What exactly is a paradox? Is it even possible to have a “God Paradox”? Understanding this question may be one of the Great Secrets of truly being a disciple of Jesus and “Doing the Works He has done, and even Greater Works’ since He has gone to the Father.

In these “Last Days”, the God Paradox may be the one thing we are commanded to know and to do. In fact, this may be vital to our survival, as Jesus put it in Matthew 24:13, “But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved.”

One example of this possible “God Paradox” can be found in Philippians 2:12-14:

“Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.”

• You work out your own salvation?
• For it is God Who works in you?
• To do and to works for His Good Pleasure?

Which is it? Is it you, working your salvation and doing His Works, or is it God doing His Works through you?

So, what exactly is a PARADOX? A seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement or proposition that when investigated or explained may prove to be well-founded or true.

This is one of the great ‘mysteries’ of the Bible and of our intersection with God. The Bible tells us it is possible to both UNDERSTAND this mystery and to have it ACT upon you and within you.

“To make the word of God fully known, the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:26-27

I want to relate an example of this mystery by way of my Sunday School teacher.

This man is an accomplished man but a humble man. He is able to relate well to others and is a master storyteller. He is well studied and versed in the Word of God. I consider him a true disciple of Jesus and a great Bible teacher.

Recently, in a review of the Book of Philippians, he was pointing out the many reasons for our Joy, found in this great epistle.

He concluded and asked if there were any final thoughts or remarks or prayer requests. Some in the class had several prayer requests and one praise report.

Once it was quiet, I raised my hand and remarked that I had a prayer request. “First”, I said, “I want to thank you for bringing us these Prophetic Words today. I know that I will never be the same again. My prayer request is that we – all of us – recognize the Prophetic value of these verses and let these Words of God act upon us as we act upon them.”

Our teacher stammered the words, “Who me? Prophetic?”

I replied, “Yes, you. That is, God’s Word, by way of His Spirit, through you. And, thank you!”

He seemed speechless and almost incredulous.

Therein lies the manifest paradox:

• We say it (the Word of God).
• We say we believe it.
• Indeed, we do believe it.
• But, then, don’t we usually try to do it ourselves? Or we don’t try at all.

Once you have “Done the Works of Jesus”, then you are never, ever, the same again!

I want to cite just a few verses regarding “The Works of Jesus”, so we can be certain of the Standard:

Matthew 11:2, says, “Now when John, while imprisoned, heard of the works of Christ, he sent word by his disciples, verse 3, and said to Him, “Are You the Expected One, or shall we look for someone else?”

Verse 4. “Jesus answered and said to them, “Go and report to John what you hear and see:

• the BLIND RECEIVE SIGHT and
• the lame walk,
• the lepers are cleansed and
• the deaf hear,
• the dead are raised up, and
• the POOR HAVE THE GOSPEL PREACHED TO THEM.

John 10:10, says, “Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father is in Me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on My own initiative, but the Father abiding in Me does His works.

Verse 11. “Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me; otherwise, believe because of the works themselves.

Verse 12.  “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I go to the Father.”

Verse 13. “Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.”

• The Father abiding in Me does His works
• The works that I do, (you) will do also;
• And greater works than these (you) will do; because I go to the Father.

We are commanded by The Prophetic Word of God, to Go into all the world, preaching the Gospel, making disciples, teaching them to do all the Jesus has commanded. We are to lay hands on the sick, and they will recover, tell the blind to receive their sight, tell the lame to walk, raise the dead, feed the hungry, take care of the widowed and orphaned, REMEMBERING that it is God within you doing these Works.

It is our willingness and our obedience, when God intersects with our life, which releases the Power of God through our lives.

PROPHECY IS WHEN WE PLANT THE SEED OF THE WORD OF GOD IN US, SO HIS WORD AND SPIRIT SPEAKS THE TRUTH TO US, AND HE CAN DO HIS MIGHTY AND RIGHTEOUS WORKS THROUGH US.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

Revelation 15:3 “And they sang the song of Moses, the bond-servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, “Great and marvelous are Your works, O Lord God, the Almighty; Righteous and true are Your ways, King of the nations! “Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy; For ALL THE NATIONS WILL COME AND WORSHIP BEFORE YOU, FOR YOUR RIGHTEOUS ACTS HAVE BEEN REVEALED.”

 It is always good to read or hear the Word of God preached.  Sometimes sermons will tell you stories ‘about’ God, so you will come to know stories about the Bible and about God.  But, sometimes you may have to actually experience God, and it is then, you may come to actually know Him.

I like to say that “Knowledge which is not applied, is just idle information; and, wisdom which is not used, is just useless knowledge.”

This is the challenge we face: Not just knowing about God, but, actually coming to know Him and to apply that knowledge as He speaks to us and works through us in our circumstances, our prayers and activities.

Our relationship with God requires more than just knowing about Him. We must know Him, believe Him and we must follow Him, which requires our FAITH in ACTION.

Pastor and author Henry Blackaby points out, in his study “The 7 Realities For Experiencing God”, what we should know about God’s ways, His plans and His purposes. It illustrates how we can follow Him:

1. God is always at work around you.
2. God pursues a continuing love relationship with you that is real and personal.
3. God invites you to become involved with Him in His work.
4. God speaks by the Holy Spirit through the Bible, prayer, circumstances, and the church to reveal Himself, His purposes, and His ways.
5. God’s invitation for you to work with Him always leads you to a crisis of belief that requires faith and action.
6. You must make major adjustments in your life to join God in what He is doing.
7. You come to know God by experience as you obey Him, and He accomplishes His work through you.

JESUS’ MINISTRY IS OUR MINISTRY

Our relationship with Jesus is more than ‘Just Knowing About Him’;  it requires Knowing, Believing and Doing.   Jesus has given us…

(a) The plan we are to follow,

(b) The purpose which is our purpose, and

(c) The ministry for us as His disciples.

The letter of Hebrews is an example of how God speaks to us, warns us, protects us and instructs us in His methods and ways. He has a plan for us, but, we are not just recipients of His plan, we are to be active participants. We are on mission with Him.

The primary theme of the letter to the Hebrews is “The Superiority of Jesus”. This book is not just stories from or about the Bible or about God, it is a letter, written, originally to the Hebrew Christians, and by extension, to all believers for all times. It addresses three separate groups: (1), believers in Christ, (2), unbelievers who had knowledge of and an intellectual acceptance of the facts of Christ, and (3), unbelievers who were attracted to Christ, but who rejected Him ultimately. It’s important to understand which group is being addressed in which passage. To fail to do so can cause us to draw conclusions inconsistent with the rest of Scripture.

You see, having become a believer in Jesus and having accepted His magnificent gift of salvation (sozo), you and I have entered into a Salvation Covenant with Him. We have agreed to certain terms, and, to go back on our word to Him can be an eternal and fatal mistake.

Read with me, and let’s gain knowledge for wisdom and wisdom for action. Let’s experience God and desire to do His Will:

Now,

Hebrews 1:1, says, “God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, verse 2. in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom He also made the world. Verse 3.  And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high,

WHAT WE KNOW FROM HEBREWS 1:1-3

1.  GOD SPEAKS TO HIS PEOPLE. God spoke to the fathers and through the prophets in many ways.

Why is this important to know?  (If you ask, He will answer you. If you are quiet, willing, listening and submitted to Him, you will hear Him.)

2.  WE ARE IN THE “LAST“  “DAYS“.  

Why is it relevant to the Christian to know that we are in the Last Days? (There are a succession and a convergence of events occurring, which require Christians to prepare for participation.  Being unprepared or unwilling can lead to eternally catastrophic consequences.)

(Details about THE LAST DAYS are at this link.  Also, click on these blue words linked to “Last” and “Days”, separately, for the Greek translation.  Then, click on  green linked THE LAST DAYS for important details about THE LAST DAYS.)

3.  God has spoken to us, IN THESE LAST   DAYS, in Jesus.

What is the significance of the reference of “IN THESE LAST DAYS” being linked to Jesus’ Name? 

(First, Jesus said we are in the Last Days, and everything that follows in that context should be carefully observed.)

(Secondly, scriptures tell us that God has spoken to us in His Son, Jesus, and Jesus is giving instructions for how we can overcome the evil one and endure to the end and be saved in these days.)

4.  Jesus is heir of all things.

What do we know about Jesus from these words? How does this impact us, as Christians, and, what is our responsibility?

(I am leaving this for you to search the scriptures and find the answers.)

5.  God made the world through Jesus.

What do we learn about God and Jesus from these words? What does this say about our relationship with God, and what are the implications?

(Click on the green links for the answers.)

6.  Jesus is the radiance of God’s glory.

What does this reveal about Jesus?  

(Jesus is the “radiance” of God: The “apaúgasma” – someone who literally “shines”, is only used in Hebrews 1:3, where it refers to Christ’s eternal radiance – supremely reflecting the effulgent glory of the Godhead. His eternal light breaks through all the darkness that keeps someone in spiritual ignorance (bondage), i.e. every resistance exerted by sin. This tells us that Jesus is the exact representation of God’s Nature. He is our example.)

8.  Jesus upholds all things by the word – of – His – power.

Look at the Greek translation of the “word” and “power”. How does this explain Jesus’ power? What are the implications for you?

9. Jesus has ‘made purification for our sins’. (cleansed us of all sin).

(This fact is too wonderful and too amazing to fully grasp. But, we must remember what Jesus says about the Church is made holy by the washing with water through the word; and what He has said about confessing our sins, so we will be cleansed from all unrighteousnes.)

10. Jesus is seated at the right hand of God.

(And, according to Ephesians 2:6, “He has raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus”, at the right Hand of the Father.  For it is in Him that we live and move and have our being.)

Let’s recap:

Hebrews 1:1, says,

  #1.   God spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, (God Speaks to us).

  #2.  In these last days, God has spoken to us in His Son, (Jesus speaks to us)

  #3.  Whom God appointed heir of all things, (Jesus is God’s heir, and we are joint heirs with Jesus)

  #4. Through Whom, (that is, Jesus), God also made the world.

  #5.  Jesus is the radiance of God’s glory, and

  #6.   The exact representation of God’s nature, and,

  #7.  Jesus upholds all things by the word of His power.

  #8.  Jesus has made purification of our sins,

#9.  He is seated at the right hand of the Majesty on high,

It is particularly important that, in these Last Days, we know our calling, our ministry and our mission. As Scriptures tell us, we are to be ‘doers of the Word and not hearers only‘.

…see you on the mission field!

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

We often hear the term, “The Less Fortunate” and are encouraged to help them in various ways, most often by doing for them what they cannot or will not do for themselves, which rarely has any lasting effect. Charities have all-too-often become an enterprise in and of themselves, perpetuating the needs of “The Less Fortunate”.

What is being “Less Fortunate” or poor? Poor, to one person, can be all together another thing to yet another person. Being poor is relative, it is nothing more than a set state of mind.

For example, if you cannot pay your bills, buy food or shelter and cannot afford medical care, you are poor, indeed. And, if you are of that lowly state, anyone who could afford just the basics of the aforementioned needs of life, would appear to have a life of sufficiency. And, for those who have any excess of these necessities would likely be considered well off. We can go on up the social and financial strata until we cannot even relate to the great wealth some possess. But, even with the mega-wealthy, a mental poverty can exist – always wanting or needing more. It is all relative.

THERE IS A TEACHING BY JESUS WHICH HAS THE POTENTIAL AND THE POWER TO PERMANENTLY CHANGE YOUR LIFE, lift you from the most dire, humble and meek of circumstances and to place you under the protection and within the plentiful and abundant provisions God has prepared for you.

This teaching is neither hidden nor is it new. It is as old as Moses, when he told the Israelites, “You may achieve success wherever you go. This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will achieve success.

Jesus is teaching about ‘spiritual and soul poverty’ which afflicts the soul, mind and body. This poverty is not only the lack of financial means, but it is to be destitute of the wealth of learning and intellectual culture which the schools afford; and people of this class most readily gave themselves up to Christ’s teaching and proved themselves fitted to lay hold of the heavenly treasure.

It is not hidden from sight  –  it is hidden in plain sight. Read what Jesus says to the ‘Rich Your Ruler’ in Matthew 19:21:22, “If you want to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” But when the young man heard this statement, he went away grieving; for he was one who owned much property.”

After overhearing this statement by Jesus, Peter selfishly lamented, saying, “Behold, we have left everything and followed You; what then will there be for us?”

 “And Jesus said to them, “Truly I say to you, that you who have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of Man will sit on His glorious throne, you also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms on account of My name, will receive many times as much, and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last; and the last, first.’

This young man sadly misunderstood what Jesus is saying, as have so many since that time. Jesus is teaching about changing your perspective, your attitude and taking your focus off the temporal to the eternal. As Jesus taught again, in Matthew 6:19-20, you are to take your mind off of “what the moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal, and store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal”.

Put another way, “we look not at the things which are seen, but our focus should be on the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.”  2 Corinthians 4:18.

Also in Hebrews 11:3, “By faith we understand that the world has been created by the word of God so that what is seen has not been made out of things that are visible.”

Now, in regard to ‘The Poor’, Jesus begins this teaching with,

“For you always have the poor with you; but you do not always have Me.” Matthew 26:11.

The broader context of this event is about how our attitudes and beliefs are expressed by our actions. We are defined as “poor”, whether it is a good sense or a bad sense, by how we express the deepest held core beliefs of our heart.

You find the entire context of this teaching in Matthew 26:1-13, “When Jesus had finished all these words, He said to His disciples, verse 2, “You know that after two days the Passover is coming, and the Son of Man is to be handed over for crucifixion.”

Verse 3. At that time the chief priests and the elders of the people were gathered together in the courtyard of the high priest named Caiaphas; verse 4, and they plotted together to arrest Jesus covertly and kill Him. Verse 5. But they were saying, “Not during the festival, otherwise a riot might occur among the people.”

Verse 6-13. “Now when Jesus was in Bethany, at the home of Simon the Leper, verse a woman came to Him with an alabaster vial of very expensive perfume, and she poured it on His head as He was reclining at the table. But the disciples were indignant when they saw this, and said, “Why this waste ? For this perfume could have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor.” But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, “Why are you bothering the woman? For she has done a good deed for Me. For you always have the poor with you; but you do not always have Me. For when she poured this perfume on My body, she did it to prepare Me for burial. Truly I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told in memory of her.”

Poor: from the Greek word, ptóchos means to be beggarly-poor; to be thoroughly frightened, to cower down or hide oneself for fear; hence, one who slinks and crouches, often involving the idea of roving about in wretchedness; as respects their spirit, it is to be destitute of the wealth of learning and intellectual culture which the schools afford; men of this class most readily gave themselves up to Christ’s teaching and proved themselves fitted to lay hold of the heavenly treasure.

Usage of this word, poor (ptóchos), is to be destitute, spiritually poor, either in a bad sense or a good sense.

See Matthew 5:3 “Blessed are the poor, (ptóchos), in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

See Matthew 4:2, “And after He had fasted for forty days and forty nights, He then became hungry.”  This word, ‘hungry’, comes from the primary Greek word, “peno”, (to toil for daily subsistence); starving. Indigent, poor. Compared to ptochos, feeling the intense pinch of extreme lack.

Here, Jesus is setting the example for us, of how we are to overcome this life through extreme testing and trials as we are led by the Holy Spirit.

Peter teaches and encourages us, “In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which perishes though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;” 1 Peter 1:6-7

I want to unequivocally state that no one needs to continue to be “Less Fortunate”. Although others may attempt to cast you into that light or to inadvertently lure you to stay in the trap of the “Less Fortunate” by hampering your progress through unnecessary charity, you do not need to remain there. Those who are sufficient, often inadvertently lure you to stay in the trap of the “Less Fortunate” by providing what God has already set aside for your health, wealth and wholeness, so that you will be made whole, healthy and safe.

And, you do not need to worry or strive for riches in your journey. The Apostle Paul reminds us, “Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, “I will never desert you, nor will I ever abandon you.”

Jesus, Himself, said, “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.

“For this reason I say to you, do not be worried about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. Is life not more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the sky, that they do not sow, nor reap, nor gather crops into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more important than they? And which of you by worrying can add a single day to his life’s span? And why are you worried about clothing? Notice how the lilies of the field grow; they do not labor nor do they spin thread for cloth, yet I say to you that not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith! Do not worry then, saying, ‘What are we to eat?’ or ‘What are we to drink?’ or ‘What are we to wear for clothing?’ For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided to you.”Matthew 6:24-33.

“Ask, and it will be given to you; Seek, and you will find; Knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.” Matthew 7:7-11

 Please let me repeat, no one needs to continue to be “Less Fortunate”.  The Bible teaches and show a multitude of examples where Jesus heals the sick, restores the infirm and enables the weak. God has already set aside for your health, wealth and wholeness, so that you will be made whole, healthy and safe.

(I know this is a difficult teaching for those who are caught in the snare of poverty, sickness and need. But if you will begin today  –  right now  –  to follow Jesus, and over time and with much difficulty, you will find relief and your rest.)

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

And Buckboard Preachers

There is a show in town. Some fella’ has parked his bandwagon on a nearby acre of ground and is inviting others to join him. He is saying, “Come on! Jump on the wagon. We’re going places.”

I wondered, ‘what sort of places might this fellow be going?’ So, I went to this man’s acre to take a look-see.

I guess I was a bit wide-eyed when I got there. I hadn’t seen something like this in a while. Right there on this acre lot was a big, freshly painted bandwagon.

But I also noticed that there was nothing attached to the wagon that would pull it. No horses, no engine; nothing. I thought, ‘maybe that’s coming later’.

I was browsing around this bandwagon when a man came up behind me and, with a cheery voice, announced, “Hi! I’m Buck. Who might you be?”

Slightly startled, I turned to greet a friendly looking man with a broad smile. “I’m Mike”, I replied. That’s quite the bandwagon. What’s your plans for it?”

“Well, I’m looking to have people jump on it. We’re going places with that wagon.”

“Great”, I replied, getting a little excited by this man’s excited style. “Where are you going with it?”, I asked again.

“Places! Lots and lots of places”, he answered, “besides, this is no ordinary bandwagon, that’s a Religious Bandwagon, and we have a calling.”

“Okay. Where are you going? And how are you going to get there? I don’t see any horses or an engine for your bandwagon”, I prompted.

“Aw, we’ll get to that later. Right now, we just need people to jump on! So, how about you? Why don’t you join us and jump on our bandwagon?”, Buck answered back.

“I just might”, I said. “But, hey, how did you get the name Buck?”, I queried.

“See the wagon’s front seat and the board in front of it?”, Buck asked.

“Yeah. What of it?”, I replied.

“It’s called a buckboard. And since I am the driver of this bandwagon, and I am the only one who can sit there, and that’s where I got my name. Buck, from ‘buckboard’”, he proudly announced.

I joined and jumped on Buck’s bandwagon. In fact, Buck was so persuasive, a lot of people jumped on board. It was exciting and fun. We had music, food, lectures, sermons, field trips, outings and movies.

Some time has passed, and we are still sitting on the same one acre lot, in the same bandwagon, doing the same things as when we started. So I asked Buck, “Isn’t it time we got moving? I mean, the Bible teaches us to GO AND MAKE DISCIPLES. But we’re still just sitting here asking people to jump on the bandwagon. Shouldn’t the rest of us be getting our own bandwagon and going places, too?”

“Naw. And, don’t be one of those ‘lone ranger Christians’ who wants to strike out on their own. Be part of this Bandwagon for Christ”, Buck answered.

“Okay. Sorry”, I said, “I didn’t mean to stir up any trouble. I was just asking”. And things went on as normal.

More time has passed and we finally got moving. We moved away from our old bandwagon and our one acre lot to a new, larger, brightly colored and ornate bandwagon and a larger two acre lot.

We were told we needed something new with more room in a better location. We were told the idea was to draw new Bandwagoneers. I protested, lightly, saying we had plenty of folks on his Bandwagon who were just there for a seat in the Bandwagon for the music, food, lectures, sermons, field trips, outings and movies. They weren’t actually making disciples. We need Bandwagoneers who would get on the road and make disciples for Jesus.

Buck countered with, “Naw. That’s just not right. Our folks give regularly, and we support lots of good causes, including some other missionary Bandwagoneers.”

I started to say, “But, I thought we were supposed to GO AND MAKE DISCIPLES…” but Buck cut me off.

“Yeah. You always say that, Mike. But look at all the good we’re doin’ here. Besides, ‘if you can’t GO, then just GIVE’ is what I always like to say. You need to get back on board and pull your weight, or maybe I’ll have to ask you to move along”, Buck concluded.

There was a long silence between us as we alternately looked at each other, then at the ground.

Finally, I broke the silence, smiled and said, “Buck, I think you’re right. It’s probably time I moved along. I need to go and get my own wagon, or at least find someone who will share that buckboard seat”, I said.

“Where you gonna’ go, Mike? You’ve been here a long time, and leavin’ now is a bad idea. Besides, these bandwagons are expensive and hard to manage, and you’re no wagon driver, and I am. “, Buck pleaded.

“I don’t know where I’ll end up, Buck. But, I know you don’t need me here and perhaps God is calling me to follow Him another way. We’ll have to see. But, thanks for the place in your Bandwagon for all these years. Let’s stay in touch”, I concluded and left.

Well, I left. And I got a wagon. But, not a Bandwagon. I threw in with a team of Covered Wagoneers. Covered Wagons like the early pioneers used. I knew it was a risk. I knew this type of wagon was for travel and not for a permanent settlement. But, they were less expensive, good for travel, mobile and practical. I joined a Covered Wagon Train with Jesus. Yep, a Christian Wagon Train.

All of these folks wanted to GO, AND MAKE DISCIPLES, TEACHING THEM WHAT JESUS HAD TAUGHT US; BAPTIZING THEM IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER, THE SON AND THE HOLY SPIRIT; AND SENDING THEM TO DO THE SAME!

We knew we would have to stay on the move. But, the thought of thousands of us in an organic, spontaneous Christian Wagon Train was just too much to resist. We all began to feel related – like brothers and sisters from different mothers and fathers! So much so, that I changed by name to Brother Mike. (You see, it’s not about the Wagon you are pulling or riding in, it’s about the RELATIONSHIP.)

And guess what else. Everyone who came on this adventure, had their own wagon, so each of them got to sit in the driver’s seat and now can GO AND DO THE CALLING rather than GIVE and just watch.

And, oh yes. I pray for Buck.

I pray for all the Bucks out there. I pray for them to have great success on their Bandwagons. I hope this Buck prays the same for us. (The photo of Buck is an imaginary person, something like a  simile of some of the Bandwagon Drivers I have met over the years.)

Let me ask you, where are you today? Are you sitting in the back of the Bandwagon, serving the needs of the local Bandwagon, or are you ‘On mission, going daily, making disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to follow Jesus and to do all that He commanded?”  One is a task, the other is an adventure!

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

(This has been a metaphor of sorts. It is meant to encourage all the ‘Religious Bandwagon drivers’ and all the ‘Religious Bandwagon members’ to rethink your paradigm and follow Jesus on the greatest of adventures. You are now A CHOSEN PEOPLE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR GOD’S OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. 2 Peter 2:9 )

NOW FAITH IS – THE CERTAINTY – Episode 1

(Click on image above for slide presentation)

AND NOTHING SHALL BE IMPOSSIBLE

I am presenting a study series on faith. Faith is the bedrock of Spiritual Warfare. I will start with Hebrews chapter 11:1 through chapter 12:3. These verses speak clearly about the results of faith and mark out the path we must follow to have the same results in our own lives.

May God bless us as well travel this path and may we find and exercise the faith He has given us, to His credit and Glory!

Hebrews 11:2 “For by it the people of old gained approval.”

It is by the exercising of your faith, that you will be commended as dependable and honest, and your testimony is valued as true.

Verse 3. By faith, we understand that the world has been created by the word of God so that what is seen has not been made out of things that are visible.

It is by the exercising of your faith, that you will have attained the ability to understand that faith has substance and that substance is the evidence that the things not yet seen, will appear and come to pass.

Verse 4. By faith Abel offered to God a better sacrifice than Cain, through which he was attested to be righteous, God testifying about his gifts, and through faith, though he is dead, he still speaks.

It is by the exercising of your faith, that you will be attested to be righteous.

(We can’t really know why “God had regard for Abel and his offering;  but for Cain and his offering, He had no regard“. But we do know that Cain, because he lacked the faith to trust God, became angry and sinned by killing his brother, then lied to God; now the blood of his sin, “cries out from the ground”.)

Likewise, we cannot know some things about God, but, it is by the exercising of our faith, that we must “do well, and our face will be cheerful, and do not do sin, as it is lurking at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it.” (paraphrase Genesis 4:7)

Verse 5. By faith Enoch was taken up so that he would not see death; AND HE WAS NOT FOUND BECAUSE GOD TOOK HIM UP; for before he was taken up, he was attested to have been pleasing to God.

Although our mortal bodies will see death, by God’s grace and by our faith we will be taken up, having been attested as pleasing to God, we will live eternally in the house of the Lord.

Verse 6. And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for the one who comes to God must believe that He exists, and that He proves to be One who rewards those who seek Him.

Verse 7. By faith Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.

We have been warned about things not yet seen through God’s word, and He has given us and our entire household, Jesus, the ark of our salvation, by which He has offered the entire world salvation, so we can become heirs of righteousness, which is according to the exercising of our faith.

Verse 8. By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed by going out to a place which he was to receive for an inheritance; and he left, not knowing where he was going.

And, It is by the exercising of your faith, that when you are called, you go to a place which you are to receive for an inheritance; not knowing where you might be going.

Verse 9. By faith, he lived as a stranger in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, fellow heirs of the same promise; verse 10, for he was looking for the city which has foundations, whose architect and builder is God.

Verse 11. By faith even Sarah herself received the ability to conceive, even beyond the proper time of life, since she considered Him faithful who had promised. Verse 12. Therefore, even from one man, and one who was as good as dead at that, there were born descendants who were just as the stars of heaven in number, and as the innumerable grains of sand along the seashore.

Verse 13. All these died in faith, without receiving the promises, but having seen and welcomed them from a distance, and having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. Verse 14. For those who say such things make it clear that they are seeking a country of their own. Verse 15. And indeed, if they had been thinking of that country which they left, they would have had opportunity to return. Verse 16. But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore, God is not  ashamed to be called their God; for He has prepared a city for them.

There may be times when we feel as though we have not received the promises of God. But, we must press on in faith, and not lose our hope in Him. He as given us the One Main Promise of Christ, Who is our Hope, and He has prepared a city for us, a home for us.

Verse 17. By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and the one who had received the promises was offering up his only son; verse 18, it was he to whom it was said, “THROUGH ISAAC YOUR DESCENDANTS SHALL BE NAMED.” Verse 19. He considered that God is able to raise people even from the dead, from which he also received him back as a type.

Verse 20. By faith, Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau, even regarding things to come.

Verse 21. By faith, Jacob, as he was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and worshiped, leaning on the top of his staff.

Verse 22. By faith, Joseph, when he was dying, made mention of the exodus of the sons of Israel, and gave orders concerning his bones.

Verse 23. By faith, Moses, when he was born, was hidden for three months by his parents, because they saw he was a beautiful child; and they were not afraid of the king’s edict.

Verse 24. By faith, Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, verse 25, choosing rather to endure ill-treatment with the people of God than to enjoy the temporary pleasures of sin, verse 26, considering the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt; for he was looking to the reward.

Verse 27. By faith, he left Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he persevered, as though seeing Him who is unseen.

Verse 28. By faith, he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of the blood, so that the destroyer of the firstborn would not touch them.

Verse 29. By faith, they passed through the Red Sea as through dry land; and the Egyptians, when they attempted it, were

Verse 30. By faith, the walls of Jericho fell down after the Israelites had marched around them for seven days.

Verse 31. By faith, the prostitute Rahab did not perish along with those who were disobedient, after she had welcomed the spies in peace.

Verse 32. And what more shall I say? For time will fail me if I tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets,

verse 33, who by faith conquered kingdoms,

performed acts of righteousness,

obtained promises, s

hut the mouths of lions,

verse 34, quenched the power of fire,

escaped the edge of the sword,

from weakness were made strong, became mighty in war,

put foreign armies to flight.

Verse 35, Women received back their dead by resurrection;

and others were tortured, not accepting their release, so that they might obtain a better resurrection;

verse 36, and others experienced mocking and flogging, and further, chains and imprisonment.

Verse 37. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were tested, they were put to death with the sword;

they went about in sheepskins, in goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented,

Verse 38, (people of whom the world was not worthy), wandering in deserts, on mountains, and sheltering in caves and holes in the ground.

Verse 39. And all these, having gained approval through their faith, did not receive what was promised, verse 40, because God had provided something better for us, so that apart from us, they would not be made perfect.

Hebrews 12:1, exhorts us, saying, “Therefore, since we also have such a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let’s rid ourselves of every obstacle and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let’s run with endurance the race that is set before us, verse 2, looking only at Jesus, the originator and perfecter of the faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Verse 3. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Thus says the Lord. Amen and Amen!

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

The following chapters in this series are Biblical teaching on the exercising of your faith and the outcomes. This is not just for reading, but, for you and me to learn to exercise our faith and to see these outcomes in our own lives.

Go to, Episode 2 – FAITH IS

(The following contains deep Spiritual Truth. Only Believers and Followers of Jesus need to proceed)

URGENT NOTICE:

CRITICAL SHORTAGE OF WISDOM

The mission of The Whitestone Fellowship Rev2:17 is to “Inform, Inspire, Influence, Ignite”. The idea behind our mission is to LEARN and APPLY.  The converse is that “Un-applied knowledge is just useless information”.

So, then, what is wisdom?

One source defines it this way, “There is a very clear difference between knowledge and wisdom. Knowledge is merely “knowing”, learning, or understanding facts as they pertain to certain situations. Wisdom, on the other hand, is the ability to apply that knowledge to given situations.”

There seems to be a critical lack of wisdom in our world, and it seems to be getting worse.

The Bible uses the word “Wisdom” over 200 times. Here are just a few of examples of how the Bible defines “wisdom”:

Exodus 35:31 “And He has filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding and in knowledge and in all craftsmanship”

Psalms 111:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all those who do His commandments; His praise endures forever.”

Ecclesiastes 7:19 Wisdom strengthens a wise man more than ten rulers who are in a city.”

Many of us hear lectures and sermons in Church, on TV, the radio or the internet, that impart valuable information and knowledge. But often, the message is delivered in such a way that the application is either weak, missing or is superficial.

What I mean by this is that many Bible-based sermons start with information about a Bible ‘story’ (hearing), then tend to give a third-person view of the information (observation), then tends to end with a “motto” or a “moral” (the close) instead of clear instruction on how to use or apply what the Bible teaching.

The goal of preaching the Bible is to

• Inform in order to teach,
• Inspire a person to learn what he or she has heard,
• Influence that person to become a source of the truth, and
• Ignite the person to continuous action.

Here is an example from John chapter 15

Abiding in Christ, The Vine:

John 15:1  says, “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vine dresser. Verse 2. “Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit. Verse 3. “You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Verse 4. “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. Verse 5. “I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing. Verse 6. “If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. Verse 7. “If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. Verse 8. “My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.”

There is much to say, to teach and to preach from this section of Scripture. But, I want us to focus on learning and using word. Let’s start with the “WORD”.

This teaching is by Jesus and is obviously “inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness”. In other words, YOU CAN and MUST USE IT.

John 15:3, says, “You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you.“

John 15:7, instructs, “If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”

1. INFORM – TO TEACH: This “WORD” is from the Greek word, “Logos”. It is the sayings of God, a decree, mandate or order, the moral precepts given by God. It is prophecy given by the prophets which denotes the essential Word of God, Jesus Christ. His personal wisdom and power in union with God, in creation and government of the universe, the cause of all the world’s life both physical and ethical, which for the procurement of man’s salvation put on human nature in the person of Jesus the Messiah shone forth conspicuously from His words and deeds.

2. INSPIRE – TO LEARN: “You are already clean because of the WORD”. “Clean” comes from the Greek word, “katharos” which means you are already made clean, pure as if you have been purified by fire (cauterized). Likewise, a vine is cleansed by pruning and so fitted to bear fruit.

Because of this WORD, you are made ethically clean, free from corrupt desire, from sin and guilt, free from every admixture of what is false. The embracing and consumption of Word makes you sincere genuine, blameless, innocent, unstained with the guilt of anything.

3. INFLUENCE – TO BECOME A SOURCE OF TRUTH: “because of the word which I have spoken to you”. This WORD is from God and is both PROPHETIC and CAUSATIVE. God foretells, proclaims and creates the Truth IN YOU and THROUGH YOU! This is the Work of God through you! Embrace it and let the WORD OF GOD abide in you.

4. IGNITE – ACT CONTINUOUSLY: “If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”

This time, “WORD” is from the Greek “Rhema” which means, that which is or has been uttered by the living voice, a thing spoken, a spoken word.

We are taught, and we learn, we are informed and inspired as the Living Logos of God abides within us. Now that WORD wells up inside us and spills out of our mouth as the Rhema, the Spoken Word of God. We are but the clay and the Potter is announcing the most profound Truths through His willing and submitted servant.

ABIDE. This is critical. It is essential to “Abide in Christ”. It is to remain, to sojourn, tarry, not to depart, to continue to be present, to be held, kept, continually, to remain as one, not to become another or different. This is the only way.

ABIDE: This is critical. It is essential that His Words abide in you. His WORD is to remain IN YOU, to sojourn IN YOU, tarry IN YOU, not to depart FROM YOU, to continue to be present IN YOU, to be held IN YOUR MIND AND HEART, kept IN YOUR MIND AND HEART continually, to remain as one, not to become another or different. This is the only way.

ASK: “Ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.”

“For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise from another place, and you and your house will perish. And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this?”.

Don’t shrink back. Accurately handle the Word of God. ASK, SEEK, KNOCK and Let’s GO and get allow Him to get this done!

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

ADDITIONAL READING: “For Such A Time As This“ by Dr. Tony Evans, senior pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, TX. (reprinted below).

(Then Mordecai told them to reply to Esther, “Do not imagine that you in the king’s palace can escape any more than all the Jews.  For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, and you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this?”). – Esther 4:13-14

Many people quote Mordecai’s rebuke to Esther as a life-verse which is to represent prestige, power and favor. You’ll see shirts, hats, mugs and social media posts that proudly ring out, “for such a time as this.”

But few people truly connect the context of the verse with how they are using it. Esther was being scolded for her self-indulgent, self-preserving mindset. Esther was being reproofed for living large and embracing royalty over service. Through those telling words, Mordecai was reminding Esther that she had been chosen to set her own interests aside, let go of her own ambitions and face an enemy full-on.

She was to risk her life and her legacy with no guarantees of a positive outcome. That’s the “for such a time as this” Esther was challenged to accept. And that’s the “for such a time as this” God also sets before you.

He didn’t place you where you are so you could eat figs all day long or post pictures of yourself on social media.

It is God who has given you your job, position, resources, education and more. It is God who has opened the opportunities for you to optimize for His kingdom purposes. He didn’t place you where you are so you could eat figs all day long or post pictures of yourself on social media. He’s placed you where you are because you are in the midst of a battle; a war. You are in the midst of a seismic conflict involving Good versus Evil.

To miss your kingdom assignment because you have become too caught up in your personal kingdom itself is the greatest tragedy you could ever face.

To miss your kingdom assignment because you have become too caught up in your personal kingdom itself is the greatest tragedy you could ever face. An entire nation was grateful for how Esther responded to Mordecai’s rebuke. Their lives were spared. How many can be spared in the culture where we live today when we choose to step up to service, even if it involves sacrifice?

To miss your kingdom assignment because you have become too caught up in your personal kingdom itself is the greatest tragedy you could ever face. Click To Tweet.

This is a sermon I gave at a small church. I love the participation of those who were there.  I hope this LONG sermon can bless you.

(You can listen to this audio as you read along, and, you can pause the audio to follow links, then resume audio when you are ready.)

“The one who endures to the end, he will be saved” – Jesus, Matthew 24:13

Are you ever puzzled by some things Jesus says?

Jesus says again, in Matthew 10:22, “You will be hated by all because of My name, but it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved.”

I have recently had some lively discussions about the meaning and implications of what JESUS said when telling His disciples about His coming and the end of the world. (Matthew 24)

Jesus tells His disciples they will face many trials, challenges, persecutions and even martyrdom. Many Christians will suffer tribulation just before His return and the end of the age.

He warns us that “it is the one who ENDURES TO THE END, is he who will be saved”.

Jesus’ plain words should be enough. So, why the puzzle? Why the controversy?

I believe there is controversy because many people, including many of my friends and acquaintances, jump to these conclusions:

1. Many jump to the conclusion that Jesus is NOT saying “You can lose your salvation” (And this can make them very angry because this view does not fit their religious doctrine of “eternal security”) And, they are very adamant!

2. Many others jump to the conclusion that Jesus is saying that you CAN lose your salvation”. These folks say, “SEE, I TOLD YOU SO!!! (And this view makes them resolute because this DOES fit their religious doctrine.) And, they are very adamant!

3. While some jump to the conclusion that Jesus is saying it’s all about maturing in your faith, probably in an attempt to avoid controversy.

4. And yet, others say that they just don’t know what He means.

I have read many commentaries on these verses, and although these are studied opinions, most are a jumble of opinions based on denominational and religious doctrines.

Perhaps we are just asking the wrong questions?

Many theologians and bible teachers will hammer the pieces of this puzzle into place, to fit their religious doctrines, whether they fit or not.

These verses are very important to the believer. Ask yourself,

• • Does one perish if he or she does not “endure to the end”?
  • And, what is it we should ENDURE?
  • What END is it that I am to endure to?
  • What will I be SAVED to or from?
  • Why does it matter?

Believe me when I say that Jesus was clear. He has more to say on this matter in His discourse, found in Chapter 24 of Matthew. He gives grave warnings about enduring and being ready for His Return and the End of the Age.

The most important thing about correctly understanding scriptures and the Words of Jesus, is this:

Romans 1:16-17, tells us that, “The gospel, is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “BUT THE RIGHTEOUS man SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.”

• • You cannot experience the power of God, and
  • You cannot experience the righteousness of God, and
  • You cannot LIVE BY FAITH
  • If You do not possess and believe the entire Word of God.

Want to know more? This is important because it affects how YOU respond to Jesus’ command to BE READY for “His coming, and of the end of the age”.

If so, then let’s first get these verses in CONTEXT, and then we will look at the wording from the original language:

Matthew 24:3 says, “As He (Jesus) was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age”?

Verse 4. “And Jesus answered and said to them, “See to it that no one misleads you.

Verse 5 . “For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will mislead many.

Verse 6. “You will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not frightened, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end.

Verse 7. “For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and in various places there will be famines and earthquakes.

Verse 8. “But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs.

Verse 9. “Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name.

Verse 10. “At that time many will fall away and will betray one another and hate one another.

Verse 11. “Many false prophets will arise and will mislead many.

Verse 12. “Because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will grow cold.

Verse 13. “But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved.”

THE CONTEXT

“The one who endures to the end, he will be saved” refers to Jesus’ coming, and of the end of the age.

THE WORDS

Now, let’s take a closer look at the words Jesus used to tech His disciples:

Endures: Strong’s concordance #5278, hupomeno, also from Strong’s concordance, #5259 and #3306 = endure, take patiently, tarry behind, abide, suffer 1.

1) to remain

1a) to tarry behind

2) to remain i.e. abide, not recede or flee

2a) to preserve: under misfortunes and trials to hold fast to one’s faith in Christ

2b) to endure, bear bravely and calmly: ill treatments

It is in the ‘aorist tense’ which is characterized by its emphasis on punctiliar action; that is, the concept of the verb is considered without regard for past, present, or future time.

IN OTHER WORDS: “The one who HAS ENDURED, IS ENDURING and CONTINUES ENDURING to the end, he will be saved” in relation to “the sign of Jesus’ coming, and of the end of the age”

End: Strong’s concordance #5056 = telos = to set out for a definite point or goal; the end, the uttermost, finally.

1) end

1a) termination, the limit at which a thing ceases to be (always of the end of some act or state, but not of the end of a period of time)

1b) the end

1b1) the last in any succession or series

1b2) eternal

1c) that by which a thing is finished, its close, issue

1d) the end to which all things relate, the aim, purpose

IN OTHER WORDS: “The one who has endured, is enduring and continues enduring TO THE END, of “the signs of Jesus’ coming, and of the end of the age” he will be saved”.

SAVED: Strong’s concordance #4982 = sozo = safe, save, make whole, heal, be whole.

1) to save, keep safe and sound, to rescue from danger or destruction

1a) one (from injury or peril)

1a1) to save a suffering one (from perishing), i.e. one suffering from disease, to make well, heal, restore to health

1b1) to preserve one who is in danger of destruction, to save or rescue

1b) to save in the technical biblical sense

1b1) negatively

1b1a) to deliver from the penalties of the Messianic judgment

1b1b) to save from the evils which obstruct the reception of the Messianic deliverance

IN OTHER WORDS: “THE ONES who have ENDURED, are enduring and continue enduring TO THE END of “the signs of Jesus’ coming, and of the end of the age”, HE “THIS SAME ONE, THESE SAME ONES, BOTH MEN AND WOMEN, will BE SAVED, from perishing, saved in the biblical sense, delivered from the penalties of the Messianic judgment; saved from the evils which obstruct the reception of the Messianic deliverance”.

In JESUS’ Words: “The one who endures to the end, he will be saved” – PERIOD.

We must GET READY, BE READY and STAY READY and endure to the end.

Whether you believe

• you can lose your salvation, or you believe
• you cannot lose your salvation, or you believe that maybe
• you were never saved in the first place, or you think this is about
• you’re maturing in your faith or
• you just don’t know

One thing you better know is that you must

1. Get Ready – Make Jesus your Lord and Savior.

2. You can only come to God and be saved by His Grace and by your faith, believing that

3. Jesus died for your sins and that

4. God raised Him up from the grave after three days in the tomb,

5. Jesus saves you from your sins and

6. Jesus saves you from perishing (going to eternal torment in hell)

7. Jesus has forgiven you and given you a new life of hope, promise

8. The one who endures to the end, he will be saved” – Jesus, Matthew 24:13

In support of enduring to the end, The Apostle Paul said, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day;and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:7 – 8

Jesus said, “No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62

No man or woman can determine your salvation in Christ. Only God, alone, knows. But, unless you ENDURE TO THE END, you will know you whether you have finished the race and will be welcomed into His Waiting Arms.

Keep on Enduring! Let’s Walk by the Spirit, let’s not grow weary, let’s finish the race, let’s endure to the end.

Your Brother and Friend

Mike Young

PS:  Please, let’s “come out of the building” and let’s go, daily, in obedience to Him, on the greatest adventure of our lives. JOIN Him in ministry. Be the Organic Church on the move.

(You can listen to this audio as you read along, and, you can pause the audio to follow links, then resume audio when you are ready.)

DANIEL 9 – The 70 Weeks

The “seventy weeks” prophecy, found in Daniel 9 begins with Daniel praying for Israel, acknowledging the nation’s sins against God and asking for God’s mercy. As Daniel prayed, the angel Gabriel appeared to him and gave him a vision of Israel’s future. In verse 24, Gabriel says, “Seventy ‘sevens’ are decreed for your people and your holy city.”  The seventy “sevens” should be understood as seventy “weeks” of years, in other words, a period of 490 years. These verses provide a “timeline” that gives us an idea of when the Messiah would come and some of the events that would accompany His appearance.

IF YOU UNDERSTAND “DANIEL’S SEVENTY WEEKS”, YOU WILL UNDERSTAND THAT WE ARE IN THE FINAL DAYS OF THE FINAL WEEK BEFORE JESUS RETURNS, USHERING IN THE “GREAT AND TERRIBLE DAY OF THE LORD”.

WE MUST BE READY The prophecy divides the 490 years into three smaller units:

• one of 49 years,
• one of 434 years, and
• one 7 years.
  • The final “week” of 7 years is further divided in half.

Verse 25 says, “From the time the word goes out to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Anointed One, the ruler, comes, there will be

• seven ‘sevens,’ and
• sixty-two ‘sevens.’ ”
  • (Seven “sevens” is 49 years, and sixty-two “sevens” is another 434 years: 49 years + 434 years = 483 years

The Purpose of the 70 Weeks (i.e., the 490 years) The prophecy contains a statement concerning God’s six-fold purpose in bringing these events to pass: Verse 24 says this purpose is: 1) “to finish transgression,” (that is, to end man’s rebellion toward God) 2) “to put an end to sin,” (that is, to bring an end to sin) 3) “to atone for wickedness,” (that is, to make amends or reparation for wickedness) 4) “to bring in everlasting righteousness,” (that is, the quality of being morally right or justifiable) 5) “to seal up vision and prophecy,” and (that is, to confirm these prophetic visions) 6) “to anoint the most holy.” (that is, to anoint, or to confer divine or holy office upon; in this case the Holy One, Jesus.) Notice that the results of this six-fold purpose concerns the total eradication of sin and the establishing of righteousness. The prophecy of the 70 weeks summarizes what happens before Jesus sets up His millennial kingdom. *Of special note is the third in the list of results: “to atone for wickedness.” Jesus accomplished the atonement for sin by His death on the cross (Romans 3:25; Hebrews 2:17). The Fulfillment of the 70 Weeks *Gabriel said the prophetic clock would start at the time that a decree was issued to rebuild Jerusalem. From the date of that decree to the time of the Messiah would be 483 years.

• We know from history that the command to “restore and rebuild Jerusalem” was given by King Artaxerxes of Persia c. 445 B.C. (see Nehemiah 2:1-8).

• The first unit of 49 years (seven “sevens”) covers the time that it took to rebuild Jerusalem, “with streets and a trench, but in times of trouble” (Daniel 9:25). This rebuilding is chronicled in the book of Nehemiah.

• Using the Jewish custom of a 360-day year, 483 years after 445 B.C. places us at A.D. 30, which would coincide with Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem (Matthew 21:1-9). The prophecy in Daniel 9 specifies that after the completion of the 483 years, “the Anointed One will be cut off” (verse 26). This was fulfilled when Jesus was crucified.

• Daniel 9:26 continues with a prediction that, after the Messiah is killed, “the people of the ruler who will come will destroy the city and the sanctuary.” This was fulfilled with the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70. The “ruler who will come” is a reference to the Antichrist, who, it seems, will have some connection with Rome, since it was the Romans who destroyed Jerusalem.

The Final Week of the 70 Weeks

1. Of the 70 “sevens,” 69 have been fulfilled in history. This leaves one more “seven” yet to be fulfilled.
   • Most scholars believe that we are now living in a huge gap between the 69th week and the 70th week. The prophetic clock has been paused, as it were. The final “seven” of Daniel is what we usually call the tribulation period.

1. Daniel’s prophecy reveals some actions of the Antichrist, the “ruler who will come.” Verse 27 says, “He will confirm a covenant with many for one ‘seven.’” However, “in the middle of the ‘seven,’ he will set up an abomination that causes desolation” in the temple. Jesus warned of this event in Matthew 24:15. After the Antichrist breaks the covenant with Israel, a time of “great tribulation” begins (Matthew 24:21, New King James Version).
2. Daniel also predicts that the Antichrist will face judgment. He only rules “until the end that is decreed is poured out on him” (Daniel 9:27). God will only allow evil to go so far, and the judgment the Antichrist will face has already been planned out.

The prophecy of the 70 weeks is complex and detailed There are various interpretations, and most interpretations are unnecessarily convoluted to fit a particular denominational view. However, if you will put biased ‘denominationalism’ aside, and read the prophetic scriptures, first for their plain face-value, then secondly, read them in the context of the entire Bible, an amazingly clear picture emerges. You will find a Pre-Wrath, pre-millennial view. One thing is certain: God has a timetable, and He is keeping things on schedule. God tells us what He has planned from the beginning though the end (Isaiah 46:10), and we should always be looking for the triumphant return of our Lord (Revelation 22:7).

The “Final Week” (Daniel’s Seventieth Week) of the 70 Weeks found in Daniel 9:25, tells us, “So you are to know and discern that from the issuing of a decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until Messiah the Prince there will be seven weeks and sixty-two weeks; it will be built again, with plaza and moat, even in times of distress. 26 “Then after the sixty-two weeks the Messiah will be cut off and have nothing, and the people of the prince who is to come will destroy the city and the sanctuary. And its end will come with a flood; even to the end there will be war; desolations are determined. 27 “And he will make a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering; and on the wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate, even until a complete destruction, one that is decreed, is poured out on the one who makes desolate.”

Remember, the “BIRTH PAINS” is another name for the breaking of the 1st through the 5th Tribulation Seals, which began in AD 1. The “final week” of Daniel’s 70 week, is the 7 years of The Great Tribulation, which will commence with the breaking of the 6th Seal of The Tribulation.

The middle of this final week, (which is 3 1/2 years after the breaking of the 6th Seal), is the Mid-Tribulation point and is found at the blowing of the 7th Trumpet of God’s Wrath.

The flood, found in Daniel 9, verse 26, this time refers to “a flood of people”, that is to say that Jerusalem and her temple would be destroyed again by an overwhelming army. (This occurred in AD 70 with the destruction of the 2nd Temple). This was foreshadowed by the Great Flood in Genesis “A flood” was repeated in the Heavens by the old Dragon and manifest on the earth in the crucifixion of Christ.

NOTE: Verse 26 says, “And its end will come with a flood; even to the end there will be war; desolations are determined.”  Each of the instances of “A Flood”, thereafter, came devastation. Each time God used “a flood” for the purpose described in Daniel 12:10, “Many will be purged, purified and refined” and made ready for the Kingdom of God.”

CONCLUSION:  The word “flood” is used about 28 times in the Bible. It is used eleven times in the Book of Genesis and refers to God’s Judgment on the world for sin by the Great Flood.

The word “flood” is used twice in the book of Job, either in general terms or symbolically; then, five times in Psalms, once in Proverbs, Isaiah and Nahum, once in Luke. It is used in reference to God’s Judgments, once in Daniel, twice in Matthew, once in Luke once in 2 Peter and once in Revelation. All of these references are related to the End of Days in some way, except for 2 Peter. 

But, I want us to focus on the mention of a flood in conjunction with God’s Judgment and the “End of Days” as mentioned, in Daniel 9, Matthew 24 and Revelation 12. This will tell us about God’s plan and your purpose and need for preparation to take part in His Plan,

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

Also see: Noah’s Flood

Also see: The Flood in Matthew 24

ALSO, click here for a TIMELINE comparison on #1. Secular World History with #2.  Daniel’s 70th Week and #3. Biblical World History.

NEXT: Is there ANOTHER type of Flood Coming?  

(You can listen to audio of the article and pause the audio to follow page links, then, resume the audio when you are ready. Please note that I use page links in lieu of references or footnotes for important details on this teaching.)

WHY DO YOU “STUDY” THE BIBLE?

I have a few questions to help us get started.  First, what is the Bible? (I’ll wait).

                                                                                                                                                    .

What is “Bible Study” and why study the Bible?

                                                                                                                                                    .

Just one more question:  Try and be honest with yourself.  Why do you study the Bible?

                                                                                                                                                    .

If you do an internet search on the first two questions, you will spend hours, if not days or weeks, reading the responses. The third question is subjective and, although it takes some thought, should be relatively brief and easy to answer. I like simple, so let’s keep this simple and direct, OK?

As an example, simply read Psalms 1:1-3,

Verse 1. “Blessed is the person who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked,

Nor stand in the path of sinners,

Nor sit in the seat of scoffers!

Verse 2. But his delight is in the Law of the LORD,

And on His Law he meditates day and night.

Verse 3. He will be like a tree planted by streams of water,

Which yields its fruit in its season,

And its leaf does not wither; “

And in whatever he does, he prospers.”

What did you get from the reading?

I asked one of my sons, recently, how he was studying the Bible.  He said that he was following a reading plan to “read through the Bible”.  I said that was great, however, I asked him if he would add three elements to his reading;

 First, and most importantly, personalize what you read, wherever possible. In other words, read the Bible as if it were written by God, specifically and personally, to you.

Secondly, read it, as much as possible, at “face value”, keeping what you read in the context of the surrounding verses, chapters and of the entire Bible.

Finally, always try to read with an eye, (that is, ‘keep your thinking’), toward the future. In other words, ask yourself, ‘where is this leading me?’.

Now, read Psalms 1:1-3, again, and:

1. First, personalize the text. Read it as a letter from God, to you. (I am giving an example below here).
2. Secondly, what does this say at plain ‘face value’?
3. Thirdly, ask yourself, ‘based on what this says, and if I do this, how will it affect my future’?

Verse 1. “Blessed am I when I do not walk in the counsel of the wicked,

Nor stand in the path of sinners,

Nor sit in the seat of scoffers!

Verse 2. But my delight is in the Law of the LORD,

And on His Law I meditate day and night.

Verse 3. I will be like a tree planted by streams of water,

And I will yield fruit in season,

And my leaf will not wither; “

And in whatever I do, I will prosper.”

Now, what did you get from this reading?

(Please be careful not to change the meanings of worlds to suit yourself, just make it personal.)

Practice this and let me know how it goes for you.

Later, I would like to introduce two other ways to go deeper into a personal study of God’s Word:

One, is to learn how to find the meaning of the Greek or Hebrew words used for context, definition and usage;

The other is to practice ‘inductive Bible study techniques’, (I.e., what does it say, what does it mean, and what does it mean to me?).

In closing this section, let’s all remember to

(New American Standard version)

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a worker who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. But avoid worldly and empty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness, and their talk will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, men who have gone astray from the truth, claiming that the resurrection has already taken place; and they are jeopardizing the faith of some. Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His;” and, “Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to keep away from wickedness.”  (2 Timothy 2:15-9)

 (Personalized)

 I will be diligent to present myself approved to God as a worker who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. I will avoid worldly and empty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness, and that kind of talk will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, men who have gone astray from the truth, claiming that the resurrection has already taken place; and they are jeopardizing the faith of some. Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His;” and, “Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to keep away from wickedness.”  (2 Timothy 2:15-9)

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

(You can listen to audio of the article and pause the audio to follow page links, then, resume the audio when you are ready. Please note that I use page links in lieu of references or footnotes for important details on this teaching.)

The “Breathed Word”, The ‘Ruah‘, The ‘Pneuma‘ of God.

It has become the practice of Christians, that by telling God what they want or need that they can bring about change or get what they are asking for.  Then, sadly, many prayers go unanswered.

Then, many Christians will act own their own initiative to bring about what they desire, and suffer the consequences.

A careful study of God’s Word will show us that it is God who initiates prayer in a person; it is God who hears those same prayers; it is God who makes us aware of our needs, and it is God who answers those prayers. Then, it is God who moves us to action as a result of those prayers. He is the ‘lamp unto our feet’.

1 John 5:14, tells us, “This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. Verse 15. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him.”

1 Peter 1:3, instructs us, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, verse 4, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable, undefiled, and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, verse 5, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

John 15:7, reminds us that, “If you remain in Me, and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”

Now, please read, with me, God’s revealing on this mystery:

John 15:3, says, “You are already clean because of the word (Strong’s concordance #3056 lógos (from 3004 /légō, “speaking to a conclusion”) – a word, being the expression of a thought; a saying. 3056 /lógos (“word”) is preeminently used of Christ (Jn 1:1), expressing the thoughts of the Father through the Spirit.) which I have spoken to you.

Verse 4.  “Remain in Me, and I in you.

• • • Just as the branch cannot bear fruit of itself but must remain in the vine,
    • so neither can you unless you remain in Me.
    • Verse 5.  I am the vine, you are the branches;
    • the one who remains in Me, and I in him bears much fruit,
    • for apart from Me you can do nothing.

Verse 6. If anyone does not remain in Me, he is thrown away like a branch and dries up; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned.

Verse 7.  “If you remain in Me, and

• • •  My words (Transliteration: “Rhema“. Phonetic Spelling: (hray’-mah); Definition: a word, by implication a matter; Usage: a thing spoken, (a) a word or saying of any kind, as command, report, promise, (b) a thing, matter, business.).
    • remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.

The “word’, Logos, is the expression of a thought used of Christ expressing the thoughts of the Father through the Spirit. (see Strong’s Bible Concordance). It is the breath of God, the Pneuma, (The Spirit).

The “word”, Rhema, is the spoken word or saying.

When you use the “Rhema-Word” in conjunction with the Logos or by expressing the Logos, a thought by Christ, of the Father, through the Holy Spirit, you are BREATHING THE BREATH OF GOD, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.

The Bible clearly states that The Bible IS the Word and The Word IS God.

John 1:1 “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Verse 2. He was in the beginning with God. Verse 3. All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made.”

You must know that the Word of God is the breathed Word, The ‘Ruah‘, the ‘Pneuma‘ of God.

Breathe it in and let the Breath of God breathe through you. Consume it and let It consume you.

AND, NOTHING WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU.  Matthew 17:20

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

Also see, THE BREATH OF GOD

(You can listen to this study by audio, and you can pause the audio to follow page links, then resume when you are ready. Please note that I use page links in lieu of references or footnotes for important details of this teaching.)

“God with us”, Emmanuel, a name of Christ. Emmanuel, a Messianic title derived from Isaiah 7:14 = God with us.

The name “Emmanuel” gives us images and thoughts of Christmas and rarely takes us any further in our thinking. But, God came and dwelt among us and the greatest of mysteries began to unfold:

He came and dwelt among us; He was crucified and died and was raised up to life on the third day; He ascended into heaven; But, He is still among us.

Matthew 1:23, “BEHOLD, THE VIRGIN WILL CONCEIVE AND GIVE BIRTH TO A SON, AND THEY SHALL NAME HIM IMMANUEL,” which translated means, “GOD WITH US.”

John 1:1 “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”

Verse 14. “And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us; and we saw His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”

A MYSTERY

God came to earth, and dwelt among us.

THE MYSTERY DEEPENS

John 14:19 “After a little while, the world no longer is going to see Me, but you are going to see Me; because I live, you also will live. Verse 20. On that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you are in Me, and I in you.”

THE ASCENSION

Acts 1:7 “But He said to them, “It is not for you to know periods of time or appointed times which the Father has set by His own authority; verse 8, but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and Samaria, and as far as the remotest part of the earth.”

Verse 9. “And after He had said these things, He was lifted up while they were watching, and a cloud took Him up, out of their sight. Verse 10. And as they were gazing intently into the sky while He was going, then behold, two men in white clothing stood beside them, verse 11, and they said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven.” 

HE WAS, HE IS, HE ALWAYS SHALL BE

John 17:21 “that they may all be one; just as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.”

THE MYSTERY APPLIED

Although Jesus came to us and dwelt among us, died and was resurrected, ascended into heaven and is coming again, He remains with us, that is, He is in us, still.

John 14:12, “Truly, truly I say to you, the one who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I am going to the Father. Verse 13. And whatever you ask in My name, this I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. Verse 14. If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it.

Verse 15. “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.

Verse 16. I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, so that He may be with you forever; Verse 17, the Helper is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him; but you know Him because He remains with you and will be in you.”

YOU ARE NO LONGER YOUR OWN

1 Corinthians 6:19, “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own?”

AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST

2 Corinthians 5:20, “Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us.”

Presbeúō: To “act as an ambassador”; means to act as an established statesman, a diplomat, a trusted, respected ambassador who is authorized to speak as God’s emissary; one ho represents His kingdom.

This term is used in the ancient phrase, “I am on embassy to the Emperor, I am an ambassador, (Souter), i.e. as someone respected as trustworthy, loyal and knowledgeable, especially in the opinion of those they know.

Now, you know. But, knowledge without application is just idle information, and idle information is like salt which has become tasteless. How can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by people.

James 1:22, tells us, “So, prove yourselves doers of the word, and not just hearers who deceive themselves. Verse 23. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; verse 24, for once he has looked at himself and gone away, [w]he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. Verse 25. But one who has looked intently at the perfect law, the law of freedom, and has continued in it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an active doer, this person will be blessed in what he does.”

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young