The summary of the onward transmission of Jesus’ Manifesto and the biblical basis for it applying to all believers. The summary of the onward transmission of the Great Commission is as follows below. Jesus -Luke 4:18-19 manifesto for humanity-given in the synagogue. Jesus -Mark 16:15-18 the 11 disciples-when Jesus appeared after the resurrection. Jesus -Matthew 28:18-20 great commission- to the disciples-spreading out to the nations The Holy Spirit-Acts 2:1-4 Pentecost- to the 120 in the upper room then to thousands in the Jerusalem-then beyond The bible and the church through the ages - to you and me today Does the Great Commission still apply today? Was this not just for the original 12 disciples? No see the biblical evidence below. Not everyone is an evangelist! -True but we are all called to be witnesses. Evidence that it still applies to all believers. 1.      The command to witness is for all believers. 2.      The example of ordinary believers in the early church. 3.      The Gospel places a stewardship on us. 4.      The work of the ministry in Ephesians 4:12.   1.The commands to witness are given to all followers of Christ. Acts 1:8 “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” This verse gives a command from the risen Lord to all his followers. 2 Cor. 5:18-20 All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us  the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 2. Consider the example of “ordinary believers” in the early church. As we follow the storyline of the early church it is obvious that the apostles sought to evangelize and disciple others. But we see ordinary believers sharing the gospel as well. We read in Acts 8:1, “And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles.” And what did those ordinary believers do?  Acts 8:4 “Now those who were scattered went about preaching ( euangelizomenoi ) the word.”  They went about sharing the gospel with others. 3. Consider the stewardship the gospel confers on us. Jesus reminds us, “Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required” (Luke 12:48). We have been given no greater gift than the gospel, and we have no greater stewardship than to share that message of good news with others. Paul expresses it well in 2 Corinthians 5:14: “for the love of Christ compels us.” 4. Finally, consider what Paul calls “the work of ministry” in Ephesians 4:11-12 The 5-fold ministry (apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers). The reason God “gifts” the church with such leaders is so that they will “equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” -(Eph. 4:12).  And we should certainly include sharing the Gospel in “the work of ministry.” In conclusion all believers need to be carrying on the work of the Great Commission today. Amen Personal Prayer

The Great Commission Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus’ mission (manifesto) was passed down to the disciples and so on, all the way down to us believers today. Mark 16:15-18 is similar to Matthew 28:18-20 15 And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; 18 they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything dead ly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” Jesus’ manifesto was first passed to the 11 disciples and ultimately to the whole church including us- c.f Matthew 28:18-20 The Great Commission is our commission. Many believers look for confirmation in a “calling.” But Jesus did not call some (or any) of his followers to his mission. Rather, he called them to himself and sent them on mission. If you are walking with Jesus, his manifesto is incumbent on you and me.  Every disciple must be a disciple-maker, whether God sends you down the street or to the other side of the world. As you go to work, to the grocery store, to the foodbank, or to the gym- live and love like Jesus. Be confident in his authority. Mark 16:15-18 describes the full gospel: salvation from sin, deliverance from demons, healing and curing of sickness and disease, and immunity from poisons. The next transmission of Jesus’ manifesto was in: The Great Commission Matthew 28:18-20 18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. Consider the four “alls” of Christ’s commission, “All authority”, To go to “all nations”, To communicate “all his teaching,” strengthened by his presence “all the time” (translated always). Jesus claims to have all authority in the universe to lead us on this journey. He claims that his teaching is the most important thing in life to follow and therefore, he claims that all nations need to know his teaching. And last but not least, he claims that he will be with us for all time. Huge claims, and in the literal sense, incredible — you would not believe them unless Jesus is God. Whatever, the four “alls” might mean for you and me and wherever the Lord takes us, be it near or far we must not let fear crowd out our faith. Jesus spoke these words to give us a task and to give us courage in and through the task. These four “alls” remind us that the burden is not on us but on Jesus Christ himself. However, we are obliged to obey Jesus’ command, for the Great Commission is for every believer. Amen Personal Prayer In Part 4 we consider the onward transmission of Jesus’ manifesto on the day of Pentecost.

Verses 15-29 The changeless promise v.15-18 The purpose of the Law v.19-25 Heirs of the Promise v.26-29 Last time in Part 3A (Ch3:1-14) we saw that Paul tried to bring correction to the Galatian Christians using a series of rhetorical questions. As was as though they had fallen under the spell of the Judaizing teachers who wanted to put them back under the Mosaic Law including circumcision! Paul reminded them that we can only be justified by faith in Christ alone, anything else is a distortion of the true gospel. We pick up now at v.15 Verses 15–18: The Changeless Promise “Brethren, I speak in the manner of men: Though it is only a man’s covenant, yet if it is confirmed, no one annuls or adds to it. Now to Abraham and his Seed were the promises made. He does not say, ‘And to seeds,’ as of many, but as of one, ‘And to your Seed,’ who is Christ. And this I say that the law, which was four hundred and thirty years later, cannot annul the covenant that was confirmed before by God in Christ, that it should make the promise of no effect. For if the inheritance is of the law, it is no longer of promise; but God gave it to Abraham by promise.” Paul compares God’s covenant with Abraham to a legal contract. Once ratified, a covenant cannot be annulled or altered. God’s covenant with Abraham came 430 years before  the law. Therefore, the law cannot cancel or override it. The promise was to Abraham and to his Seed—singular. Paul makes the theological point that this “Seed” is Christ. All the blessings flow through Him. If the inheritance were based on law, it would no longer be a promise, but something earned. But salvation is by promise, by grace—not by performance. Verses 19–25: The Purpose of the Law “What purpose then does the law serve? It was added because of transgressions, till the Seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was appointed through angels by the hand of a mediator… Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor.” The law was given for three main reasons: To expose sin  – to reveal our need for salvation. To restrain sin  – to provide a moral framework for society. To prepare the way for Christ  – it was temporary, given “until the Seed should come.” The law was given through angels and mediated by Moses, showing it was indirect when compared to God’s direct promise to Abraham. The law was never against God’s promises—it just could not give life. Instead, it confined everyone under sin so that salvation could only come through faith in Christ. Paul says the law functioned as a “tutor” or “guardian.” Its role was to lead us to Christ, but once faith has come, we are no longer under that guardian. Verse 26 – Children of God by Faith “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.” That is what Paul says. And notice, it is not through the law, it is not through rituals, it is through faith. This is our official status — sons of God. And yes, that includes the ladies as well. It is not about gender here; it is about standing. By believing in Christ, you become part of God’s family. Verse 27 – Clothed with Christ “For as many of you as were baptised into Christ have put on Christ.”What does it mean to “put on Christ”? Baptism symbolises being united with Him. To put on Christ means to take on His identity, His righteousness, His life. It is like wearing new clothes — the old has gone, the new has come. We are clothed with His character and His standing before God. Verse 28 – Radical Equality in Christ “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”This is revolutionary. Paul breaks down all the barriers — racial, social, economic, gender divisions. In Christ, every believer stands equal. No one has an advantage, and no one is left out. Now, God still appoints authority in the church and in the home, but in terms of salvation and spiritual standing, we are utterly equal before Him. Verse 29 – Heirs of the Promise “And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.” This is powerful. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s true offspring. That means the promises God made to Abraham apply to you. Remember that old Sunday school song — “Father Abraham had many sons”? Well, we really are his children by faith. The blessings God promised Abraham are fulfilled in Christ and flow to us, not through lineage, not through the law, but through faith. Key Takeaway from Verses 26–29 Paul’s message here is revolutionary. Faith in Christ redefines who belongs to God’s family. It is not about race, not about status, not about gender. It is about faith that unites us with Christ and makes us heirs of the promise. That is wonderful news. Learning Points from Chapter 3 (Summary): Faith, not law, brings the Holy Spirit.  Paul asked, “Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law, or by hearing with faith?” It was by faith. Salvation is by grace, not by performance. Abraham is our model of faith.  He believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness. True children of Abraham are those who believe. God’s promise came before the law.  The covenant of grace was established centuries before the law was given. The law did not cancel God’s promise. The law’s temporary role.  The law was given to expose sin and act as a guardian until Christ came. It was never the final solution. Unity and identity in Christ.  Through faith, we become children of God, clothed with Christ, equal in standing, and heirs of Abraham’s promise. Closing Application So Galatians chapter 3 is a theological 'powerhouse'. Paul dismantles legalism and builds the case for faith as the only foundation of righteousness. The gospel transcends race, gender, and status. It unites us in Christ, and it opens the door to grace, equality, and inheritance in God’s family. No wonder Martin Luther loved this letter so much — it gets right to the heart of the gospel. Praise God for His grace in Christ Jesus. Amen Personal Prayer   Materials Consulted R.L. Solberg Galatians  Parts 1-3 YouTube

Verses 1-9 Justification by Faith Verses 10-14 The Law brings a Curse In chapter two, we saw that Paul went up to Jerusalem to meet the main apostles. It was like a “tale of two cities.” When Paul went to Jerusalem, he was warmly received—best friends with Peter and the other apostles, shaking hands, and receiving the right hand of fellowship. His ministry to the Gentiles was recognised. Importantly, none of his Gentile companions were forced to be circumcised. But in Antioch, things were quite different. Paul had to confront Peter directly. When Peter fell back under the law, God sent Paul to correct him. Paul exposed Peter’s hypocrisy publicly because it was dangerous for the church. Paul began to explain the difference between law and gospel. Circumcision, kosher food, and other aspects of the law were no longer required under the new covenant. He concluded that if we could be saved by obeying the law, then Christ died for nothing. Moving into Chapter Three Now, as we move into chapter three, here is some background: Paul had planted the churches in Galatia a few years earlier. In verses 2–5, Paul uses rhetorical questions—five or six of them—to bring the Galatians back to their senses, because they had been bewitched. It is worth noting that Paul mentions the Holy Spirit 18 times in Galatians. The Holy Spirit is central to this letter, and Paul repeatedly cites Him as the agent of true conversion. A rhetorical question, of course, is one that does not expect an answer because the answer is obvious. Paul uses this method powerfully in chapter three. Verses 1–4: Justification by Faith, Part 1 “O foolish Galatians, who has bewitched you that you should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed among you as crucified? This only I want to learn from you: did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law or by the hearing of faith? Are you so foolish, having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect by the flesh? Have you suffered so many things in vain—if indeed it was in vain?” Paul begins his defence of the gospel by reminding the Galatians that their salvation began with faith in Christ crucified, evidenced by the gift of the Holy Spirit. Our salvation has nothing to do with the law of Moses. It would be foolish for the Galatians to think that having begun with the Spirit, they could reach Christian maturity through human effort. Paul says it is as if a spell had been cast over them—they were losing sight of the cross and looking back to the law. Verses 5–9: Justification by Faith, Part 2 “Therefore He who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you, does He do it by the works of the law or by the hearing of faith? Just as Abraham ‘believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.’ Therefore know that only those who are of faith are sons of Abraham. And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel to Abraham beforehand, saying, ‘In you all the nations shall be blessed.’ So then those who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham.” Paul makes the point again: miracles come by faith, not by the works of the law. The Jews claimed Abraham as their father, but Paul reminds them that Abraham was declared righteous because he believed God—430 years before the law was given. Therefore, the true sons of Abraham are not those who keep the law, but those who live by faith—both Jew and Gentile. Genesis 12:3 says: “I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” Paul explains that this promise finds its fulfilment in Christ, the true Seed of Abraham. They had no excuse: it was Paul himself who had explained the true gospel to them, more clearly than anyone else could. Imagine the disappointment for a teacher to see his students abandoning the very truths he had carefully taught. First rhetorical question (v.2):  How did you receive the Spirit? By faith. Second (v.3):  Are you so foolish as to begin with the Spirit and then try to mature by the flesh? We begin in the Spirit and must continue in the Spirit throughout our Christian life. Third (v.4):  Have you suffered so much in vain? Likely this refers to persecution from Judaizers, the same false teachers who pressured them about circumcision and kosher laws. Verses 10–14: The Law Brings a Curse (Part 1) “For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them.’ But that no one is justified by the law in the sight of God is evident, for ‘the just shall live by faith.’ Yet the law is not of faith, but ‘the man who does them shall live by them.’” Paul quotes from Deuteronomy 27:26. His argument is that anyone who fails to keep even one of the 613 laws is guilty of breaking them all. It is like a chain: break one link, and the whole chain is broken. So instead of bringing blessing, the law actually brings a curse, because it demands what no one can achieve. Only Christ ever fulfilled the law perfectly. The law requires absolute, continuous obedience. Verse 11 reminds us that “the just shall live by faith.” From the very beginning—even in the Old Testament—God’s way was faith, not law-keeping. Verses 13–14: The Law Brings a Curse (Part 2) “Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us—for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree’—that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.” Here Paul quotes from Deuteronomy 21:22–23. By being crucified (“hanged on a tree”), Jesus took the curse we deserved. The result is that the blessings promised to Abraham now come to the Gentiles through faith in Christ. This is a wonderful inheritance: justification before God, removal of the curse, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Paul is using a Jewish method of interpretation called midrash —drawing deeper meaning from a phrase. He takes “hanged on a tree” and shows its prophetic fulfilment in Christ’s crucifixion. Amen Personal Prayer In Chapter 3B We discuss the changeless promise God made to Abraham and to his promised Seed.

Luke 4:18-19 What was Jesus' mission and purpose on earth? Jesus' platform From time to time the UK news media is buzzing with speculation as to when the next UK general election will take place. Once the date is announced the politicians will be delivering their manifestos to entice the electorate to vote for them and their party. The manifesto contains the promises of what the politician intends to perform If the people elects them. In a sense that is what Jesus did in in the scripture Luke 4:18-19 which you could say was his manifesto, or his mission, or his agenda, or his platform, or even as his job description but please note his manifesto was based exclusively on the will of Father God as described in the Holy Scriptures. A what a wonderful manifesto it was, no one has before or since gave such wonderful promises to humankind as Jesus did in his manifesto. And unlike many politicians, Jesus delivered, then and now, each and every promise in his manifesto. PTL. Context of Luke 4:18-19 Luke 4:16 So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read. 17 And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written:                                                        Jesus’ Manifesto 18    The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the broken-hearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives, And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed. 19    To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord. Jesus was anointed (saturated) with the Holy Spirit to fulfil the specific purposes for which the Father God had sent him. Each point Jesus makes is part of the wonderful news in his manifesto. 1.To preach the Gospel the good news of salvation to the poor. The poor* being everyone who was as sinner and had no way of obtaining forgiveness of their sins and receiving God’s salvation. * biblically =dependent on others i.e. spiritually speaking to us all. 2. To heal the broken hearted- one of the Teen Challenge (addiction recovery) leaders explained to me that everyone who has addiction problems has had a broken heart in their relationships in life.  Many other people have had their hearts broken too in their life relationships and experiences but without addiction. Jesus came specifically to bind up the broken hearts to restore meaning, purpose, and wholeness to our lives. Remember Matthew 12:20 A bruised reed He will not break, And smoking flax He will not quench, Till He sends forth justice to victory; (Isa 42:3) when we feel that we are hanging by a thread or that our candle flame is going to go out. Jesus binds up our strands and breathes his oxygen onto our flames. The wonderful news in Jesus’ manifesto continues. 3. Jesus came to set people free from the bondage and slavery of sin which takes them captive at will. The believer no longer is at the whim of sin but can stand against it in using the full panoply of armour of God and the weapons Jesus has given us. Jesus came to remove all our guilt, and shame-these are often Satan’s weapons to hold us back from serving God. 4. Not only did Jesus often heal the physical blindness in his earthly ministry but more importantly took away the blindness of the unbelievers when we were saved into God’s Kingdom. Remember the hymn line from ‘Amazing grace’: ‘I once was blind but now I see.’ That was you and I until we became believers. 5. Jesus came to set at liberty those who are oppressed by the devil, those held down from living their lives to the full by demonic oppression in its various manifestations. v19 The acceptable year of the Lord refers to the Jubilee year (50th) of the Lord in which land was returned to the original owner, all debts were forgiven, slaves were released- these are good parallels in the life of the believers when we are first saved. The Jubilee year was the year of redemption, Jesus announced that He was bringing full scale redemption to humankind in his manifesto. Amen Personal Prayer In part 2 we consider the words that Jesus read from Isaiah 61:1-2

There is only one true Gospel: Believe in Jesus period. Suppose someone came to you with the proposition: “I know something that could split the church of Jesus Christ in half.” You would consider that a serious threat, wouldn’t you? That is exactly what the book of Galatians deals with. The enemy tried to split the early church in two—between Jews and Gentiles. And yet, the message remains deeply relevant today.   The takeaway for us is simple: the book of Galatians teaches that salvation is in Jesus Christ alone. Not Jesus plus something else. Not faith plus works. Just Jesus.   When I first became a Christian, I was filled with joy. I felt as if I were walking on air, with a song in my heart every day. But then one day, someone pulled me aside in church and told me, “To really be a Christian, you also need to do this.” Immediately, the music in my heart slowed. I did not know much as a baby Christian, but I knew something was wrong. Any attempt to add requirements to salvation takes away the joy of the gospel. That is exactly our enemy what wants—to steal the music from your heart.   Paul preached the gospel in Galatia, a region of what is now modern Turkey. At one time, scholars thought he wrote to the northern Celtic tribes, but most now believe the letter was written to the churches in southern Galatia—major cities where Paul had ministered. Regardless, the message is the same: false teachers, called “Judaizers,” had entered the churches. They claimed that faith in Christ was not enough for salvation, and that believers must also keep the Mosaic law, including circumcision. Paul confronted this distortion head-on.   The Judaizers not only tried to add to the gospel but also sought to undermine Paul’s authority. They compared him unfavourably to Peter, James, and John, the apostles in Jerusalem. They questioned his credentials and dismissed his teaching. But Paul reminded the Galatians that his authority came not from man, but directly from Jesus Christ Himself.   This is why Galatians is often called the “Declaration of Christian Liberty.” It proclaims justification by faith alone—our right standing with God comes through Christ alone, not through works of the law. This message was at the heart of the Reformation, with Martin Luther famously saying he was “married” to the book of Galatians.   Not everyone has loved this epistle. Some say it is too emotional, too personal, too intellectual, too controversial, or too argumentative. But that passion reflects Paul’s urgency. He stripped away the niceties he usually included in his letters and got straight to the point—because the very truth of the gospel was at stake.   In chapter 1, Paul begins by establishing his apostleship: “not from men, nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father.” He reminds the Galatians that Jesus gave Himself for our sins to deliver us from this present evil age. He then expresses astonishment that they were turning so quickly to a “different gospel.” Paul uses strong language: even if an angel from heaven were to preach another gospel, “let him be accursed.”   This is striking because history has shown us exactly that. Joseph Smith, founder of Mormonism, claimed to receive another gospel from the angel Moroni. Muhammad claimed the angel Gabriel gave him the Qur’an. Paul warned of this centuries earlier: if an angel brings a different gospel, it is not from God.   The true gospel is simple: salvation is a free gift through faith in Jesus Christ. Human nature tends to gravitate toward works, rules, and self-effort, but God finds this offensive. Any attempt to add to the gospel only brings bondage.   Paul then recounts his testimony. He once persecuted the church fiercely, even consenting to the death of believers. Yet, by God’s grace, he was transformed and called to preach Christ among the Gentiles. His message did not come from men but by revelation from Christ Himself. After his conversion, Paul spent time in Arabia, receiving direct revelation from God. Only years later did he briefly meet Peter and James in Jerusalem, and even then, his ministry was independent. His dramatic transformation—from persecutor to preacher—caused the churches to glorify God.   The same dangers Paul confronted remain with us today. Modern equivalents of the Judaizers include groups that add requirements to the gospel:   What about the Mormons, who want to add extra scriptures alongside the Bible. What about the Jehovah’s Witnesses, who also emphasise loyalty to their organisation and additional works. What about the Roman Catholics, who (depending on interpretation) may appear to add sacraments and church authority to the gospel of grace. Most Catholics disagree with this allegation. What about the prosperity preachers, who make material blessing a condition of true faith. What about the legalistic sects, who require special diets, dress codes, holy days, or denominational loyalty. Even within the Hebraic Roots movement (which I personally value for its insights), there are dangers when people insist that Jewish practices are required for salvation. The book of Galatians makes it crystal clear: we are not to go back under the law. So, what are the key lessons from today’s study? Paul was a true apostle, called directly by Christ. There is only one gospel: salvation by faith in Jesus Christ alone. Adding anything to the gospel distorts it and robs us of liberty in Christ. False teachings are still with us today, so we must guard the truth carefully. Amen Personal Prayer Next time, we will move into Galatians chapter 2, where Paul defends the gospel further and even confronts Peter about his hypocrisy concerning Christian converts. Materials consulted David Pawson Unlocking the Bible  Galatians 1,2 R L Solberg Galatians Part 1 and 2 YouTube

The case for once saved always saved. Is it possible for a true born-again believer to lose their salvation and end up in the eternal lake of fire, separated from God forever? The question usually arises when someone we know or even perhaps ourselves, who previously professed Christianity but is now living far from Jesus and does not seem to even care. As we begin this important study it is crucial to remember that not everyone in any given fellowship may be truly born again! Our question in this study is focused on those who have truly been born-again. This study has three parts to it. 1. The need for holiness in the believer’s life. 2. Bible evidence to support ‘once saved always saved’. 3. Responses to those scriptures which appear to contradict this. It is clear from the teaching of the Bible that the Lord wants and indeed expects us to lead holy lives that bear fruit. It does matter how we live in every area of our lives, and we must not grieve the Holy Spirit who indwells us by living in constant sin. The grace of God and His righteousness in us are not a license to sin. Even if we do stumble our hearts should be quick to confess our sins to the Lord. Background Calvinists and Armenians Calvinists ( John Calvin 1509-1564 ) generally believe in Eternal Security. They believe that God knew everyone who would believe from before the foundation of the world, and because of this He called and chose each one. In this viewpoint God has done all the work for salvation in the past and the people will be saved in the future. One drawback from this point of view is that because it is so focused on the past it leaves out how the believers live in the present. When taken to extremes this could be taken to mean that it really does not matter how the Christian behaves and hence opens the door for widescale immorality. Arminians ( Jacob Arminius 1560-1609 ), on the other hand, concentrate much more on the present. They also believe God has called and chosen us, but that this calling works only on a day to day basis. So, if we live a holy life today, we are still saved, but if not, we are in instant danger of losing our salvation. Some Arminians become very legalistic and keep long sets of rules perhaps even to the extent of keeping all the law of Moses. Some are in more bondage to the law than any legalistic Jew! Most of what the Calvinists believe is scripturally correct, but a balanced biblical viewpoint must take the present into account. Jesus is alive today and .... He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He ever liveth to make intercession for us (Hebrews 7:23-25 ). Israel needed a high priest to represent the people to God and in the same way Jesus Christ our high priest makes daily intercessions for each one of us. Our eternal security and salvation do not only depend in what the Lord has done in the past but also on the fact that Jesus Christ is interceding for us today. This means there is a present aspect to our salvation. In other words, if Jesus stopped interceding for us perhaps, we might lose our salvation. Praise God however that He can save us to the uttermost (panteles) meaning completely, utterly, or finally, or even better everlastingly (forever). This present aspect of our salvation means that God requires something from us today! Our present-day sin is still loathsome to God. Although Jesus paid the price in full for all our sins when we sin today, Jesus has to say to His Father ‘I suffered and died for that sin’. So, there is still a reaction in heaven when we sin though He graciously forgives us when we repent. Our sins are still of real significance today and we must remember that obedience is better than sacrifice. Ephesians 4:30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. The basis of our eternal security is founded in two equally important things. 1. The work and calling of God in the past 2. The living intercession of Christ for us. If we remember both aspects, they will keep us from extremes of considering sin unimportant or trying to live under the Law. Our love and gratitude to Jesus will lead us into greater holiness. Some Arminian preachers are frightened to preach on God’s grace in case it will promote sin in the believer’s lives. The Bible however teaches that as we acquire an understanding of the grace and love of God and a revelation that Jesus is constantly interceding for us, then we will be inspired to lead holy lives. The supporting scriptures for this motivation to holiness are given below [1] . From these scriptures it is clear that God does not employ fear or outward things to spur us on to holiness but rather it is the truth inside us that will cause a response from our hearts. We respond to God’s love and grace. Those forgiven most, love most! Holiness needs a new nature. No matter how good on external appearances people are, only the new birth can really change their nature. People who have only received the Gospel in their heads are often more difficult to convert because they think they are already saved. Amen Personal prayer [1 ] Titus 2 11-13. Ephesians 2:8-10. Romans 6:11-15. 1 Corinthians 6:15-20. Ephesians 3:20 -4 22. 1 Thessalonians 2:10-12. Collossians 3:1. 2 Corinthians 6:14-18. 1 John 3:13.

Eternal security and the Trinity Two Views of Salvation Some people would say that man’s work can help him earn salvation, whereas others say salvation is entirely God’s work. If salvation can be earned or deserved in any way, based on our actions, then there is a possibility that we might stumble and lose it again. This is in effect a ‘social gospel’ a gospel based on good works. This would mean that salvation was gained by doing good works and implies a necessary standard of conduct. If, like most Christians we believe that salvation is entirely the work of God, then we could only lose it through some failure on God’s part. This is of course impossible. The Bible is clear on this point that salvation is a gift of God . Ephesians 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. Four Foundational Principles for the Eternal Security of a believer 1. God’s omniscience ; he knows everything, past, present, and future. He knows each one of us at our worst (faults and failings) and at our best. He knew what he was doing when he saved each one of us. He was big enough to complete the task of preparing us for eternity. Romans 8:38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. See also 2 Timothy 2:13, Isaiah 46:9-10. 2. The nature of a gift from God; Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. A wage is earned, but a gift is given, the Greek word for gift charisma means a gift. Eternal life is a gift, and the Scripture says in Romans 11 :29 the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable. If we could lose our salvation, then surely God’s omniscience and grace would be in doubt! 3. The work of the Trinity in our salvation All three personalities of the triune Godhead co-operated in our salvation. The idea that any or all of them failed is absurd. a) The work of the Father . Ephesians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. Father God planned our salvation and has adopted us into his family. Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: It was the Father who began the good work in us, and He will faithfully complete it. b) The work of the Son Jesus died for every sin; past, present, and future. If even one sin was not covered by his blood, then we would be in grave danger. But thank God that no sin can now affect God’s plan, because they have all been considered since Jesus died for the sins of the whole world. Jesus is our advocate ( 1 John 2:1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not . And if any man sin , we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:). The parakletos (advocate) means one called alongside to help. Jesus does not turn his back on us when we sin but rather, he rushes to the Father saying, ‘Yes, I know he is guilty, but I paid for that sin on the cross’. When we get to heaven there will be great rejoicing ‘ He (Jesus) shall see the travail of his soul and be satisfied (Isaiah 53:11). Jesus is both judge and advocate (John 5:22,27 ). The court is biased in our favour! c) The work of the Father and Son Together. John 6:37 All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.38 For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.39 And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing but should raise it up again at the last day.40 And this is the will of him that sent me, that everyone which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day. The Father gives men to the Son and He will lose none of them! John 10:27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never [2] perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man can pluck them out of my Father's hand. 30 I and my Father are one. d) The work of the Holy Spirit. We are sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise Ephesians 1:13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, 14 Which is the earnest [3] of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. We are sealed now at the point of salvation. This implies a ‘done deal’. God owns us from that moment forever. The King of King’s seal cannot be reversed. 4. The family or kindred relationship. We are born-again into God’s family; Galatians 3:26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. Even if we deny Our Father, He remains faithful to us. Amen Personal Prayer Footnotes [2] Double negative in Greek for emphasis ‘never ever’. In Part 5 we examine the scriptures used to argue against eternal security.

Responses to scriptures which appear to be against eternal security. There are Christians who believe that they can lose their salvation. It is worth considering just for a moment, that there are only two positions on this matter. Either you can or you cannot lose your salvation! In general, two types of error can be made when trying to interpret a passage of scripture. 1. Either or the verse or passage is misapplied i.e. it is talking about a different subject altogether (and not salvation in this case). 2. A verse can be taken out of context and so it is meaning becomes distorted. An example of such an error is where some people say that because Galatians 5:4 [4] says that we can ‘ fall from grace ’ then this means we can lose our salvation . This passage is talking about how to lead the Christian life not about salvation! Scriptures used to oppose the doctrine of eternal security. Generally, they can be divided into five main groups. 1. Passages dealing with fruit and the judgement of believers works. e.g. In the parable of the Sower ( Matthew 13:3-9) the main thrust of the story is about people’s hearts and the fruit that they will produce when salvation comes. Only the first category the hard-hearted person who refuses the seed of God’s word is an unbeliever. See also Hebrews 6:7-10 and 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. 2. Passages about God disciplining believers. Although God does discipline his children, he does not throw them out of his family. The unforgivable sin is of course the sin of not believing what the Holy Spirit and the Word God say about Jesus Christ and can only be committed by unbelievers! In Acts 5:1-11 Annanias and Sapphira lied to the Holy Spirit and died! This does not imply that they lost their salvation, but it was a judgement of their works. Their dead works will be burned up in heaven just like ours! See also the story of King Saul in 1 Samuel 28 and especially v.19 ...you and your sons will be with me. 3. Passages taken out of context. Matthew 24:13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved . The context of ‘saved’ here is that of delivered i.e. will not die but survive. Matthew 7:21-23 ...I never knew you; depart from me your evil who practise lawlessness . This is talking about judgement day (every knee ...) and is clearly talking about unbelievers. 4. Passages exhorting believers to live in fellowship. Hebrews 6:1-6 careful study of this passage shows that the ‘repentance of v.6 is referring to the same repentance from dead works’ as verse 1. This is talking about believers who are out of fellowship with the Lord and need to get rid of their dead works. 5. Miscellaneous scriptures. Revelation 3:5 ‘Overcomers’ Some people assume that some believers will not be overcomers and hence lose their salvation. However, in 1 John 5 4-5 defines who the overcomers are i.e. one who has faith in Jesus Christ. 2 Timothy 2:11-13; ‘If we deny (disown) Him....He will also deny us. However at the end of the day if God remains faithful our salvation is secure in Him, and He always remains faithful. Conclusion The grace of God should promote holiness in our lives. We are in a relationship with God which cannot be broken although our fellowship can. Your eternal life has already begun so let us live and act in a worthy manner! Jude:24-25 24 Now unto him that can keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, 25 To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion, and power, both now and for ever. Amen. Prayer Teaching adapted in part from BBS TAPES 9-11 by the late Roger Price (Chichester Christian Fellowship). Footnotes [1 ] Titus 2 11-13. Ephesians 2:8-10. Romans 6:11-15. 1 Corinthians 6:15-20. Ephesians 3:20 -4 22. 1 Thessalonians 2:10-12. Collossians 3:1. 2 Corinthians 6:14-18. 1 John 3:13. [2] Double negative in Greek for emphasis ‘never ever’. [3] Guarantee or down-payment. [4] Galatians 5:4 Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.

Why is it so significant? Where is the Kingdom of God, and how do we enter it? The significance of the Kingdom of God Mark 1:14 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, 15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel. Why is the kingdom of God important? The Kingdom of God was so central to the preaching of Jesus Christ that the “Kingdom of God” you could say is like the catchphrase in Jesus’ preaching. Jesus was always talking about the kingdom of God, the kingdom of Heaven and the Gospel of the kingdom. In particular, the synoptic gospels are filled with texts about the kingdom of God. In the New Testament the phrase ‘the Kingdom of God’ occurs 66 times in 65 verses. The phrase ‘the Kingdom of heaven’ occurs in 32 times in 31 verses (in Matthew only). Mark1:14 The thrust of the word for kingdom means the reign of a king, or that which the king reigns over. Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, 15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel. This was a new day a new beginning for mankind, a new opportunity to enter the KoG. The Kingdom of God vs The Kingdom of Heaven Matthew 13:33 Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. Compare this to Luke 13:20 And again he said, Whereunto shall I liken the kingdom of God? 21 It is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. Most bible scholars think the phrases kingdom of God and kingdom of heaven are interchangeable although there is a difference in the Greek phrases. The reason scholars think they are the same are, 1. Only Matthew uses Kingdom of heaven and that he was trying to avoid upsetting his Jewish readers by constantly mentioning the name 'God'. 2. Matthew`s usage parallels that of the other Gospel writers i.e. it is used to say the same things (as above example in Matthew 13:33 vs Luke 13:20). The Kingdom of Heaven is a kingdom from heaven, not heaven itself, not a kingdom in heaven. God reigns supreme in heaven. Heaven is the locus of His authority, the point from which he rules the universe. The words “of heaven” then are referring to the origin of this Kingdom. It is the place from which the Kingdom is coming, not a destination to which we are going.     Where is the Kingdom of God? Luke 17:20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: 21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. Thus, it is a fundamental truth for each born again believer that the kingdom of God means the rule of Jesus Christ is within you. v20+21 Jesus’ answer was that the kingdom of God was not coming in the manner the Pharisees were expecting. The kingdom would not be inaugurated with spectacle or splendour; there would be no great and magnificent messiah leader (on his white horse) who routed the Romans; rather, the kingdom would come silently and unseen, much as leaven works in a batch of dough (see Matthew 13:33). In fact, Jesus says, the kingdom had already begun, right under the Pharisees’ noses. God was already ruling in the hearts of a few people, and the King Himself was standing among them, although the Pharisees were oblivious to that fact. V21 This means his kingly rule should be in each and every part of our lives, spirit, soul and body on the throne of our hearts. There are three common interpretations of Jesus' words in Luke 17:21 regarding the kingdom of God being 'within you (or among you)': 1) the kingdom of God is fundamentally internal, residing in a person's heart; 2) the kingdom is accessible if you make the correct decisions; and 3) the kingdom of God is present among you through Jesus' person and presence. It appears to me that the most compelling interpretation is the first, suggesting that Jesus was initiating the kingdom by transforming individuals' hearts one by one. Amen Personal Prayer

Prodigal does not mean wayward but means extravagant The Parable of the Prodigal Son... first, everyone thinks that "prodigal" means "wayward". The rock group Kansas made a nice-sounding tuneful song around 1977 called "Carry On, My Wayward Son", that I quite like. But "prodigal" actually means "extravagant"... related to the word "prodigious". As in "prodigal giving to the poor"... extravagant giving. Of course, THIS son was prodigal with his spending his inheritance BEFORE the time. Second, he had demanded that he have his inheritance NOW. WHAT AN INSULT to the Father! He was saying, "I can't wait for you to die-- I want it NOW!" How many Christians erroneously think that they are asking for their "Rights" when actually, they are being like the son in this parable? Just make sure WE are not like that... keeping everything submitted to God. Third, "When he was a long way off, the Father ran out to meet him." This meant that the FATHER WAS WATCHING for him! He was anxiously scanning the horizon-- His heart was so involved in loving His lost son... that when He saw him "a long way off", He instantly recognised his WALK. Why do I say "walk"-? Because, from a great distance, one MIGHT recognise someone's profile-- but if a long period of time has passed, they might have gained or lost weight... BUT, a person's WALK, their gait, is able to be recognised. It holds loads of meaning for us... Fourth, the Father HAD to get to him BEFORE he reached the village. Otherwise the village Elders would have performed a "ceremony of shame" called the "kezazah” where they would have formally disfellowshipped him from the community because of the disgrace he brought on their name by his immoral actions. What the Father did, was to get to him with His grace, BEFORE the Law could judge him-- and giving him not only a "party"-- but a RE-INSTATEMENT as a proper SON! He clothed him with a goodly robe-- the BEST robe ("of Righteousness")... put a ring on his hand (the Signet Ring that 1-enables him to do Business in his father's stead, and 2- identifies him as belonging to THIS family name)... and put shoes on his feet. (1-so FIRST his feet, his "daily walk" would have to be WASHED, and 2- "our feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace" - protection and enabling to WALK in this new and living Way). THEN they killed the fatted calf, and there was Music and Dancing, in great rejoicing, "...for this thy BROTHER was 'dead' and is Alive again! --and was 'lost’ and is FOUND!" Some people say, "Have you found Jesus?" -- "Why, was he lost...?" NO! It should be, "Has Jesus found YOU--?" The three parables are: The Lost Sheep... ONE out of a Hundred. (Luke 15:3-7) The Lost Coin... ONE out of Ten (Luke 15:8-10) The Lost Son... ONE out of Two (Luke 15:11-32) Notice that THIS parable has the longest section of verses. Does that mean that the details are MOST important--? Notice that the Elder Brother had a Double Portion of the inheritance (Hebrew custom: if you had two sons, you would divide the family inheritance THREE ways, and the First Born would get the "Double Portion". So, with four sons, they would divide it Five ways, and the First Born would get two portions [he double portion] and all the others would get one each.) But he was upset at the "party"... and would not go in! The Father's appeal, "Son, all I have is yours, and you are always with me!" Shouldn't THAT have warmed his heart--? He complained that he had SERVED many years, and NOT TRANSGRESSED his commands... yet had not been "given so much as a kid" (a young goat). He was saying, "I believe in the LAW, and the rewards of the Law. Yet, it has not been forthcoming... not even inferior meat, for me to make merry with my friends!" He was completely missing the point that the Fatted Calf was not a REWARD to the younger brother, nor was it WAGES...! It was a celebration of LIFE!!! L'Chaim! Let us rejoice in LIFE from the Lord! Guest Blogger Alex Smith A couple of additional notes. 1) The shoes - sons wore shoes; servants went barefoot. So the Father was giving him not only foot-wear, but making the statement by it "You're NOT just a servant, you are my SON."  2) The fatted calf: when they would raise cattle, they of course would bear forth calves, which would grow up to add to the herd. But, they would set aside ONE calf in a special paddock by himself, and feed him with a special diet to fatten him up. Why? Because fatty beef TASTES BETTER than lean beef. I was once at a fairground where there was a kiosk selling "Buffalo Burgers" ! Intrigued, I bought one... but was disappointed at the lack of flavour. When I went back to the kiosk, the man said "Well, if you wanted flavour, you should just get a regular beef burger! Buffalo (or, Bison, more properly) is a good lean meat. It's better for you, but isn't as tasty!"  But the "fatted calf" was still a CALF - not yet full grown, like veal - maybe only a few months old. How would the Father have known that there would be a special celebration coming up?  Answer: Isaiah 46:10 "I declare the End from the Beginning..." (says YHWH).

Understanding the Vision In December 1984, shortly after I acquired an old 1940 Cadillac sedan, I found myself reflecting on the past, especially the era surrounding World War II. Suddenly, I heard a gentle voice from the Lord say, “It’s 1940 and Pearl Harbor is coming up for the Church.” This statement stirred thoughts of betrayal, warfare, death, and awakening. I prayed about this revelation, and the Lord began to unfold more about Pearl Harbor. He reminded me of a poignant scene from the film “Tora Tora Tora.” In this scene, a Japanese military leader remarked after the attack, “I fear all we have done is to awaken a sleeping giant and fill him with a terrible resolve.” This made me think about the Church awakening to its true condition. The painful price paid by our country in the 1940s was a wake-up call to the harsh realities of global politics. The cost was human life, suffering, and destruction. Yet, we did awaken. I recalled December 8, 1941, when we declared war against the Axis powers. Before that, we had been sending arms, supplies, and money to our allies but not men to fight. We watched as China, the Pacific Islands, France, and much of Europe fell to Germany, Italy, and Japan. We remained uninvolved until a catastrophic event forced us to wake up. The Revelation During Baptism I continued to meditate on what I had heard until May 1985, during a baptismal service at our Church. An older lady, who had spent fifty years in disobedience and rebellion against God, was about to be baptized for the first time. Just before I entered the water with her, my wife delivered a message in tongues. The Lord then provided me with an interpretation through a vision. This vision depicted a future time of both great hardship and great blessing for the Body of Christ. In this vision, I saw a deep harbor with clear blue-green water. A Person floated in the water, not swimming or standing, but motionless like a ship in a windless sea. Suddenly, many Japanese Zero aircraft appeared from the east, dive-bombing and strafing the Body in the water. As the Body began to sink, I noticed many small people on it. As it sank deeper, many of these small individuals jumped off just before they entered the water. Thousands swam away, some jumping onto beds of adultery, others onto whiskey bottles, and still others onto books, all heading in the same direction. To my left, I saw an extraordinarily beautiful woman with deep reddish-purple skin and clothing, standing on the harbor floor. She stretched out her arms toward the sinking Body, sweetly calling out, “Come unto me, all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you WHAT YOU WANT!” The people jumping off were like rats fleeing a sinking ship. Some scurried to higher ground on the Body, moving from the shoulders to the ears, and finally jumping off the top of the head just before it submerged. It was clear they did not want to leave the Body, but they also did not want to go down with it. The Body eventually sank completely, and some little people clung on as it descended. However, after a few moments of holding their breath, they swam to the surface, gasping for air, and headed toward the woman. The seemingly lifeless Body sank deeper into the clear water. At the bottom of the harbor, I saw a large, perfect pearl of immense value. It was supernaturally beautiful, lustrous, and pure. As I watched, the Body transformed from a single entity with small people clinging to it into many individual people swimming toward the pearl. Many chose to quit and swim to the surface for air, eventually heading toward the beautiful woman. Those who dove down to touch the pearl realized they had to expend all their natural strength to embrace it. Yet, the closer they got, the more beauty they saw. I witnessed many touch and embrace the pearl, then shoot straight up. Each person emerged from the water with the pearl, and as they rose higher, they became one Body again. By the time they reached the surface, they burst forth as one Body—the Body of Christ—manifesting His possession and holding the Pearl of Great Price, Jesus Christ Himself. As the Lord revealed this beautiful picture, He spoke to me, saying, “Just as Jesus emerged from the waters of baptism, so My Body will rise from Pearl Harbor with a new and powerful anointing of My Holy Spirit, equipped to fight the enemy.” The Call to Awakening He indicated that the Church of Jesus Christ would experience a Pearl Harbor event akin to what the United States faced on December 7, 1941. When the Body of Christ begins to sink due to an impending, devastating attack from the enemy, many will choose to abandon our Lord Jesus Christ. They will not value the Pearl of Great Price (Jesus Himself) enough to sacrifice their selfish desires. They will not make the selfless effort of love to dive deeply enough to embrace Him, as they do not love Him more than their own lives. Many will refuse to identify with what they perceive as a defeated individual or group. They will see themselves as winners and will not associate with a Jesus who appears to be losing. Instead, they will gravitate toward the beautiful woman of the harbor, who promises them what they want. As the vision indicated, many who leapt off the sinking Body did so because the woman of the harbor offered them success. They believed they could obtain Jesus on their own terms without paying the high price of true discipleship. When the Body of Christ emerges from the waters of death, the Lord assured me that His Body would be fully alive, ready to confront the enemy with purpose and genuine anointing. His Body would wield only supernatural weaponry. He made it clear that we would begin this spiritual war with conventional weapons in the Spirit, but by the war's end, we would wield spiritual atomic bombs—powerful and beyond our current comprehension. The Lord assured us that we would emerge from the water equipped with divine anointing to heal the sick, perform miracles, and deliver those in demonic bondage. Before the warfare concludes, we will operate in a dimension of spiritual warfare that is unimaginable today. We will accomplish greater works than Jesus did and witness the defeat of demonic forces like never before. After the message in tongues and interpretation, my focus returned to the woman being baptized. The Lord indicated that the Pearl Harbor experience for His Church would mirror this woman’s baptism. I observed her closely, noting her nervousness and fear of going under the water. I reassured her that she would be fine. After a brief prayer and teaching on the significance of baptism, she was submerged. When she emerged, her hands were lifted in praise to God. I had not shared the Lord's message about her baptism, as I was unsure of what would transpire. Once she regained her composure, she testified about her experience. Initially fearful, she felt a beautiful peace envelop her underwater, dispelling her fear. This peace transformed into joy as she surfaced, praising God for His comfort, love, and mercy. I believe God was demonstrating that we need not fear what He will lead us through. His purpose is to bring us peace, joy, cleansing, and power. He was also illustrating that His Church will undergo a baptism—a death and resurrection. We must trust Him to guide us from this watery tomb of death into the glorious resurrection power of His Son. The Harbor of Safety It is essential to understand that a harbor represents SAFETY and REFUGE. God’s people involved in these events will require safety and protection. The Harbor of the Pearl of Great Price is the only refuge that will provide safety, and ALL who believe will willingly pay the price of dying to their own desires. Pearl Harbor signifies the death and resurrection of the Body of Christ, preparing to do His work in His way, with His heart. It marks the final separation of David from Saul—the David Church being purified and separated from the Saul Church. This event serves as the final AWAKENING blast of God’s trumpet, rousing His people for battle. It signifies the judgment that begins with the house of the Lord. It is the refining fire that separates gold from dross. This will be preceded by the Lord’s dealings with His true people, both to survive and to desire this final preparation for battle. It promises unmatched power and purity: power over sin, power over the enemy, power to live a virtuous life, and power to glorify our Heavenly Father through Jesus Christ by the Holy Spirit. Even now, God is working with those in the David Church, just as He dealt with David. Whenever David began to drift from God’s purity and purpose, the Lord would intervene to AWAKEN him. God did not expend this effort on Saul, as Saul CHOSE to remain asleep to God and His desires. Pearl Harbor serves as a warning of betrayal and disaster. The Church has faced many Pearl Harbors of betrayal and disaster throughout history. Jesus was betrayed, killed, and rose again. English Puritans experienced their own Pearl Harbor in the early 17th century, surviving because they could not comply with the laws imposed by the Church of England. They fled to the New World, laying the spiritual foundation for one of the greatest revivals in history. John Bunyan penned “Pilgrim’s Progress” while imprisoned for refusing to attend the Church of England’s services and for preaching outside its liturgy. Had he complied, he could have been free. Yet, for the sake of his conscience, he chose not to. His uncompromising obedience to the Scriptures and God allowed him to rise to prominence in Christian literature. Today, we continue to benefit from the fruit of that resurrection power. To those who remain unprepared, Pearl Harbor will arrive suddenly and tragically, like a thief in the night, sweeping them away into Great Deception. For those open to God’s will rather than pleasing religious men, it will be an anticipated ordeal, a call to arms, and a prelude to great victory. The initial stages will herald the greatest move of God in history—the greatest Revival and the most significant manifestation of Christian Unity the world has ever witnessed. Images supplied by Guest Blogger Alex Smith