a person
any other (Rom. 14:5–8; Col. 2:16). While Sun-
from eternal condemnation and into eternal life.
day, the first day of the week, is the authorized
Those who are saved are “rescued . . . from the
day of assembly worship (Acts 20:7; 1 Cor. 16:2),
domain of darkness [Satan’s fallen kingdom], and
it is not a ‘Christian Sabbath.’ Christians gather transferred . . . to the kingdom of His beloved Son
on Sunday to hear the teaching of the Word, and [Jesus Christ]” (Col. 1:13–14).
in doing so, they learn the doctrine of regarding Every human being needs to be saved, because
each day as an opportunity to enjoy the “peace everyone enters this world in a state of spiritual
of God” (Phil. 4:7; cf. Heb. 4:9–11a). This inner death, total depravity, and total separation from
peace is the sabbath that remains for the Church, God. Because man is born hopelessly lost from
a moment-by-moment rest in God’s grace amid the God and helpless to do anything about it, God, in
pressures and difficulties of life. His grace, designed a perfect plan to reconcile
See also ritual plan of God. man to Himself. God the Son took the burden
For further reference, Creation, Chaos, & Restoration. of responsibility: He became true humanity and
Lessons 438:37; 424:13; 405:24; 419:39.
remained sinless so that He could be judged for
the sins of the world (1 Pet. 3:18). While Jesus
Sadducees Christ hung on the cross, God the Father poured
See Jewish religious leaders.
the full wrath of His justice upon the Son He
loved so perfectly (Matt. 27:46; Rom. 5:8–10; 2 Cor.
saint [Heb. qadosh, sacred, holy; Gk. hagios, sanc- 5:21). Christ “bore our sins in His body” (1 Pet.
tified, holy, set apart] A biblical title for the 2:24) and took the punishment in our place [see
believer in Jesus Christ (Ps. 16:3; 1 Cor. 14:33; substitutionary spiritual death]. God’s
Eph. 2:19; Phil. 4:21; Rev. 14:12). At the moment righteous standard approved of Jesus’ sacrifice as
of salvation, all believers are set apart unto God, payment for all human sins. Hence, when every
sanctified by an act of grace with the imputa- last transgression had been judged, Jesus said,
tions of divine righteousness and eternal life. “It is finished [tetelestai]” (John 19:30). Salvation
See also sanctification. work was complete.
As a matter of grace, every aspect of salva-
salute from the grave The departing believer’s tion is a “gift of God: not of works” (Eph. 2:8b–9a,
tribute to his spiritual victory attained on earth kjv). The spiritually dead person is not only in-
and to the glorious eternal destiny that awaits in capable of saving himself, but he does not even
heaven. have the capability to comprehend the message
As he passes from this temporal life into eter- of Christ’s saving work (1 Cor. 2:14). Therefore,
nity, the winner believer’s grace and content- when the Gospel is communicated, the Holy
ment demonstrate that “to live is Christ and to Spirit graciously makes it understandable. The
die is gain [profit]” (Phil. 1:21). Such testimony hearer responds to that call to salvation simply
allows those left behind to witness, appreciate, by accepting the message as true. This is classi-
and acknowledge the source of their loved one’s fied as “faith alone in Christ alone.” The Holy
 233 sanctification

Spirit then makes that expression of faith effec- (2) Experiential sanctification. The believer’s
tive (John 1:12; Acts 16:31a; Gal. 3:26). progressive fulfillment of the spiritual life be-
The issue in salvation, then, is whether the tween salvation and physical death. Although
person will believe in Jesus Christ as his personal his position in Christ is complete at the moment
Savior (John 14:6; Acts 4:12; 1 Tim. 2:5). Eternal of salvation, the Christian’s experience on earth
life begins at the cross, and faith in Christ as a child of God remains to be lived. The new
secures that grace gift. To place trust in one’s own believer must learn to “walk in newness of life”
work—church membership, rituals, law-keeping, (Rom. 6:4; 2 Cor. 5:17). By utilizing the power
respectability, remorse for sins—is to bypass of the Holy Spirit to recover from postsalvation
or add to the perfect work of God and remain sins and consistently metabolize Bible doctrine,
condemned under spiritual death (John 3:18; he advances spiritually (John 17:17, 19; Gal. 5:5;
Rom. 3:20a; 4:4). 2 Thess. 2:13). And by this process he is prepared
See also believer; eternal security; Gospel; to serve and glorify God (Col. 1:10; 2 Tim. 2:21).
soteriology. The objective of experiential sanctification is “to
For further reference, The Barrier; God’s Perfect Gift; walk in the same manner as He [Christ] walked,”
A Matter of Life & Death; Slave Market of Sin.
Lessons 412:1022–25; 840:254–63. in other words, to live and think with the same
integrity and virtue demonstrated by the human-
sanctification [Gk. hagiasmos, the act of setting ity of Christ on earth (1 John 2:6; cf. Eph. 5:1–2).
apart, making holy, consecrating] A theological This does not mean the believer ceases to sin, for
term for the setting apart of something or some- the sin nature remains in the body until death
one for God’s special purpose. All believers (1 John 1:8–10). Rather, the influence of the sin
throughout history are set apart unto God at sal- nature is increasingly limited through the pro-
vation, in the spiritual life, and extending into cess of experiential sanctification.
the eternal state. In the Church Age, believers Experiential sanctification is commanded but
are set apart with unique privileges, assets, and not guaranteed. While God in grace provides the
opportunities for the maximum glorification resources, opportunities, instructions, and encour-
of Jesus Christ, “the Holy One [hagios] of God” agement, the believer himself chooses whether to
(John 6:69; 2 Thess. 2:13–14). Sanctification, in its execute the spiritual life. Failure in experiential
three phases, now creates a new royal dynasty, sanctification, however, never cancels positional
the Church, to represent and honor the victori- or ultimate sanctification, which are guaranteed
ous King of kings (John 17:17; 1 Thess. 5:23a; by the faithfulness of God (2 Tim. 2:13). See also
Heb. 10:10; 13:12; 1 Tim. 6:14–15). godliness; spiritual adulthood.
(1) Positional sanctification. The status held (3) Ultimate sanctification. The believer in resur-
permanently by the Church Age believer, who rection body—sinless, blameless, and glorified
at the moment of salvation is entered into union before God “with the body of His [Christ’s] glory”
with Christ through the baptism of the Spirit (Phil. 3:21a). Ultimate sanctification occurs at
(1 Cor. 12:13). By this unprecedented union, he the Rapture, when every Church Age believer
who is “in Christ” is created a “new creature,” will be instantly transformed from a body sown
a new spiritual species sharing all that Christ as “perishable,” in dishonor and corruption, to
is and has (2 Cor. 5:17; cf. Rom. 8:16–17). The a body raised as “imperishable,” in glory and
Christian is thus set apart as a royal member incorruption (1 Cor. 15:42–44). This final stage
of the family of God, a divinely appointed saint of sanctification completes God’s grace work in
(hagios) qualified to share in the eternal destiny making each believer “conformed to the image of
and inheritance of the King of kings (1 Cor. 1:2; His Son” (Rom. 8:29). The resurrected royal family
Eph. 2:6–7). Positional sanctification and its ac- will receive a body like that of the resurrected
companying blessings give every believer the Christ and be prepared to share in His triumph
potential to grow in grace and execute God’s at the Second Advent (Eph. 5:27; 1 John 3:2b; Rev.
plan in daily life. See also position in Christ; 19:14). See also resurrection body.
positional truth. For further reference, Christian Integrity; Divine Guid-
sanctification 234

ance; The Divine Outline of History; The Integrity of God. satanic viewpoint
Lessons 458:265–67; 457:510; 412:278. See doctrines of demons.

Sanhedrin Satan’s three falls

See Jewish religious leaders. See falls of Satan.

Satan [Heb. satan, opponent, adversary] The title saving grace All that the Trinity has accom-
assigned to the super-angel Lucifer following his plished in redeeming fallen mankind. God the
prehistoric revolt against God. Father authored the salvation plan in eternity past,
Originally created the most magnificent and God the Son executed the plan on the cross, and
wise angelic being, this “anointed cherub” sought God the Holy Spirit reveals the plan to individuals.
to usurp God’s sovereignty over creation and Saving grace removes the condemnation of
thereby fell from his exalted status (Ezek. 28:12– spiritual death under which man is born and
15; cf. Isa. 14:13–14). Satan incited one-third of places him into a permanent relationship with
the angels to join his revolt against God—a mutiny God. Any individual who expresses faith in Jesus
that brought them a sentence of eternal condem- Christ appropriates saving grace. See grace;
nation to the lake of fire (Matt. 25:41; Rev. 12:4a). salvation.
Scripture refers to the doomed angel as “the
tempter,” “the evil one,” “the great dragon . . .
Savior Designation for the Lord Jesus Christ,
the serpent of old . . . the devil and Satan, who
whose redemptive work on the cross opened the
deceives the whole world” (Matt. 4:3; 1 John
door of salvation to all mankind (Acts 4:12; 1 John
2:13; 3:12; 5:18–19; Rev. 12:9). The titles “Satan”
4:14). See Christology; hypostatic union;
and “devil” both mean “adversary, accuser,” like
salvation.
an attorney making accusations in court, and
they suggest Satan’s role in the legal battle that
scar tissue of the soul Synonym for “hard-
followed the angelic revolt. Acting as defense
ness of heart,” a callousness formed in the soul
attorney, Satan objected to the condemnation
after prolonged carnality and rejection of divine
to eternal fire pronounced on him and his
truth. See hardness of heart; reversionism.
angels. God responded by graciously delaying
the execution of sentence, and to refute Satan’s
arguments, He initiated human history [see
scribes
See Jewish religious leaders.
appeal trial of Satan].
Intent on discrediting God, Satan commenced
his new mission to corrupt and enslave the hu-
sealing ministry of the Holy Spirit
man race, beginning with the successful attack See God the Holy Spirit (ministries to Church
in the Garden and broadening into a tyrannical Age believers).
system of human good and evil (Gen. 3:1–14;
Job 1:6–12; 2:1–5). Today, he remains the most Second Advent The prophesied, future return
alluring and intelligent creature in the universe— of Jesus Christ to earth at the end of the Tribu-
and the most sinister. He is the master of deceit, lation. Currently seated at the right hand of God
the “father of lies” (John 8:44). Through cunning the Father (1 Pet. 3:22), the King of kings will
schemes, he attempts to control the world he now arrive from heaven to establish His millennial
rules (1 John 5:19b). But this fallen angel, this reign on earth (Zech. 14; Matt. 24:27–31; Rev.
irreconcilable enemy of God, will not succeed. 17:14; 19:11–16). Synonym: Second Coming.
At the close of human history, preceding the Last At the Second Advent, our Lord’s victory over
Judgment, Satan will finally meet his doom of the power of evil will be unquestionably decisive
eternal “fire and brimstone” (Rev. 20:10). (Rev. 19:11–21). He will single-handedly thwart
Satan’s final anti-Semitic campaign, commence
See also angelic conflict; cosmic system; Lucifer.
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Satan and Operation Footstool with the slaughter of armies
Demonism. aligned against Israel, and administer the baptism
 235 seed of the woman

of fire upon tribulational unbelievers (Matt. would come from the line of Abraham, Isaac,
3:11b–12; 2 Thess. 1:7–9). After deposing Satan as and Jacob, not from Ishmael or Esau. Additional
the ruler of the world, Christ will fulfill the cov- passages that reveal Jesus Christ in terms of
enants to Israel by inaugurating His kingdom on Abraham’s seed are Genesis 12:3b and 18:18, Acts
earth (Ps. 2:6–9; Dan. 7:26–27; Rev. 20:1–4). This 3:25–26, and Galatians 3:8, 16, and 19.
eschatological event transitions human history Seed of Abraham in the Church. Throughout the
from the Tribulation into the Millennium. Church Age, when a Jew (anyone descended from
See also Armageddon; baptism (of fire); Millen- the genes of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob) believes
nium; Operation Footstool; Tribulation. in Christ, he instantly loses his racial identity and
Lessons 457:653–58. becomes part of the Church, the new spiritual
species. Both Jew and Gentile become one in
second birth Christ (2 Cor. 5:17; Gal. 3:28–29; 1 Pet. 2:9).
See regeneration. See also Jewish race.
Lessons 458:116; 840:64–65.
Second Coming
See Second Advent. seed of the woman The first messianic title
announced in Scripture, prophesying the virgin-
second death born humanity of Jesus Christ.
See death. The prophecy of Genesis 3:15. In the Garden, after
the fall of Adam and his wife, the Lord revealed
seed of Abraham [Heb. zera; Gk. sperma, seed, the enmity that would exist between the seed
fruit, posterity, offspring. kjv “seed,” nasb of Satan and “her seed,” the seed of the woman
“seed” or “descendant”] The theological term for (Gen. 3:15b). Satan’s seed represents the prolif-
descendants of Abraham, defined in three cate- eration of unbelief, spiritual death, and evil
gories according to the context of the passage. that occurs in human history. The woman’s seed
(1) Physical seed. (a) In Genesis 15:5, Romans represents God’s gracious plan of redemption
9:7a and 11:1, and 2 Corinthians 11:22, refers to centered in her descendant—the Promised One,
those who have the physical genes of Abraham, the Messiah. In the fullness of time, God would
Isaac, and Jacob, all who belong to the new race— send “His Son, born of a woman [the virgin birth],”
Israel—established by God in these three genera- to provide the solution to sin and spiritual death
tions. This context indicates all members of the (Gal. 4:4). In the Garden, the Lord also revealed
Jewish race, whether or not they accept Christ as that Satan “shall bruise him [Jesus Christ, the
Savior. (b) In Genesis 21:13, refers to Abraham’s seed of the woman] on the heel” (Gen. 3:15c). This
progeny outside of the Jewish race—specifically, is a prophetic reference to the cross. Far from
to Ishmael (born of the Egyptian maid Hagar), the being a fatal blow, the bruising on the heel is
eight sons of Keturah (Abraham’s wife after the Jesus Christ’s substitutionary death, which would
death of Sarah), and Esau (Abraham’s unbelieving pay the penalty of sin and open the way to eternal
grandson born to Isaac and Rebekah). These life for mankind.
offspring are Gentiles, not Jews. Why not the seed of the man? Because “in Adam
(2) Spiritual seed. Those born from the line of all die” (1 Cor. 15:22). Adam carried the greater
Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob who are also born culpability for the Fall, and as a result his sin
again (Gen. 21:12; Ex. 32:13; Ps. 105:6; Isa. 41:8; nature is passed down genetically, from father
Rom. 4:13; 9:7b–8). In other words, these are the to child, to all his descendants (Rom. 5:12, 19;
racial Jews who attain salvation through faith in 1 Tim. 2:13–14). Had Jesus descended in this
Christ. This is true Israel, the inheritors of the manner, He would have been disqualified from
eternal covenant promises. His mission as Savior of fallen mankind. You
(3) Jesus Christ. Genesis 22:18a, “In your seed see, in order to die as the perfect sacrifice on the
all the nations of the earth shall be blessed,” is a cross, the Messiah had to be born into the world
messianic prophecy and promise that the Savior as perfect humanity—without the inherent sin
seed of the woman 236

nature, without the condemnation of Adam’s humanity, and because all mankind descends
sin. These conditions could be satisfied only from him, the entire human race was seminally
through a supernatural birth that excluded a in him when he sinned (Rom. 5:12). The physical
human father (Isa. 7:14; Luke 1:35). The seed of result of Adam’s transgression is the sin nature, an
the woman, then, stresses the importance of the inherent corruption that is passed down geneti-
virgin conception. Jesus Christ was “conceived . . . cally to his descendants. To this sin nature God
of the Holy Spirit” (Matt. 1:20b)—no human male imputes Adam’s original sin at birth, resulting
was involved in the process, which means that in the condemnation of spiritual death (1 Cor.
His humanity did not inherit Adam’s sin nature or 15:21–22). The humanity of Jesus Christ is the
receive the imputation of Adam’s sin. As the seed only exception to mankind’s seminal presence in
of the woman, He was a perfect human being Adam. Due to the virgin pregnancy, Christ had no
and the only One qualified to be judged for fallen genetically formed sin nature; therefore, Adam’s
mankind. sin could not be imputed to Him.
See also virgin pregnancy and birth. See also Adam’s original sin; position in Adam;
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Victorious seed of the woman; virgin pregnancy and birth.
Proclamation.
separation, doctrine of The biblical princi-
self-induced misery ples for removing oneself from people or ideas
See suffering (punitive). that hinder advance in the plan of God.
Christ, the divider. When Jesus told His disciples
self-righteous arrogance that He “did not come to bring peace, but a sword”
See cosmic system (arrogance complex). into the world, He emphasized that spiritual
conflict and divisiveness would only intensify in
self-righteousness A sinful attitude of moral or the coming ages (Matt. 10:34–36). The Lord came
spiritual superiority. to separate His own from the darkness and evil
Self-righteousness is a sin of arrogance that of the devil’s kingdom (John 15:18–19; 16:33).
stems from the legalistic trend of the sin nature. While Church Age believers continue to live “in
A self-righteous person, for the sake of divine the world” (John 17:11–15), they are instructed
approbation or self-glory, strives to maintain a to mentally separate from negative influences—
lifestyle of impeccable morality, law-keeping, from human viewpoint thinking, sometimes
good deeds, or religious tradition (Matt. 23:27; called worldliness, and from reversionism and
Col. 2:21–23). Comparing his strengths against apostasy (2 Tim. 3:5; 1 John 2:15–17). They are to
others’ weaknesses, he excuses his own flaws “not be conformed” to erroneous concepts and
and passes judgment upon those who fail to meet satanic deceptions “but be transformed” by the
his personal standard (Matt. 7:1–2; Luke 18:9–14; absolute truths of God’s Word (Rom. 12:2). Sepa-
2 Cor. 10:12). ration does not imply that one must live isolated
The self-righteous, legalistic Christian believes from society, but the principle demands that no
his experiences and achievements give him spe- relationship be allowed to compromise divine
cial standing with God, but God is not impressed viewpoint or distract from the spiritual life.
with man’s accomplishments (Rom. 2:11). Man’s Process and degree of separation. Legitimate sepa-
reliance upon his own righteousness only blas- ration is only possible through the perception of
phemes the perfect, infinite righteousness of God Bible doctrine, by which the believer establishes
(Rom. 3:23; 10:3–4). clear thinking and right priorities in life. With
See also legalism; sin nature. discernment from spiritual advance, the growing
believer can recognize and avoid entanglements
seminally in Adam Theological phrase that that would prevent him from fulfilling God’s plan.
describes man’s inherent position in Adam. All These might include professional associates, orga-
mankind, excluding Jesus Christ, is Adam’s seed. nizations, friends, romantic companions, even
Because Adam in the Garden was the head of family members. Separation always begins with
 237 Septuagint

a change of mental attitude toward the person or Gospel, and all citizens have the right to accept
people involved. or reject it. Believers are free to learn the plan of
Mental separation is the technique of switching God through uncensored Bible teaching, while
from personal love to impersonal love, from a society at large is protected from Christian in-
position of emotional vulnerability to one of doc- terference and pressure to uphold a standard
trinal stability. Impersonal love is unconditional, designed for believers only. For these reasons,
drawing its strength from the believer’s own the church as an institution should not seek to
integrity. By focusing on the doctrine in his politically influence or control the state.
own soul, he is not seduced by the human view- As designed and ordained by God, the entities
point of friends, family, or close acquaintances of church and state reciprocally benefit each
who live outside of God’s plan, nor is he other. Government, operating on the laws of
antagonistic toward those who become antag- divine establishment, protects the rights of the
onistic toward him. Separated mentally, he church and, by nature of its established authority,
continues to treat them graciously while is “a minister of God to you [believers] for good”
eliminating any mental attitude sins of malice, (Rom. 13:4). The church, as a disseminator of the
instability, bitterness, arrogance. In most cases, Gospel and Bible doctrine, sustains the strength
mental separation will sufficiently resolve and prosperity of the state through blessing by
problems without having to sever ties. But in association with the pivot of mature believers.
situations where mental separation alone will Imperial Rome in the second century provides
not protect the believer, the more drastic physical an example of this reciprocal principle: Safety,
separation is necessary. For example, the believer stability, and free access to roadways afforded by
should withdraw from a local church teaching the rule of Antonine caesars allowed Christianity
false doctrine and disassociate with anyone in- to be preached throughout the Roman nation
volved in pseudospiritual practices like tongues and beyond. All the while, the spiritual pivot,
which stemmed from first-century congregations
and ecstatics (Rom. 16:17–18; 2 Thess. 3:6, 14). He
in the Roman province of Asia, brought divine
also must remove himself from close relation-
blessing to the Empire in the form of economic
ships involving licentious immorality, violence,
prosperity and freedom.
or criminality (Prov. 1:10–19; 1 Cor. 5:10–11; 1 Pet.
Separation of church and state does not
4:3–4).
eliminate the Christian’s responsibility toward
In either degree of separation, the believer’s
government. Separation, rather, demands that
emphasis must be grace and doctrine, not the
the believer understand his citizen role in terms
evils he purports to leave behind. Separation unto
of God’s plan for his life. While no civil law can
God, not from the world, is the necessary attitude
usurp the biblical mandate to grow in knowl-
to avoid self-righteous crusading, which itself is
edge of Jesus Christ and spread the salvation
a subtle satanic trap.
message (Acts 1:8; 2 Cor. 5:20a; 2 Pet. 3:18), the
See also impersonal love for all mankind; believer is commanded in all other matters to
unequally yoked; worldliness.
For further reference, Christian Integrity. “be in subjection to the governing authorities”
Lessons 469:53; 431:77–82. (Rom. 13:1; Titus 3:1–2). It is this respect for
divinely established authority that upholds and
separation of church and state (a) The delin- perpetuates the critical principle of separation.
eation and division of two parallel authorities, See also Christian activism; Christian nation;
the secular (“state”) and the spiritual (“church”); Christian responsibility.
For further reference, The Divine Outline of History;
(b) the principle ordained by God to protect indi- Freedom through Military Victory.
vidual freedom and further the spiritual impact Lessons 438:58; 631:361; 458:501; 457:596, 610; 376:814.
of Christianity.
When secular and spiritual authorities remain Septuagint Greek translation of the Old Testa-
separate, freedom is allowed to flourish on both ment from the original Hebrew. Abbreviation: LXX.
sides. Believers enjoy the right to speak the The name Septuagint, from the Latin septuaginta,
Septuagint 238

“seventy,” is traditionally said to honor the seventy- See also angels; cherub.
two Hebrew scholars chosen to translate the Pen- For further reference, The Angelic Conflict.
tateuch during the third century B.C. Though the
exact details of origin are unknown, the trans- session of Jesus Christ [from Lat. sessio, a
lation was likely encouraged by the Jews living in seating, a command to sit] The seating of the
Alexandria who, because of immersion in Greek resurrected Jesus Christ at the right hand of God
culture, could no longer read the Hebrew texts. the Father, an act of acceptance that confirmed
The remaining books of the Hebrew canon are the victory of the cross and acknowledged the
believed to have been translated gradually, as the eternal glorification of the humanity of Christ.
Greek text gained popularity among Hellenistic When Jesus Christ, in resurrection body, as-
Jews. Ultimately, the LXX introduced God’s Word cended into heaven and was received as the
to an entire Greek-speaking world and became victorious God-man, the Father said, “Sit at My
the Old Testament text most used by the New Tes- right hand / Until I make Your enemies a foot-
tament writers and throughout the early Church. stool for Your feet” (Ps. 110:1; Heb. 1:3–13). In
Today, the Septuagint retains its significance seating Christ at His right hand, the Father
as the earliest surviving translation of the Old honored the victory of Christ’s salvation work
Testament, offering valuable insight into word and demonstrated His acceptance of Christ’s
meanings, idioms, and syntax of the divinely resurrected humanity. This was the first time a
inspired ancient Hebrew. Biblical translations human was ever told to sit in the presence of the
including, but not limited to, Old Latin, Coptic, holy, just, and righteous God.
Ethiopic, Armenian, and Arabic have been de- At His session, the humanity of Christ was
rived directly from the Septuagint. “crowned with glory and honor” and exalted to
For further reference, Canonicity. a position far higher than the angels (Heb. 2:9).
The Father put all powers and authorities in
seraph [pl. seraphim; from Heb. v. saraph, to burn] subjection to His Son and confirmed the ulti-
An elect angel of the highest rank, signified by its mate subjugation of all who oppose Him (Eph.
six wings (Isa. 6:2). 1:20–23; Heb. 10:12–13; 1 Pet. 3:22). He bestowed
As leaders of heavenly worship, seraphim glo- upon Christ a new royal title, “KING OF KINGS,
rify God. As angelic heralds, they function as AND LORD OF LORDS” (Rev. 19:16; cf. Phil. 2:9–
messengers between God and man. Seraphim 11), which would soon be accompanied by a new
revealed in Scripture include the angel “with royal dynasty, the Church. Christ’s session in the
a burning coal in his hand” who ordains Isaiah place of highest honor called for the formation
(Isa. 6:6–7), the messenger carrying tribulational of the Body of Christ, the Church, in which every
judgment orders from God the Father to God the believer now shares in Christ’s eternal glory,
Son (Rev. 14:14–15), and the angel who invites destiny, and victory (Rom. 6:3–5; Eph. 2:5–6).
the carrion birds to feast on the armies defeated See also ascension of Jesus Christ; Operation
at the end of the Tribulation (Rev. 19:17). Footstool; strategic and tactical victories.
The highest ranking seraphim are archangels, For further reference, King of Kings and Lord of Lords;
who perform the most distinguished and crit- Victorious Proclamation.
Lessons 419:2–3, 205; 412:402.
ical duties with regard to divine proclamation
and judgment. Examples of their commissions
include Michael’s command of the angelic army sexual arrogance
who defends Israel through the end of the See cosmic system (arrogance complex).
Tribulation (Rev. 12:7; cf. Dan. 12:1), Gabriel’s an-
nouncements of the coming births of John the sexual death
Baptist and Jesus Christ (Luke 1:11–19, 26–27), See death.
and the archangel’s trumpet call that assembles
all living believers at the Rapture of the Church shadow image
(1 Thess. 4:16–17). See image of God.
 239 Shekinah Glory

shalom Hebrew noun translated “peace” in the solving devices.

For further reference, Christian Integrity; Christian
Old Testament. See peace. Suffering; The Pursuit of Happiness.
Lessons 412:430–31, 446.
sharing the happiness of God The attitude
of contentment, tranquillity, optimism, reassur- Shekinah Glory (a) Theological term for the
ance, and joy that the spiritually mature believer localized manifestation of God’s presence on
maintains in every circumstance, whether ad- earth; (b) the presence of the second person of
verse or prosperous (Phil. 4:10–13). Designated by the Trinity dwelling in various forms among His
the term “plus H” or the symbol +H. people throughout history.
God exists in a state of perfect, unchangeable, Origin of the term. The noun shekinah does not
absolute happiness, and God has designed a sys- appear in Scripture, but it is derived from the
tem whereby He can share His happiness with Old Testament verb shakan, meaning “to dwell.”
man in time (Ps. 16:11). This genuine and endur- First-century Jewish scholars coined the term she-
ing contentment comes to the believer as a result kinah to designate the personal presence of God
of residing in God’s grace plan, learning Bible among His people, most notably His dwelling
doctrine and utilizing divine power (Prov. 3:13; inside sacred buildings (Ex. 25:8, 21–22; 29:45–46;
Jer. 15:16; Phil. 4:6–7; 2 Pet. 1:3). When doctrine Deut. 12:5; Ezek. 37:27).
saturates the believer’s soul, the “mind of Christ” The word glory, from the Hebrew kabod, is
becomes his mind—he thinks God’s thoughts used often in the Old Testament for the visible
and applies His truths to experience (1 Cor. 2:16b). appearances of God as a theophany (Ex. 16:7,
In sharing the thinking of God, the believer 10; Lev. 9:23; Num. 14:10; 16:19, 42; 20:6). In this
shares God’s attitude of happiness. No trial or context, glory indicates the visible manifestation
tragedy, no source of pain or anguish, can defeat of God’s power and presence. By the combined
this incomparable contentment that sustains term Shekinah Glory, we understand that the
and stabilizes the soul (Neh. 8:10b; 2 Cor. 12:10). glory of omnipresent God is localized in order to
The happiness of God was fully demonstrated be revealed in various forms among His people
by the humanity of Christ during His time on (Ex. 33:14–16).
earth. Our Lord’s attitude of happiness never Identity of the Shekinah. Scripture is clear that
wavered, even under the most extreme testing God the Son, the second person of the Trinity, is
of cruelty, torture, injustice, and ignominious the divine presence glorified among men (John
death. His joy of life was stabilized by divine 1:14, 18; Rev. 21:3). Regardless of which historical
truth; He understood how all things fit into period is in view, Shekinah Glory always refers
God’s overall viewpoint of time and eternity. to the dwelling presence of the Lord Jesus Christ.
His relaxed state of mind allowed Him to equate The “God of Israel, who is enthroned above the
adversity with prosperity, living with dying cherubim [on the mercy seat in the Holy of Ho-
(Phil. 1:21). Near the end of His earthly ministry, lies]” is the same “Lord God of Israel” who “visited
Christ spoke to the disciples and declared His us and accomplished redemption for His peo-
attitude to be the ultimate objective of the ple” (Isa. 37:16; Luke 1:68). The Shekinah appears
Christian life: “I have taught you these things across human history to fulfill different purposes
[mandates of Bible doctrine], in order that My in God’s plan for different dispensations. In all
happiness [+H] might be in you, and that your ages, the Shekinah is both a sign and a guarantee
happiness might be completed [pleroō, fulfilled]” of blessing for the believer. However, the form
(John 15:11, corrected translation). Attaining and place of residence change according to the
the mature state of happiness is a process—the changes in Christ’s relationship with His people.
strength of +H increases with every stage of spir- Dispensation of Israel. The God of Israel pro-
itual growth, becoming more and more complete claimed to the people, “I will make My dwelling
in the believer who perseveres to maturity (cf. among you . . . . I will also walk among you” (Lev.
John 17:13; 1 John 1:4). 26:11–12; cf. Ex. 29:45–46). The Shekinah dwelt
See also capacity, spiritual; happiness; problem- in a pillar of fire by night and cloud by day, in
Shekinah Glory 240

order to guide and protect the Exodus generation taking in the Word of God and advancing to ma-
on their desert journey (Ex. 13:21–22; 14:19). And turity, the Church Age believer glorifies Christ
inside the Tabernacle’s Holy of Holies, between in his body and is transformed into an image of
the cherubim on the mercy seat, the Shekinah His glory (1 Cor. 6:19–20; 2 Cor. 3:18). See also
Glory resided as a sign of blessing for His chosen indwelling of the Trinity.
people (Ex. 25:8, 22; Num. 7:89; Ps. 99:1; Isa. 37:16). See also Christology; God of Israel.
Even though God’s presence in the sacred room For further reference, The Divine Outline of History.
was not to be seen by the people, His glory was Lessons 412:315–18.
revealed to them in the cloud that covered and
filled the Tabernacle (Ex. 33:9–10; 40:34–38; Lev. Sheol
9:23; Num. 16:42). Also, “whenever Moses went in See Hades.
before the Lord to speak,” the people saw, briefly,
the lingering reflection of glory that shone on shiggaon (a) Hebrew noun derived from the verb
his face (Ex. 34:34–35). The Shekinah eventually shaga (to be mad or insane) and translated in the
dwelt in the Holy of Holies of Solomon’s Temple English text as “madness”; (b) the word adopted
as the focal point of worship in the nation, but by Moses to characterize the hysteria and person-
this presence of glory was withdrawn once the ality dysfunction of believers who reject the
Temple and ark of the covenant were destroyed spiritual life and grace of God (Deut. 28:28). Deu-
in judgment in 586 B.C. (1 Kings 8:11–13; 2 Chron. teronomy usage parallels the Greek dipsuchos
5:13b–14; Ezek. 9:3; 10:4, 18; 11:22–23; Heb. 9:4–5). (double-minded), used in James 4:8 to describe
See also ark of the covenant; theophany. Church Age believers in reversionism. Shiggaon
Dispensation of the Hypostatic Union. At the also appears in Zechariah 12:4, to describe divine
birth of Jesus Christ, the Shekinah Glory became judgment on unbelievers who attempt to destroy
true humanity in order to provide salvation for Israel.
mankind (1 Pet. 2:24; cf. John 2:18–22; Heb. 1:3). Moses observed firsthand the malady of shig-
The revealed member of the Godhead “became gaon in the Exodus generation of Jews. These
flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory recalcitrant people rejected the greatest doctrinal
[the Shekinah Glory]” (John 1:14). Only John and ministry in history and therefore reverted to criti-
two others beheld the fully visible Shekinah, cizing, blaming, and threatening the leadership
when, on the Mount of Transfiguration, the glory appointed by God to guide them. With every
of Christ’s deity was briefly revealed (Matt. 17:1– crisis, from the Red Sea to Mount Sinai to Meribah,
8; Luke 9:28–36). See also hypostatic union; their failure to trust in the Lord resulted in sinful
Transfiguration. reaction and inner stress.
Dispensation of the Church. Just prior to His The madness reached its peak at Kadesh-
victory at the cross, Jesus Christ revealed the barnea, the region bordering the Promised Land,
location of His dwelling presence for the day one year after the Jews’ deliverance from Egypt
of the Church: “I am in My Father . . . and I in (Num. 13—14). When the reconnaissance team
you” (John 14:20). In this present dispensation, sent by Moses returned from Canaan with news
the Church Age, there is no sacred building of giants in “a land that devours its inhabitants”
where God dwells. Neither is God present in any (Num. 13:25–33), the people wailed and wept all
theophanic form of man, angel, or phenome- night (Num. 14:1). They held Moses responsible
non of nature [see theophany]. Instead, the for all the desert trials and clamored to go back
Holy Spirit creates a temple within the body of to Egypt, the land of slavery and abuse. Typical
each believer for Christ to dwell as the invisible of blind, arrogant souls projecting their own
but real Shekinah Glory (John 17:22–23, 26; sins, the people accused their leadership, even
2 Cor. 6:16). His personal, permanent residence— God Himself, of wanting to kill them, when in
“Christ in you, the hope of glory”—becomes the reality they wanted to kill Moses, along with the
object of the believer’s love and a resource for faithful Aaron, Joshua, and Caleb (Num. 14:2–3,
executing the Father’s plan (Col. 1:27–29). By 10). Upon hearing their sentence of divine dis-
 241 simultaneous advance to the high ground

cipline they grew despondent, until the next

morning when they “rose up early,” exhilarated
and determined to assuage their guilt (Num.
14:39–40). They pressed an attack, against Moses’ High Ground
(Spiritual Maturity)
implicit orders, only to find the heedless cam-
paign annihilated in the first battle of Horma
(Num. 14:40–45; Deut. 1:41–44). ge
ed
E
The Exodus generation, by choice, traded the V

wl

LO
stability of God’s Word for the apostasy and

k no

L
hysteria of shiggaon. And for rejection of their

E
m

CA

ion
IN
fro
spiritual heritage, they wandered forty years in

tivat
TR

RO
wth
the desert and suffered the sin unto death (Num.

DOC

Mo
RECIP
Gro
14:22–24, 29–30, 32–35; Jude 5).
Under the ministry of God the Holy Spirit,
Moses coined the word shiggaon in his sermon
preparing the succeeding generation for the
Promised Land (Deut. 27—30). Reviewing the Mentorship of the
past with an eye toward the future, he warned Holy Spirit
future Israel of the self-destruction and divine
discipline inherent in disobedience: “The Lord
Each column of the advance defends the mu-
will smite you with madness [shiggaon] and tual flank of the other column. Without spiritual
with blindness [blackout of the soul] and with growth from doctrinal knowledge, love for God
bewilderment of heart [confusion, divorcement becomes a sentimental expression of emotion
from reality]” (Deut. 28:28). (Rom. 12:9; 1 Tim. 1:5). Without motivation from
See also dipsuchos; Exodus generation; rever- the believer’s love for God, doctrine becomes an
sionism; sin unto death. academic exercise or meaningless ritual (1 Cor.
For further reference, The Faith-Rest Life; Reversionism.
13:1–3; 2 Tim. 3:7).
Lessons 840:50–60.

Figure 25 SIMULTANEOUS ADVANCE

simchah Hebrew noun translated “gladness” or
“joy” in the English text but more fully under-
stood as “superabundance of happiness.” See soul (first column) allows the believer to com-
superabundance of happiness. prehend and appreciate God’s love for him. The
believer reciprocates by loving God in return
simultaneous advance to the high ground (second column), and this reciprocal love
A phrase that describes how knowledge and toward God is the motivation to keep learning
motivation work together to move the believer doctrine and advancing to maturity. In other
toward spiritual maturity. Synonym: double- words, increasing knowledge of doctrine
column advance. causes spiritual growth while love toward God
The simultaneous advance is best illustrated motivates and sustains spiritual growth. Work-
by the military tactic of double-column maneu- ing together, these two spiritual forces protect
ver, in which two independent lines of troops the believer from outside satanic attacks and
move in formation toward one objective. By worldly distractions as he advances to the high
analogy, the Christian moves toward spiritual ground, serves the Lord, and glorifies God to
maturity in two columns: (1) perception of Bible the maximum. Those who reach the objective
doctrine, under the filling ministry of the Holy
have attained victory in the Christian life.
Spirit, and (2) reciprocal love for God. These
See also high ground; reciprocal love; winner
two columns advance in tandem, simultaneously,
believer.
one serving the other. For further reference, The Unfailing Love of God.
Doctrine metabolized and circulating in the Lessons 376:1704–12.
sin 242

sin of temptation, providing the enticement to sin,

See Adam’s original sin; personal sin; sin but sin itself originates from an individual’s
nature. volition, his free will, once he gives in to the
temptation (Gal. 5:17, 24). Present in everyone
sin nature (a) The inherent corruption and cen- are the sin nature’s basic components—areas of
ter of rebellion against God that is present in strength and weakness, trends toward legalism
every member of the human race, with the excep- or antinomianism, and a lust pattern. No matter
tion of Jesus Christ (Rom. 5:12, 19; 2 Cor. 5:21; which trend is dominant or which form of lust
1 John 3:5); (b) the source of temptation to com- motivates one’s thoughts and desires, there is
mit sin, to rely on human good for worthiness nothing anyone can do to remove the inherent
and divine approval, and to follow Satan’s policy sin nature.
of evil. Synonyms used in Scripture: “old man” Area of weakness. The component of the sin
of Ephesians 4:22 (kjv), the Adamic nature of nature that tempts one to commit personal sin
“flesh” of Romans 8:3–4, and the principle of “sin” (Matt. 26:41; Rom. 7:8; Gal. 5:19–21). When a
of Romans 7:8–25. Also referred to as the “old person chooses through his own volition to
sin nature.” succumb to the sin nature’s temptation, he
Originally acquired by Adam at his fall, the generates any or all of the three categories of
sin nature is transmitted genetically through the personal sin: mental, verbal, and overt. See also
male in procreation and thereafter resides in personal sin.
the cell structure of the human body (Rom. 6:6; Area of strength. The component of the sin
8:3–6). The genetically formed sin nature is the nature that generates human good or “dead
home for the imputation of Adam’s original works”—any benevolent deeds produced apart
sin at physical birth—and the sin nature plus from the filling of the Holy Spirit (Heb. 6:1; 9:14).
Adam’s original sin equals spiritual death and For the believer, this area becomes operational
condemnation for all mankind (Rom. 5:12–17; after he has chosen to sin, at which point he
7:22–23). See also imputations. functions under the control of the sin nature.
The believer’s good deeds produced in the power
of the flesh are indistinguishable from the good
deeds performed by the unbeliever. See also
Personal Sins human good.
Trend toward legalism. The general trend to-
Area of
Weakness ward self-righteousness that conforms to a code
S of morality, self-denial, human works, or ritual
I as a means of gaining the approbation of man,
N
N God, or both. Under this trend a person may
Trend toward A Trend toward
Legalism
Lust Pattern Lust Pattern
Antinomianism
indulge in judging of others, activism, taboo-
T
U ism, hypocrisy, extreme self-deprivation, a
R
E martyr complex, or self-recrimination. See also
Area of asceticism; legalism.
Strength
Trend toward antinomianism. The general trend
toward self-gratification that disregards author-
Human Good (Dead Works) ity, establishment, morality, and self-restraint.
Under this trend a person may take the road of
drunkenness, debauchery, sexual promiscuity
Figure 26 SIN NATURE
or perversion, drug abuse, even criminality. See
also antinomianism.
Throughout every person’s time on earth, the Lust pattern. The illicit and often insatiable de-
sin nature seeks to dominate the life by gaining sire that motivates sin toward either trend (Eph.
control of the soul. The sin nature is the source 2:3; 4:22). Regarding the believer, the unchecked
 243 soteriology

operation of the lust pattern results in self- and Sapphira (Acts 5:1–11), a sudden and instan-
deception and disorientation toward God’s plan taneous death. During the Exodus, the Lord sent
for his life. Unfulfilled lust intensifies frustration cobras into the bivouac of Israel to administer
and self-centered desires; fulfilled lust increases lethal venom to rebellious believers with ‘venom’
the function of degeneracy, weakening the be- in their souls (Num. 21:6–8; Ps. 78:17–19). Other
liever’s ability to recover his spiritual life and scriptural examples of believers removed by the
leading him further down the road of reversion- sin unto death include Hymenaeus and Alex-
ism. Various categories of lust include power lust, ander for blasphemy (1 Tim. 1:19–20), the Corin-
approbation lust, pleasure lust, social lust, sexual thian believers who habitually partook of
lust, chemical lust, crusader lust, monetary lust, the Lord’s Table while out of fellowship (1 Cor.
revenge or cruelty lust, and criminal lust. See also 11:28–30), and the Laodicean believers who
degeneracy; reversionism. became arrogant in prosperity and turned away
See also Adam’s original sin; death (spiritual); from doctrine—the Lord’s claim to “spit [vomit]
total depravity. you out of My mouth” signifies divine discipline
For further reference, The Plan of God; Rebound & Keep
by death to those He called “lukewarm” (Rev.
Moving!; Reversionism.
Lessons 429:55–61; 412:911–26. 3:15–16). In addition, Scripture records believers
who returned to the Lord, confessed their sin,
sins of the tongue and recovered from the final stages of dying dis-
See personal sin. cipline. Among these are David (2 Sam. 12:13; Ps.
118:17–18), Hezekiah (Isa. 38), and the incestuous
sin unto death The final, most intensive stage Corinthian (1 Cor. 5:1–5; 2 Cor. 7:8–11).
of divine discipline, the discipline of death for The sin unto death is God’s ultimate expression
the reversionistic believer. Synonym: dying disci- of divine punishment to the reversionistic be-
pline. liever, but its sting does not extend beyond the
Every believer, with the exception of those in grave. At the point of death, the negative believer,
the Rapture generation, is given his own death- like his positive counterpart, is “absent from the
shadowed valley, the final phase of life before body and face to face with the Lord”—in a place
entering the eternal state. The path through the of “no more sorrow, nor more tears, no more
valley might be long, short, or perhaps instan- pain, no more death; the old things have passed
taneous, but for the one who has rejected the away” (2 Cor. 5:8; Rev. 21:4, corrected translations).
spiritual life for a life of carnality, the experience See also divine discipline; dying grace.
is the “sting of death,” never pleasant (1 Cor. For further reference, Dying Grace.
15:55–57). The manner in which the negative Lessons 586:75–77; 454:90–91; 429:226–28.
believer is removed from this life is described
as the “sin leading to death,” or, better translated, sophisticated spiritual life
“sin face to face with death” (1 John 5:16). This See spiritual adulthood.
dying discipline is administered by God only after
a period of prolonged and unchecked carnality, soteriology [from Gk. soter, savior] Study of
when the believer has declined from one stage of the biblical doctrines related to Christ’s saving
reversionism to another (Prov. 8:36; Jer. 44:9–12; work on the cross. Soteriology encompasses
Rom. 8:13a; Phil. 3:18–19). God can no longer use every aspect of salvation—everything that Christ’s
him, and he is taken home not only before his substitutionary spiritual death accomplished to
time but in a miserable way. Fear, mental anguish, remove the barrier between God and man, and
often physical pain, accompany the reversionist everything that God provides for the one who
on his final road (Ps. 88:1–18). accepts the free offer of eternal life.
The sin unto death can be administered in Old Testament Israel practiced a shadow sote-
many forms, including physical illness, econo- riology, in which the shedding of animal blood
mic depression and famine, military disaster, in sacrificial rituals illustrated various doctrines
criminal violence, or, as in the case of Ananias of salvation that the Messiah would fulfill in the
soteriology 244

future. The Church has a historical soteriology— that an individual chooses to either accept or
believers now look back upon every aspect of the reject God’s grace gift of eternal salvation (John
substitutionary sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the 3:18). For the believer in Jesus Christ, the use
cross. of volition determines whether he lives by his
The central soteriological doctrine is recon- sin nature or by the grace provision of God (Gal.
ciliation, the fact that Christ removed the natu- 5:16–17). For the believer to glorify God on earth,
ral antagonism between God and man, replacing his soul must be sustained by the power of the
enmity with peace. The entire human race was Holy Spirit and fortified with the strength of
reconciled to God through Christ’s work of un- God’s Word (2 Cor. 10:3–6; Heb. 10:39).
limited atonement, propitiation, expiation,
and redemption. For those who accept the Sav-
ior’s free grace gift, God provides regeneration,
positional sanctification, and justification
through the imputation of divine righteousness,
all of which qualify the believer for an eternal
relationship with God. See each of these soterio-
logical terms.
See also barrier; blood of Christ.
For further reference, The Barrier; The Blood of Christ;
Slave Market of Sin.

soul The intangible, immortal essence of man

that comprises the real person, giving him ra-
tional, moral, and relational capacities. The
soul is distinct from the human spirit, which is
acquired by the believer through regeneration
(John 3:5–7; 1 Thess. 5:23; Heb. 4:12).
The soul is the fully functioning though im-
material aspect of man that comes into being
at the moment of physical birth, when God
provides the igniting spark, or the “breath of Figure 27 ESSENCE OF THE HUMAN SOUL
life [neshamah chayyim]” (Gen. 2:7; cf. Isa. 42:5).
Possession of a soul distinguishes man from all See also image of God; left lobe of the soul;
other living creatures—after making the “beasts right lobe of the soul; soul life.
of the earth,” God declared that He would make For further reference, Creation, Chaos, & Restoration; The
Integrity of God; Mental Attitude Dynamics; The Plan of God.
man differently, “in Our image, according to Our
likeness” (Gen. 1:24–27). Like God, man’s soul
has real but invisible attributes. The essence of
soul life [Heb. neshamah chayyim, spark of life,
man’s soul consists of self-consciousness (aware- soul life] The immaterial, immortal form of life—
ness of one’s own existence), mentality (ability described as “breath of life” (Gen. 2:7)—which
to think), volition (ability to choose), and con- is created directly and immediately by God and
science (norms and standards, moral reasoning imputed to biological life at birth. Whereas
power). In the mentality of the believer’s soul biological life is the physical life of a material
are the left and right lobes, called in Scripture human body, soul life is the immaterial and
the “mind” and “heart,” used in the perception enduring life of a human being.
of Bible doctrine (Prov. 4:4; 23:7a; Phil. 4:7). At the creation of Adam, God “breathed into
God provides the soul of every human being his nostrils the breath of life; and man became
for His own glory (Isa. 43:7), but man can choose a living being” (Gen. 2:7b). “Living being” is
not to glorify God. It is through the soul’s volition translated from the Hebrew nephesh chay, which
 245 spiritual adulthood

in this context means “a soul having life,” that is, Southern Kingdom
human life. This imputation of soul life to Adam See Dispensation of Israel.
established the pattern for creating human life
in each subsequent member of the human race: sovereignty of God
the uniting of material, biological life with the See essence of God.
“breath of life” creates a fully living, independent-
ly breathing and thinking person (Job 33:4; Isa. spark of life
42:5). Soul life as it comes from the hand of God See soul life.
is pure and uncontaminated. However, because
every person since Adam’s fall (except Jesus spirit
Christ) is born with a sin nature, the soul func- See human spirit.
tions imperfectly inside the body of corruption.
When a person dies, his soul life departs from spiritual adulthood The latter phase of the
the physical body. The body returns “to the earth spiritual life in which fellowship with God,
as it was,” and the breath given by God returns to metabolizing Bible doctrine, and application of
Him for eternal settlement (Eccl. 12:7). Depend- that doctrine increasingly function to accelerate
ing upon one’s attitude toward Jesus Christ while the believer to maturity. Synonym: sophisticated
on earth, soul life continues for all eternity in spiritual life.
either heaven or hell (John 3:18, 36). Having advanced beyond spiritual childhood,
the Christian in spiritual adulthood is closer to
fulfilling his purpose in life, which is to become
a spiritually mature person “to the measure
God imputes
SOUL LIFE of the stature which belongs to the fullness of
at birth Christ” (Eph. 4:13–16). Basic doctrines learned
and practiced in spiritual childhood are now
“breath of life” reinforced with the strength of adulthood.
[neshamah chayyim] Application of divine viewpoint is more consis-
tent, more accurate, and less dependent on
others. Along with an increased capacity for life,
spiritual adulthood includes being motivated
by personal love for God (Mark 12:30), making
many decisions to glorify Christ rather than self
(2 Thess. 1:12), turning adversity into suffering
for blessing (2 Cor. 12:7–11), sharing in God’s
BIOLOGICAL happiness (John 15:11; 1 Pet. 1:8), and facing all
LIFE
circumstances with confidence in God’s perfect
plan and provision (2 Tim. 1:7; James 1:4).
a living soul
HUMAN LIFE The advance to spiritual victory is a gradual
process, with ups and downs inherent to flawed
human nature. But God in His wisdom and grace
Figure 28 IMPUTATION OF SOUL LIFE gives each believer the exact training, a combi-
nation of blessing and suffering, necessary to
See also biological life; creationism; imputa-
bring him to maximum glorification of God. The
tions; origin of human life; soul.
For further reference, The Integrity of God; The Origin progression through spiritual adulthood can
of Human Life. be categorized in three stages: 1) spiritual self-
Lessons 840:79–84. esteem, 2) spiritual autonomy, and 3) spiritual
maturity.
soul love (1) Spiritual self-esteem. The stage in which the
See virtue love. believer experiences a legitimate confidence in
spiritual adulthood 246

self derived from God’s Word in the soul. solidified and stabilized, allowing the believer
Spiritual self-esteem comes from love for God to stand firmly on the tremendous spiritual
and the spiritual assets He has provided, not resources in his soul.
from the believer’s love for self. Unlike human Spiritual autonomy is spiritual self-esteem
self-esteem—which is based on human stan- with muscle, the powerful extension of spiritual
dards and achievements and is therefore inher- self-esteem that strengthens the believer’s self-
ently flawed—spiritual self-esteem is based control, self-restraint, and poise. The believer
on God’s absolute integrity and cannot be in this status is oriented to reality. With divine
spoiled by human weakness or failure (Jer. 17:9; viewpoint paramount in his life, he can apply
Rom. 3:10, 23). According to Proverbs 19:8, “He Bible doctrine more consistently in adversity
who gets wisdom loves his own soul; He who as well as in prosperity (Phil. 2:5). There is no
keeps understanding will find good [prosperity].” need for counseling or approval from human
The believer with spiritual self-esteem “loves sources (Jer. 17:5; 1 Cor. 2:5), because he is fully
his own soul” because he has filled his soul with dependent on guidance from doctrine learned, as
wisdom from God. Motivated to continue his well as on his own ability to apply that doctrine
doctrinal advance, he is prospered by grace all without distortion. With this greater confidence
along the path toward spiritual maturity. in the grace and power of God comes control
The believer who reaches the status of spir- of his own life, along with the strength to
itual self-esteem has crossed the line between refrain from interfering in the lives of others.
spiritual childhood and spiritual adulthood. See also spiritually self-sustaining.
From increasing love for God and divine view- In the previous stage, the believer learned to
point thinking comes the stable foundation of love himself based on doctrine in his soul; now
virtue, contentment, and composure, along he fulfills the command to “love your neighbor
with the other spiritual strengths for facing as yourself” (Lev. 19:18; Matt. 22:39; Gal. 5:14).
life’s challenges. This believer approaches life Tolerant of the flaws of others, he can interact
through the perspective of grace, rather than from the high ground of Christian integrity
emphasizing works and emotion. Confident while concentrating on fulfilling God’s purpose
in his personal destiny in God’s plan, he avoids for his own life. He recognizes truth and no
the erroneous influence of other people and longer feels threatened by false ideas, obnoxious
relies on the guidance of doctrine. His focus on people, or insults. Neither is he embarrassed by
Christ motivates all he does. He orients to who his personal status, occupation, or achievements,
and what he is as a member of God’s family. As even in comparison with others who appear to
a result, feelings of inadequacy and insecurity surpass him. Instead, he lives within his human
fade. Furthermore, because spiritual self-esteem limitations, fully cognizant of the fact that there
refines the personality without suppressing are no limitations to the execution of God’s plan
individuality, this believer is able to find his except for one’s own negative volition toward
perfect niche in life. See also niche. God’s Word.
In this stage, the believer is advancing rap- With spiritual autonomy, the believer re-
idly and therefore vulnerable to failure. He is ceives preparation for the final approach to
susceptible to distorting his newfound sense maturity. God administers the next increment
of confidence and forgetting the source of his of undeserved suffering, momentum testing, to
strength. So God in His grace sends a special sharpen the believer’s ability to handle chal-
form of testing, providential preventive suffering, lenges related to people, thought, systems, and
designed to prevent him from falling into arro- disaster. Despite intense suffering, spiritual
gance (2 Cor. 12:7–10). Once passing this test, the autonomy allows for problem solving that takes
believer’s spiritual self-esteem turns into spiritual the suffering in stride and moves forward to the
autonomy. final objective in the spiritual life.
(2) Spiritual autonomy. The stage in which the (3) Spiritual maturity. (a) The stage in which
mental attitude begun in spiritual self-esteem is no difficulty in life is too great for the divine
 247 spiritual childhood

wisdom in the believer’s soul; (b) the ultimate manner by which he achieved it, never ceasing to
objective and victory in the spiritual life of the take in and apply the truths of God’s Word.
Church Age. The spiritually mature believer car-
ries the status of spiritual winner and invisible 1
hero and also has impact on human and angelic
Spiritual Providential
history. A companion term to spiritual maturity Self- Preventive
Suffering
Esteem
is cognitive invincibility, which illustrates the
mature believer’s superior strength of soul from 2
maximum metabolized doctrine circulating in
Spiritual Momentum
the stream of consciousness, resulting in max- Autonomy Testing

imum function of wisdom in the form of all ten

problem-solving devices. 3
The believer began to share the happiness of
Spiritual Evidence
God when he entered spiritual adulthood. Now, Maturity Testing

having reached the status of spiritual maturity,

his happiness is “made full” or complete (John
15:11). So many principles, so many doctrines, Figure 29 STAGES OF SPIRITUAL ADULTHOOD
verses, and concepts have been transferred
into his soul that the Word of God shapes his See also suffering (for blessing).
For further reference, Christian Suffering.
thoughts, decisions, and actions. This mental Lessons 728:163–92; 412:202–44; 376:348–50.
clarity allows him to face any frustration, any
hardship, or above all, any blessing of prosperity spiritual autonomy
with an attitude of total contentment and trust See spiritual adulthood.
in God. The mature believer is in fact a living
demonstration of the grace of God. This is the
spiritual birth
stage the Apostle Paul had reached when he
See regeneration.
wrote, “For me, living is Christ [occupation with
Christ], dying is profit” (Phil. 1:21, corrected
translation). Furthermore, like Paul, the ma-
spiritual capacity righteousness
See capacity righteousness.
ture believer himself is a source of prosperity,
blessing, and protection to those around him.
See also blessing by association; invisible spiritual childhood The earliest stages of
hero; supergrace; winner believer. the believer’s spiritual life, from the point of
Reaching maturity also means the believer is salvation to the point where he has learned
set apart for evidence testing, the highest honor enough doctrine to orient to God’s plan and be-
on earth. He is, in effect, called to God’s witness gin to utilize divine viewpoint.
stand, where his life is presented as evidence Spiritual childhood begins the moment a
against Satan. It is the strength of maturity that person believes in Jesus Christ. What is true in
allows the believer to withstand the intensity of the physical life is equally true in the spiritual
evidence testing. His tenacity in doctrine, his life—all must start out as babies, move toward
faithfulness under extreme conditions, serves adolescence, and eventually become mature
as proof of God’s grace and the efficacy of divine adults. The spiritual newborn begins by learn-
assets. Passing these tests means maximum glo- ing basic spiritual concepts, the “pure milk of
rification of God. the word,” which he can easily digest in order to
The mature believer, lest he retrogresses to- “grow as a result of salvation” (1 Pet. 2:2, corrected
ward spiritual childhood, must keep pressing, translation). From his early exposure to Bible
keep “reaching forward to what lies ahead” until teaching, he learns to recover from carnality
he crosses the finish line into eternity (Phil. 3:13). through rebound (confession of sins to God the
He exploits the victory of adulthood in the same Father, 1 John 1:9), so that the Holy Spirit can
spiritual childhood 248

function in his life. As he establishes a habit Since that time, the Holy Spirit sovereignly be-
of taking in God’s Word, his thinking becomes stows a spiritual gift to each believer at the point
increasingly oriented to grace and doctrine. He of salvation (1 Cor. 12:11; Heb. 2:4). Just as teams
develops abilities for basic problem solving, require different members to execute specific
primarily through faith-rest and a growing appre- tasks, so the Body of Christ functions through a
ciation for his place in God’s plan. Although his variety of spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 12:4–7, 12). Every
understanding of the full realm of doctrine is gift, whether prominent or inconspicuous, is
limited, his consistent positive volition and obe- necessary for edification and operation of the
dience to God’s mandates keep him advancing on one Body (Rom. 12:4–6a). Gifts distributed are
the path toward greater maturity. categorized as either temporary or permanent.
The believer moves on from childhood and
tempoRaRy gifts
enters spiritual adulthood when he develops the
The precanon period—the time in which the
capacity to personally love God through His Word.
New Testament canon was being formed, approx-
At this point he lives by the doctrinal wisdom in
imately A.D. 30 to A.D. 96—was characterized by
his own soul, confident in the assets God has
supernatural abilities granted to certain believers
given him. The persistently negative believer, on
in the nascent Church. These gifts established
the other hand, remains ignorant of doctrine,
and authenticated the divine authority of the
fails to grow spiritually, and lives his entire
apostles, spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to
Christian life as a spiritual infant.
Jews and Gentiles, and communicated both ver-
See also divine dynasphere; problem-solving bally and in writing new doctrines for the Church
devices; spiritual adulthood.
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Christian Age spiritual life. Scripture reveals the following
Suffering; The Plan of God. temporary gifts (Rom. 12:6b; 1 Cor. 12:8–10, 28, 30;
Eph. 4:11a):
spiritual death Apostleship. The gift of highest authority in
See death. the first-century Church, given to a select few
men for the primary purposes of establishing
spiritual dynamics The mechanics by which local churches and clarifying the previously
the Church Age believer progresses from spir- unrevealed doctrines. See apostle.
itual childhood to the ultimate objective of Prophecy. The ability to receive from God an
spiritual maturity. See spiritual skills. instructional message concerning future events
and to then accurately declare that message.
spiritual freedom Unlike the Old Testament prophets (e.g., Elijah,
See freedom. Isaiah), who were national leaders, those with
the gift of prophecy in the precanon period func-
spiritual gifts Special aptitudes and abilities tioned strictly within the realm of the Church.
bestowed by God upon Church Age believers, for Males with this gift include Agabus, who pro-
the purpose of coordinating and edifying the phesied the coming famine and depression and
Body of Christ and advancing the impact of the warned Paul not to return to Jerusalem (Acts
Church. 11:28; 21:10–11), along with Barnabas, Simeon, Lu-
The Greek noun charisma, which is translated cius, Manaen, Judas, and Silas (Acts 13:1; 15:32).
“gift” throughout the Pauline epistles and in Because of the tremendous amount of eschatol-
1 Peter 4:10, finds its origin in charis, meaning ogy revealed in the New Testament, it is obvious
“grace.” All spiritual gifts are provided by God that certain apostles who wrote the epistles (e.g.,
and operate strictly by His power (the filling of John, Paul) also possessed the gift of prophecy.
the Holy Spirit), totally apart from human merit, Miracles. A gift used by apostles, prophets,
ability, or talent. pastors, and evangelists in the early Church to
Marking the start of the Church Age, the initial authenticate and certify their communication
distribution of gifts was made by Jesus Christ gifts. Performing miracles, such as raising the
after his ascension into heaven (Eph. 4:7–11). dead and casting out demons, was the sign that
 249 spiritual gifts

their message and authority were from God. Gospel in languages foreign to them (Acts 2:4).
Healing. Similar to miracles, another gift de- Their speech was not emotional or drunken
signed to focus attention on the message spoken gibberish but eloquent utterance of legitimate
by apostles, prophets, pastors, and evangelists human languages. The indwelling Holy Spirit
(Acts 3:1–16). Paul’s temporary healing gift was controlled their vocal cords so that they could
so spectacular that a person had only to touch communicate the salvation message in the native
his handkerchief or apron to be instantly healed tongue of nearby unbelievers. In addition to
(Acts 19:11–12). As evident in Paul’s eventual these eleven, a limited number of Jewish and
inability to heal two close friends (Phil. 2:27; Gentile believers later received the gift for use
2 Tim. 4:20), the miraculous but temporary in evangelism. Paul, in his far-reaching mission
gifts were withdrawn after the communicator’s to the Gentiles, spoke in tongues more than
authority had been established. anyone (1 Cor. 14:18–19). He also imposed regu-
Knowledge. The gift of instant cognition of lations on its use, because some flaunted and
mystery doctrine, designed to teach God’s plan abused the spectacular gift while others craved
for the Church Age, which was previously un- to possess it. See also Pentecost.
revealed and unrecorded. Interpretation of tongues. The ability to trans-
Wisdom. The ability to explain and apply late the message of the one speaking in tongues
mystery doctrine taught by those with the gift (1 Cor. 14:26–28). When the Gospel was pre-
of knowledge. sented in tongues to Jewish unbelievers—those
Faith. The ability to demonstrate unyielding who spoke a Gentile language—the interpreter
faith amidst pressures and persecution in the translated the message for the rest of the
early Church. Distinguished from the faith- congregation. This assured Jewish believers, who
rest drill, this gift was provided in lieu of the spoke the language of Palestine, that the shock-
Church Age promises and doctrines not yet ing ability to instantly speak a foreign language
recorded in the New Testament. The gift of faith was operating under God’s authority.
was demonstrated among a group of believers
under persecution, perhaps about to be thrown MORE ON TONGUES
to the lions in the Colosseum. One believer who
exercised great faith in the power and plan of God The true gift of tongues allowed certain first-century
would encourage the others to depend upon the believers to instantly evangelize in legitimate foreign
Lord for deliverance. languages. At no time did this supernatural gift produce
mysterious language or unintelligible utterances, nor
Discerning spirits. Ability to detect true and
did it ever serve to indicate salvation or spiritual status.
false doctrine.
Tongues. [Gk. glossolalia, from glossa, the
tongue, a language + laleo, to speak] The ability to As God’s instructions and doctrines for the
instantly speak in intelligible human languages Church were permanently recorded, the pur-
previously unknown to the communicator. Glos- poses of these gifts were fulfilled and they were
solalia was designed primarily to evangelize first- gradually withdrawn. The gift of tongues came
century Jews residing outside of Palestine and to a complete halt in August of A.D. 70, when
reared in Gentile languages, along with Gentile Jerusalem was overrun by the Romans. By A.D.
unbelievers. The supernatural phenomenon was 96, with the completion of the written Canon, all
also a warning to Israel of national discipline on temporary spiritual gifts were terminated (1 Cor.
the horizon—a “foreign tongue” in the Land had 13:8b–10).
historically signaled impending divine judgment Still, from the second century through the
(Deut. 28:49; Isa. 28:11; Jer. 5:15; 1 Cor. 14:21–22a). present, the defunct spiritual gifts—most notably
The initial bestowal of tongues marked the healing and tongues—have been erroneously per-
beginning of the Church: on Pentecost Sunday petuated by Satan to distract believers from God’s
A.D. 30, the Holy Spirit descended upon eleven plan. People vie for spiritual status by claiming to
apostles, who instantly began articulating the speak in tongues, see visions, perform miracles,
spiritual gifts 250

heal the sick—but such practices have no place are responsible for the overall management of a
in the postcanon Church Age (Rom. 16:17–18). local church, serving as deacons, church officers,
Often they are a result of intense emotionalism chairmen of standing committees, leaders of the
or direct demon activity. See ecstatics; engas- church’s missionary board or training program
trimuthos demon. for children. Primarily, it is the responsibility of
peRmanent gifts the pastor to recognize the gift of administrative
Permanent spiritual gifts will function in the leadership within his congregation. First Tim-
Body of Christ until the Rapture of the Church. othy 3 presents qualifications for such Christian
Everyone in this age who has personally believed men. Synonym: gift of governments. See also
in Jesus Christ has a permanent spiritual gift. authority (spiritual).
Except for the gift of pastor-teacher, the believer Ministry or service. The gift of church-related
does not have to be aware of his particular administration only, no leadership component,
gift in order for it to function. Through advance in given to both men and women (Rom. 12:7a).
grace and knowledge of God under the ministry Believers with this spiritual gift serve church
of the Holy Spirit, the gift becomes operational. committees, mission boards, biblical training
The believer who reaches spiritual adulthood programs for children, and Christian service
will likely be aware of his fully functioning gift. organizations.
Permanent gifts include, but are not limited to, Helps. The ability to minister to the sick, the
the following: afflicted, and the helpless (1 Cor. 12:28). Held
Pastor-teacher. The gift given to certain male by both men and women, the gift of helps func-
believers for communicating the realm of Bible tions inside or outside the local church for the
doctrine inside the local church (Eph. 4:11). See aid of both believers and unbelievers. The gift
pastor-teacher. of helps provides stability in the local church
Evangelism. The gift given to certain male be-
and support for all other spiritual gifts. Synonym:
lievers for communicating the Gospel outside
gift of giving aid.
the local church, typically in a large assembly
Mercy. A more specialized and dramatic form
setting (Acts 21:8; Eph. 4:11). Often, the evan-
of helps, this gift is extended to the persecuted,
gelist also possesses a speaking talent, even a
to victims of severe injustice and tyranny, be-
sensational personality, but it is the spiritual
liever or unbeliever (Rom. 12:8b). Believers with
gift itself that provides a hearing. When the gift
this ability offer thoughtfulness, kindness, and
functions, the unbeliever—typically resentful
toward a message he considers religious or “cheerfulness” toward those with whom there
ridiculous—will listen attentively, almost by may be no commonality or affinity, even when
compulsion. doing so endangers their own lives.
This gift of mass evangelism is designed to Prayer. The ability to continuously offer inten-
work together with all methods of delivering sive, prevailing intercessory prayer. Believers
the Gospel: missionaries evangelize remote with this gift may spend many hours every day
societies, pastors do the work of an evangelist in concentration before the throne of grace on
inside their church by clarifying the Gospel and behalf of others. See also prayer.
teaching salvation doctrines, and all individual Giving. A gift granted to support the material
believers, regardless of gift, are responsible for needs of Christians and Christian institutions.
person-to-person witnessing (Acts 1:8; 1 Thess. Either wealthy or poor, the believer with this
2:4; 2 Tim. 4:5; 1 Pet. 3:15). See also evangelism; gift gives liberally and sacrificially to the local
witnessing. church, missions, Christian service organizations,
Administrative leadership. The gift, for males the destitute and needy, the financially helpless
only, that serves the local church by delegated (Rom. 12:8b). See also giving.
authority from the pastor; entails the function of For further reference, The Divine Outline of History;
leadership in an administrative capacity (Rom. Tongues.
12:8b; 1 Cor. 12:28). Christian men with this gift Lessons 458:353–59; 412:288–91, 819–20; 376:1605–28.
 251 spiritual life

spiritual growth The dynamic process of plan (Eph. 3:16–19).

learning the postsalvation spiritual life and ad- See also filling of the Holy Spirit; grace
vancing to the objective of maturity, a process apparatus for perception; human spirit;
empowered by the Holy Spirit and perpetuated Operation Z.
by consistent intake and application of Bible
doctrine. Spiritual growth is the divine plan for spiritual life
the believer on earth, the primary function of (1) A description of the new, indestructible life
the believer’s existence, the perseverance to ful- that begins at salvation, when the spiritually dead
fill his destiny, the basis for his temporal and individual expresses faith in Christ and is “born
eternal blessings, and the means of serving and again” to become spiritually alive (John 3:3, 6;
glorifying God (Matt. 6:33; Luke 2:52; 2 Pet. 3:18). 1 Cor. 15:22). See human spirit; regeneration.
Consistent with God’s fairness and grace, every See also death (spiritual).
individual who believes in Jesus Christ has the (2) The believer’s life in fellowship with God
opportunity to grow up spiritually (Rom. 8:32; between salvation and physical death. This post-
1 Pet. 2:2). See also postsalvation epistemo- salvation existence, complete with provisions
logical rehabilitation. for growth, happiness, and problem solving, is
designed by God for each individual. By choos-
spiritual IQ A grace provision that replaces ing to learn Bible doctrine and follow God’s
the inequality and limitations of human intelli- plan, the believer executes the spiritual life in
gence with unlimited ability for understanding time—he gains wisdom and maturity, comes
the teaching of God’s Word. to know and love God, and fulfills the purpose
For every believer in Jesus Christ, the Holy for which God keeps him alive on earth. This
Spirit provides what is necessary to comprehend life in fellowship with God is interrupted by
the revelation of infinite God (1 Cor. 2:9–13). sin but instantly resumed when the believer
The filling ministry of the Holy Spirit operates rebounds (acknowledges sins privately to God
within the spiritually regenerated person to the Father). Specific provisions for the spiritual
replace human IQ with spiritual IQ, and by this life vary with different periods of human history.
supernatural means the truths of God’s Word can Old Testament period. Believers prior to the
be understood when communicated by a pastor- Incarnation enjoyed a spiritual life with God by
teacher (John 14:26). Even a believer with limited learning of Him, primarily through rituals and
intelligence or education can learn the whole the existing scriptural texts, and then living in
realm of Bible doctrine—with all its concepts, concentrated faith. They rested in His immutable
categories, vocabulary, and historical references. promises while trusting Him to provide every
On the other hand, no amount of intellectual solution (1 Sam. 17:47; Rom. 4:19–20). Hebrews 11
genius will allow the spiritually dead unbeliever presents a long roster of Old Testament believers
to understand a biblical message. who executed this faith-rest spiritual life. See
Spiritual IQ is a great leveler in the Christian faith-rest drill; ritual plan of God.
life, ensuring that every believer has equal oppor- Church Age. In the spiritual life of this age,
tunity to advance to maturity and glorify Jesus fellowship with God also includes the filling
Christ. But just as human IQ does not determine ministry of the Holy Spirit, which provides an
human achievement, spiritual IQ is only potential unprecedented availability of divine power (John
to succeed after salvation. God in grace provides 16:13; 1 Cor. 2:12–13; Eph. 3:16). Emphasis is
the means of comprehension—the believer must placed not on ritual or emotion but on thinking—
provide the positive volition. By his own freewill thinking with the entire realm of doctrine
decisions, the believer must consistently listen to revealed in the written Canon, communicated
the teaching of the Word and remain filled with by the pastor-teacher, and made understandable
the Spirit while concentrating on the message. As by the Holy Spirit. Believers use faith-rest as
a result, he can accept by faith the information well as other problem-solving assets—such as
that he comprehends and utilize it to fulfill God’s impersonal love, occupation with Christ, and
spiritual life 252

sharing the happiness of God—to resolve all Word of God as it is communicated by the pastor-
issues and maintain tranquillity of soul. In the teacher. The Holy Spirit, as the Mentor, makes
Church Age, under God’s magnificent grace and this doctrine understandable to the believer’s
infinite power, even the most ordinary believer human spirit (John 16:13) and transfers it to the
can impact history and glorify Christ with his left lobe of his soul. At this point the informa-
spiritual life. See divine dynasphere; problem- tion is simply academic knowledge in a staging
solving devices; protocol plan of God. area, the metaphorical meal sitting on a table,
See also fellowship with God; spiritual adult- waiting to be consumed.
hood; spiritual childhood. If the believer who has heard the doctrinal
message chooses to reject it as absolute truth, he
spiritual maturity has walked away from a plateful of nourishment.
See spiritual adulthood. The food remains on the table—the academic
knowledge is still in his left lobe—and he has
spiritual mechanics Describes the spiritual gained no spiritual strength for understanding
operating assets and procedures designed by God or fulfilling His plan. On the other hand, if
God for living the Church Age spiritual life. See the believer expresses faith in the information,
power options; problem-solving devices; if he says in effect, “I believe it,” the metabolic
spiritual skills. transformation occurs: the Holy Spirit converts
the academic knowledge (gnosis) to full knowledge
spiritual metabolism A metaphor used to (epignosis) and transfers it to the right lobe of
illustrate the conversion of academic biblical the soul, where it resides as useable material
information into fully useable doctrinal wisdom. and nourishment for spiritual growth. As this
Spiritual metabolism occurs in the soul of the epignosis, or metabolized doctrine, is circulated
believer who is learning doctrine while filled through the stream of consciousness, it builds
with the Holy Spirit. up, or edifies, the believer with divine viewpoint
Basis for the analogy. The classical Greek noun and simultaneously tears down existing human
metabole means “metamorphosis, transforma- viewpoint.
tion, change,” a process involving both anabole, God desires that all believers learn and metab-
“building up,” and catabole, “tearing down.” From olize His Word, because epignosis doctrine is the
this term and concept, biological science derives material necessary for executing His plan
the word “metabolism” to indicate the body’s (1 Tim. 2:3–4). Jeremiah succinctly describes his
utilization of food for physical nourishment and own spiritual metabolism and its result: “Your
growth. Metabolism is a life sustaining activity words were found and I ate them, And Your
that converts nutrients into sources of energy, re- words became for me a joy and the delight of
pairs and replaces damaged cells, and eliminates my heart [right lobe of the soul]” (Jer. 15:16a).
waste byproducts. For metabolism to occur, how- God’s words become a joy and delight in the soul
ever, food must be consumed. A person must by creating capacity for happiness and content-
decide to take food into the mouth and swallow in ment in life, regardless of circumstances. Metab-
order for this involuntary, God-designed process olized doctrine produces virtue for the Christian
to function in support of physical life. way of life (Phil. 1:9; 2 Pet. 1:8) and is the basis
The spiritual illustration. God has also provided
for divine blessing (2 Pet. 1:2–3). Without this
in grace a process for sustaining the spiritual
fully processed spiritual food, the believer is like
life of the believer. In the analogy, spiritual
those described in 2 Timothy, “always learning
metabolism describes the believer’s ‘eating’ of
and never able to come to the [full] knowledge of
doctrinal information by expression of faith
the truth” (2 Tim. 3:7).
and the Holy Spirit’s transformation of that
See also faith perception; grace apparatus for
information into spiritual nourishment.
perception; Operation Z; right lobe of the soul.
Before spiritual truths can be metabolized, the For further reference, Reversionism.
believer must listen to and concentrate on the Lessons 728:50–72.
 253 spiritually self-sustaining

spiritual momentum The steadily moving spiritual skills Three provisions that function
advance through the postsalvation spiritual life. together for the Church Age believer’s execution
Consistent positive volition toward God is the of the plan of God: the filling of the Holy Spirit,
impetus behind spiritual momentum (Phil. 3:12– cognition of Bible doctrine through God’s grace
17; 2 John 8). The believer with momentum is process, and development of spiritual problem-
choosing to utilize the spiritual dynamics of this solving tools. See filling of the Holy Spirit;
age—all the grace resources and procedures—to Operation Z; problem-solving devices.
advance toward maturity. Fueled by the filling of
the Holy Spirit, momentum is generated and sus- spiritual warfare
tained by the daily perception and application of See angelic conflict; armor of God.
Bible doctrine. This momentum is lost through
sin but recovered through rebound (naming sins spirituality The absolute status of the Church
to God the Father) and by “forgetting what lies Age believer whose soul is filled with and con-
behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead” trolled by the Holy Spirit and who is thereby in
(Phil. 3:13). The believer who uses doctrine to fellowship with God.
overcome obstacles in his path (e.g., unjust treat- Spirituality begins at salvation, the point at
ment, mental pressure, disastrous events) fur- which the believer in Christ is both indwelt and
ther intensifies his momentum and accelerates filled with the Holy Spirit. The filling of the Spirit,
his spiritual growth (2 Cor. 12:10). the empowerment for executing the Christian
See also spiritual adulthood; spiritual life; way of life, is a temporary condition that can be
suffering (for blessing). lost and recovered (Eph. 5:18). If the Holy Spirit
is in control of the soul, the believer is “spiritual,”
spiritual phenomena Translation of the in fellowship with God. However, when personal
Greek pneumatikos, used in 1 Corinthians 2:13 sin is committed, the Spirit’s empowerment is lost:
to indicate all the doctrinal truths of God—the the sin nature takes control and the believer is
wisdom revealed in God’s Word, distinguished “carnal” (Rom. 7:15; 8:7–8, kjv), out of fellowship
from human wisdom, and comprehensible only with God. Spirituality and carnality are mutually
by the believer in Jesus Christ. exclusive, absolute conditions (1 Cor. 3:1–3). The
At salvation, the believer receives a human believer cannot be both simultaneously, though
spirit (pneuma), the invisible equipment nec- he can rapidly switch from one to the other.
essary for comprehending spiritual phenomena The carnal believer is restored to spirituality
(pneumatikos). As a pastor-teacher communicates the moment he acknowledges his known sins to
doctrinal information, the Holy Spirit teaches God the Father (1 John 1:9). Through this simple
that doctrine to the human spirit, where it is grace procedure, called “rebound,” the filling of
understood as spiritual phenomena (John 14:26). the Spirit is recovered and the believer is em-
To the “natural man [unregenerate, unbeliever],” powered to assimilate God’s Word and advance in
God’s truths remain “foolishness”—because His plan (2 Cor. 10:3–4; Gal. 5:16; Eph. 5:18). As
without a human spirit the information cannot long as there is no unconfessed sin in his life, the
be “spiritually appraised [discerned]” (1 Cor. 2:14; believer remains filled with the Holy Spirit and
cf. John 3:6). When the unbeliever is presented is “spiritual.”
with the Gospel message, the Holy Spirit must act See also carnality; fellowship with God; God
as the missing human spirit in order to make that the Holy Spirit; rebound; top and bottom
spiritual information clear. circles.
For further reference, God the Holy Spirit vs. The Sin
See human spirit; Operation Z. Nature; Isolation of Sin; Rebound & Keep Moving!
For further reference, The Barrier; Daniel Chapters One
through Six.
Lessons 412:861, 993–94. spiritually self-sustaining Describes the be-
liever who can draw upon his inner resources
spiritual self-esteem of doctrine to cope with problems, maintain a
See spiritual adulthood. stabilized happiness, take control of his life, and
spiritually self-sustaining 254

live it as unto the Lord. our Lord His staying power—is available to us as
God’s will for every saved person is that Church Age believers (2 Thess. 3:5). Just as Christ
they become spiritually self-sufficient, able to endured and overcame the greatest barrage of
think and act correctly without counseling or human and satanic pressures in history, so also
approval from others. This does not imply a life our perseverance in doctrine will enable us to
independent of God but rather a full utilization ‘stay the course’ and overcome every problem,
of divine resources to move forward in His plan disaster, and difficulty. By “fixing our eyes on
(Prov. 8:32–34). The believer who is spiritually Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for
self-sustaining thinks with divine viewpoint and the joy set before Him endured [hupomeno] the
relies steadfastly on God for strength, comfort, cross,” we are able to “run with endurance [hupo-
and guidance through life. Although genuinely mone] the race that is set before us” (Heb. 12:1–2).
humble and teachable, this believer is not Lessons 376:1296–98, 1305–6, 1348.
controlled by what anyone else thinks, says, or
does. His happiness, too, is genuine and reliable, strategic and tactical victories Terminology
needing no external crutches for support. for the gains made in the angelic conflict, on
To reach this point of self-sufficiency, a cru- both large and small scale, to defeat Satan and
cial milestone on the road to spiritual maturity, frustrate his plans of conquest.
the believer consistently takes in Bible doctrine In military terms, strategy describes the over-
under the power of the Holy Spirit and the all plan to secure victory in a war, and tactics
teaching of a prepared pastor. From the privacy constitute the methods used to employ troops
of his own soul the believer applies this divine in combat situations. Strategic victory means
truth toward himself, others, and circumstances. the objective of the war is achieved; tactical
The more doctrine he learns and applies, the victory means specific objectives are met on
more he comes to realize that the best personal the battlefield. In the spiritual warfare against
advice comes from the spiritual resources with- Satan, strategic victory was accomplished on
in himself, not from the pastor and not from the cross—a decisive, sweeping victory that also
friends or members of the congregation. creates advantageous conditions for tactical vic-
See also spiritual adulthood. tory in the Christian life.
For further reference, Christian Integrity. Christ’s strategic victory. Jesus Christ won the
Lessons 410:2; 728:172; 361:30. strategic victory by His substitutionary spir-
itual death on the cross. The Son of God became
staying power [Gk. n. hupomone, endurance; v. true humanity and “bore our sins in His body,”
hupomeno, to persevere] The spiritual strength paying the ultimate price to deliver mankind
and ability to endure testing and to keep on from slavery to sin and death (1 Pet. 2:24). None
advancing in the plan of God. of the devil’s cunning schemes and machinations
The humanity of Jesus Christ set the record for could prevent God from securing this conclusive
staying power. Motivated by personal love for the victory. Christ’s saving work—followed by His
Father and impersonal love for all mankind, He resurrection, ascension, and session—destroyed
resisted every temptation and opposition from the “the works of the devil” and guaranteed the
devil’s world. Ultimately, He arrived at the cross, ultimate doom of Satan and his demons (1 John
where His love and integrity remained steadfast 3:8). When Jesus Christ arrived in heaven, the
even as the sins of the world were poured out on Father announced the victorious accomplishment
Him and judged. with the proclamation, “Sit at My right hand,
Jesus Christ’s staying power came from his Until I make Your enemies A footstool for
human nature, not His deity. “Becoming obe- Your feet” (Heb. 1:13b). Christ will return at the
dient to the point of death” demanded humility Second Advent to demonstrate this total victory
and thinking from doctrine in His human over Satan: He will remove His enemy from the
soul (Phil. 2:8). That same thinking—the same earth and be crowned ruler of the world.
humility, love, and spiritual strength that gave The believer’s tactical victory. Every Christian
 255 stream of consciousness

not only shares in Christ’s strategic triumph but the memory center.
is also positioned for tactical victory in the spir- (3) Vocabulary storage, the dictionary in the
itual life (Rom. 6:4–7). The tactical objective is believer’s soul for all technical theological terms,
to seize and hold the high ground of spiritual biblical metaphors, and other nomenclature
maturity. By persistently growing in grace and necessary for thinking, expressing, and utiliz-
truth, utilizing divine power and assets, believers ing doctrine (Deut. 8:3; Jer. 15:16). From the
secure victory on the battlefield of the angelic new vocabulary of the spiritual life—terms
conflict. These tactical spiritual victories glorify like rebound, dispensations, spiritual death,
God in time and eternity. Even as the angelic indwelling of the Trinity—comes more precise
conflict has intensified in the Church Age, God thinking related to God and His plan for mankind.
provides all that is needed for every Christian (4) Categorical storage, the compartment for
warrior to overcome the world (1 John 2:16), the classification of Bible doctrine according to its
inherent sin nature (Gal. 5:16–17), and the devil’s subject matter. Categorical development brings
targeted attacks (1 Pet. 5:8). doctrinal principles and terminology together.
See also angelic conflict; Operation Footstool. Scripture is compared with Scripture and doc-
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Follow the trine with doctrine in order to further clarify the
Colors. spiritual life and strengthen doctrinal inventory.
(5) Conscience, the compartment of norms,
stream of consciousness [term coined by standards, and priorities. The “good conscience”
William James (1842–1910), American philoso- has replaced human viewpoint with divine
pher and psychologist] (a) In general psychology, viewpoint, related to the absolutes of Bible doc-
refers to the continuous flow of thoughts and trine (Dan. 1:8; Acts 23:1; Rom. 2:15; 1 Tim. 1:5;
ideas in the conscious mind; (b) in the spiritual 2 Tim. 1:3; 1 Pet. 3:16). The conscience filled
realm, refers to the component of the right lobe with doctrinal standards is a motivator for right
designed for the flow of Bible doctrine, which decisions and actions, as well as a restraint
provides strength and integrity to the believer’s against wrongdoing (Acts 24:16; Heb. 9:14b).
soul. Doctrine transferred by faith into the right The corrupted conscience, filled with standards
lobe resides there as epignosis, full knowledge formed from the sin nature, is the basis for rebel-
with spiritual value. Spiritual growth and appli- lion and apostasy (1 Tim. 4:1–2; Titus 1:15–16).
cation occur as that doctrine circulates through (6) Momentum compartment, the sphere of
the seven compartments of the stream of con- spiritual growth resulting in the execution of the
sciousness. spiritual life and glorification of God (2 Thess.
(1) Frame of reference, the conceptual structure 1:3; 2 Tim. 3:16–17; 1 Pet. 2:2; 2 Pet. 3:18). Spiritual
through which scriptural principles enter the momentum can occur at a normal pace from the
stream of consciousness and, like pieces of a consistent inculcation of Bible doctrine, or at an
puzzle, are placed in proper perspective and cor- accelerated pace when doctrine is applied under
related with doctrines previously learned (1 Cor. various forms of testing.
2:9). As doctrine builds upon doctrine, there (7) Wisdom compartment, the launching pad
is constructed in this compartment an alert where doctrine comes together for application
system that distinguishes truth from falsehood. to experience; the area where divine viewpoint
(2) Memory center, the area for doctrinal recall is converted into action (Prov. 2:10; 1 Cor. 2:7–8;
and the mechanism for circulating doctrine into Eph. 1:17). Applying doctrine to the circum-
the other compartments; the treasury of doctrine stances of life means the believer recognizes
for living the faith-rest life and developing spir- the reality of God’s Word and makes decisions
itual reflexes, which means the believer can re- accordingly from a position of divine strength
call the right doctrine for the given situation (Ps. (Prov. 3:13; Eph. 1:18–19).
119:16; Lam. 3:20–21). Repetition in doctrinal As epignosis doctrine circulates throughout the
instruction, not the believer’s human memory stream of consciousness, the ten problem-solving
capability, is the key to the function of recall in devices for the spiritual life emerge as a line of
 stream of consciousness 256

defense, a FLOT line, to protect the soul against neurologist] (a) Location for thoughts and im-
the outside pressures of adversity and prosperity. pulses that reside below the threshold of con-
Also formed is a mirror in the soul, a reflection sciousness but still influence conscious function;
of divine viewpoint from which the believer can (b) the mental storehouse for fearful impressions
make objective, accurate self-evaluation. and memories, emotional shock from adversity
and disappointment, sinful motivations, and
failures, all too disturbing for and therefore
isolated from the stream of consciousness.
FAITH Garbage in the subconscious. When the stream
Doctrine
of consciousness lacks coping strength, mal-
Epignosis
(full knowledge) adaptive defense mechanisms (e.g., repression,
)
E
N denial) take over to bury reality in the subcon-
F
Re ra m scious. The subconscious, simply put, acts as a
LI
fer e o
en f
T

ce receptacle for all that the conscious mind can-

LO
STR

Mem
not process. Everything relegated there is not
F

PRESSURES
Cen ory
EVICES (

ter
MIR

destroyed but accumulates as ‘garbage’ just below

EAM OF CO

the surface of awareness. Though unacknowl-

ROR IN

Vocabulary
Storage
RIGHT LOBE OF
THE SOUL edged and largely imperceptible, garbage in the
G D

rica
l subconscious—the pangs of guilt, inadequacy,
ego
IDE

Ca t ora ge
TH

St and every other suppressed emotional or arrogant

IN
E

TS
NS

LV

O reaction—exerts undeniable influence on thinking

S

ce U
ien L
OU
O

sc
CI

n and behavior. For the immature or reversionistic

-S

Co M
m
O

LE
ntu

B believer who persists in carnality, the result is

U

N RO
me

om
S

E P
separation from the reality of divine viewpoint.
Mo

Wisd

S
S
Motivation to learn Bible doctrine diminishes, as
does the ability to apply doctrine. With no biblical
coping skills, and with the guilt of his own sins
and weaknesses buried in the subconscious, the
Figure 30 STREAM OF CONSCIOUSNESS
believer develops internal stress that adversely
affects his personality, mental stability, and inter-
The believer who fills each of the seven com- personal relationships. He arrogantly reacts to
partments with God’s Word seamlessly executes life, blames others for his bad decisions, and
God’s plan for his life, while the believer with a in effect spreads his soul garbage onto his
doctrinal deficiency is disoriented to the will surroundings. The phrase “garbage in, garbage
and plan of God (Prov. 23:7a). Because the nega- out” describes the destructive process.
tive believer lacks spiritual nourishment, habit- Clearing the subconscious. Spiritual recovery
ual emotional sins open the door for the sin from subconscious garbage is possible, but solu-
nature and all its destructiveness to dominate tions exist solely in the conscious mind. The seven
his right lobe. compartments of the stream of consciousness
See also mirror in the soul; Operation Z; await saturation with doctrine to restrain the
problem-solving devices; subconscious.
For further reference, Freedom through Military Victory;
sin nature and form real problem-solving assets.
The Unfailing Love of God. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Bible doc-
Lessons 412:1230; 376:66–67. trine persistently circulated through the stream
of consciousness lifts the subconscious contents
stress into awareness. The believer, in the privacy of
See adversity vs. stress. his individual priesthood, can then recognize
reality and objectively address his problems with
subconscious [from Fr. subconscient, coined spiritual solutions. Knowing that “I [God] have
by Pierre Janet (1859–1947), psychologist and wiped out your transgressions like a thick cloud”
 257 substitutionary spiritual death

(Isa. 44:22), he leaves past shame and failure 2 Cor. 5:21a); (b) identifies Jesus Christ’s redemp-
behind and reaches forward to what lies ahead tive work on behalf of humanity and is the actual
(Phil. 3:13–14). meaning of the figurative term “blood of Christ”
See also defense mechanisms; right lobe of the (Rom. 5:8–9; Eph. 2:13; 1 Pet. 1:18–19).
soul. Separation from God. From noon to 3 p.m. on the
Lessons 102:43; 412:1230–32, 1311; 840:231; 376:8–10. day of the crucifixion, our Lord suffered spiritual
death as billions and billions of sins—including
subjectivity A state of mind preoccupied with the worst transgressions in human history—were
self and therefore reflecting the personal emo- imputed to Him and judged (Matt. 27:45; 1 Pet.
tions and weaknesses of the individual. Anto- 2:24). He revealed His spiritual death to the world
nym: objectivity. by screaming, “My God, My God, why have You
Self-consciousness, a normal attribute of every forsaken Me?” (Matt. 27:46; cf. Ps. 22:1–3). The
human soul, turns into subjectivity when arro- righteousness and justice of God the Father could
gance and emotion dominate. With focus turned have no association with sin except to judge it;
inward, the subjective person makes an issue therefore, the Father had to separate Himself from
out of himself on almost every occasion, often the humanity of Christ while He was identified
demonstrating thoughtlessness and insensitivity with our sins. This separation—the unspeakable
toward others. He can neither think rationally agony of Christ’s spiritual death—was the cost of
nor make wise decisions, because he lacks the atonement, the payment for sin (Isa. 53:4–6; Rom.
humility to face reality, accept painful truths, and 5:10; Col. 1:22; 2:14).
submit to absolute standards. On a larger scale, As a substitute for us. Jesus Christ took our place,
subjectivity describes the pattern of historical the place of separation, that He might bring us
downtrends—entire populations so consumed to God by providing atonement for the entire
with their personal desires and security that they human race. Romans 5:8 states that “while we
lose sight of truth, honor, and freedom. were yet sinners, Christ died for [huper] us.” The
For believers in Jesus Christ, Scripture warns Greek preposition huper, used with the genitive
against subjectivity with the command, “Do of advantage, is best translated “instead of, in
not be deceived” (James 1:16), which is better place of, on behalf of.” We should have been
translated, “Stop being blinded by your own judged for our sins, but “while we were yet sinners,
arrogance.” Although Bible doctrine reveals the Christ died on behalf of us, as a substitute for us.”
truth of absolute reality, a person’s arrogance will When God the Father forsook His only Son, it
distort and obscure that truth. When believers was entirely to our advantage, for that greatest
think only in terms of self, they misapply what demonstration of love and grace removed the
they do not adequately understand and bend barrier between God and man and opened the
doctrines to suit their prejudices, instincts, and way to eternal life. Apart from this divine interven-
motivations. For example, an emotional and tion, we would all remain eternally condemned
subjective approach to Scripture leads to false and alienated from God (Rom. 3:23).
virtues of altruism and human good, which are The uniqueness of His spiritual death. We must
contrary to God’s message of grace (Isa. 64:6). distinguish between the real spiritual death of
See also objectivity; tragic flaw. the human race and the substitutionary spiritual
For further reference, Christian Integrity. death of Christ (Rom. 5:12–21). Real spiritual
death is separation from God in a state of sin, a
sublimation condition that began with Adam and applies
See defense mechanisms. to his progeny, all mankind (Gen. 2:17b; Rom.
5:12; 6:23). Substitutionary spiritual death is
substitutionary spiritual death (a) The sep- separation from God in a state of perfection and
aration from God the Father experienced by impeccability. This applies exclusively to Jesus
Jesus Christ when, on the cross, He accepted the Christ. The sinless humanity of Christ died spir-
judgment for all sins of mankind (Mark 15:34; itually, “the just for the unjust” (1 Pet. 3:18), and
substitutionary spiritual death 258

not only retained His impeccability but endured vance spiritually and actually benefit from the
the excruciating pain of judgment with inner situation. Punitive suffering, most often expe-
happiness (Heb. 12:2; 1 John 3:5). rienced by the believer in spiritual childhood,
Christ’s spiritual death is also distinguished can be categorized as follows:
from Adam’s by its cause and results. Namely, Self-induced misery is the personal anguish and
the real spiritual death of Adam was caused adversity that result from decisions of poor judg-
by personal sin, and the results included loss ment, sin, human good, and evil. Self-induced
of the human spirit, total depravity, and total misery follows the law of volitional responsi-
helplessness to attain a relationship with God. bility: we reap what we sow, and wrong choices
In the case of Jesus Christ, all the sins of the have natural and logical consequences (Hosea
world were placed on Him through a judicial 8:7a; Gal. 6:7). Our decisions affect the course
imputation—no sins were committed by Him and quality of our life. Until the believer takes
(Rom. 5:18). Furthermore, the humanity of responsibility for his personal failures, he will
Christ retained His human spirit throughout the make himself miserable. God’s plan of recovery
judgment. After His saving work was complete, involves rebound—acknowledging any known
He said, “It is finished,” and then He died phys- sins to God the Father (1 John 1:9)—and the
ically by dismissing His human spirit into the persistent intake and application of His Word. If
hands of the Father (John 19:30; Luke 23:46). the wayward believer refuses to rebound, self-
See also blood of Christ; unlimited atonement. induced misery is parlayed into divine discipline.
For further reference, The Barrier; The Blood of Christ. See also volitional responsibility, law of.
Lessons 412:395–98, 543–51; 840:100–102. Divine discipline is action administered direct-
ly by God to punish the guilty believer and moti-
suffering Pain, pressure, distress, grief, or loss vate his spiritual recovery. Punishment from
experienced by the believer. perfectly just and loving God not only fits the
Every occurrence of suffering has a reason, an violation but also intensifies to meet the believer’s
explanation, and a solution related to the plan resistance (Heb. 12:5–11). For the carnal Chris-
and glorification of God. Suffering can be punitive, tian who fails to respond to God’s warnings, the
for the purpose of discipline and spiritual cor- discipline progresses into more severe measures.
rection, or suffering can be for blessing, designed See divine discipline.
to advance the believer to a higher level of spir- If suffering continues after the believer has
itual growth and discernment. God’s plan does recovered fellowship with God, the purpose of
not eliminate suffering. All believers must be that suffering is no longer punitive but is now for
challenged to apply doctrine, to lean on the blessing (Job 5:17–18).
spiritual resources God provides in grace. In
suffeRing foR blessing is undeserved hardship
fact, God permits His children to experience
or difficulty sent by God to test and encourage
the hardships, heartaches, and disasters of life
the growing believer. Painful circumstances
so that they may grow stronger in His Word and
force the believer to draw upon his inner re-
eventually share His own lasting happiness.
sources of doctrine, giving a chance to exercise
punitive suffeRing is a warning that something and strengthen spiritual muscles. Suffering
is wrong with the believer’s life. Poor decisions for blessing can accelerate spiritual growth,
have been made, and the subsequent pain is an enhance doctrinal application, prove the be-
alert and an opportunity to make corrections— liever’s faith, and, above all, demonstrate the
this experience is generally known as “learning all-sufficient grace of God.
the hard way.” God uses this form of suffering Unlike disciplinary measures, this form of
to teach and correct regarding sin, to restrain suffering is undeserved. A few elementary tests
temptation, and to encourage positive volition may occur in spiritual childhood, but the full
toward the spiritual life. Although the believer curriculum of suffering for blessing is reserved
at fault is responsible for his own suffering, God, for spiritual adulthood, since believers must have
in grace, provides solutions that free him to ad- doctrinal capacity to meet these challenges and
 259 suffering

be blessed by them. The tests of suffering are difficulty. Eventually, Paul came to realize that
administered in three stages, each corresponding divine strength replaces human weakness, and
to a particular stage of the adult spiritual life. that God has total ability to care for His own. In
See Figure 31. celebration of the Lord’s abundant grace, the
In testing, God never gives the believer more apostle declared, “When I am weak, then I am
suffering than he can bear (1 Cor. 10:13). What- strong” (2 Cor. 12:8–10).
ever suffering God administers is intended for Using divine strength through weakness is a
the believer to endure, handle, and solve with pattern that continues throughout the adult
the application of His Word. To receive a higher believer’s progress. It is not the suffering itself
increment of suffering for blessing, the believer that produces spiritual growth; rather, it is the
must possess the necessary spiritual strength to believer’s utilization of God’s power in suffering
handle it. See also spiritual adulthood. that advances him. Providential preventive suf-
fering serves as a warm-up for testings in the
1
next stage of spiritual adulthood.
Spiritual Providential Momentum testing is designed to accelerate
Self- Preventive
Esteem Suffering the believer’s progress toward maturity. Spiritual
growth, attained from the daily intake of Bible
2 doctrine, is accelerated by applying that doctrine
Spiritual Momentum to four categories of momentum testing.
Autonomy Testing
(1) People testing challenges the believer in the
realm of personal relationships, either affection-
3
ate or antagonistic. In wanting to please an object
Spiritual Evidence
Maturity Testing of love or admiration, the believer is easily led
away from the plan of God. In reacting to hostility
or rejection, he may lose objectivity and the
Figure 31 STAGES OF SUFFERING FOR BLESSING ability to apply doctrine. Either way, the danger
lies in relinquishing the strength of spiritual
Providential preventive suffering protects and independence and turning over control of one’s
insulates against arrogance while challenging the life to someone else. Unless the believer applies
believer to depend on his true source of strength. the virtue of impersonal love, people become a
The newly adult believer, having just left spiritual distraction to his spiritual life and he effectively
childhood, is especially vulnerable to failure. becomes a slave to the influences of others. The
Flexing his new spiritual muscles and enjoying believer must grow to depend on God, not on
the results of spiritual growth, he is in danger anyone else, for happiness.
of thinking his strength comes from self rather (2) Thought testing occurs throughout the Chris-
than God. Before the believer can corrupt his own tian experience: human viewpoint conflicts with
advance with arrogance, God takes preventive divine viewpoint, false concepts challenge Bible
action. The spiritually adult believer is put in doctrine, arrogance intrudes upon humility, fear
a situation that he cannot resolve with human paralyzes reason, and expedients of every type
resources, where he must recognize his help- compete with priorities in the plan of God. The
lessness and rely on God’s power for solutions. believer must resolve these conflicts within the
Paul referred to his own providential preven- mentality of his own soul, for his ability to cope
tive suffering as a “thorn in the flesh,” sent by God with life depends upon what he thinks (Prov.
to keep the great apostle from “exalting” himself 23:7a; Rom. 12:2–3).
(2 Cor. 12:7). In constant torment, helpless to God has powerfully and amply armed the
remove the “thorn,” Paul prayed for immediate believer to win this inner warfare against erro-
relief. But God intended for Paul to bear the neous thinking (Eph. 6:13–17; 2 Cor. 10:5). To pass
suffering, to trust the available divine power thought testing, the believer must have a wealth
and grace resources to carry him through the of doctrine stored in the soul, the filling of the
suffering 260

Spirit to make correct application of that doctrine, with total confidence in God’s plan for his life.
and the patience to await the Lord’s answers. This Evidence testing is a high honor reserved for
ensures that he will not be distracted by false spiritual maturity. The life of the mature believer,
issues or misled by wrong priorities. a testimony to God’s all-sufficient grace, is pre-
(3) System testing occurs when the believer sented before Satan and his angels, furnishing
receives unfair treatment from an organized evidence in a courtroom drama that has been un-
system in society. Common systems include the folding since long before human history began.
military, government, businesses, athletic and Evidence testing is Satan’s attempt to discredit the
professional organizations, educational or eccle- testimony. In his cross-examination of the witness,
siastical institutions, and the divine institutions the devil instigates intense suffering to force the
of marriage and family. All these organizations believer to turn against God and abandon divine
involve people—none of whom are perfect—and resources. But no matter what happens, the
conflicts of administration, policy, and per- mature believer can find confidence and comfort
sonality will inevitably exist. The believer who in the knowledge that God has established the
falls victim to a rotten system cannot allow the rules and remains ultimately in control. Spiritual
injustice to destroy his integrity (Prov. 24:10). maturity gives the believer the strength to face
When confronted with this test, the believer must the worst Satan can throw at him. See also appeal
cope with the pressure using spiritual resources. trial of Satan; witness for the Prosecution.
Separation from the organization is required in Two prominent examples of evidence testing
extreme cases (e.g., evil policy or criminality), are recorded in Scripture, each one revealing a
but if separation is unjustified or impossible, the different approach by Satan. In the first, Satan
believer is to utilize impersonal love and place wants to prove that believers will not stay faith-
his case before the Supreme Court of Heaven. If ful to God in suffering, especially if they consi-
he perseveres and continues to work “heartily, der the suffering unjust. This was the attack
as for the Lord rather than for men,” he will leveled against Job, a mature believer described
be vindicated and promoted spiritually by the by the Lord as “a blameless and upright man,
Lord (Col. 3:23–25). He may also be a stabilizing fearing God and turning away from evil” (Job 1:8).
influence on others who likewise suffer from the Job underwent evidence testing that included
system’s flaws. See also separation. sudden loss of prosperity (Job 1), health (Job
(4) Disaster testing involves the shock of a crisis, 2:1–10), family, and friends (Job 2:11—42:9), and
requiring the believer to maintain poise, control he passed these tests by concentrating on God’s
fear, and concentrate on God under extreme perfect character. In the other form of evidence
duress. A personal disaster may involve physical testing, Satan seeks to show that a believer’s de-
injury, disease, genetic handicap, hunger, or sire for power, wealth, or any other achievement
exposure, or it may take the form of grief and will override his obedience to the will of God.
mental anguish caused by loss of loved ones, This was the approach used against the human-
reputation, success, or financial security. In his- ity of Christ when He was isolated in the desert.
torical or national disaster, the believer is part of Unique temptations and subtle deceptions were
a large group suffering from conditions such as used by Satan to challenge Christ’s relationship
catastrophic weather, economic decline, epidemic to the Holy Spirit (Matt. 4:1–4), the Word of God
disease, rampant criminality, or national warfare. (Matt. 4:5–7), and the plan of God (Matt. 4:8–10).
When disaster hits, the immediate solution is Our Lord flawlessly withstood Satan’s cross-
to utilize the faith-rest drill—to find tranquillity examination—He did not stray from God’s plan
in the midst of turmoil by claiming biblical or even gloat over exposing Satan’s lies. Instead,
promises of God’s faithfulness. The spiritually He remained filled with the Spirit, relied on
self-sufficient believer is content because he doctrine, and stated pertinent truths.
understands and appreciates the One who pro-
For further reference, Christian Suffering; The Faith-
tects and delivers him (Job 5:20; Phil. 4:11–13). He Rest Life.
not only survives the storm but even enjoys it, Lessons 101:16–18; 412:193–244, 249–66.
 261 supergrace

suicide, doctrine of The biblical viewpoint parable nature and source of simchah more
regarding the believer’s decision to take his own accurately than the typical translations “gladness”
life. or “joy.” Solely by orienting to the grace of God
No passage in Scripture authorizes suicide or can the believer experience such happiness,
guarantees divine protection against it. The time which is said to exceed even the gratification
and manner of the believer’s death is a matter from abounding harvests of “grain and new wine”
of the sovereignty of God (Ps. 31:15; Rom. 14:8); (Ps. 4:7; 21:6). Synonyms: sharing the happiness
therefore, taking one’s life amounts to superim- of God; plus H (+H).
posing human volition over the will and decision Psalm 100:2a is a mandate to “serve the Lord
of God and failing to execute His plan of grace. with gladness [simchah, superabundance of hap-
Before and after. The road to suicide is a pattern piness].” Before the believer can rightly serve
of negative decisions culminating in hopeless- with this attitude of maximum happiness, he
ness and desperation. Whether or not the sui- must mature spiritually through the intake and
cidal believer is aware, he has made a series application of Bible doctrine (Jer. 15:16; 2 Pet. 1:3).
of choices against the spiritual life and for the David writes, “The righteous man [believer with
mental attitudes of self-pity, fear, anger, guilt, doctrine] will be glad [have a superabundance of
or bitterness. His ability to think rationally happiness] in the Lord” (Ps. 64:10a). By contin-
and adjust to life with divine viewpoint has ually trusting in God’s Word, the believer develops
disappeared, and stress in the soul has become an increasing rapport with God and responds
so overpowering that he no longer recognizes any in his soul to God’s unfailing love and grace. He
option other than to end his life. comes to appreciate that every day “is the day
While suicide expresses self-absorption and which the Lord has made” and rejoices in it with
spiritual failure, no sin or failure can nullify a superabundance of happiness (Ps. 118:24).
Christ’s saving work or cancel what the believer
See also sharing the happiness of God.
receives the moment he believes in Christ for
salvation. Like any other sin, suicide was judged
supergrace The mature status attained by the
on the cross. And like any believer, the one who
believer who is grace oriented to the maximum,
commits suicide has eternal life that brings him
who appropriates and utilizes all of God’s grace
to heaven at the moment of death. He is “absent
provisions for life on earth. In this advanced
from the body, at home face to face with the Lord”
stage, the believer experiences the “greater grace”
just as quickly as the mature believer who dies
of James 4:6. Synonym: spiritual maturity.
by God’s will and decision (2 Cor. 5:8, corrected
As a believer grows in Bible doctrine, he even-
translation). Guarantee of eternal security, how-
tually breaks through the maturity barrier and
ever, should never be construed as license or en-
reaches supergrace status. Doctrine has built
couragement for taking one’s own life. By intrud-
tremendous capacity in his soul, to the point
ing upon God’s plan and timing, the believer
where God can now entrust him with a surplus
leaves no spiritual impact for those left behind
of grace blessings (Isa. 30:18; Rom. 5:17). Upon
and forfeits his rewards for the eternal state.
the supergrace believer God pours out spiritual
See also eternal security. blessings of contentment and confidence for all
For further reference, Dying Grace.
Lessons 457:195; 412:697. circumstances, wisdom to evaluate and adapt to
the events of life, and concentration on Christ
superabundance of happiness (a) The full above all else. Accompanying material bless-
translation of the Hebrew simchah, which ings may take the form of wealth, professional
describes the happiness provided by God that achievement, or social and romantic relation-
is abundantly beyond any other happiness ships. These blessings are uniquely designed for
known to man; (b) the inner peace and content- each individual and given by God in His perfect
ment attainable by the believer who executes timing. And in yet another grace privilege, the
the spiritual life to maturity. The phrase “super- supergrace hero has a dynamic invisible impact
abundance of happiness” expresses the incom- upon his personal surroundings, nation, or
supergrace 262

international mission field. A perfect Judge can only make perfect judgments,
Progressing beyond supergrace, the believer and God’s righteousness and justice ensure that
intensifies his doctrinal intake and presses on it is impossible for Him to render a wrong or
through periods of undeserved suffering—rigor- unfair decision. Because God is omniscient, He
ous testing, pressure, and satanic opposition—to has complete knowledge of the facts of every
reach the crest of ultrasupergrace. The ultra- case. Omnipresence means He is a personal eye-
supergrace believer is fully occupied with Christ, witness to every activity of history. God is veracity,
and hardships merely serve to heighten his con- absolute truth, and therefore cannot be deceived.
tentment through increased reliance upon the His sovereign will is never arbitrary, and His
Lord (Phil. 1:20–21; 3:8–14; Heb. 10:32–33; James omnipotence guarantees that He has the power
5:10–11). In heaven, the fantastic dividends of to execute His will under all situations. And be-
supergrace and ultrasupergrace are parlayed into cause He is immutable and eternal, His decisions
still greater rewards, called “surpassing riches,” stand for all eternity, without change.
which will glorify the Lord to the maximum Consistent with His character, God can only
throughout all eternity (Eph. 2:7). reach and pronounce an objective verdict. He
See also capacity, spiritual; high ground; spir- knows perfectly how to punish the guilty and
itual adulthood. deliver the innocent, ensuring that all judgments
For further reference, Follow the Colors; Reversionism. glorify Him and further His plan for mankind
(Gen. 50:20; Ps. 7:11–12; 9:8; Prov. 11:18–21). Even
Supreme Court of Heaven The highest seat of the evil affairs of a fallen world, under the hand
justice in the universe, rendering perfect, final of divine justice, bring about God’s sovereign
decisions—divine judgments and blessings— purpose for human history.
related to angelic and human affairs (1 Chron. Believer’s use of the Supreme Court of Heaven.
16:14; Ps. 9:7–8; Prov. 16:11; Rev. 16:7). When faced with seeming injustice in the world,
The Supreme Court of Heaven, always in ses- the believer in Jesus Christ must rely on the Court
sion, reviews and judges all cases related to evil where evidence and justice are eternally perfect.
in the devil’s world, sinfulness and injustice in The believer approaches the Supreme Court of
human affairs, the rise and fall of nations, anti- Heaven simply by leaving matters in the Lord’s
Semitism, carnality and conflicts among believers, hands (Ps. 55:22; 1 Pet. 5:7). If he is at fault, he will
and satanic accusations against believers (Gen. be judged as the guilty party; if he has truly been
12:3; Ps. 76:7–9; 94:1–23; Eccl. 12:14). The Court wronged, those who have sinned against him
will also hand down its evaluation of believers will be rightly judged at God’s right time. On
following the Rapture of the Church (1 Cor. 4:5; the other hand, as soon as the believer takes
2 Cor. 5:10; 2 Tim. 4:8) and will execute the eternal matters out of God’s hands and into his own,
sentencing of Satan, all fallen angels, and all either by personal maligning, mental attitude
human unbelievers at the end of the Millennium sins, inappropriate litigation, or acts of revenge,
(Matt. 25:41; Rev. 20:12–15). the heavenly court can no longer act on his
Judges. The heavenly Supreme Court Justices behalf (Rom. 12:19; 1 Cor. 6:7–8). By attempting
are God the Father, God the Son, and God the to preempt the Supreme Court of Heaven and dis-
Holy Spirit. In human history, the Lord Jesus regarding the divine privilege of judgment, the
Christ presides as Chief Justice “because He is believer simply comes into his own frustration
the Son of Man” as well as the Son of God (John and divine discipline (Matt. 7:1–2; Rom. 2:3).
5:22, 27). When Satan accuses believers before
See also Jesus Christ controls history.
the Court, the Father presides as Chief Justice For further reference, The Integrity of God.
while the Son advocates for believers, basing His Lessons 809:54–56, 73; 412:1253, 1349, 1365–71.
defense on the complete payment for sins on the
cross (Zech. 3:1–2; 1 John 2:1–2). surpassing grace The special blessings and
Nature of Judgment. All decisions rendered by decorations awarded to the spiritually mature
the Justices are compatible with divine essence. believer in eternity. For the one who appropriates
 263 system testing

maximum blessings on earth and holds the high

ground of spiritual maturity, God reserves the
“surpassing riches of His grace” (Eph. 2:7). These
are above and beyond the normal blessings of
heaven, such as those described in Revelation
21:4. See crowns; order of the morning
star; uniform of glory.

sustaining ministry of the Holy Spirit

See God the Holy Spirit (ministry to humanity
of Christ).

system testing
See suffering (for blessing).
 Tt
Tabernacle dards of Bible doctrine. Tabooism—with its super-
See ritual plan of God. ficial constraints, erroneous traditions, and per-
sonal opinions—has no place in the Christian life.
tabooism (a) Adherence to prohibitions imposed See also doubtful things; drinking; judging;
legalism; pseudospirituality.
by culture and tradition; (b) a false system of
Lessons 408:31; 665:9; 412:1196.
spirituality practiced by legalistic Christians who
label certain activities as improper, unacceptable, tactical victory of the believer
or sinful, even though they are not prohibited by See strategic and tactical victories.
Scripture.
Throughout history, to one degree or another, Talmud [from Heb. lamad, to instruct, to teach]
certain restrictions have infiltrated society to (1) In the strictest sense, refers to the collection of
create a superficial standard of moral behavior. rabbinical writings of late antiquity—exhaustive
These man-made prohibitions, which vary accord- technical analyses and opinions concerning
ing to geographical area or culture, are separate Jewish oral law (regulations formulated by the
and distinct from sinful activities specifically elders), with some discourse on Jewish written
forbidden in the Bible. Activities commonly law (Mosaic Law). (2) In a broader sense, and as
‘tabooed’ are dancing, drinking alcohol, playing is more commonly used, refers to the rabbinical
cards, smoking cigarettes and cigars, dressing writings and the later codified text of the oral law.
in certain types of clothing, and eating certain Under this arrangement, the rabbinical commen-
foods. Though some of these acts may carry an taries are distinguished as Gemara, and the code
element of social impropriety and some may of oral law is called Mishnah.
be detrimental to health, they are not in them-
See also Torah.
selves sinful. Sin must be defined by biblical
mandate, not by cultural norms. Tartarus
When taboos are brought into the Christian See Hades.
community, they are distorted into a false
system of spirituality. A believer’s spirituality temple of the Holy Spirit
is determined not by the observance of social See indwelling of the Trinity.
prohibitions but by the filling of the Holy Spirit.
Nonetheless, believers who are self-righteous, or temporal death
simply ignorant of doctrines related to carnality, See death.
consider themselves spiritual if they abstain from
certain activities. Content with their own legalis- temptation Solicitation to sin; specifically, any-
tic standard of holiness, they sanctimoniously thing that entices human volition to disobey the
condemn false infractions in others. And when will and standards of God. Temptation in itself
Christians evaluate fellow believers based on is not sinful. When a person is tempted, his
taboos, they are guilty of judging—a sinful action volition decides whether to resist the urge or to
specifically prohibited by the Bible (Matt. 7:1). give in to it. Personal sin results from volition
Every believer is to live his own life before the saying yes to temptation, whether or not the
Lord, to judge himself using the absolute stan- individual knows he is acting against God’s will.
temptation 266

Sinless man in the Garden. In the case of the first Ten Commandments
man and woman, who in their original created See Mosaic Law.
state did not possess a sin nature, temptation
came directly from the outside. Satan himself testing
appeared in the guise of a serpent to tempt the See suffering (for blessing).
woman with deceit and flattery. She became en-
thralled and was tempted, yet her sinful downfall Tetragrammaton The four Hebrew letters, hwhy,
did not occur until she made the decision to eat used in Old Testament Scriptures as the proper
the forbidden fruit. Adam followed suit, know- name for God. The Tetragrammaton is often trans-
ingly disobeying God’s mandate after acquiescing literated with the English consonants YHWH. For
to the outside influence of his wife (Gen. 3:1–6). pronunciation, vowel sounds are added to form
Fallen man. For every person born after Adam’s Yahweh or, alternatively, Jehovah.
fall, the sin nature is the source of temptation YHWH is derived from the Hebrew verb hayah,
to commit personal sin (Rom. 6:6; 7:8, 15–20; “to be,” and denotes “absolute existence.” This
James 1:14–15). The sin nature resides in the cell concept is taken from Exodus 3:14, where the
structure of the body and is Satan’s inside agent, translation “I AM WHO I AM,” the name of God
constantly inviting man to act independently revealed to Moses, is the doubling of the verb
of God—to reject grace, make decisions from a hayah. YHWH, vocalized Yahweh, designates God
position of weakness, and sin by violating divine as the eternally self-existent One: He is the cause
standards. Temptation also comes from outside of all existence outside of Himself, but He has
circumstances that arouse the lust patterns of no cause for Himself.
Depending upon the context in Scripture, Yah-
the sin nature.
weh can refer to any one of the three members
Jesus Christ’s victory over temptation. In an
of the Trinity—for example, the Father in Isaiah
extraordinary series of temptations, Satan tried
64:8, the Son in Isaiah 45:21, and the Holy Spirit
to persuade the humanity of Christ to violate the
in Isaiah 11:2. Most references are to God the
Father’s will (Matt. 4:1–10). These temptations
Son, since He is the visible person of the Trinity.
were like Adam’s, real but only from the outside,
Devout Jews considered the holy Tetragramma-
for our Lord was born without a sin nature. Ex-
ton too sacred to say aloud and would speak the
ploiting Jesus’ forty-day fast and isolation in the
name Adonai, meaning lord or master, in its place.
desert, the devil suggested He satisfy His hunger
In most English translations of the Bible, the
by performing a miracle, prove divine power
Tetragrammaton is written as “Lord” or “LORD.”
by jumping off the Temple summit, and bypass
See also angel of the Lord; elohim.
the cross by reigning under Satan’s authority. For further reference, God the Holy Spirit vs. The Sin
Not once, however, in this desert ordeal or Nature; The Trinity.
throughout His ministry, did the humanity of Lesson 600:26.
Christ yield to temptation. Jesus remained free
from sin by choosing to rely on the Father’s power theocentric dispensations The first two eras
source and provision (Heb. 4:15; 1 John 3:5). In of human history, encompassing the time from
doing so, He demonstrated the means by which the creation of Adam to the virgin birth of Jesus
believers can overcome the inner weakness that Christ. See Dispensation of the Gentiles; Dis-
wages war in their own souls. By learning and pensation of Israel.
applying Bible doctrine under the filling of the
Holy Spirit, believers can increasingly resist sin theocracy [Gk. theokratia, rule of a state by God]
nature temptation and make decisions from a (a) Government by the direct, personal rule of
position of strength, on God’s system of power God; (b) specifically, the early Israelite nation,
(1 Cor. 10:13; Gal. 5:17; 2 Pet. 2:9a). from the Exodus to the coronation of King Saul,
and the restored Israelite kingdom in the future
See also impeccability of Christ; sin nature.
For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Plan of Millennium.
God; Rebound & Keep Moving! God founded Israel as a theocracy when He
 267 tithing

delivered His chosen people from Egypt (Deut. No one has seen the Father or the Spirit “at
33:5). He not only provided Israel with His laws of any time,” but Jesus Christ, the only revealed
salvation, spiritual function, and human freedom, member of the Godhead, shows Himself to man
but He also personally ruled the nation for the (John 1:18; 6:46; 1 John 4:12a). Theophanies
first four hundred years (ca. 1441–1020 B.C.). As are the visible manifestations of Christ in His
described by theologian Merrill Unger, “Jehovah preincarnate state. “The angel of the Lord” is the
was recognized as their supreme civil ruler, and primary form in which He appeared during the
His laws were taken as the statute book of the Old Testament period (Gen. 16:7–13; Judg. 6:11–
kingdom. Moses, Joshua, and the Judges were the 23; 1 Chron. 21:15–18). Other forms include that
appointees and agents of Jehovah.”17 of a man—appearing to Abraham (Gen. 18), to
The last of the theocracy’s divinely appointed Jacob (Gen. 32:24–32), and to the elders of Israel
agents was Samuel, a political and spiritual (Ex. 24:9–11)—and that of fire or clouds (Ex. 3:2;
leader of Israel. By the time Samuel reached old 13:21–22; 33:9–23; 40:38; Lev. 16:2).
age, in the mid-eleventh century B.C., the people See also angel of the Lord; Christophany;
had rejected God as their king. Wishing to be pillar of fire and cloud; Shekinah Glory.
Lessons 412:263, 315; 608:6.
“like all the nations,” they stubbornly demanded
a king they could see and touch (1 Sam. 8:4–
6, 19–20). God, in grace, permitted Saul to be thorn in the flesh
anointed king over Israel, and the nation was See suffering (for blessing).
thereafter a kingdom ruled by human kings.
Over the centuries, though still distinguished thought testing
as God’s representative nation, the kingdom of See suffering (for blessing).
Israel repeatedly rejected God and frequently
suffered divine discipline (2 Chron. 36:15–21; time of devil’s desperation Descriptive term
Hosea 4:1–7). In A.D. 70, client nation Israel was sometimes used to designate the entire trib-
utterly conquered and the people were scattered ulational period but more often used as a
throughout the world. synonym for the last three and a half years
No nation in the Church Age is under the of the Tribulation, the Great Tribulation. See
immediate rule of God. The current nation of Tribulation.
Israel, founded in 1948, does not constitute the
theocracy God has promised to restore for His time of Jacob’s trouble (distress) Descriptive
chosen people. The Jews in general will remain phrase used in Jeremiah 30:7 (kjv) to designate
dispersed throughout the world until Jesus Christ the Tribulation. See Tribulation.
Himself, at the Second Advent, regathers the
regenerate ones of history and inaugurates His times of the Gentiles The period of the Church
millennial kingdom, with capital city Jerusalem. Age beginning in A.D. 70, when Israel was
Today the royal family of God on earth exists in destroyed as a client nation (Luke 21:24). From
every nation, and, unlike the theocratic Israel, that time and until the Rapture occurs, only
church and state are separate entities. nations with a concentration of positive Gentile
believers are client nations to God. Not until
See also Christian nation; client nation to God;
Dispensation of Israel. Christ returns at the Second Advent will Israel be
restored to client nation status. See also client
theophany [Lat. theophania, appearance of God nation to God (Gentile); diaspora.
to man; from Gk. theo, god + phainein, to show]
Theological designation for the appearances of tithing [Heb. n. maˋaser, a tenth; v. asar, to give or
Jesus Christ prior to the First Advent. take a tenth] (a) An ancient system of taxation in
which citizens paid one-tenth of their resources
17. Merrill F. Unger, The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary (1988), s.v. to the governing authority; (b) a Mosaic Law
“Theocracy.” tax regulation requiring every income-earning
tithing 268

citizen of Israel, believer or unbeliever, to relin- tithing was authorized solely for the Age of Israel.
quish one-tenth of his assets to maintain the Church Age believers are under no obligation
nation. to ‘tithe’ a percentage of their incomes to a local
The first biblical mention of tithing occurs church or religious organization. Christian giving,
in Genesis 14:20, describing Abraham’s tithe to whether of time, money, or service, is a matter of
“Melchizedek king of Salem” following Abraham’s free will and grace motivation (2 Cor. 8:3; Gal. 5:18).
military conquest in the Jordan Valley (Gen. 14:1– See also giving; Mosaic Law.
18). A man without a country, “Abram the Hebrew” For further reference, Giving: Gimmick or Grace?
tithed one-tenth of the spoils of victory, in effect Lessons 438:61; 584:55; 419:76; 840:209.
a ten percent tax, and thereby became a citizen
of Salem, later named Jerusalem. By presenting tongues
the tithe, Abram recognized Melchizedek’s civil See spiritual gifts (temporary).
authority as king of Salem and simultaneously
acknowledged the king’s spiritual authority, top and bottom circles An illustration de-
demonstrated when the “priest [Melchizedek] of picting the believer’s eternal relationship and
God Most High” ministered spiritually to “Abram temporal fellowship with God.
of God Most High” (Gen. 14:18–20; cf. Heb. 7). The top circle portrays eternal security—the
With the establishment of the nation Israel, believer’s eternal relationship with God, an
governed civilly and spiritually by the Mosaic absolute status that can never be lost or forfeited.
Law, tithes were levied equally upon every adult Once the decision of faith in Christ is made, no
Israelite, believer or unbeliever, rich or poor, power in heaven or on earth can remove the
based on the produce of his labor. One-tenth of believer from the eternal position illustrated
the “seed of the land [grain],” “fruit of the tree by residence inside the top circle (Ps. 37:24;
[wine, oil, honey],” and “herd or flock [oxen, John 10:28–29; Rom. 8:38–39). See also eternal
sheep, goats]” was deemed “holy to the Lord” security; position in Christ.
(Lev. 27:30–32; Deut. 14:22). Tithes brought “into
the storehouse”—the treasury of Israel—were
obligatory; failure to pay was a legal violation
(Mal. 3:10). Tithing in ancient Israel imposed a tax
for the maintenance of the Levites (Num. 18:21,
24), a tax to fund national feasts and sacrifices
(Deut. 14:22–27), and a tax every third year for
the destitute of the land (Deut. 14:28–29).
Because tithing was mandated and because
it included unbelievers, the system was not the
same as spiritual giving, called “offering(s)” in
the Old Testament (Ex. 35:29; Lev. 1:1–4; Mal.
3:8). The practice of giving was limited to the
believer and separate from the tax requirement.
For example, the individual Jew expressed posi-
tive volition toward the promised Savior by
bringing an offering “of his own voluntary will”
to the “door of the tabernacle” (Lev. 1:3, kjv). In Figure 32 TOP AND BOTTOM CIRCLES
any age, spiritual giving is a form of worship—a
willful contribution in commemoration of God’s The bottom circle represents spirituality—the
grace, an act to which is attached neither man- believer’s temporal fellowship with God, an ab-
date nor specified percentage (Prov. 11:24–25; solute but revocable status. Inside the circle of
1 Cor. 16:2; 2 Cor. 9:7). fellowship, the filling of the Holy Spirit is the
While giving applies to every dispensation, divine provision for living the Christian life and
 269 Traducianism

growing spiritually (Gal. 5:16, 25). When the 28:4 reveals that believers who “forsake the law
believer sins, he moves outside the bottom [torah],” or abandon divine viewpoint teaching,
circle and loses the filling of the Spirit. Under are reversionists who glorify the sin nature, no
the control of the sin nature, he short-circuits different from a wicked unbeliever.
his spiritual life and can return to the bottom See also Pentateuch; Talmud.
circle only by naming his sins to God the Father
(Ps. 32:5; 1 John 1:9). See also carnality; fel- Torments
lowship with God; rebound; spirituality. See Hades.
For further reference, The Plan of God; The Prodigal Son.
Lessons 101:6; 102:2–3, 26. total depravity The corrupt condition of man-
kind from birth, due to the fall of Adam (Rom.
Torah [from Heb. v. yarah, to throw or aim at; 3:23; 5:12, 19a; 1 Cor. 15:22a).
n. torah, instruction, law] Contrary to the idea that humanity is inher-
(1) As used in Judaism. (a) Designates the five ently good, all members of the human race have
books authored by Moses—Genesis, Exodus, Le- a natural inclination toward degeneracy. Ever
viticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy—what the since Adam disobeyed God in the Garden (Gen.
Church refers to as the Pentateuch. The Hebrew 3:6), the sin nature he acquired has been passed
Canon, though the same in content as the English on genetically to all his descendants. Therefore
Old Testament, is ordered differently and divided every human being, with the exception of Jesus
into three main sections called Torah (Instruction, Christ, is said to be corrupted by the “flesh” or
Law), Nabhiim (Prophets), and Kethubim (Writ- “body of sin” (Rom. 6:6; 7:14–18; 8:3–5, 21; Gal.
ings). (b) When used in the term “written Torah,” 6:8; Eph. 4:22; 2 Pet. 2:10a). In addition to our
designates the first five books or the entire Hebrew inherited sin nature, we receive the imputation
Canon, distinguished from “oral Torah,” which of Adam’s original sin at birth and commit per-
designates the body of civil and religious precepts sonal sins throughout our lives. Together this
passed down orally from the elders and later cod- amounts to the total depravity of man.
ified in the Mishnah, ca. 200 A.D. (c) Now used in Our contaminated nature makes it impossible
rabbinic tradition to indicate the entirety of what for us to measure up to the righteousness of
Judaism considers divine revelation—the written God. Anything we can do on our own power is
Hebrew Canon plus texts based on oral tradition. incompatible with God’s perfect standard, utterly
(2) As used in Scripture. The Hebrew noun torah is nonmeritorious, and unacceptable in God’s sight.
typically rendered “law” in English translations, Were it not for God’s grace plan of salvation, the
stemming from the Septuagint’s use of the Greek human race would be hopelessly lost and con-
nomos (law or custom). In the Old Testament, torah demned forever (Rom. 5:8; Eph. 2:8–9). Even after
(a) generally refers to all revelation given by God salvation, the believer on earth still possesses a
to Moses, the first five books of Scripture (1 Kings sin nature and is helpless to execute the plan of
2:3; 2 Chron. 34:14; Neh. 8:1); (b) specifically God through his own energy and ability (2 Pet.
indicates the Mosaic Law for the client nation, 1:3–4; 1 John 1:10). Only when the soul departs
revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai and in the for eternity and the heavenly body is granted will
Tabernacle (Deut. 31:9, 24–26; Joshua 1:7–8); or believers be totally free from the influence of sin
(c) more broadly refers to the entire Word of God and the sin nature, hence totally free of depravity
(Ps. 119:18, 72; Jer. 31:33). (1 Cor. 15:42, 53–54; Phil. 3:21).
Regardless of the exact portion of Scripture in See also Adam’s original sin; barrier; sin nature;
view, and far beyond a civil and religious code, utopianism.
torah is doctrinal “instruction” for the purpose
of spiritual maturity (Ex. 16:4). Proverbs 28:7 Traducianism [from Lat. traducere, to transfer]
describes the believer “who keeps the law [torah]” The theological viewpoint that the human soul
as discerning and wise—he has learned and is derived from the parents and thus originates
applied doctrine from the Word—while Proverbs at conception. Specifically, Traducianism holds
Traducianism 270

that the immaterial part of mankind (the soul) transcendence

as well as the material body are created mediately See immanence and transcendence.
by genetic propagation. This is opposed to
Creationism, which correctly maintains that Transfiguration [from Gk. metamorphoō, to
every human soul is created immediately by God change into another form] The event in which the
[see Creationism (2)]. incarnate Jesus Christ was briefly transformed
See also origin of human life. into the radiance of deity, in order to encourage
certain disciples about the future kingdom.
tragic flaw The particular weakness in the A few days after the Lord announced His
believer’s character that hinders him from approaching death and resurrection to His
learning doctrine and fulfilling the plan of God. closest followers (Matt. 16:21), He brought Peter,
Historical background. Ancient Greek drama James, and John “up on a high mountain by
used the term “tragic flaw” for the weakness of themselves” (Matt. 17:1; Mark 9:2a; cf. 2 Pet. 1:16).
the main character. In fact, the whole dramatic The Gospels report that on the mountain, “He
intention of Greek tragedy was to demonstrate was transfigured before them”—“His face became
how a successful, powerful person, perhaps a different,” “shone like the sun,” and “His garments
great ruler, had one flaw that destroyed his life. became as white as light” (Matt. 17:2; Mark 9:2–3;
In the drama Agamemnon, written by Aeschylus, Luke 9:29). This brief appearance of glorious
the tragic flaw of the title character manifests deity before three eyewitnesses was a preview of
itself in an intense desire to be a war hero. When
Christ’s future return to earth: our Lord displayed
Agamemnon’s opportunity for famed victory at
the form in which He will appear at the Second
Troy is threatened by changing winds at sea, he
Advent, clothed in His eternal uniform of glory,
sacrifices his daughter’s life to appease the god-
a translucent robe of light over His resurrection
dess Artemis. Agamemnon’s wife later avenges
body. The presence of Moses and Elijah alongside
the death by brutally murdering her husband.
Him revealed the heralds of the Second Advent
Basis and manifestations of the tragic flaw. At
(Matt. 17:3; Rev. 11:3–12; cf. Mal. 4:5). The entire
the heart of every tragic flaw is the basic sin of
vision reassured the eyewitnesses that despite
arrogance, the attitude that sets one’s own de-
Israel’s rejection of the Messiah, the kingdom
sires, abilities, and agenda above the power, plan,
and will of God. Proverbs 16:18 warns that arro- would not be denied to regenerate Jews.
gance precedes destruction, and before a fall
LOCATION
comes a lifestyle of arrogance. That lifestyle of
arrogance is the life of living out the tragic flaw. Tradition places the Transfiguration on Mount Tabor,
Weaknesses like jealousy, power or approbation in lower Galilee, though another likely location is a peak
lust, self-righteousness, hypersensitivity, or rebel- in the Hermon range. Jesus was at that time minister-
liousness cause believers to neglect the essentials ing in Caesarea Philippi.
of the Christian life—doctrinal knowledge and
application—and embrace the nonessentials like
In addition to revealing the future, the Trans-
personal success, fame, social life, wealth and
material possessions, relationships. Believers figuration fulfilled Christ’s prophecy (made six
living out the tragic flaw may often pass for days prior) that certain disciples would not die
wonderful or important people, but in reality before seeing the “Son of Man coming in His
they are disasters. They may not end up like kingdom” (Matt. 16:28).
Agamemnon—in a bathtub cut to pieces—but See also Second Advent; uniform of glory.
unless they recover from carnality and move Lessons 438:47; 419:132–33; 457:134–35.
forward in doctrinal perception, their lives will
end in the sin unto death (1 John 1:9; 5:16). tree of life (1) The tree in the Garden of Eden
See also arrogance complex of sins; sin unto that represented sinless man’s obedience toward
death. God and capacity for everlasting perfect life;
 271 tree of the knowledge of good and evil

(2) a scriptural metaphor for Bible doctrine and For those who persist in God’s Word and reach
its source of divine wisdom for the maturing spiritual maturity, there awaits the fantastic
believer in time (Prov. 3:13–18); (3) the tree in the privilege of eating from the literal tree of life in
future Paradise of God, associated with special the eternal Paradise of God (Rev. 2:7; 22:14).
privileges awarded to mature believers in the See also tree of the knowledge of good and
eternal state. evil.
Adam and the woman were the perfect handi- For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; The Integrity
of God.
work of God, and they would remain that way as Lessons 527:1–2; 457:69–72, 688.
long as they did not reject God’s authority and
provision. Of the many trees “the Lord God tree of the knowledge of good and evil
caused to grow” in the Garden (Gen. 2:9, 16; (a) The one tree in the Garden of Eden from which
3:1–2), the tree of life epitomized the plan of God Adam and the woman were forbidden by God to
for His human creatures. Adam and the woman eat (Gen. 2:16–17); (b) the tree that represented
needed only to obey God’s prohibition concerning Satan’s policy for ruling the world.
the “tree of the knowledge of good and evil” in The “tree of the knowledge of good and evil”
order to live forever alongside the tree of life, was located in the Garden near the “tree of life”
in perfect happiness, blessing, command over (Gen. 2:9). Each tree represented an opposing
creation, and harmonious personal relationship side of the ongoing conflict between the forces of
with God (Gen. 2:17; 3:3–6). God and forces of Satan: the tree of life stood for
Once man ate from the forbidden tree, he God’s plan, in which sinless man would continue
acquired a sin nature and relinquished rulership to rule the earth under God’s perfect care and
of the world to Satan. The tree of life was provision; the tree of the knowledge of good and
useless, for God’s perfect happiness and blessing evil stood for Satan’s plan, under which the enemy
cannot be perpetuated in combination with sin. of God would rule the earth and its inhabitants.
Partaking of the tree of life in a fallen state would Man was given one command, “from the tree of
have meant living forever in spiritual death, with the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat”
human volition no longer an issue (Gen. 3:22b). (Gen. 2:17a). If he disobeyed, he would “surely
Nevertheless, sin and the resultant spiritual death die”—a reference to the spiritual death that would
of mankind would not terminate God’s plan. The separate him from God (Gen. 2:17b; Rom. 5:14).
Lord God announced to Adam and the woman He would be fallen, enslaved to the power of
His promise of a Savior, then He expelled them Satan and the sin nature.
from the Garden (Gen. 3:15, 22–24). God’s purpose The forbidden tree’s designation, “knowledge
for creating mankind—to resolve the prehistoric of good and evil,” describes more specifically what
conflict launched by Satan—continued by cutting man would face if he rejected God’s authority. In
man off from the tree of life and providing a new the original creation, the knowledge of good and
tree, the tree of eternal life, which is the cross evil was irrelevant—sinless man knew only God
(1 Pet. 2:24, kjv). In a sinful environment outside and His perfect provision. However, violating
the Garden, man’s free will would determine the prohibition meant that corrupted man would
his eternal destiny, along with his degree of have to determine right from wrong in a world
happiness and blessing in time. ruled by Satan, in whom there is no real good,
The tree of life will not be seen again until the “no truth,” only evil (John 8:44; 2 Cor. 4:4).
eternal state. The closest man can come on earth Scripture joins the two terms—good, evil—with
to the tree of life in the Garden is residence inside the connective “and,” which indicates not contrast
the divine power system, living by the grace and but a link between similar concepts. “Good and
wisdom of God. Through Bible doctrine resident evil” is in fact everything that obstructs man’s
in the soul, the believer in time partakes of a relationship with God. Evil is Satan’s thinking,
figurative tree of life, which protects against evil his doctrine. Good is human good, a means by
and provides capacity for God’s perfect blessings which man applies Satan’s doctrine. Disguising
and happiness (Prov. 3:13–18; 11:30; 13:12–13). himself as an “angel of light” (2 Cor. 11:14), Satan
tree of the knowledge of good and evil 272

promotes the lie that man’s relative righteous- trespass Used theologically as a synonym for sin.
ness, good deeds generated on human power, can See personal sin.
meet the standard of God’s perfect righteousness.
Striving to please God with human effort is the Tribulation The yet-to-be-completed portion of
sin of arrogance—and sin combined with even the Dispensation of Israel—a future seven years
the most noble act of good is evil. that will begin after the Rapture and end with
Adam and the woman, by choosing to eat from the Second Advent (Isa. 34:1–6; 63:1–6; Ezek.
the forbidden tree, were severed from their former 38—39; Dan. 11:36—12:3; Zech. 12; 14; Matt. 24–
perfection and plunged into a battle against the 25; Rev. 6—19). More specifically, the Tribulation
evil that suddenly pervaded earth (Gen. 3:5–6). constitutes the remaining portion of the 490 years
Their eyes were opened to their sin, and their given by God to the Jews “to make atonement for
conscience immediately sought a remedy for their iniquity” (Dan. 9:24). These future seven years will
guilty state. Instead of admitting their helpless- be Israel’s final opportunity to respond to divine
ness and turning to the Creator, they attempted discipline and receive her Messiah. Synonyms:
to reconcile themselves to God through a work of Daniel’s seventieth week; Dispensation of the
their own hands: “they sewed fig leaves together Tribulation; time of Jacob’s trouble.
and made themselves loin coverings” (Gen. 3:7).
No covering, however, could conceal their sin,
and no human accomplishment could rectify
their fallen nature and spiritual death. This vain Satan’s Expulsion Second Advent
Rapture of
endeavor was nothing more than human good the Church from Heaven of Christ
parlayed into evil by their own arrogance.
But God, in His matchless grace, intervened TRIBULATION
with a solution to sin and spiritual death. He (7 years)
replaced Eden’s tree of life with a new tree of
eternal life—the cross (1 Pet. 2:24, kjv). Man’s free
will would now decide for or against Jesus Christ. Figure 33
And for those who accept the virgin-born Messi-
ah and His saving work, divine good becomes Since all Church Age believers are transferred
the option that counteracts Satan’s human good to heaven at the Rapture, this new era of history
(Gen. 3:15). Regenerate man, by relying on divine will commence with no believers, no restraining
power and the viewpoint of God’s Word, can ministry of the Holy Spirit, and no operational
comprehend the “knowledge of good and evil” client nation (1 Thess. 4:16–17; 2 Thess. 2:7).
and distinguish between the subtle genius of Satan will be freer than ever to implement a
Satan’s policy and the superior genius of God’s utopian strategy aimed at securing full control
policy. Instead of being enslaved by evil, believers of the world and eradicating the Jews.
can choose God’s grace solutions and “overcome Evangelism. Despite religious apostasy, inter-
evil by means of divine good [agathos]” (Rom. nationalism, demonic invasion, and unbridled
12:21, corrected translation). violence in the Tribulation, the Gospel will be
See also good and evil; human good; Operation presented more intensively than in any other dis-
Fig Leaves; tree of life. pensation. God’s primary missionary agency will
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict;The Integrity
of God. be the 144,000 Jews who accept Christ after the
Lessons 527:1–2, 22–29; 469:20–21; 412:1080. Rapture (Rev. 7:1–12) [see Jewish evangelists].
Angels will supplement and support the function
trends of history of these evangelists, ensuring the communication
See historical trends. of the eternal Gospel to every nation on earth
(Rev. 14:6–7). The worldwide evangelistic thrust
trends of the sin nature will also be aided by the powerful ministry of the
See sin nature. resuscitated Moses and Elijah (Rev. 11:3–12; cf.
 273 Trinity

Mal. 4:4–5; Matt. 17:1–3). darkness will bring the enemy forces to a stand-
Evil players and schemes. The first half of the still (Isa. 5:30; 13:9–10; 60:2; Joel 2:10–11), and
Tribulation will proceed in a state of relative Jesus Christ will suddenly return from heaven
peace, prosperity, and religious tolerance, yet to make Jerusalem a “cup that causes reeling” to
underneath will be the smoldering evil of power her enemies (Zech. 12:2–3; Rev. 19:11–19). As the
politics and ecumenical religion. The “false faithful remnant escapes to safety, the Lord will
prophet,” an unbelieving and anti-Semitic Jew, annihilate the forces who stand against Him and
will secure political and religious rulership of His people (Zech. 14:3–5). Finally, He will cast
Israel by posing as the Messiah (Matt. 24:24; cf. the beast and false prophet into the lake of fire,
Rev. 19:20). As world power blocs form around bind Satan in the Abyss, judge the tribulational
him, he will secure protection through an alliance unbelievers, and usher in His promised millen-
with the western bloc, promising Israel’s wealth nial kingdom (Rev. 1:7; 19:20; 20:2–3; cf. Ps. 97:2–6;
and religious allegiance to the “beast” dictator Dan. 2:44–45; Zech. 14:7).
of the Revived Roman Empire (Rev. 13:12, 14; cf. See also abomination of desolation; antichrist;
Dan. 11:38–39). Armageddon; Daniel’s seventieth week; Opera-
Midway through this dispensation, Satan tion Footstool; Second Advent.
For further reference, Armageddon; The Divine Outline
and his demons will be cast down to earth to of History.
unleash such torture and fury, primarily upon Lessons 457:229–320, 344–428, 471–661; 870:1–26.
the Jews, that the period is called the “great
tribulation” (Matt. 24:21–22; Rev. 7:14; 9; 12:17). trichotomous
At the start of these final three and a half years, See dichotomous / trichotomous.
the Jerusalem Temple will be desecrated with a
statue of the beast, which all citizens are forced Trinity The term that expresses the triunity of
to worship (Dan. 7:25; 9:27; 12:11; Rev. 13:12–18). God, one God in three persons. In all three per-
Believers who reject the beast’s image will be sons of the Godhead reside the same essential
deprived, imprisoned, executed, or compelled to divine nature, the same majesty, the same eternal
flee for refuge (Matt. 24:15–18; Rev. 12:6), while glory.
compliant Jews are deluded into a false sense God the Father, God the Son, and God the
of security (2 Thess. 2:9–11; Rev. 14:11; 16:2). Holy Spirit are coequal, coinfinite, and coeternal
Chaos and deliverance. With Satan left virtually (John 10:30). They are separate persons with
to his own devices, the world situation will col- distinct functions, yet each has the same perfect
lapse into chaos. Widespread human arrogance and eternal attributes (Matt. 28:19). Sharing the
and negative volition will cause a large portion same perfect divine integrity, each one perfectly
of the earth’s population to reap its own destruc- and eternally loves Himself and the other two
tion (Rev. 6:1–11). From “bowls full of wrath,” members (John 17:24b). The uniformity of essence
God will pour out judgments in every form of among three separate but equal persons is illu-
pandemic suffering and disaster, designed to strated by an equilateral triangle (see Figure 34).
bring unbelievers to a realization of their need The word “Trinity” is not found in Scripture,
for Christ (Rev. 15:5—16:11). but the doctrine is biblical in that it is revealed
Violence unrestrained throughout the world through study, comparison, and correlation of all
will climax in an unprecedented world war over passages directly related to the Father, Son, and
target Jerusalem: as the military forces of four Holy Spirit. For example, the Hebrew word for
world powers converge on Israel, the land will God, Elohim, is plural, indicating the existence of
descend into a bloodbath and scramble for plun- more than one person in the Godhead. In Genesis
der (Dan. 11:40; Joel 2:2; Zech. 14:1–2; Rev. 16:14– 1:26–27, God refers to Himself as a threefold
16). But just as the massacre of a faithful group personality by use of the plural pronouns “Us”
of believers appears imminent (Zech. 12:5–6; and “Our” (cf. Gen. 3:22; 11:7; Isa. 6:8). In Isaiah
13:9; Rev. 14:12), the Lord’s Second Advent will 48:16, the Son speaks directly of Himself, the
turn the tide of the campaign. A supernatural Father, and the Spirit. Furthermore, the context
Trinity 274

The second person of the Trinity, God

God the the Son is the agent through whom the
Father
Father’s plan is enacted (Col. 1:16–17).
The Son is the manifested presence
of God among man, the only visible
member of the Trinity (John 1:14, 18;
Rev. 21:3). As the God-man, He is the
Sovereignty revelation of the Father, of His glory

CO
L
UA
Righteousness

INF
and love, and is the executor of the
EQ

Justice

INI
CO

Love Father’s plan on behalf of mankind

TE
Eternal Life (John 17:4; 2 Cor. 4:6; Heb. 1:3; 1 Pet.
Omnipotence 2:24). His many titles include “angel of
Omniscience
Omnipresence the Lord” (Gen. 22:11), “Messiah” (Dan.
Immutability 9:25; Matt. 1:1), “Lamb of God” (John
Veracity
1:36), and “Lord Jesus Christ” (Rom.
God the COETERNAL God the
Son Holy 5:1; Eph. 6:23). See also Christology;
Spirit
God of Israel; Shekinah Glory.
The third person of the Trinity, God
the Holy Spirit is the revealer of the
Figure 34 THE TRINITY plan and the person through whom
divine power is conveyed (John 14:26; 15:26).
of certain passages indicates a specific member
As such, He makes the Gospel message under-
of the Trinity described by Yahweh, the sacred
standable and enables the Christian way of life.
Tetragrammaton: in Isaiah 64:8, Yahweh refers to
His many titles include “Spirit of truth” (John
the Father; in Isaiah 11:2, to the Holy Spirit.
14:17), “Helper” (John 14:26), “Spirit of life” (Rom.
As the plan of God unfolds across Scripture,
8:2), “Spirit of God” (Gen. 1:2; Matt. 3:16), and
the distinct personalities and roles of each Per- “Spirit of the Lord” (Acts 5:9). See also God the
son are revealed. Each member’s functions are Holy Spirit.
specific to Him, and no function of one member
For further reference, The Trinity.
can oppose the function of another. Although Lessons 429:8; 412:789.
theology orders the persons of the Trinity (first,
second, third), this is done for the sake of human triple compound discipline
understanding. No member surpasses the others See divine discipline.
in quality, rank, or degree. Only in describing
the Trinity’s specific works toward man can one trust
of its members be viewed as ‘subordinate’ to an- See faith.
other, as demonstrated in the Son’s obedience
to the Father’s redemption plan (John 4:34; Heb. truth (a) The knowledge and thinking of God,
10:7). which is free from contradiction, falsehood, and
The first person of the Trinity, God the Father is subjectivity and is therefore the basis for abso-
the author of the divine plan of grace. He is the lute reality; (b) the divine standard of perfect
planner and designer of all that ever was, is, or accuracy, objectivity, and integrity; (c) synonym
shall be (Job 28:25–27; Prov. 8:29; Eph. 4:6). The for Bible doctrine, divine revelation, the “word
Father decreed to make man (Gen. 1:26) and to of truth”—everything communicated by God as
treat us in grace (Eph. 1:2, 4; 2:8–9), and He is guidance and instruction for man’s life on earth
the one who sent the Son into the world to be (2 Tim. 2:15).
the Savior (Matt. 3:17; John 3:16; 8:42; 14:24). The The source of all absolute truth is God, more
first person is Father of all who believe in His specifically, His attribute of divine veracity
Son Jesus Christ (Rom. 8:15; Gal. 3:26). (Rom. 3:4; Heb. 6:18). Truth is not something
 275 type and antitype

God acquired—God is truth, from eternity past antitype who was born perfect and remained in
throughout eternity future (John 14:6). In God, a state of perfection to be judged for mankind’s
every form of knowledge and wisdom dwells sins. See also Last Adam.
in absoluteness. And from the truth that God (2) Ephesians 5:31–32 reveals Eve’s relationship
is comes the truth we now have in writing (Ps. to Adam as a type of the relationship between
12:6; 119:151; 138:2b; 2 Pet. 1:16, 20–21). Every jot the Church and Christ. Eve was of Adam’s body,
and tittle in the original text of Scripture, from created from his rib, and she later became his
Genesis to Revelation, is infallible, accurate, bride (Gen. 2:21–25). Church Age believers, in
and complete, “and every one of Your righteous union with Christ, are described as “members” of
ordinances is everlasting” (Ps. 119:160; John 6:32). His body (1 Cor. 12:12–27; Eph. 4:11–12). At the
Designed by God to be learned and understood, Rapture, the Body of Christ will be transformed
the absolute truths of His Word are the means by into His Bride (Rev. 19:7–9). See also Body of
which we orient to reality and, moreover, come
Christ; Bride of Christ.
to know and love “the true God” (1 John 5:20; cf.
(3) Melchizedek was a type, an Old Testament
Deut. 8:3b).
king-priest appointed on the basis of regeneration;
God’s truth communicated to mankind exists
his priesthood is described as perpetual (Gen.
in three categories: (1) the laws of divine estab-
14:18; Heb. 7:1–10). Jesus Christ in His humanity
lishment, for the freedom and protection of all
is the New Testament antitype, the King-Priest
mankind (Ex. 20:1–17; 21:1—24:11; Matt. 19:5;
appointed by divine decree, and a priest forever
Rom. 13:1–7); (2) the Gospel, for the salvation
of unbelievers (John 3:16; 1 Cor. 15:1–8); and (Heb. 7:11–28). See also priesthood.
(3) Bible doctrine, for the edification and spiri- (4) The Passover lamb used in the Levitical
tual growth of believers (Rom. 12:2; Col. 1:25–27; offerings was a type of redemption (Ex. 12:1–13;
Heb. 4:12). Heb. 10:1). Jesus Christ, the antitype, fulfilled the
reality of redemption on the cross (John 1:29, 36).
See also apostasy; divine revelation; essence of
God (veracity); Word of God. (5) In the midst of the Flood, the ark was a type
For further reference, Canonicity; Christian Integrity; of deliverance from judgment, providing phys-
The Integrity of God. ical preservation for believers (1 Pet. 3:20–21a).
Such deliverance foreshadowed the baptism of
type and antitype [from Gk. tupos, example, the Holy Spirit and union with Christ, the New
image, pattern] Theological terms that describe
Testament antitypes guaranteeing the Church
a system of foreshadowing and fulfillment used
Age believer’s deliverance from future judgment
in Scripture to reveal pivotal divine truths. A type
(Rom. 8:1).
is an Old Testament person, event, or institution
(6) David, in numerous aspects, was a type of
that, while holding a place in biblical history,
Christ: David was a shepherd who risked his life
illustrates and reveals a New Testament truth.
for his sheep (1 Sam. 17:34–35); Christ gave His
The antitype is a person, event, or institution
life for the sheep (John 10:11). David was a prince
in the New Testament that fulfills the truth
foreshadowed by the Old Testament type. There in exile whose life was sought by Israel’s leaders
is always an area of resemblance between the (1 Sam. 18:28–29; 23:15–26); the incarnate Mes-
type and its corresponding antitype. siah was opposed by Israel’s religious leaders to
The study of typology deepens one’s appreci- the point of death (Matt. 20:18; 21:45–46; 26:3–5,
ation of the Scriptures, highlighting in particular 59; 27:1). David was the God-appointed King of
the perfect unity between Old and New Testa- Israel, yet he was not crowned until after his exile
ments. The following are examples of biblical (2 Sam. 2:4–7); the resurrected and ascended
types and antitypes: Christ was crowned King of kings in heaven by
(1) Adam is said to be “a type of Him who was the Father, yet not until the Second Advent will
to come” (Rom. 5:14). God’s creation of Adam He be seated on the earthly throne of Israel, with
as a trichotomous being in a state of perfection His enemies subjugated under His feet (Heb.
foreshadowed the incarnate Jesus Christ, the 10:12–13).
type and antitype 276

(7) Other examples of type and antitype

include Enoch, whose transfer to heaven
prefigured the Rapture generation of believers
(Gen. 5:21–24; Heb. 11:5; cf. 1 Thess. 4:14–17),
and Abel, Joseph, Moses, Aaron, Joshua, Boaz,
Solomon, and Jonah, all of whom foreshadowed
aspects of Christ’s person or work.
For further reference, Levitical Offerings; Victorious
Proclamation.
 Uu
ultimate sanctification Understanding the mandate. Second Corinthians
See sanctification. 6:14 commands the believer, “Be ye not unequally
yoked together [heterozugeo] with unbelievers”
ultra-supergrace (kjv). Heterozugeo is an ancient agricultural term
See supergrace. used to describe the harnessing together of phys-
ically ill-matched or incompatible animals. The
unbeliever Any individual who has not accepted concept is seen in the Mosaic Law’s instruction
the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ to “not plow with an ox and a donkey together”
(John 3:18, 36; Rom. 1:16–20). (Deut. 22:10). An ox and a donkey have different
The unbeliever has either become aware of gaits and different strengths and therefore cannot
God’s existence and desired no further informa- pull in unison. To emphasize why believers must
tion, or he has desired to know more, received not yoke themselves to an unbeliever, 2 Corin-
the Gospel of Christ, and refused the grace oppor- thians 6:14–16 poses five rhetorical questions:
tunity to believe in Him as the only Savior. By his (1) “For what partnership have righteousness
own choice, the unbeliever remains spiritually and lawlessness?” (verse 14b). Doctrine must not
dead, totally separated from God, without the be compromised, so this question underscores
imputations of divine righteousness and eternal the lack of real agreement between the faithful
life. At the Last Judgment he will be condemned believer and the unbeliever.
to the lake of fire for all eternity—not because of (2) “What fellowship has light with darkness?”
his personal sins, for those were all judged on (verse 14c). Light and darkness are mutually ex-
the cross, but “because he has not believed in clusive, so there can be no soul rapport between
the name of the only begotten Son of God” (John the born-again and the spiritually dead.
3:18; cf. Acts 4:12; 1 John 2:2; Rev. 20:12–15). (3) “What harmony has Christ with Belial?”
(verse 15a). Belial is a Hebrew word for worth-
See also heathenism; Last Judgment; unpardon-
able sin. lessness, also used as a personal name for Satan.
For further reference, The Barrier; Heathenism; Slave The comparison is between the thinking of Christ
Market of Sin. and the thinking of Satan—between the doctrines
of absolute good and the doctrines of evil and
unconditional covenants relativism, including religion, human good, and
See covenants to Israel. every other antigrace system.
(4) “What has a believer in common with
undeserved suffering an unbeliever?” (verse 15b). The believer and
See suffering (for blessing). unbeliever share neither the same purpose on
earth nor the same eternal destiny. They are on
unequally yoked [Gk. heterozugeo, from heteros, opposite sides of the fence.
of a different kind + zugos, a yoke] Biblical term (5) “What agreement has the temple of God with
used to describe a close association of believer idols?” (verse 16a). Paul used this terminology
with unbeliever. Such attachments can occur, because the Corinthian believers were still
for example, in marriage, business partnerships, tempted and confused by their former pagan
and personal relationships. lifestyle. The question emphasizes that there is
unequally yoked 278

no common ground between doctrine in the soul the greatest honor a human being can receive,
and any form of idolatry or paganism. and it is bestowed by God as reward for ultimate
Unequally yoked in marriage. Marriage creates glorification of Him in time.
an intimate alliance of two, a unity in which See also crowns; order of the morning star;
spiritual compatibility is vitally important. For uniform of honor.
this reason, believers considering marriage Lessons 457:134–37, 638.
should never choose to bind themselves to an
unbeliever. If, however, believer and unbeliever uniform of honor The figurative, invisible
are already joined in wedlock, they should remain clothing worn by the mature believer in time—a
in status quo and not use mixed marriage as an figurative symbol of his unseen spiritual impact
excuse for divorce (1 Cor. 7:12–15). The believing during the Church Age. At the judgment seat of
spouse has the responsibility to ‘go it alone’ in Christ, the invisible uniform of honor will be
the spiritual life—to maintain honor, integrity, exchanged for the eternal, visible uniform of
and virtue, keep advancing in God’s plan, and glory (Rev. 3:4). See also uniform of glory.
thus present to the unsaved spouse a dynamic
testimony for the Lord (1 Cor. 7:16). union with Christ
See position in Christ.
See also marriage (divorce and remarriage); right
man–right woman; separation, doctrine of.
Lessons 410:35; 376:606–8, 1315. universal Church
See church.
uniform of glory A robe of translucent light
worn over the resurrection body, first by Jesus unlimited atonement The substitutionary sac-
Christ and then by resurrected Church Age rifice of Jesus Christ on the cross for the entire
believers who faithfully represented Him on human race (2 Cor. 5:19; 1 Tim. 4:10; 1 John 2:2).
earth. The uniform of glory will be presented to Represented in Old Testament offerings. In ancient
mature believers at the judgment seat of Christ, Jewish rituals, countless sacrificial animals were
following the Rapture of the Church, and will brought to the brazen altar to symbolically bear
distinguish the winner from loser believer the offerer’s sins and “make atonement [kaphar]
throughout eternity (Rev. 3:5a). on his behalf” (Lev. 1:4). The Hebrew verb kaphar
Even before our Lord received His resurrec- means “to pass over, to overlay, to cover.” Atone-
tion body, the eternal uniform of glory was dis- ment, accordingly, refers to a covering for sins.
played for Peter, James, and John on the Mount The sacrifices in themselves could not truly atone,
of Transfiguration (Matt. 17:1–2). In this brief or pay the penalty, for the people’s sins, but the
transformation, “His garments became radiant blood shed by the innocent animal graphically
and exceedingly white” (Mark 9:3a). Now resur- represented the Savior’s future atonement on
rected and seated at the right hand of the Father the cross. Once a year on the Day of Atonement,
in glorified humanity, Jesus Christ wears this the high priest performed a special ceremony
translucent robe of light over His resurrection portraying God’s satisfaction with the sacrificial
body. And He has revealed that those who “are blood as a symbolic covering for sin (Lev. 16:14–
worthy,” believers who fulfill the plan of God on 15; Heb. 9:3–7). See also Day of Atonement.
earth, will walk with Him throughout eternity Atonement is for all mankind. Unlimited atone-
clothed in the same white garments (Rev. 3:4, 18). ment was fulfilled in the spiritual death of Christ
In time the mature believer is an anonymous on the cross. Here the spotless Lamb of God
hero, wearing an invisible uniform of honor in “gave Himself as a ransom for all” (1 Tim. 2:6,
his soul. Yet at the judgment seat of Christ, this italics added), receiving the judgment of every
unseen greatness will be parlayed into the visible sin of every human being—past, present, and
uniform of glory to be worn for all eternity. And future (John 1:29; Heb. 2:9). His substitutionary
on this uniform of glory will be placed the highest atonement on behalf of all mankind propitiated,
decoration, the order of the morning star. This is or satisfied, the perfect righteousness and jus-
 279 utopianism

tice of God (1 John 2:2). Salvation, therefore, is Holy Spirit” during the Church Age (Matt. 12:31;
offered to all, so that anyone who expresses faith Acts 7:51).
in Christ is eternally saved. See also antecedent grace; blasphemy against
Judgment of the unbeliever. While unlimited the Holy Spirit; resisting the Holy Spirit;
atonement brings everyone under God’s plan unlimited atonement.
For further reference, Slave Market of Sin; Witnessing.
of grace, some individuals will refuse the offer Lessons 438:37–38.
of salvation. Those who refuse are eternally
condemned, but not for their personal sins—these utopianism (a) A designation for any visionary
sins were judged on the cross, and once judged, scheme of economic, social, or environmental
they can never be judged again. The only sin for perfection; (b) the humanistic philosophy assert-
which Christ did not die is the unpardonable ing man’s capability to perfect himself and his
sin, the rejection of Jesus Christ as Savior (John civilization; (c) the Satan-inspired concept of
3:18, 36). See also Last Judgment. a millennial kingdom produced by man, as
See also blood of Christ; substitutionary spir- opposed to the true Millennium brought in by
itual death.
Christ.
For further reference, The Barrier; The Blood of Christ;
Heathenism; Slave Market of Sin. Though the term “utopianism” derives from
Lessons 412:1136–38. Thomas More’s Utopia, the 1516 novel portraying
a politically and socially perfect civilization, the
unpardonable sin The act of rejecting Jesus philosophy of utopianism is rooted in Satan’s
Christ as Savior. Although Christ paid the price age-old agenda to retain rulership over the world.
for all the sins of mankind, rejection of His free Utopianism embodies the enemy’s determina-
gift of atonement is the one sin for which He tion to establish his own millennium and thereby
could not be judged, the one sin for which there reign victorious over God’s creation.
is no forgiveness. To attain his ‘perfect world’ devoid of God, Sa-
During the Incarnation, Christ Himself tan promotes a man-made paradise—an unreal-
warned of the unpardonable act, telling the istic objective that denies the innate depravity
disciples that the Holy Spirit convicts the world of man, the function of human volition, and the
“concerning sin, because they do not believe in presence of evil in a fallen world. The cosmic
Me” (John 16:8–9). “Sin” here refers specifically utopia rests on the false theory that man is
to one sin—the sin of unbelief. The Holy Spirit inherently good, equal in all respects, and that
convicts of this sin because the Spirit, in His suffering and variation in the human condition
ministry of common grace, illuminates the Gos- result from environmental influence. According
pel message whenever it is spoken (1 Thess. 1:5). to utopian reasoning, if mankind can refashion
The Spirit ensures that anyone willing to listen itself to a standardized measure and improve
can understand that Christ is the means of the earthly environment, then personal and
salvation—that He provided the solution to economic inequality, along with adversity and
sin and separation from God—and can make a disaster, will be abolished. Therein is revealed
decision to accept His atonement by faith (Acts the self-righteous, often nihilistic arrogance that
4:12; Rom. 6:23). To commit the unpardonable sin, blinds man to his need for God.
therefore, is to reject the truth conveyed through Utopian ideals shape the institutions of
the power of the Holy Spirit and refuse the only socialism and communism; the programs of
alternative to eternal condemnation. Those who internationalism, multiculturalism, world peace,
stand before the great white throne will be judged and radical environmentalism; and the crusades
solely on the basis of their rejection of Jesus of zealous religionism that seek to right all
Christ as Savior (John 3:16–18, 36; Rev. 20:15). wrongs of secular society. Regardless of banner
Every unbeliever of every dispensation com- or brand, utopian efforts inevitably amount to a
mits the unpardonable sin. The act itself is fur- select group of human beings exerting tyrannical
ther described as “blasphemy against the [Holy] control over the general populace, declaring
Spirit” during the Incarnation and “resisting the peace, goodness, justice, and equality while in
utopianism 280

reality exacerbating conflict, inequality, and the

influence of evil within the human race (Ezek.
13:9–13; 2 Cor. 11:14–15).
See also cosmic panaceas; cosmos diabolicus; evil;
human good; humanism; Millennium; nation-
alism.
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict; Rever-
sionism.
 Vv
vacuum in the soul [Gk. mataiotes, emptiness, for mankind is revealed solely through Scripture,
vacuum] (a) Terminology used to describe the ab- all of which is inspired by God in both the verbal
sence of divine viewpoint in the mentality of the and plenary sense.
soul—into this void are drawn principles contrary Inspiration refers to the fact that all Scripture
to absolute truth; (b) the means by which demons is “God-breathed [theopneustos]” (2 Tim. 3:16, cor-
communicate and transfer the darkness of Sa- rected translation). God supernaturally guided
tan’s kingdom into the soul of man (Col. 1:13). certain men to record His truth for mankind.
Ephesians 4:17 describes believers who have Man is the instrument, not the originator, of the
rejected Bible doctrine as walking like unbe- Word of God, “for prophecy was never produced
lievers, who walk in the mataiotes of their minds. by the design of mankind, but men spoke from
Translated “vanity” in the King James Version and God, being carried along by the Holy Spirit” (2 Pet.
“futility” in the New American Standard Bible, 1:21, corrected translation). Verbal means that
mataiotes in this context pertains to emptiness, every word in the original text, from the first to
or a vacuum, in the soul. Where God’s truth is the last, is the exact record of the mind and will
absent, falsehood rushes in. Acting just as a of God as He intended it to be expressed. Plenary—
modern-day vacuum cleaner, the mataiotes sucks meaning full, complete, absolute—indicates that
up all the dirt in the devil’s world: human good all portions and all subjects of Scripture originate
panaceas, religious legalism, mental attitude from God and are therefore accurate and divinely
sins, slavery to the details of life, and every other authoritative.
satanic doctrine designed to blind the unbeliever Everything that God wants man to know—His
to the Gospel and distract the believer from spir- thoughts, doctrines, plan, and promises—was
itual advance (Eph. 6:12; 1 Tim. 4:1; 2 Pet. 2:18). communicated to men like Moses, Daniel, John,
Once the vacuum opens up, the believer becomes Peter, Paul, and others. God the Holy Spirit
indistinguishable from the unbeliever, for both supernaturally directed these writers so that
are “darkened in their understanding . . . because without waiving their human intelligence, their
of the ignorance [of doctrine] that is in them” individuality and personality, their literary style,
(Eph. 4:18). or any other human factor, God’s complete and
See also cosmic thinking; doctrines of demons; coherent message to mankind was recorded with
reversionism. perfect accuracy in the original languages of
Scripture, the very words bearing the authority
venom in the soul of divine authorship (2 Sam. 23:2–3; Isa. 59:21;
See bitterness. Jer. 1:9; Mark 12:36; Acts 4:24–25; 28:25; 2 Pet.
1:20–21). All forms of Scriptural revelation—
veracity whether direct quotations from God, doctrines
See essence of God. and mandates expressed in the writer’s own
vocabulary, doctrines illustrated by figurative
verbal plenary inspiration Doctrinal term language, historical and genealogical details
that defines the Bible as the absolute, complete (including those unconfirmed by human records),
revelation of God, communicated to and recorded or prophecy—are recorded in the original text
by human writers. In the present age, God’s plan under God’s direction. God even inspired the
verbal plenary inspiration 282

documentation of lies and false viewpoint, not to 4:4 and 1 Peter 3:7 (kjv), “vessel” designates the
condone falsehood but to instruct His children woman in the context of marital love. She is
on sin and opposition from the fallen world (e.g., a “weaker vessel,” meaning her created nature
Gen. 3:1–5; Eccl. 3:19–20; Matt. 4:5–6). is that of a responder. By learning to “possess
See Canon; divine revelation; ICE; Word of God. his own vessel in sanctification and honor,” the
For further reference, Canonicity. husband cherishes and protects his wife and fills
Lessons 445:8; 467:43; 728:109. her emptiness of soul, adding strength in place
of emptiness or weakness. Apart from this divine
verbal sins design, she remains an empty vessel with regard
See personal sin. to marital love. See also marriage.
Shattered vessel, broken vessel. Imagery por-
vessel [Heb. keli, household container, furnish- traying divine discipline and judgment upon
ing; Gk. skeuos, container for storage or serving] individuals and national entities. David was a
A common ancient-world accessory used meta- vessel disciplined because of carnality (Ps. 31:12);
phorically in Scripture to reveal man’s status and Coniah and his descendants were vessels dis-
role within the plan of God. ciplined for reversionism (Jer. 22:28); apostate
In the literal sense, “vessel” typically refers to communicators of God’s Word were vessels
containers of various size and composition used shattered by the sin unto death (Jer. 25:34). Bro-
in ancient cultures for storage, cooking, and ken vessels, unable to hold anything of value,
serving. These were household articles preva- portray nations under discipline, like Moab (Jer.
lent in both the Old and New Testament times. 48:38), the Southern and Northern Kingdoms
Drawing upon this familiarity, the writers of (Jer. 51:34; Hosea 8:8–9), and Gentile nations in
Scripture frequently used figurative language the Tribulation (Ps. 2:9–10). See also cycles of
about vessels to communicate doctrinal truths. discipline; divine discipline.
Much of this vessel imagery presents man him- Vessel of honor or dishonor. Imagery used in two
self as a repository, a “vessel” whose usefulness separate Scriptural contexts, each requiring a
is determined by his substance. Scriptural meta- different interpretation. Classification of either
phors include the following: honor or dishonor is determined by a person’s
Chosen vessel. Used in Acts 9:15 (kjv) to specify attitude toward Christ or, after salvation, by the
Paul as a believer, known by God from eternity believer’s attitude toward Bible doctrine.
past. “Chosen” refers to the doctrine of election, (1) Believers and unbelievers are the vessels repre-
which describes how God, before time began, set sented in Romans 9:20–23 (kjv). In this passage,
apart for privilege all those who would believe in a potter-and-clay analogy is used to show how
Christ. For every individual believer, God has a God’s essence functions relative to His creation,
specific plan and purpose. “Vessel” indicates that the human race. God is the potter; the lump of
the plan of God is fulfilled when the believer, who clay represents mankind. The potter, of course,
begins as a chosen but empty repository, is filled has “power [authority] over the clay” (verse 21),
with the mind of Christ. See also divine decree; but this does not mean that God violates man’s
election. freedom to make choices. In fact, divine author-
Treasure in earthen vessels. Used in 2 Corinthians ity is what guarantees the function of man’s free
4:6–7 to illustrate doctrine resident in the soul. will, and the ‘molding’ of an individual depends
Earthen vessels represent the human body, flawed upon his acceptance or rejection of Christ as
and transient, serving as temporary housing for Savior. By expressing faith in Christ, the clay
the soul. When the greatest of all treasures, “the responds positively to the potter’s hand and is
Light of the knowledge of the glory of God” (verse molded into a “vessel unto honour,” receiving
6), resides in the believer’s soul, human weak- all the blessings of eternal salvation. The clay
ness is superseded by the “surpassing greatness” that resists the potter’s will, expressing negative
of God’s power (verse 7). volition toward the Gospel, is made a vessel “unto
Empty vessel, weaker vessel. In 1 Thessalonians dishonour.” Since this rejection is a choice made
 283 virgin pregnancy and birth

willingly, using his God-given life and freedom, disobedient . . . in the days of Noah” (1 Pet. 3:20).
the unbeliever has no more right to challenge the These fallen angels, prior to the Flood, had co-
Creator than the pot has to challenge the potter habited with women on earth in efforts to corrupt
(verse 20). the human race and thereby defeat God’s plan
Continuing the analogy, vessels of dishonor of salvation (Gen. 6). Having since been incar-
are also “vessels of wrath fitted to destruction” cerated in “pits of darkness” (2 Pet. 2:4; cf. Jude
(verse 22). While God in His matchless grace gives 6), they were unable to observe the progress
unbelievers every chance for salvation, no person of their leader’s ongoing war against God. They
rejects the grace of God without facing judgment still entertained hopes that Satan would emerge
from His justice. By their own negative volition, victorious in the angelic conflict and in triumph
unbelievers are condemned to the lake of fire for would free them.
all eternity. Believers, in striking comparison, use Instead, Jesus Christ appeared before these
their free will to accept Christ as Savior and are imprisoned spirits to announce that He had
therefore “vessels of mercy,” privileged recipients come to earth, submitted to the cross, and paid
of the fantastic “riches of His glory” (verse 23, the penalty for human sin (1 Pet. 3:18). With this
nasb; cf. John 3:36; Eph. 1:3). See also election; victory Satan’s doom was sealed. Any person
essence of God. who believes in Christ is rescued from the ruling
(2) Mature believers and reversionistic believers power of Satan and entered into an eternal rela-
are represented in 2 Timothy 2:20–21. In this pas- tionship with God (Heb. 2:14–15). The victorious
sage, a castle and its various furnishings illus- proclamation declared to the fallen angels the
trate the local church composed of believers superiority of God’s love and justice, while also
with differing attitudes toward doctrine. “Gold confirming that they would never be freed from
and silver vessels” are those of honor, analogous their sentence to eternal fire (Matt. 25:41).
to advancing or mature believers. The “vessels See also angelic conflict; Hades; Nephilim.
of wood and of earthenware [baked clay]” are For further reference, Victorious Proclamation.
those of dishonor, representing carnal and rever-
sionistic believers. virgin pregnancy and birth The unique
Even though all believers are eternally saved, manner in which the humanity of Christ entered
with equal opportunity to glorify God on earth, the world to become the God-man Savior.
not all are motivated to live the spiritual life after The Savior’s arrival, as prophesied. Occurring
salvation. The honorable vessels are those who near the dawn of the first century A.D., the mo-
grow in grace and knowledge of the Lord, filling mentous birth of the Savior had been foretold for
themselves with Bible doctrine. The dishonorable thousands of years. The Lord Himself made the
vessels reject this process and are filled with sin, first announcement of the virgin-born Messiah
reversionism, and evil. Only when one “cleanses (the seed of the woman) to Adam and Eve in
himself from these things,” using God’s Word the Garden (Gen. 3:15). Isaiah later prophesied,
to displace the evil in his soul, will he recover “Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son,
enough to become “a vessel for honor, sanctified, and she will call His name Immanuel” (Isa. 7:14b).
useful to the Master” (verse 21; cf. Prov. 25:4). See God also affirmed the exact lineage of the Messiah,
also carnality; reversionism. promising David a Son who would reign forever
Lessons 469:44; 458:600–606. (Ps. 132:11; 2 Sam. 7:12, 16). Of these prophecies
and many more, Christ the Savior entered the
victorious proclamation The announcement world and said, “in the scroll of the book it
of triumph made by the resurrected Christ to is written of Me” (Heb. 10:7).
fallen angels in Tartarus (Eph. 4:9–10; 1 Pet. Conceived of the Holy Spirit. God the Father
3:18–20). chose Mary, a young virgin descended from
After three days and nights in the grave, Jesus David’s son Nathan, to be the mother of Christ’s
Christ, in resurrection body, went to Tartarus to humanity (Luke 3:23–38). Joseph, descended
issue a proclamation to the angels who “were from David’s son Solomon, was to be Christ’s legal
virgin pregnancy and birth 284

but not biological father (Matt. 1:1–16). Fulfilling on the work of the Holy Spirit and uniqueness
Isaiah’s prophecy, Jesus Christ was miraculously of the humanity of Christ. Mary’s virgin status,
conceived in Mary’s womb through the power of though personally appropriate and beneficial,
the Holy Spirit (Isa. 7:14; cf. Matt. 1:20b–23). holds no credit in this miraculous event. She
The virgin conception was necessary for the was indeed chosen by God for an extraordinary
Savior to be born as a perfect human being. In mission, and her faithfulness and nobility of
normal human procreation, it is the male seed, character are admirable. Yet just like the rest of
or sperm, that transmits the sin nature to the fallen humanity, she was born with a sin nature,
offspring. Adam’s sin nature, acquired at the committed personal sins, and was in need of a
Fall, becomes everyone’s sin nature through the Savior. Furthermore, Mary was not the perpetual
contaminated seed that fertilizes the uncon- virgin she is often claimed to be. After the birth of
taminated female ovum at conception. Conse- Jesus, Mary and Joseph had at least six children
quently, every person entering the world by through normal procreation (Matt. 13:55–56;
natural generation receives the imputation of Mark 6:3).
Adam’s original sin and is born spiritually dead, Clearly stated, Mary is the mother of the hu-
separated from God (1 Cor. 15:22a). In the virgin manity of Jesus Christ, not the so-called ‘mother
conception, however, no male was involved. of God.’ Eternal God has no source, no origin,
Before Joseph and Mary “came together” to and no mother. Mary is not deity, has no divine
consummate their marriage, God the Holy Spirit essence, and holds no power in heaven to
supernaturally provided the chromosomes used perform miracles or answer prayers. In the last
to fertilize Mary’s normal, pure ovum (Matt. 1:18– four references to Mary in the Gospels, divine
20; Luke 1:35). revelation reduced her in prominence while the
Uniquely born. When the baby emerged from Son of God became preeminent. Mary gladly
Mary’s womb, God the Father, as with all other withdrew into obscurity so that Christ might
human newborns, imputed soul life. And at receive all the glory.
that same moment, when God would normally See also Christology; seed of the woman.
For further reference, The Blood of Christ; The Integrity
impute Adam’s original sin to the sin nature, no
of God.
such imputation was possible. Jesus Christ had Lessons 795:2; 458:159; 840:96.
no genetically formed sin nature, so Adam’s sin
had no home within Him. He was therefore born virtue (a) Right action and thinking, general
as true humanity—with body, soul, and human moral excellence, fulfillment of moral duties;
spirit—yet without sin. (b) the superior character and qualities developed
“By this the love of God was manifested in by a believer functioning in the spiritual life,
us,” declares 1 John 4:9a, “that God has sent His following the precedent set by Jesus Christ (Gal.
only begotten [monogenes] Son into the world.” 5:22–23a; 1 John 4:9).
The Greek word monogenes is better translated Man’s approach to virtue. The English word “vir-
“uniquely born.” Jesus Christ, the unique person tue” is derived from the Latin noun virtus, which
of the universe, was the only man ever born refers to strength, bravery, capability, worthiness
into the world free from the sovereignty of the in man, and excellence in physical, mental, and
sin nature, free from the imputation of Adam’s moral standards. The Greek arete holds a similar
original sin, and free from the condemnation connotation of excellence and honor. Virtue
of spiritual death. Our Lord’s sinless perfection refers to man as he should be, as he is designed
continued throughout His lifetime, allowing Him to be. However, as long as this ideal is sought
to reach the cross as the unblemished Lamb of through a system of human ethics, worthiness,
God—qualified to pay the penalty for our sins and moral philosophy, virtue can never truly be
“so that we might live through Him” (1 John 4:9b). achieved. True virtue requires an absolute stan-
The virgin Mary. The miracle of the virgin dard and a power greater than man himself.
birth is related entirely to the “power of the Most Biblical virtue. Perfect and eternal God estab-
High” (Luke 1:35), and the emphasis should be lishes the only absolute standard for virtue—His
 285 vocabulary storage

Word, the content of Scripture. For believers in See also mind of Christ; operational spiritual
Christ He provides the spiritual life, the only envi- life.
For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Unfailing
ronment for sharing His power and developing Love of God.
virtue. By operating under God’s system and Lessons 429:149–50, 170–73, 187–93, 198, 224.
obeying His mandates, particularly the all-
encompassing directives to “walk by the Spirit” virtue love (a) Respect and devotion dem-
(Gal. 5:25) and “grow in the grace and knowledge" onstrated by man yet based on a power greater
of Christ (2 Pet. 3:18), believers acquire true than man himself; (b) love based on the character
Christian virtue. of God and expressed from the source of divine
Philippians 4:8 encourages us to occupy our truth in the soul. Synonym: soul love.
thoughts with virtuous qualities: “Therefore, Mankind takes great stock in the words “I love
brethren, everything that is true [doctrinal], you,” yet personal love among members of the
everything that is honorable [having integrity], human race has no inherent virtue. There is no
everything that is righteous, everything that is built-in virtue in the attractions and compati-
pure, everything that is capacity for love, every- bilities that form romance, friendship, family
thing that is commendable; if there is any virtue bonds, or marriage. In fact, personal love is the
[arete] and anything worthy of praise, concen- basis not for happiness and security but for tre-
trate on these things” (corrected translation). mendous problems in life. Without stability and
To concentrate on virtue is to look toward integrity from a standard greater than that of
Jesus Christ, the perfect example of virtue. The human nature, personal flaws eventually destroy
more Bible doctrine we learn, the more we can personal relationships.
think with the mind of Christ and manifest His For human love to succeed, God’s perfect, un-
character in our lives (1 Pet. 2:9b; 2 Pet. 1:2–7; changing truth must be the source, pattern, and
1 John 2:6). basis of that love. Mankind can truly love only
Classification, direction, and misdirection. Spe- by possessing the virtue that derives from God
cific virtues can be organized into two categories: Himself (1 John 4:9–10). Unbelievers can attain
motivational and functional. Motivational virtues basic virtue and capacity for love through the
are private, invisible, and directed toward God. laws of divine establishment. By restraining
They include worship, confidence, and personal sinful attitudes, these fundamental truths instill
love for the Father. Functional virtues are visible humility and honor that often lead to lifelong
and directed toward man, such as morality, satisfying relationships. Believers, however, are
courage, and impersonal love for all mankind. capable of a much higher form of love based
Just as thought precedes action, motivational on spiritual virtue. The virtue that motivates a
virtues must precede functional virtues. For in- mature relationship with God simultaneously
stance, a believer must have confidence in God solves problems related to relationships with
and His Word before he can be courageous people. This is the love exalted above all other
toward people and circumstances (John 16:33; virtues in the famous passage, “But now faith,
2 Cor. 3:4; Heb. 13:6). Without proper motivation, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of
the functional virtues cannot be truly virtuous. these is love” (1 Cor. 13:13). This highest form of
Moreover, a virtue aimed in the wrong direction
virtue is the product of personal love for God the
is distorted into weakness: placing total confi-
Father, impersonal love for all mankind, and the
dence in people, who by nature are flawed, is
interrelated operation of both.
arrogance and naivety; and directing bravery
See also impersonal love for all mankind;
and courage toward God is presumptuous blas- integrity envelope; personal love for God the
phemy (Jer. 17:5). To avoid the misdirection of Father.
virtue, one must remember that only God is Lessons 728:131–58; 412:1132–35.
perfect—only He is totally worthy of worship,
confidence, and personal love (Deut. 6:5, 13; vocabulary storage
1 John 4:18–21; Rev. 4:9–11). See stream of consciousness.
volition 286

volition Refers to the ability of choice, deter- (Gal. 6:7b). We use our God-given free will to
mination, and voluntary decision making that make decisions that are either in or out of line
resides within the individual and serves as with God’s standards. From good decisions come
authority over him. In doctrinal context, the term favorable outcomes, blessings, and options for
more specifically designates the guardian that greater decisions; from bad decisions come
protects the soul from temptations generated by suffering and a restriction of future options
the sin nature (Prov. 22:5). Though the sin nature (James 4:9). Even when we are unaware that our
is the source of temptation, volition is the source thoughts or actions are sinful, we are not excused
of sin (Rom. 7:7–25). from the laws of God (Col. 3:25). Anyone who
All mankind is born with a volitional com- thinks he will escape the consequences of his
ponent in the soul. Because the sovereignty decisions deceives himself, for “he who sows
of God and the free will of man coexist, every wickedness reaps trouble” (Prov. 22:8a, corrected
person has the freedom to express either positive translation).
or negative volition toward God, His plan, and Individual liability. Volitional responsibility
His Word. Positive volition is an active desire for a applies to both unbelievers and believers. Speci-
personal relationship with God, first in salvation, fically, all individuals must obey establishment
through the expression of faith alone in Christ laws respecting the sanctity of life, property,
alone, and then in the postsalvation willingness privacy, and freedom, or else suffer the personal
to learn God’s Word under the authority of a and legal consequences. For those who accept
prepared pastor-teacher (Prov. 16:16; Isa. 48:17; Jesus Christ as Savior, there is the additional
Eph. 4:11–12). The positive believer grows in responsibility to uphold God’s mandates for
grace and knowledge of the Savior, advances to spiritual growth. If believers choose to function
spiritual maturity, and lives to glorify Christ (Col. inside the plan of God, they gain wisdom and
1:10; 2 Pet. 3:18). Negative volition is the rejection discretion for more good decisions toward life
of Jesus Christ and God’s plan of salvation by (Prov. 2:10–12; 3:13; 16:20). But believers who
the unbeliever (John 3:18; Rom. 1:18–20), or the defy God’s plan bring harm on themselves in
rejection of God’s Word and the spiritual life the form of arrogance, emotional subjectivity,
by the believer (2 Pet. 2:20). Both believers and confusion, and perpetual carnality. The longer
unbelievers can express negative volition toward they remain in a state of weakness, the more
legitimate authority and the laws of divine disoriented toward life they become and the
establishment. more bad decisions they make. As such, they
See also heathenism; reversionism; soul. use their volition to manufacture their own
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Freedom problems and suffering—a condition called “self-
through Military Victory; The Integrity of God; Witnessing. induced misery,” for which no other person or
circumstance can be blamed. God gives us every
volitional responsibility, law of (a) The di- opportunity to make right decisions in order to
vinely ordained principle that every human create options for greater decisions.
being is held accountable for his thoughts,
decisions, and actions; (b) describes the natural PERSONAL CHOICES
consequences of sin, human good, and evil.
Though all sins were judged at the cross, sins • We are all the products of our own decisions.
are the product of personal decisions that carry • Good decisions open up options for greater decisions.
liability in time. • Bad decisions limit future options.
Just as there are scientific laws in God’s perfect
design of the universe (Col. 1:16–17), so also
are there laws of human cause and effect. The Collective liability. The principle of reaping the
law of volitional responsibility recognizes that whirlwind of volitional choice applies to groups
our decisions have natural and logical results: as well as individuals. When a national entity
“for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap” becomes saturated with the bad decisions of
 287 volitional responsibility, law of

citizens and leaders, the nation as a whole suffers

the consequences in the form of social chaos,
economic collapse, and military defeat (Lev.
26:14–39; Hosea 8:7–8; 10:12–15). On the positive
side, when enough citizens make decisions in line
with divine establishment and the spiritual life,
the nation is blessed, prospered, and protected.

HISTORICAL INFLUENCE
• The trends of human volition determine the trends
of history.
• The greater the use of positive volition toward the
plan of God, the greater the blessing and prosperity
for the nation.

See also divine discipline; suffering.

For further reference, Christian Suffering; Rebound
Revisited.
Lessons 412:195; 361:12–13; 840:121, 179.
 WXYZ
walking [Gk. peripateo, to walk; stoicheo, to march must walk with “humility and true sensitivity,
in step or in agreement] A biblical metaphor used with perseverance, showing tolerance for one
to describe the Church Age believer’s mode of another by means of virtue love” (Eph. 4:1–2,
advance in the spiritual life. Just as literal walking corrected translation).
requires physical energy, the believer’s spiritual (5) “Keep walking by means of truth [doctrine]”
walk must move forward with divine energy, with refers to the source of momentum in the spiritual
the power of the Holy Spirit and doctrine in the life—consistent, persistent intake and application
soul (Col. 1:9–10; 2 John 6). of Bible doctrine (2 John 4; 3 John 3–4, corrected
“Walk as children of Light,” or simply, “walk in translations).
the Light,” is the overarching command to the (6) “Be imitators of God . . . and walk in love”
believer in Christ to live the spiritual life (Eph. is the command to imitate Christ by developing
5:8b; 1 John 1:7). Formerly in a state of darkness personal love for God and impersonal love for all
(spiritual death), those reborn as “Light in the mankind (Eph. 5:1–2).
Lord” (Eph. 2:2; 5:8a) are mandated to “keep walk- (7) Walking in “good works” refers to production
ing in the same manner as He walked” (1 John 2:6, of divine good in the power of the Holy Spirit,
corrected translation; cf. Col. 2:6). By following deeds that will be rewarded in heaven (Eph. 2:10).
the example set by Christ on earth, we “walk and (8) “Walk . . . as wise” and “they will walk with
please God,” in other words, we grow spiritually Me in white” distinguish the winner believer who
and glorify God (1 Thess. 2:12; 4:1). Scripture has reached spiritual maturity and claims the
details the various functions involved in spiritual uniform of glory as an eternal reward (Eph. 5:15;
advance with additional references to walking: Rev. 3:4b).
(1) “Walk in newness of life” reminds the (9) On the negative side, those who “walk in
Church Age believer of his union with Christ the darkness” (1 John 1:6) and “walk according to
and of every unprecedented asset and benefit the flesh [sin nature]” (Rom. 8:4b) are following
related to that position (e.g., indwelling of the a lifestyle of carnality. Rejecting the spiritual life,
Trinity, individual priesthood, ambassadorship, perpetually carnal believers walk “just as the Gen-
availability of divine omnipotence) (Rom. 6:4). tiles [unbelievers] also walk, in the futility of their
(2) “Walk by means of the Spirit” is a command mind” (Eph. 4:17; cf. 1 Cor. 3:3; Eph. 2:2; Col. 3:7).
to utilize the filling of the Holy Spirit as the power See also abide; divine dynasphere.
for the spiritual life (Gal. 5:16, 25, corrected Lessons 457:135; 728:23; 412:499–500, 1166.
translations).
(3) “Walk by faith” refers to utilizing faith-rest, wall of fire A metaphor depicting God’s invisible
which is claiming biblical promises to overcome protection that surrounds believers and forms an
problems and maintain a relaxed mental attitude impregnable fortification of safety and refuge.
(2 Cor. 5:7). The promise to Israel. “‘For I,’ declares the Lord,
(4) “Walk in a manner worthy of your station ‘will be a wall of fire around her [Jerusalem], and
in life” reminds the believer that he is a member I will be the glory in her midst’” (Zech. 2:5). This
of the royal family of God, living under a plan of was the divine promise given to Zechariah at a
spiritual protocol designed for honor and integ- critical time in Jewish history. Previously exiled
rity. To represent Jesus Christ on earth, believers Jews were returning to Jerusalem (538 B.C.), but
wall of fire 290

their city stood defenseless with neither walls nor weather angels High-ranking elect angels
army to resist invasion. Until the physical walls charged with commanding the weather as direct-
were completed in 445 B.C., the Lord Himself ed by the Lord (Rev. 7:1, 2b). Throughout history,
acted as a wall of fire to protect the holy city (Neh. weather angels control atmospheric conditions
6:15–16). This divine promise also anticipates for the purpose of administering divine judgment
the Millennium, when Jerusalem will again have or simply reminding man of his helplessness in
no walls but will be perfectly surrounded by the the present fallen world.
glory of the Lord (cf. Isa. 26:1; 60:18–20). See also angels.
Doctrinal application to the Church. By appli-
cation, “wall of fire” refers to the powerful will of God The plan and purpose of God for
protection enjoyed by Christians today. The term man in general, as well as the specific thoughts
can be used in conjunction with several related and actions He desires of each individual believer.
doctrines and illustrations: (For the sovereign will of God regarding every
(1) The wall of fire is “the power of God through event in history, see divine decree.)
faith,” guaranteeing every believer’s eternal sal- diReCtives foR all mankind
vation (1 Pet. 1:5). See also eternal security. The cardinal principle in the will of God is
(2) As a portrayal of temporal security, the wall stated in 1 John 3:23: “that we believe in the name
of fire is God’s provision of logistical support to all of His Son Jesus Christ, and love one another,
believers while on earth. Whether they succeed just as He commanded us.” God the Father, with
or fail in the spiritual life, believers are sustained unconditional love for all mankind, is “not wish-
in the devil’s world until God’s gracious and ing for any to perish” (2 Pet. 3:9b); therefore, His
sovereign decision brings them home. See also overall will is that every member of the human
logistical grace. race believe in Christ for eternal salvation.
(3) Wall of fire can be used in conjunction with Believers reflect God’s unconditional regard for
“armor of God,” the military metaphor depicting mankind by extending an attitude of grace toward
the believer’s spiritual protection in the angelic everyone, and they represent the Savior by living
conflict (Eph. 6:10–17). God has provided for all according to divine instruction and provision.
Church Age believers an armor built from doc- Although God desires the best for all His creatures,
trine in the soul, tantamount to a line or wall of He does not in any way coerce man’s volition,
fire that resists and defends against attacks from which is free to resist His perfect will.
Satan’s forces. The defensive wall results in a
will foR the individual believeR
life of blessing, inner peace, and stability, even
Scripture exhorts believers to know the will of
in extreme pressure. Rejection of Bible doctrine God, and the one who does not know God’s will is
amounts to stepping outside the wall of fire where declared to be a fool (Eph. 5:17). But how do the
there is no protection. See also armor of God. children of God come to know His will for their
(4) Regarding nations, God puts a wall of fire individual lives? His will can be understood by
around the national entity that accepts divine addressing the following questions:
truth, but He disciplines and eventually destroys What does God want me to think? (Viewpoint will
the nation that accepts delusion and error. When of God). God wants every believer to think the way
a nation suffers under divine discipline, the wall He thinks, to “have this attitude in yourselves
of fire protects and delivers the pivot of growing which was also in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 2:5; cf. 1 Cor.
and mature believers within its borders (Ps. 2:16). God commands believers, “Be transformed
33:18–22; 46:1–11; Isa. 37:31–38). See also client by the renovation of your thinking, so that you
nation to God. may prove what the will of God is” (Rom. 12:2,
Lessons 596:3–4; 366:17; 412:1287–89. corrected translation). Divine viewpoint, Bible
doctrine, in the soul allows the believer to live in
warfare, spiritual the viewpoint will of God. Living through God’s
See angelic conflict. viewpoint means accurately interpreting life
 291 winner believer

and relying on God’s wisdom and guidance in all omnipotence and without coercing human vo-
circumstances (2 Cor. 10:5). lition, God molds all events into His ultimate
What does God want me to do? (Operational will victorious accomplishment.
of God). The believer’s first step is to place himself See also Jesus Christ controls history.
under God’s orders (Rom. 12:1; 1 Pet. 4:1–2). Scrip- For further reference, Divine Guidance.
ture’s list of dos and don’ts begins with the com- Lessons 101:15; 412:1177; 608:5, 32.
mand to be “filled with the Spirit,” to receive the
power necessary for understanding God and winner believer The believer who executes the
making decisions toward His plan (Eph. 5:18b). unique spiritual life of the Church Age to reach
Believers remain filled with the Spirit by naming spiritual maturity.
their personal sins to God the Father (1 John 1:9), Salvation means that all Christians share in
and they utilize the Spirit’s power to fulfill the Christ’s victory on the cross, but the winner
other operational orders like learning doctrine believer is one of the distinguished few to fully
(Rom. 12:2; 2 Tim. 2:15), trusting in God (Prov. exploit the blessings of salvation and achieve
3:5–6), praying (1 Thess. 5:17; Heb. 4:16), and maximum victory in the spiritual life. The
witnessing (Acts 1:8; 1 Pet. 3:15). believer reaches this objective by learning Bible
Where does God want me to be? (Geographical will doctrine, applying divine viewpoint to life, and
of God). When the believer is thinking and doing coming to love God and produce divine good.
what God wants him to think and do, he eventually Momentum from doctrine in his soul (2 Pet. 3:18)
ends up in the place where God wants him to be. and motivation from love toward God (1 Pet.
By arranging priorities around the daily intake 1:8) advance this believer to the high ground of
of God’s Word, the believer is increasingly freed maturity. Described as being “filled up to all the
from the lure of personal plans and aspirations. fullness of God” (Eph. 3:19), the winner believer is
He learns to recognize doors open or shut by God occupied with the person of Jesus Christ, shares
and is directed to the location where he can most the happiness of God, and glorifies God to the
fully serve (Gen. 46:1–6; Acts 16:7). See also niche. maximum (John 15:9–11; Phil. 1:20; 1 John 1:4).
Function oF God’s will in human history With regard to his spiritual achievement, the
The directive will of God is expressed in com- winner believer is an invisible hero, one who
mands found in His Word. These directions are remains anonymous to the world yet who is
designed to protect the entire human race and honored and rewarded by God for his victory.
specifically guide and bless the believer to matu- Because of the greater capacity that accompanies
rity. Those who advance to become the invisible maturity, this believer is able to receive the
heroes of history are those who do not reject or conveyance of “every spiritual blessing in the
deviate from the authority of God’s directive will. heavenly places in Christ” (Eph. 1:3). These bless-
The permissive will of God allows for the free ings, both material and intangible, are tailor-
function of man’s will. The sovereignty of God made for him. The “surpassing riches” (Eph. 2:7)
permits man to make his own decisions and reap that he will receive in eternity are beyond the
the consequences, which explains the presence normal blessings of heaven and include, among
of sin, human good, and evil in the world. In others, the crowns of righteousness and life
grace God provides help and guidance to His (2 Tim. 4:8; James 1:12) and the privilege of ruling
children, yet once a believer chooses to defy with Jesus Christ during the Millennium (2 Tim.
God’s direction, God stands aside and permits 2:12a; Rev. 2:26; 3:21). The winner will wear for
those decisions to play out. Also in grace, God eternity the glorious decorations of spiritual vic-
sends discipline to disobedient believers to tory, earned by standing firm throughout life on
encourage their return to His will and plan.
God’s power and Word (2 Tim. 2:15).
The overruling will of God ensures the fulfill-
See also loser believer; order of the morning
ment of God’s purpose, plan, and glorification
star; spiritual adulthood.
in human history (Ps. 76:10). God is sovereign For further reference, Christian Integrity; The Divine
over all His creatures and creation. Through His Outline of History; The Unfailing Love of God.
wisdom 292

wisdom [Heb. chokmah; Gk. sophia] (a) The ability The person called to the witness stand in Satan’s
to relate and apply metabolized Bible doctrine to appeal has been set apart by God for the highest
life; (b) divine viewpoint in the soul ready for honor in human history. This believer has glorified
application. God with his faithful persistence and total reliance
In the most basic sense, wisdom is knowledge on divine assets. As a result of reaching spiritual
of what is true and right combined with good judg- maturity, he possesses the inner strength and di-
ment. For the believer in Jesus Christ, wisdom vine viewpoint needed to persevere in the face of
is the spiritual common sense and problem- overwhelming odds. Once God has presented the
solving ability gained from the full, practical mature believer’s faithfulness as evidence, Satan
knowledge of Bible doctrine. This is knowledge is granted the right of cross-examination, an op-
not derived from human intelligence, not found portunity to discredit the witness by tempting
“in words taught by human wisdom,” but based him to abandon God’s resources (Job 1:6–19; 2:1–
upon the infinitely superior wisdom of God 9). As Job so magnificently demonstrated, when
Himself (1 Cor. 2; cf. Rom. 11:33a). Wisdom God’s subject stands fast in doctrine, even under
defines the lifestyle of the doctrinally oriented intensified suffering, he attests to the efficacy of
believer (Eph. 1:17; 5:15–17; James 3:13). “Happi- God’s grace and power against all obstacles in
ness belongs to the person who finds wisdom” the devil’s world (Job 1:20–22; 2:10; 42:7–10).
(Prov. 3:13a, corrected translation), because the In the Old Testament, along with the witness of
believer with wisdom makes good decisions Job are the testimonies of Abraham, Moses, Josh-
from a position of strength—divine strength— ua, Daniel, and other great believers. New Tes-
and fulfills the plan of God (Prov. 2:10; 29:18). tament Scripture records the cross-examination
The prerequisite for wisdom is the assimilation of the humanity of Christ—a unique, face-to-
of Bible doctrine under the teaching ministry face confrontation with Satan himself—and our
of God the Holy Spirit (John 14:26). As metabo- Lord’s steadfast obedience to the Father’s plan
lized doctrine circulates through the stream of (Matt. 4:1–11). The Apostle Paul later furnished
consciousness, this doctrine comes together in evidence for the heavenly trial when confined
the wisdom compartment, the launching pad to prison in Rome (Phil. 1:7, 12–14, 18). Now, in
where doctrinal thought—divine viewpoint—is the Church Age, this highest privilege is equally
converted into doctrinal action. Wisdom feeds available to every believer (Phil. 1:29). And even
upon wisdom. In other words, the more doctrine more significant than the individual witness is
the believer learns and applies, the more mo-
the corporate witness—the tandem testimony of
mentum and capacity he develops to assimilate
the Christian husband and wife executing the
more doctrine and acquire more wisdom.
spiritual life together.
See also divine viewpoint; spiritual metabolism;
See also marriage (Christian marriage); suffering
stream of consciousness.
(for blessing).
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Mental At-
titude Dynamics.
witnessing (a) Communicating God’s plan of sal-
wisdom compartment vation to unbelievers on a personal basis; (b) the
See stream of consciousness. believer’s representation, by word and action, of
the person of Jesus Christ to the world. Synonym:
witness for the Prosecution (a) Legal termi- personal evangelism.
nology that illustrates the role of the mature Jesus Christ said to His disciples, “Follow Me,
believer in the conflict between Satan and God and I will make you fishers of men” and “you shall
called the appeal trial; (b) the believer whose life be My witnesses . . . even to the remotest part
is entered as testimony before observing angels, of the earth” (Matt. 4:19; Acts 1:8b). One of the
and whose reliance on the grace and power of reasons believers remain on earth after salvation
God invalidates Satan’s charges against God’s is to witness for Christ. Only a select few have the
character (1 Cor. 4:9; 1 Tim. 5:21). See appeal gift of evangelism (Gospel communication on a
trial of Satan. mass level), but every believer has the commission
 293 witnessing

to communicate the good news person-to-person. eloquence, talent, charisma, or success will win
Witnessing can occur anywhere the believer one soul to Christ, but the Holy Spirit can accom-
associates with unbelievers—at home, in the plish what no one else can, and the Spirit works
neighborhood, the workplace, the campus. The specifically through the Gospel. The believer’s
unbelieving world is reached not by men who job is to make the Gospel information clear and
stand behind pulpits (for very few unbelievers accurate; the ministry of the Holy Spirit is what
attend church) but by individual believers who brings the hearer to the place of decision. See
witness in their own area of life. As Christ’s rep- also Operation Z (Gospel hearing).
resentatives on earth, we each have a “ministry of No distractions, dilutions, or false issues. The
reconciliation,” and we fulfill that responsibility objective in witnessing is not to get people
by delivering the free offer of eternal life to the to stop sinning—which is impossible—but to
eternally condemned (2 Cor. 5:18–20). Effective present the one way to be saved: faith alone in
witnessing, therefore, is more than an obligation; Christ alone. The Gospel must never be watered
it is the privilege of telling others about the Savior. down or changed to benefit a personal agenda of
Just as the enthusiastic, properly equipped fisher- the witness. Neither should it be polluted with
man casts the bait and patiently waits to bring pleas for the unbeliever to give up or feel sorry
in a catch, so also the prepared and motivated for sins, improve his behavior, join a church,
believer casts the Gospel in confident anticipa- make Christ Lord, be baptized, give money, or
tion of souls brought into the family of God. make a commitment. The true Gospel of grace
Preparation for witnessing. Love for Christ stands on its own, without human works, without
developed through doctrine in the soul is the gimmicks, and without price (1 Thess. 2:5–6a).
basic motivation to witness. The believer need The emphasis, therefore, must be on belief in
not understand the whole realm of doctrine to Jesus Christ, always keeping in mind that it takes
tell others about salvation, but he must be able a little more than no faith at all to be saved.
to delineate who Christ is and what His work on Witnessing by example. In the unbelieving world,
the cross accomplished (Prov. 11:30). Hence, the the believer is the Lord’s emissary, His ambassador,
initial step is to learn the doctrines that explain with a royal honor code to uphold (Rom. 12—16).
the substitutionary spiritual death of Christ, that The old cliché “actions speak louder than words”
salvation is by grace, not works, and that His is all too true regarding personal evangelism, be-
atonement was for the sins of all mankind (Rom. cause an attitude of graciousness and contentment
3:23–24; 5:8–12; 6:23; 8:32; Eph. 2:8–9; 1 Pet. 2:24; will be noticed by unbelievers. As the believer
1 John 2:2). Whether we write or speak the Gospel, advances spiritually and exhibits faith-rest, more
we must clearly proclaim that Christ solved the opportunities to speak a word for Christ will
sin problem and removed the barrier between become available and will more likely receive
God and man. Most importantly, we must be a favorable hearing (2 Cor. 6:3; 1 Thess. 1:5b).
filled with the Spirit through the use of 1 John Responsibilities in witnessing. The believer must
1:9, for the power of the Holy Spirit allows us to understand the extent of his role in witnessing,
recall doctrinal wisdom and explain salvation from communication of the message to follow-
doctrine with sensitivity toward the listener. up support. When encountering an unbeliever,
Sovereign executive of witnessing. For all hearers all the prepared witness can do is present the
of the Gospel, God the Holy Spirit plays an indis- accurate Gospel, including the fact that there is
pensable role (1 Thess. 1:5a; cf. John 16:8–11). an option to either accept or reject Christ. The
God’s truths are “foolishness,” incomprehensible, witness must then move out of the Holy Spirit’s
to the “natural man [unregenerate, unbelieving],” way and allow the unbeliever freedom and pri-
so the Holy Spirit makes the Gospel information vacy. If the unbeliever accepts Christ as Savior,
understandable (1 Cor. 2:14; cf. 1:18). If the un- he should immediately receive basic doctrine.
believer chooses to accept the message, the Holy The newly born-again Christian needs the “pure
Spirit then takes that faith and makes it effective milk of the word” that he can digest in order to
for salvation (Eph. 1:13). No amount of human “grow in respect to salvation” (1 Pet. 2:2).
witnessing 294

Believers must also keep in mind that prayer is Word of God [Gk. logos tou Theou] (a) The realm
an effective accompaniment to witnessing (Rom. of absolute truth that, while dwelling in God
10:1b). Although we cannot ask God to interfere eternally, was progressively revealed to man by
with the free will of unbelievers, we can ask Him God; (b) the term used as a synonym for the Bible,
to bring some circumstance into their lives that the written canon of Scripture, which reveals
will direct their attention to Christ. We can also God’s complete plan of grace for human history
pray for personal opportunities to witness, that (Ps. 138:2; Matt. 4:4; John 17:17; Heb. 4:12).
doors will be opened for the Gospel to reach all God’s Word has always existed—it is the very
unbelievers within the nation (1 Tim. 2:1–4), and mind and thinking of Christ, who is called “the
that evangelists and missionaries, at home and Word [logos]” who was “in the beginning [eternity
abroad, will be guided safely to harvests of souls. past]” (John 1:1–2; cf. 1 Cor. 2:16). Confirming
that “the whole earth is full of His glory,” God
Opposition to witnessing. Representatives of
is faithful to make His Word available to every
Jesus Christ can expect persecution as a result of
generation (Isa. 6:3). In past dispensations, God
witnessing, for the ruler of this world is as intent
communicated His Word through theophanies
on obscuring the Gospel as God is on revealing it
and angelic appearances, through dreams, visions,
(John 16:33; 2 Cor. 4:3–4). Satan has blinded the
and direct speech to the prophets, and through
unbelieving world with a viewpoint that is con-
the Mosaic Law rituals and offerings. When Jesus
trary, and ultimately antagonistic, to the message
Christ, the Living Word, “became flesh, and dwelt
of grace. However, even in the face of strong op- among us,” in Him was visibly manifest the glory,
position the Gospel must be presented “not as power, and wisdom of God (John 1:14; 1 Cor. 1:24;
pleasing men, but God” (1 Thess. 2:4), without Heb. 1:1–3). Now, in the postcanon period of the
shame, as demonstrated by the apostles and their Church Age, God reveals His essence and plan
missionary teams (Rom. 1:16a; 2 Tim. 1:8, 12). only through His written Word, the completed,
Upon arriving in Philippi, Paul and Silas were inerrant canon of Scripture (2 Pet. 1:20–21).
severely mistreated and imprisoned, but they When transferred from the pages of the Bible to
continued to preach the Gospel in the power of the believer’s soul, this divine revelation is the
the Spirit (Acts 16:16–24; 1 Thess. 2:2). God’s Word source of “all spiritual wisdom and understand-
preserves these examples as a reminder that ing” (Col. 1:9–10).
regardless of the obstacles, believers are to keep God’s Word is more real than empirical knowl-
witnessing for Christ, knowing that the Gospel, edge, more reliable than anything seen, heard, or
“the power of God for salvation,” will penetrate felt (2 Pet. 1:12–21). Unlike the grass that withers
any barrier (Rom. 1:16b). and the flowers that fade, “the word of our God
Rewards of witnessing. The rightly motivated stands forever” (Isa. 40:8). God guarantees that
act of witnessing reaps blessings of rewards in His Word never goes forth without accomplishing
both time and eternity (1 Cor. 9:16–17a). In time, His will (Isa. 55:11). Throughout human history,
rewards include the joy of Christian fellowship— God makes clear the infallibility and absolute
the wonderful friendships shared with those who authority of His Word and warns of the judgment
respond positively to our witness—along with imposed on those who ignore, reject, distort, add
to, or take away from it (Gen. 2:16–17; Deut. 12:32;
the happiness from seeing people come to know
Hosea 4:6; 2 Pet. 2:1–3; Rev. 22:18–19).
Christ as Savior (Phil. 1:4–5). In the eternal future,
beyond the privilege of our resurrection body See also Canon; divine revelation; verbal
plenary inspiration.
will be that of meeting those we have led to the For further reference, Canonicity.
Lord. The eternal crown of joy also awaits as
reward for leading these souls to Christ (Phil. 4:1; worldliness (a) A mental attitude based on hu-
1 Thess. 2:19; cf. Dan. 12:3). man standards; (b) describes the thinking of
See also evangelism; Gospel. someone who resides inside the cosmic system,
For further reference, Witnessing. controlled by the sin nature and influenced by
 295 worship

Satan’s sphere of power, as opposed to the think- Worry, closely related to fear, is an emotional
ing of someone controlled by the Holy Spirit and sin that prevents objective thinking and distracts
living inside God’s power system (i.e., the divine from the spiritual life. Worried believers seek
dynasphere). Sometimes described as humanism. their own solutions in anxiety and bypass the
The world is the first great enemy of the believer, promises and grace of God (1 Pet. 5:7–11). The
because “the world [kosmos]” designates a system Lord admonished His disciples, “Do not be
devoid of God’s power and truth (John 15:19; worried about your life,” making it clear that
1 John 2:15–16). Contrary to the assumptions of worry has no rational basis in the Father’s plan
legalistic Christians, worldliness does not consist (Matt. 6:25–31). Worry simply cannot solve
of violating cultural taboos such as gambling, ca- anything. But even worse, worry blasphemes
rousing, provocative dancing, drinking, or any the character of God and says in effect, “God is
other behavior that personally shocks certain incapable of taking care of me.” Every moment
people. Such activities might sometimes reflect that a believer worries, every time he falls apart
poor judgment or even sinfulness, but they are in a crisis, he is a poor testimony for the Lord.
not the essence of what the Bible describes as To anxious Christians, Paul reiterates Christ’s
worldly. Worldliness is not a system of pleasures mandate and assures them of the “peace of God”
or overt human activity but rather a way of think- that makes it possible to face life free from
ing in the soul. It is entirely human viewpoint. worry (Phil. 4:6–7). This peace acquired from
Worldliness includes everything from slavery to God’s Word provides objectivity to think clearly
circumstances and the details of life, to human- and trust in divine solutions. The Lord knows
istic ideologies like socialism, to eyes on self or our problems and needs and has already solved
other people, to attempted spirituality through everything (Phil. 4:19). So when emotional sins
legalism and human good. like worry threaten the soul, the answer is to
Believers are commanded, “do not be con- cast “all your anxiety” upon the Lord and rest in
formed to this world, but be transformed by His immutable promises (1 Pet. 5:7; cf. Ps. 55:22;
the renewing of your mind [renovation of your Isa. 41:10). David recognized this truth and, in
thinking]” (Rom. 12:2a). Conformity to the world the midst of adversity, was able to say, “When I
is thinking and living according to the standards am afraid, I will put my trust in You” (Ps. 56:1–3).
of the cosmic system. Renovated thinking refers
to a mentality operating on divine viewpoint, a See also faith-rest drill; fear (2).
For further reference, The Angelic Conflict.
soul filled with metabolized doctrine. In his Lessons 438:27; 102:8–9; 457:347.
epistle to the Colossians, Paul reiterates the doc-
trine of divine viewpoint versus human viewpoint worship The expression of deference and grat-
by telling those in Christ to “set your mind on the itude toward God, a voluntary response to His
things above [the absolute truths of God], not
person and works (Ps. 29:1–2; 138:2; Rev. 15:3–4).
on the things that are on earth” (Col. 3:1–2). The
From the time of Adam’s fall through the days
believer without Bible doctrine can be nothing
of the Patriarchs, worship involved animal sacri-
but worldly, for he has no standard of thinking
fices that portrayed the future sacrifice of Christ
from God that allows him to objectively evaluate
on the cross. Israel continued and expanded
himself, make accurate application to life, and
this shadow form of worship by following the
thereby glorify God.
elaborate instructions set forth in the Mosaic Law.
See also cosmic system; divine dynasphere; In the designated places of worship, the Taber-
human viewpoint; separation, doctrine of.
For further reference, Mental Attitude Dynamics. nacle and later the Temple, the Levitical priests
Lessons 424:75; 405:27; 429:53. conducted rituals and offerings that allowed the
people to learn about God and honor His grace.
worry A mental attitude sin of self-torment, The ceremonial routines focused particularly on
anxiety, and painful uncertainty regarding any God’s guidance and protection of Israel and on
matter of life. The believer consumed with worry His promise of a Savior who would solve the sin
anticipates only the worst results. problem. See also ritual plan of God.
worship 296

In the Church Age, every believer is a priest and technique. When we name our known sins to the
therefore worships God directly and individually. Father, He is “faithful and righteous to forgive us”
This personal soul worship expresses respect and those named sins and also “to cleanse us from
appreciation for all God has provided in salva- all unrighteousness [adikia, wrongdoing]” (1 John
tion and the spiritual life, including all provision 1:9). We simply approach the throne of grace to
and material blessing. Worship activities in this acknowledge the carnality that we remember or
dispensation may include assembling in the local understand, and divine justice wipes the slate
church or in any group or private setting for the clean.
teaching of God’s Word (1 Cor. 5:4; 1 Tim. 4:15–16; All sin is sin, whether committed intentionally
Heb. 10:25), singing hymns (Eph. 5:19–20; Col. or in ignorance. We are responsible for our every
3:16), offering prayer (Eph. 6:18; 1 Thess. 5:17; Heb. thought and action that violates God’s standards
4:16), giving money (2 Cor. 9:7), and observing (Col. 3:25). The more we learn about what consti-
the Lord’s Table, or Eucharist (Luke 22:19–20; tutes sin and how to evaluate ourselves objec-
1 Cor. 11:23–26). The Eucharist is the only ritual tively, the better we can identify our failures and
form of worship mandated for the Church Age. promptly confess them. By rebounding more fre-
To qualify as genuine worship, these activities quently, we avoid the accumulation of wrongdoing.
must be performed by a believer in fellowship— See also rebound.
meaning he must be controlled by the power of
the Holy Spirit rather than the sin nature—and XYZ equation of hope An illustrative formula
he must have in his soul at least some divine that maps out the plan of God for humanity, from
viewpoint on which to concentrate (John 4:23–24; birth to eternity, expressed in terms of three
14:26). Where carnality prevails and a void of categories of hope and seven imputations. The
doctrine exists, attempts at worship amount to XYZ equation shows how the progression of life
empty works, emotion-driven experiences and from unbeliever to mature believer adds up to
expressions, and meaningless utterances and maximum eternal blessings and glorification of
ritual (Matt. 15:8–9; Phil. 3:3; Heb. 10:1–4) [see God.
ecstatics]. Even singing and prayer demand The equation is particularly designed to delin-
understanding of the doctrinal content involved, eate how, in each stage, blessing is anticipated
and true giving requires a mental attitude of
through hope and realized through imputations.
grace orientation. Therefore, the highest form of
Each basic component, or radical, of the equation
worship, the critical foundation that makes all
represents a segment of God’s plan designed to
other forms of worship possible and legitimate,
direct the believer toward God’s ultimate objec-
is concentration in learning the Word of God
tive. The first radical, X, represents life as an
(Col. 1:10; 1 Tim. 4:15–16). Only the believer who
unbeliever. Y is life as an immature yet growing
understands what God has done for him can
believer, and Z is life as a mature believer.
truly honor the Lord in worship.
See also Christian service; emotion; fellowship X [life as an unbeliever]
with God; filling of the Holy Spirit. Y [life as an immature yet growing believer]
For further reference, Christian Integrity; Giving: Z [life as a mature believer]
Gimmick or Grace?
Lessons 458:344; 457:214–17; 412:1205. In each stage, a pair of imputations forms
potential for blessing. Knowledge of pertinent
wrongdoing The unknown sins, or “all un- doctrine transforms that potential into hope,
righteousness,” mentioned in 1 John 1:9. which becomes reality through the imputation
Wrongdoing includes all postsalvation sins of the anticipated blessings. The equation cul-
committed in ignorance—the sinful thoughts and minates with the believer’s ultimate blessings
actions that we have either forgotten or do not from God in eternity, demonstrating that “God
recognize as sin. In a fantastic demonstration of causes all things to work together for good” to
God’s grace, we receive immediate cleansing from those who follow His perfect plan (Rom. 8:28).
these sins of ignorance by utilizing the rebound The XYZ formula, while complex, is a frame-
 297 Yahweh

work to which all categories of doctrine attach. Yahweh Title of God derived from the sacred
It serves as a guide by which these doctrines Tetragrammaton hwhy (YHWH, “the self-existent
can be properly applied. Above all, it captures One”). Synonym: Jehovah.
a panoramic view of the integrity of God in ac-
See Tetragrammaton. See also angel of the Lord.
tion. The best resource for unraveling the terms
and abbreviations shown below is the book The
Integrity of God, which discusses the equation
in depth.
See also hope; imputations.
For further reference, The Integrity of God.

Potential for
Escrow Blessings in the
Eternal State

Figure 35 XYZ EQUATION OF HOPE

Notes
Notes
Notes
Notes
Photograph by Robert Becker
ROBERT B. THIEME, JR. (1918–2009) remains a significant
voice of Christianity throughout the world. His diligent,
expository teaching is based on the original languages of
Scripture in light of the historical context in which the
Bible was written. His innovative systems of vocabulary,
illustrations, and biblical categories clearly communicate
the infallible truths of God’s Word. Thieme recorded more
than eleven thousand hours of sermons and published
more than one hundred books covering much of the Bible.
Thieme graduated from the University of Arizona (Phi
Beta Kappa) and Dallas Theological Seminary (summa
cum laude). His seminary studies were interrupted by
World War II military service during which he rose to the
rank of lieutenant colonel in the United States Army Air
Corps. After completion of his graduate work in 1950, he
became pastor of Berachah Church in Houston, Texas.
His extensive training in Greek, Hebrew, theology, history,
and textual criticism provided the foundation for his
demanding professional life of studying and teaching
the Word of God. Thieme retired as pastor of Berachah
Church after fifty-three years of faithful service.
 Doctrinal Bible Studies

The extensive teaching library of Pastor R. B. Thieme, Jr., is preserved

and disseminated by R. B. Thieme, Jr., Bible Ministries. The purpose of
the Ministries is to make Thieme’s biblical instruction available worldwide
without charge or obligation, so that anyone anywhere can “grow in the grace
and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18a).
Audio recordings of Bible classes taught from 1959 to 2002 are available on
MP3 disc and USB drive. Video recordings of classes taught from 1986 to 2002
are available on DVD and USB. A series of 30-minute lessons are broadcast on
various radio stations inside and outside the United States. Also offered are
printed books, audiobooks, and eBooks on specific doctrinal subjects, with
many titles translated into Spanish, Portugese, Chinese, Visayan and Ilongo
(Philippines), and other languages of eastern Asia.
For information or to place an order, please write or call the Ministries or
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