Weekly Bible Study – January 31, 2022; God Reveals The Veracity And Power Of His Word Through Prophecy

Scripture References, Word & Phrase descriptions: the “Logos Reftagger” scripture links are hover pop-up active, meaning the scripture reference will just pop-up if you hover your cursor over it (don’t click on the link, just hover your cursor over it), when finished reading, hover your cursor off the scripture reference link. If the Reftagger pop-up doesn’t show all the verses, left click on the “More” button in the Reftagger pop-up window and it will take you to the online bible. If RefTagger pop-ups don’t work on your computer, that’s OK, try right clicking the link then open in new tab or window; or if that doesn’t work, you can always use your Bible to look up the verses. Word or Phrase definition links may not have a website that opens.

Preparing yourself for the study of God’s Word

Before we begin, only if you are a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ (that is; you have believed [trusted] in Him for His promised gift of eternal life) John 3:16, John 6:47 as a few examples; it is very important to prepare yourself to learn God's Word so the Holy Spirit can teach you as to what your reading or hearing is true or false. To be taught by the Holy Spirit you must be filled with the Holy Spirit which means abiding in Christ. To place yourself in fellowship with God the Holy Spirit [also called abiding in the Christ], take a moment to simply name, cite or acknowledge [confess] your known unconfessed sins privately to God (i.e.; with your thoughts directed only to God the Father). Why? Because you cannot grow spiritually if you’re not abiding in Christ [in fellowship with Him] when you take in bible truth.

1 John 1:9, says: “If we confess [meaning to simply name, cite or acknowledge to God the Father] our sins [known unconfessed sins], He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins [known sins] and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness [all unknown and forgotten sins];” NKJV (New King James Version); we call this REBOUND; read the full doctrine as to “why” we need to use 1 John 1:9 to grow spiritually. Left click the following link to learn more and fully understand the doctrine of Rebound; which answers the question, why do I need to keep confessing my sins all the time? REBOUND

If you have never personally believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, that He is the Son of God, the promised Messiah, as your Savior (that is, believed in Him for eternal life), the issue for you is not to name your sins; the issue for you is to simply exercise faith alone in Jesus Christ alone eternal life; when you do, you will instantly receive Eternal Life: John 3:16, 5:24, 6:47, 20:30, 31.

John 6:47 says: "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me [Jesus Christ] has everlasting life." NKJV

Notice again what Jesus said in John 6:47: "…he who believes in Me (Jesus Christ) has everlasting life." It doesn't say, "will have"; it says, "has." Therefore, the very moment you believe in Jesus Christ for His promise of everlasting life, you have it (it's really just that simple; nothing more and nothing less), and it can never be taken away from you (John 10:28-29). Furthermore, the gift (Ephesians 2:8c) of everlasting life (also called eternal life in scripture) is available to every human being; there are absolutely no exceptions.

John 3:14-15, 16, 17, 18, says: "¹⁴ And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, ¹⁵ that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. ¹⁶ For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. ¹⁷ For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. ¹⁸ He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God." NKJV

Let us now bow our hearts and take a moment to prepare for worship and learning God's Word. If there is any known sin in your life, this is the time to just cite it privately to God the Father with your thoughts directed towards Him. With your head bowed and your eyes closed, you have total privacy in your mind and soul:

Study to show yourself approved to God!

Grace Bible Church Robert McLaughlin Bible Ministries

Doctrinal Statement

The Tree of Life is a weekly teaching summary: God’s Word is taught Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday

Alphabetical Listing of Terms & Abbreviations used:

STUDY TITLE:

Weekly Bible Study – January 31, 2022; Prophecy Is Another Divine Stamp Of Authenticity.

Grace Bible Church Robert McLaughlin Bible Ministries

Doctrinal Statement

The Tree of Life is a weekly teaching summary: God’s Word is taught Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday

Alphabetical Listing of Terms & Abbreviations used:

STUDY TITLE:

Prophecy Is Another Divine Stamp Of Authenticity.

Week Ending 05/30/2021

This week we are continuing our study of Prophecy which is undertaken in support to the study of the Rapture which will resume very soon when the Lord restores Pastor McLaughlin to full health so that he can return to the pulpit. God’s plan is perfect, His timing is perfect. Thank you all for your patience and faithfulness as we press on toward the goal and supply sound bible teaching to the hungry.

In this lesson:

-Purpose of prophecy

-Value of studying prophecy

-Prophecy #3 – Jesus would be forsaken by disciples (Zec 13:7)

-The sin of fear and God’s solution

-Prophecy #4 – The price of betrayal (Zec 11:12)

-Background and significance of 30 shekels

-Prophecy #5 – The potter’s field (Zech 11:13)

-Akeldama aka the field of blood

As we start to turn the page from Our current study of Dispensations, the subject of the Rapture, until Our Pastor gets back with us; it has led us to look at Prophecy and some of the Messianic prophecies that where fulfill, and more yet to be fulfill following the Rapture. We will be seeing the importance that Prophecy plays in Scripture. Prove the Truth of Christianity, which is ultimately our Hope & Faith in Him.

Today we hear many people get excited and become captivated by the subject of Prophecy; however, many are led away by false doctrine, people with mystical revelations, and unprepared teachers that do not correctly interpret the Prophecies and Why we have them. Those without the correct understanding are defenseless against false teachings because they have no basis on which to recognize them as false or refute them. Sensationalism, emotionalism, celebrity endorsements, laser light shows, Christian rock concerts…….all of these things serve as a lure to attract the ignorant into cosmic commercial churches which are much like a venus fly-trap for hapless believers without sound teaching. They will often even be taught that learning the Word of God is not important, but feelings and activism and human works systems is what it’s all about.

As Believers, if we do not understand the meaning and purpose of prophecy, we could fall into the same trap that many are coming under, which is the great deception from Satan through his minions and cronies (as I like to refer to them).

Rev 1:3 Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and heed the things which are written in it; for the time is near.

Prophecy, itself, makes up about 25-30% of Scripture or the Word of God. That is a little less than one third of the Holy Bible! Prophecy is mainly found in the OT. Remember the saying from last time: “the Old Testament is the New Testament concealed; the New Testament is the Old Testament revealed.”

Rom 15:4 For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

Prophecy, which is what God purposely intended, gives us (in the written Word) some indication of what His plan and purpose is for the human race (resolution to the Angelic conflict – Ultimate glorification). The revelation of prophecy in general throughout Scripture serves as evidence.

Prophecy = Evidence that the Word of God is accurate and was written by authors which were inspired by Holy Spirit. This allows the Prophecies that have been fulfilled to give credit of the future prophecies that are to be fulfilled.

Prophecies can be conditional (carry out by an event being put into motion) or unconditional; meaning they will be regardless of any human response.

As we said earlier, Prophecy in mainly in the OT [Old Testament], and in the book of Revelation, which points to the future events.

Peter writes about being an eyewitness to TLJC in: 2 Pe 1:16-20

2 Pe 1:16 “For we did not follow cleverly devised tales when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty.”

Peter’s intent here is to verify that the former prophecies of the OT (which we are going to look at) have been confirmed in the person and work of Jesus Christ and thus can be relied on. (Accurate and True) Peter was one disciple that witnessed Him go up to heaven, at His ascension (Peter, James, John) and therefore, could come to the conclusion that He witnessed Christ fulfill the Scripture (including the Law). And He did, completely

So, as mentioned on Sunday, and being Spirit led, we are going to look at some of the Messianic Prophecies surrounding the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ. We have a list of 29 with Scriptures of prophecy and the fulfillment.

29 Prophecies fulfilled by our Lord on the Cross

1. The first prophecy, the oldest of all, had been given by God at the time of Adam and Eve’s sin. Prophesied: Gn 3:15 Fulfilled in Jn 12:31-33

2. The betrayal of Jesus by Judas was foretold by David. Prophesied: Psa 41:9, Fulfilled: Mk 14:10-11

3. Jesus Christ would be forsaken by His disciples, as prophesied by Zechariah. Prophesied: Zec 13:7, Fulfilled: Mk 14:50

4.The price of His betrayal (30 pieces of silver) was also foretold by Zechariah. Prophesied: Zec 11:12, Fulfilled in total accuracy: Mat 26:15

5. Zechariah also foretold what would be done with the betrayal money. Prophesied: Zec 11:13, Fulfilled: Mat 27:3-7

6. Isaiah prophesied that Jesus Christ would be sacrificed as the Passover Lamb of God. Prophesied: Isa 53:7. Fulfilled: 1Co 5:7, 1Pe 1:18-20

7. Isaiah also prophesied the scourging and mocking and physical abuse that He would suffer. Prophesied: Isa 50:6, Fulfilled: Mat 27:26-30, Mat 26:67

8. David would also prophesy His physical abuse, Prophesied: Psa 22:17, Fulfilled: Mat 27:26

9. David prophesied the shame and dishonor that Jesus would suffer, being condemned as a criminal. Prophesied: Psa 69:9, Psa 19-20, Fulfilled: Mat 26:55

10. There would also be cruel and lying witnesses against Him. Prophesied: Psa 35:11, Fulfilled: Mark 14:55-57

11. Isaiah prophesied that Jesus would not make an effort to defend Himself at His trial. Prophesied: Isa 53:7, Fulfilled: Mat 27:13-14

12. Isaiah also foretold Jesus Christ’s crucifixion as the sin offering for the world. Prophesied: ISA 53:4-6; 10-11, Fulfilled: Jn 19:16-19

13. Isaiah had prophesied that He was numbered among the transgressors or lawbreakers. Prophesied: Isa 53:12, Fulfilled: Luk 23:32-33

14. David prophesied that His hands and His feet would be pierced. Prophesied: Psa 22:16, Fulfilled: Mk 15:25, Jn 20:25-27

15. The parting of His garments was also prophesied by David. Prophesied: Psa 22:18, Fulfilled: Jn 19:24

16. David prophesied that they would give Him vinegar to drink. Prophesied: Psa 69:21, Fulfilled: Mat 27:34

17. David also prophesied that many would be watching Jesus during the crucifixion. Prophesied: Psa 22:17, Fulfilled: Mat 27:36, Lk 23:48

18. The Bible says that among those watching would be our Lord’s family and friends, who would stand at a distance. Prophesied: Psa 38:11, Fulfilled: Lk 23:49

19. Some of His observers would shake their heads at Him. Prophesied: Psa 109:25, Fulfilled: Mat 27:39-40

20. The words of His enemies were prophesied by David. Prophesied: Psa 22:8, Fulfilled: Mat 27:43-44

21. Isaiah prophesied that Jesus would make intercession for sinners. This intercession began even during His crucifixion. Prophesied: Isa 53:12, Fulfilled: Lk 23:34

22. David prophesied the thoughts of Jesus at the height of His suffering. Prophesied: Psa 22:1, Fulfilled: Mat 27:46

23. Zechariah taught that His body would be pierced with a spear. Prophesied: Zec 12:10, Fulfilled: Jn 19:34-37

24. David prophesied that Jesus would commit His spirit to God. Prophesied: Psa 31:5, Fulfilled: Lk 23:46

25. David also prophesied our Lord’s last words on the cross. Prophesied: Psa 22:1, Fulfilled: Jn 19:30

26. As no bone of the Passover lamb was to be broken (Exo 12:46), not a bone of His would be broken. Prophesied: Psa 34:20, Fulfilled: Jn 19:32-36

27. His burial in the tomb of a rich man was foretold by Isaiah. Prophesied: Isa 53:8-9, Fulfilled: Mat 27:57-60

28. Nailing of Jesus’ hands and feet; Prophesied: Zec 13:6, Fulfilled: Jn 20:27

29. Jesus would ride into Jerusalem on a colt (donkey); Prophesied: Zec 9:9, Fulfilled: Mk 11:7-11

Let’s continue in those 29 prophecies now. We are on #3 after review of 1 & 2.

3). Jesus Christ would be forsaken by His disciples, as prophesied by Zechariah.

Prophesied: Zec 13:7

Fulfilled: Mk 14:50 ; Mat 26:56

Zec 13:7 “Awake, O sword, against My Shepherd, And against the man, My Associate,” Declares the Lord of hosts. “Strike the Shepherd that the sheep may be scattered; And I will turn My hand against the little ones.”

Fulfilled:Mk 14:50 “And they all left Him and fled.”

Mk 14:26-27 “After singing a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. And Jesus said to them, “You will all fall away, because it is written, ‘I WILL STRIKE DOWN THE SHEPHERD, AND THE SHEEP SHALL BE SCATTERED.’

Mat 26:31 contains the same statement from Jesus as Mk 12:26-27. Satan and his cosmic system always wants to weaken God’s people and attempts to disrupt His plan by sowing discord and division among God’s people and creating counterfeit gospels and doctrines. Disrupt, divide, and conquer. This strategy is seen in almost any arena of human activity. This is because it is very effective!

One of the reasons we study prophecy and eschatology is so that we cannot be so easily waylaid by false teachings, false interpretations or timelines, fear, confusion and doubt, and demoralization which sideline the believer and take them out of God’s plan, even co-opting them into the service of the kingdom of darkness. We must have unity through humility and submission to divine authority, national authority, Pastoral authority, parental authority, marital authority, and sound, exegetical teaching of systematic theology. But here we see that the devil was able to “scatter the sheep.” Yet God uses it as a way to demonstrate the veracity of His Word to us through the fulfillment of prophecy. Efficient!

Now this type of personal prophecy that Jesus gave to Peter was recorded down in the NT after the events took place, 4 authors of the Gospels. However we see the prophecy was recorded down by Zechariah, from some 540-550 yrs before it happened. We know this to be true, Due to the fact that Zechariah was in the new temple at the time of his writing, which having been constructed in 515 BC (as history records) and was in operation.

What an awesome God we serve!

Now these disciples, were not the brightest bulbs, or all the smartest. But they could have and should have been prepared with what Jesus taught them for the past 3 years, and on this very night repeated that His hour had come, and the betrayer was near, saying “you will all leave or be scattered.” It just shows how hard it is to live according to faith (“faith is the evidence of things unseen” Heb 11:1) and not according to the immediate empirical perception of every day reality. Even those people who lived with Jesus and learned right from him daily had a hard time and struggled to abandon the default setting – human viewpoint. Take heart so that you do not faint!

Principle– Fear has a way of bringing out the worst in us, if we are not grounded in Bible Doctrine. BUT, the positive believer, who does not fear, can take full advantage of a “more abundant” life, through Christ, who gives him or her strength (Php 4:13).

Our goal is to be so grounded in doctrine, so occupied with Christ, through His word circulating in our stream of consciousness at all times, that instead of human viewpoint dominating with periods of fellowship and divine viewpoint, fellowship and divine viewpoint dominate with periods, smaller and smaller, of human viewpoint and/or carnality. Now you can see why it is absolutely vital that we take in doctrine DAILY, consistently, and why doctrine must be priority #1 (or else we won’t). But we must not only take it in but believe it absolutely and live in it. It must be more real to us than our sensory experience.

Fear is not only something that is harmful but it is a sign of malfunction in the spiritual life of the believer. This is why it is a sin. Some say “the Bible says ‘Do not fear’ 365 times”. While this is clever and I get what they mean, it actually says it over 200 times. But, I think that is more than enough to make it clear that we are not to live in fear!

Everyone is afraid sometimes, but if we have residence and status quo function in the PPOG [predesigned plan of God] and 10 PSD’s [the problem solving devices], our immediate response (not reaction!) to experiencing fear should be to rebound, faith-rest, and recover, until this becomes automatic. Persistent fear is a sin because it means we aren’t living inside God’s plan. We either aren’t learning, metabolizing, or applying doctrine on a consistent basis. When God says to do something or not to do it, it isn’t a suggestion, it is a command. Disobeying that then is a sin. God gave us a way to overcome fear, and if we are using it, we can do so. Simple as that! When the sheep were scattered, it was because they were afraid and failed to respond with doctrine, instead reacting with emotion and panic. Let this be a lesson!

Our Lord shared with the disciples, through His teachings, that this is what was going to happen, but panic set in FEAR took over. It was fear that caused Peter to deny the Lord three times even thought he had swore he wouldn’t, and I’m sure he was sincere, but he was speaking from a calm mind at that moment. But in the chaos and shock and danger, fear took over.

Emotion and thinking are mutually exclusive. You are either thinking or emoting. As soon as emotion takes over, as soon as you allow it to take over, thinking is disabled. It’s like a circuit-breaker: once it’s flipped, you’re operating on primitive self-preservation, you’re operating on the amygdala and limbic system, for the neuroscience nerds. Those are the so-called “primitive regions”. It’s what you operate on when you’re panicking or hysterical, or when you’re drunk. You aren’t thinking critically or rationally, if at all, so you definitely aren’t thinking doctrine. That’s all out the window. No matter how much you have or how many years you have been studying, it’s simply inaccessible. This is why we have to train and condition like the Olympic athletes (1 Tim 4:7-8), and we have to train hard, so that when the unexpected happens we don’t lose our RMA and resort to “mob mentality” along with everyone else.

We all like to think we would never do like Peter did, but how do we really know? Have we really been tested? Spiritual maturity is never more visible than in a major crisis. This is our best time to glorify God in the sight of others, to show the unbelievers and casual believers that doctrine DOES work, that the Word of God IS alive and powerful!

Hard lesson for Peter – If the Lord says something is going to happen, it will happen.

Prophecy: stated in His Word … Do not doubt it, stay alert and be prepared.

For we know: The Lord is ALWAYS Faithful! His faithfulness takes up the slack when ours fails.

2 Thes 3:3 “But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.”

1 Cor 1:9 “God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Ps 100:5 “For the LORD is good; His lovingkindness is everlasting And His faithfulness to all generations.

Here is #4: and we are staying with Zechariah.

4). The price of His betrayal was also foretold by Zechariah.

Prophesied: Zec 11:12

Fulfilled: Mat 26:15

Zec 11:12 “And I said to them, ‘If it is good in your sight, give {me} my wages; but if not, never mind!’ So, they weighed out thirty {shekels} of silver as my wages.”

The new shekel in Israel right now is worth about $0.31 US dollars so that would mean about 30 shekels would be close to $10 dollars… wow, doesn’t seem like much.

But we must take it for when the Scritpure was written and in the times of Christ being betrayed.

During this time, 1st century, it was said to be fragments of silver. So, not like today, when we have 1 troy oz coins or even fractional coins (those that collect precious metals). The shekel in weight and value, is important for us to understand that Christ was sold out for a “robbers price”. This is cool stuff here! This is where you really begin to see how amazing the Bible is, and the divine origin of it becomes clearer.

What do I mean by robbers price? They would take what they could get, even if it was a nominal value. Usually they would bargain or haggle when they would pawn-off the stolen goods, or in this case the betrayal of Judas giving up Jesus Christ.

½ shekel annually tax paid for the upkeep and maintenance for the Temple and was common in 1st century. Incidentally, this was in addition to the various tithes which were also for Temple maintenance and were a kind of tax which was enforced. Tithing was for Jews only as part of the Mosaic Law, and was for the physical Temple. Modern impositions of such tithes upon Church Age believers is not Biblically legitimate as we are not under the law and there is no physical Temple. Now, this is the same type of coin that Peter found in the fish’s mouth of Mat 17:24-27.

This same shekel payment was said to be a slave’s wage; for unskilled labor. Now that is important, as we will see in just a moment.

With all this in mind we come to the conclusion that the 30 pieces or shekels of silver are approx 12 – 15 oz of silver, or worth about 300-325 dollars in those days. Now just remember that may have seemed more valued at that time, which became a sure baiting that Judas would take when we see the fulfillment. ( I’ll make you an offer you can’t refuse! – Godfather style)

But let’s go back and see the Prophecy in Zechariah 11:4-14

Zec 11:12 “And I said to them, “If it is good in your sight, give {me} my wages; but if not, never mind!” So, they weighed out thirty {shekels} of silver as my wages.”

In the prophecy of Zecariah 11, he was to be Shepherding the “doomed flock of Israel”.

Zec 11:4 “Thus says the Lord my God, ‘Pasture the flock doomed to slaughter.’”

God knew that they would reject the Messiah and were facing doom to the point of betrayal. They were turning their back on God, an obstinant kind of people. But out of mercy God tried to provide for them, they did not want to hear or accept the shepherd God sent them – due to Negative volition!

The flock, or nation, even though they got the Temple complete and operating (finally), would not receive Zechariah as their shepherd. However, as a shepherd, Zechariah was entitled to ask for his wages or pay, since they were collecting money from people for this reason. But they showed their arrogance and contempt for him – and God by proxy – by paying him a standard slave’s wages. It’s almost like leaving a waiter or waitress a penny tip to show them that their service was unacceptably poor. It’s a deliberate message. But again, they see only the man, they do not see God. But it is God whom they are disrespecting.

Zechariah was so taken back and disgusted for being given “a slave’s wage”, (remember I said we would get to that), He, along with the Lord in Zec 11:13, said ‘throw it back at them.’ Refuse it, and very sarcasticlly:

Zec 11:13 “Then the LORD said to me, ‘Throw it to the potter, that magnificent price at which I was valued by them.’”

Reminds us of an important principle:

1Ti 5:17 The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching.

1 Ti 5:18 For the Scripture says, “YOU SHALL NOT MUZZLE THE OX WHILE HE IS THRESHING,” and “The laborer is worthy of his wages.”

We will see in the next prophecy, what Zechariah did with the money, but you know the story, right … He threw it back into the house of the Lord (for the potter). Should ring a bell….

Zec 11:12 prophecy

Fulfilled in total accuracy: Mat 26:14-15

“Then one of the twelve, named Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, ‘What are you willing to give me to deliver Him up to you?’ And they weighed out to him thirty pieces of silver.”

Now, like most people that God brings in to fulfill prophecy, they do not even realize they are doing so. If the Pharisees realized this was all a fulfillment of scripture which would add evidence to the truth and veracity of Christ’s claim, they surely would have changed the price! But that is the glory of our God – even what His enemies do in their efforts to thwart His plan only acts to further it, in spite of them, including Satan. God always wins and His plan is always accomplished, to His good pleasure (Isa 46:10).

With this in mind, remember that: Judas manages the disciples’ finances, which gives him ample opportunity to steal (Jn 12:6). Judas’ personal choices (all of which are foreknown by God) make him the perfect candidate for the job, and so God has placed him in the company of the disciples. God’s perfect plan without violating Judas’ free will. God doesn’t make Judas to be this way, rather, He gave Judas free will even knowing that Judas will use his for evil purposes, but God’s perfect plan has a purpose for ALL things and makes all things to work together for His own glory. He never needs to violate free will, He just providfes the opportunities and lets us follow our volition in the predictable ways. That is His incomparable genius! Prophecy really gives us an insight into this.

Acts 1:16 “Brethren, the Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit foretold by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus.”

At this point, Judas is thinking I’ll seek whatever I can get, this guy is going to eventually get killed and I don’t want to be associate with Him. Judas has invested time and already getting to steal from being in charge of the finances (John 12:6), but he still needs to get something out of it and Judas just cannot walk away.

Judas plays his part according to his greedy and petty nature, and while it is all part of God’s plan, this does not mean that he has not committed a monolithic wrong. He will suffer for it under the law of volitional responsibility.

Mat 26:24 “The Son of Man is to go, just as it is written of Him; but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had not been born.”

Interesting fact that: “Judas” is the Latin form of the Greek translation of the Hebrew “Judah.”

Here is one more thing about this prophecy that I saw in Zec 11 that will lead us into another one of the prophecies as we will see:

In Zec 11 – We had the mention of 2 different staffs that would be broken by the prophet.

The first one was called “Favor” when it was broken, that Which represents that Israel is no longer in favor of God.

The second, called “Union”, was broken and represented the brotherly (or friend) relationship between Judah and Israel (Judas and Jesus). Fractured kingdoms but also Judas’ separation from Israel or God’s chosen people, solidifying His betrayal of Jesus Christ and Judas being the Son of Perdition.

5.) Then, Zechariah also foretold what would be done with the betrayal money.

Prophesied: Zec 11:13

Fulfilled: Mat 27:3-7

Zec 11:13 “Then the Lord said to me, ‘Throw it to the potter, {that} magnificent price at which I was valued by them.’ So I took the thirty {shekels} of silver and threw them to the potter in the house of the Lord.”

Mat 27:3–8 records that after condemning Jesus, Judas “changed his mind” and tried to return the thirty pieces of silver the high priests had paid him to betray Jesus. The priests did not want to return the “blood money” to the treasury, so they used it to purchase a place to bury foreigners; thus, it “has been called the Field of Blood to this day” (Mat 27:8 ESV). The cemetery existed at the time of Matthew’s writing and that people in Jerusalem associated it with those who had died in unfortunate ways (though it was used to bury foreigners).

“Akeldama ( Hak-el-da-mach). A field outside Jerusalem that Judas purchased with the 30 pieces of silver he received for betraying Christ and that received its name (meaning “field of blood”) from its being the site of Judas’ suicide (Acts 1:19).

Akeldama appears as the name of a field in both Matthew and Acts. In contrast to Acts 1:19, where the Aramaic name is transliterated, Mat 27:6–19 gives only the Greek translation of the place name—”Field of Blood” (ἀγρὸς αἵματος, agros haimatos)—without the added appellation of Akeldama (Ἁκελδαμάχ, Hakeldamach)

.

Location and History

Eusebius and Jerome both mention the field and locate it south of the Valley of Hinnom southeast of Jerusalem. Elsewhere, Eusebius places it north of Mount Zion, but Jerome later places it south of the mountain. This traditional location south of the Valley of Hinnom would place the field near where the Valley of Hinnom and the Kidron Valley come together. The field, made of red clay, was called the “Potter’s Field.”

During the 12th century ad Crusades, the fifty or more patients who died each day in the Knights Hospitaller hospital in Jerusalem were buried in the field. The hospital, now a ruin, is on the south side of the Valley of Hinnom; it covers several natural grottoes that were once used as sepulchers. On the northern end a large ditch—68 feet long, 21 feet wide, and 30 feet deep has been dug; the bones and rubbish, accumulated there over centuries, form a layer approximately 10 to 15 feet thick.

Today, Akeldama is a square sepulcher. The southern half is formed from excavated rock, while the other half is masonry. A pillar of rough and polished stones stands in the center. Most of the clay was hauled away by Empress Helena and other Christians in order to make sarcophagi.

The following link is to a good news message describing how one can receive eternal life: Ticket to Heaven, it was written for anyone not absolutely certain about their eternal future.

Internet Church Service – January 30, 2022; The Doctrine of Negative Volition. Part 2. Saul’s negative volition and the witch of endor. 5-7-08

EMBEDDED VIDEO SERMON in HD – WITH NOTES

Internet Church Service – January 30, 2022; The Doctrine of Negative Volition. Part 2. Saul’s negative volition and the witch of endor. 5-7-08

Please join us as we fellowship in the Word of God, listen to Christian Music, Pray in Christ’s Name, and Praise the Lord Our God in our Hearts and Minds.

ALL ARE WELCOME

from - Romans 8:38-39

Hymn #1

Hymn #2

Preparing yourself for the study of God’s Word

Before we begin, only if you are a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ (that is; you have believed [trusted] in Him for His promised gift of eternal life) John 3:16, John 6:47 as a few examples; it is very important to prepare yourself to learn God's Word so the Holy Spirit can teach you as to what your reading or hearing is true or false. To be taught by the Holy Spirit you must be filled with the Holy Spirit which means abiding in Christ. To place yourself in fellowship with God the Holy Spirit [also called abiding in the Christ], take a moment to simply name, cite or acknowledge [confess] your known unconfessed sins privately to God (i.e.; with your thoughts directed only to God the Father). Why? Because you cannot grow spiritually if you’re not abiding in Christ [in fellowship with Him] when you take in bible truth.

1 John 1:9, says: “If we confess [meaning to simply name, cite or acknowledge to God the Father] our sins [known unconfessed sins], He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins [known sins] and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness [all unknown and forgotten sins];” NKJV (New King James Version); we call this REBOUND; read the full doctrine as to “why” we need to use 1 John 1:9 to grow spiritually. Left click the following link to learn more and fully understand the doctrine of Rebound; which answers the question, why do I need to keep confessing my sins all the time? REBOUND

If you have never personally believed in the Lord Jesus Christ as your Savior (that is, believed in Him for eternal life), the issue for you is not to name your sins to God; the issue for you is to believe by faith alone in Jesus, The Christ alone for eternal life [salvation] and you will be saved [receive Eternal Life] the very micro second you believe in Him:

John 6:47 says: “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me [Jesus Christ] has everlasting life.” NKJV

Notice again what John 6:47 says, “he who believes in Me [Jesus Christ] has everlasting life.” It doesn’t say, “will have”; it says, “has.” Therefore, the very moment you believe Jesus Christ’s promise of everlasting life, you have it (it’s really just that simple), and it can never be lost or taken away from you (John 10:28-29). Furthermore, the gift of everlasting life (also called eternal life in scripture) is available to every human being; there are absolutely no exceptions.

John 3:14-18 says: “And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness [Num 21:4-9], even so must the Son of Man be lifted up [the cross], that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” NKJV

Let us now bow our hearts and take a moment to prepare for learning God’s Word, if there is any known sin in your life, this is the time to just cite it privately to God the Father with your thoughts directed towards Him. With your head bowed and your eyes closed, you have total privacy in your mind and soul:

Our Pastor-Teacher is:

Robert McLaughlin - Grace Bible Church and Robert McLaughlin Bible Ministries

Terms used by RMBM

Doctrinal Statement

This ministry is non-denominational and is dedicated to teaching the Word of God from the original languages and making it available at no charge throughout the world.

OPTIONAL: On-line Bible – NASB95

Sermon

NOTES

Unlike the bible study, these notes are not just for reading without watching the video. These notes are more designed to follow along during the sermon and to bring up the “hover pop-up scripture references;” if just hover doesn’t work, do a “control-left-click,” if that doesn’t work then look them up in your Bible) when the Pastor asks everyone to turn to that passage in their bibles.

The Doctrine of Negative Volition. Part 2. Saul’s negative volition and the witch of endor.

Negative volition is refusal of Bible doctrine divided into two categories.

A. Primary negative volition is refusal to assemble for Bible teaching, the rejection of your right pastor teacher and his authority.

B. Negative volition – refusal to transfer doctrine from the left lobe to the right lobe.

There is also the refusal of the faith-rest technique as a part of negative volition.

He fails to appropriate promises, to utilize doctrine which he has already learned, to utilize the principles and to mix them with his faith, Heb 4:2.

Saul went to the witch of Endor, held a seance, and still there was silence, until Samuel entered the scene.

Urim and Thummin

The real breastplate or the checkerboard, the Urim and Thummin, is with David.

Saul executed 85 priests, 1Sa 22:18, and the Ephod went with the one priest who escaped, Abiathar, 1Sa 22:22.

You have to have the real thing, the high priest and the breastplate, and Saul had neither.

When the backslider or the reversionist needs doctrine the most, he has it the least.

In verse 6, the reversionist or the backslider seeks miracles, signs and wonders in time of pressure. The reversionist or the backslider is totally thoughtless.

“I know you are busy but, I’d like to take a few moments of your time.”

Translation: three hours of boring, dull, depressing conversation, usually a monologue.

Reversionists or backsliders are usually thoughtless; they are whiners, selfish, they lack sensitivity and common courtesy.

The first sign of a reversionist or backslider is his refusal to listen to the word of God.

Only believers with doctrine can survive the heartaches, the pressures, the catastrophes of life.

Saul lost the spiritual battle before he lost the physical or natural battle.

You never lose the visible without first losing the invisible.

Saul is now accepting necromancy which is the practice of supposedly communicating with the spirits of the dead in order to predict the future.

He is in the last stages of reversionism, which is hardness of the heart, blackout of the soul, ending in physical death.

Contact with necromancers and mediums was specifically forbidden by the word of God, Lev 19:31.

Contact with necromancers and mediums was a sign of reversionism or backsliding and brought on divine discipline, Lev 20:6.

The believer who has negative volition toward doctrine will end up with the vacuum of the soul opening up and drawing in 1Ti 4:1, doctrine from demons.

The black-out of the soul plus the hardness of the heart causes the believer not to understand doctrine they have previously understood.

If Saul had been learning his doctrine he would have known and understood the book of Judges and how Gideon handled this same problem, and at this point it was one bit of doctrinal information he could have applied.

You never know when you are studying the word of God, what doctrine you are going to need.

If Saul had simply remembered what Samuel had taught him about Gideon he would have been victorious.

Reversionism or backsliding leads to instability.

 Frightened one moment and courageous the next.

The reversionist or the backslider seeks to use the Lord.

Delusion, deception, and superstition mark the believer who is backslidden.

The reversionist or the backslider can use a number of disguises; here it refers to clothes but in other cases it could also mean vocabulary and personality disguises.

He is obviously unstable, Jm 1:8; Jm 4:8.

Saul is only going to change his clothes to disguise himself, but the most dangerous types are those who change their personality.

Ju

st as you would use clothes to disguise the body, personality can disguise the soul.

It is interesting that Saul was the king who had prohibited the practice of divination and necromancy.

What has happened to Saul in reversionism explains why many believers begin with doctrine as Saul did, sound, conservative, courageous, but then they give lip service to doctrine and reversionism always changes these people.

Life is something that continually changes.

We not only undergo physical change as we stay in this world, we also undergo mental change and spiritual change.

Cowards do the wrong-brave things.

In dangerous situations, cowards are unpredictable.

1. Saul’s military is weak and limited.

Because Saul has been so busy with personal vengeance, chasing David, that he has neglected the military training of his nation.

2. Saul is a believer, a reversionistic backslidden believer.

Saul should have been listening to doctrine; instead he is creeping from rock to rock, so as not to be seen, going to a seance.

3. It isn’t courage that is needed; it is good training and discipline. Heroes don’t make the difference. Brains make the difference. Brains, discipline, and recognition of authority equals victory.

4. The Jewish army no longer has discipline.

5. Saul is now under the sin unto death and divine discipline. Jonathan wasn’t a reversionist or the backslider, but he is going to die by association.

6. Saul’s problems =

a. He is desperate

b. He is confused

c. He is filled with human viewpoint

d. He is under demon influence

e. He has blackout of the soul

f. He has hardness of the heart

Zep 3:15 The king of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst; you will fear disaster no more.

Hymn #3

The following link is to a good-news message describing how one can receive eternal life: Ticket to Heaven, it was written for anyone not absolutely certain about of their eternal future.

test neg vol 2

January 24, 2022; God Reveals The Veracity And Power Of His Word Through Prophecy

Scripture References, Word & Phrase descriptions: the “Logos Reftagger” scripture links are hover pop-up active, meaning the scripture reference will just pop-up if you hover your cursor over it (don’t click on the link, just hover your cursor over it), when finished reading, hover your cursor off the scripture reference link. If the Reftagger pop-up doesn’t show all the verses, left click on the “More” button in the Reftagger pop-up window and it will take you to the online bible. If RefTagger pop-ups don’t work on your computer, that’s OK, try right clicking the link then open in new tab or window; or if that doesn’t work, you can always use your Bible to look up the verses. Word or Phrase definition links may not have a website that opens.

Preparing yourself for the study of God’s Word

Before we begin, only if you are a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ (that is; you have believed [trusted] in Him for His promised gift of eternal life) John 3:16, John 6:47 as a few examples; it is very important to prepare yourself to learn God's Word so the Holy Spirit can teach you as to what your reading or hearing is true or false. To be taught by the Holy Spirit you must be filled with the Holy Spirit which means abiding in Christ. To place yourself in fellowship with God the Holy Spirit [also called abiding in the Christ], take a moment to simply name, cite or acknowledge [confess] your known unconfessed sins privately to God (i.e.; with your thoughts directed only to God the Father). Why? Because you cannot grow spiritually if you’re not abiding in Christ [in fellowship with Him] when you take in bible truth.

1 John 1:9, says: “If we confess [meaning to simply name, cite or acknowledge to God the Father] our sins [known unconfessed sins], He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins [known sins] and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness [all unknown and forgotten sins];” NKJV (New King James Version); we call this REBOUND; read the full doctrine as to “why” we need to use 1 John 1:9 to grow spiritually. Left click the following link to learn more and fully understand the doctrine of Rebound; which answers the question, why do I need to keep confessing my sins all the time? REBOUND

If you have never personally believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, that He is the Son of God, the promised Messiah, as your Savior (that is, believed in Him for eternal life), the issue for you is not to name your sins; the issue for you is to simply exercise faith alone in Jesus Christ alone eternal life; when you do, you will instantly receive Eternal Life: John 3:16, 5:24, 6:47, 20:30, 31.

John 6:47 says: "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me [Jesus Christ] has everlasting life." NKJV

Notice again what Jesus said in John 6:47: "…he who believes in Me (Jesus Christ) has everlasting life." It doesn't say, "will have"; it says, "has." Therefore, the very moment you believe in Jesus Christ for His promise of everlasting life, you have it (it's really just that simple; nothing more and nothing less), and it can never be taken away from you (John 10:28-29). Furthermore, the gift (Ephesians 2:8c) of everlasting life (also called eternal life in scripture) is available to every human being; there are absolutely no exceptions.

John 3:14-15, 16, 17, 18, says: "¹⁴ And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, ¹⁵ that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. ¹⁶ For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. ¹⁷ For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. ¹⁸ He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God." NKJV

Let us now bow our hearts and take a moment to prepare for worship and learning God's Word. If there is any known sin in your life, this is the time to just cite it privately to God the Father with your thoughts directed towards Him. With your head bowed and your eyes closed, you have total privacy in your mind and soul:

Study to show yourself approved to God!

Grace Bible Church Robert McLaughlin Bible Ministries

Doctrinal Statement

The Tree of Life is a weekly teaching summary: God’s Word is taught Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday

Alphabetical Listing of Terms & Abbreviations used:

STUDY TITLE:

Weekly Bible Study – January 24, 2022; God Reveals The Veracity And Power Of His Word Through Prophecy

Grace Bible Church Robert McLaughlin Bible Ministries

Doctrinal Statement

The Tree of Life is a weekly teaching summary: God’s Word is taught Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday

Alphabetical Listing of Terms & Abbreviations used:

STUDY TITLE:

God Reveals The Veracity And Power Of His Word Through Prophecy

Week Ending 05/23/2021

Part I. Watchful, Alert, & Bold Conclusion (Deacon Jason Kauranen)

Please remember Deacon Jason in prayer as well as Deacon John Medeiros and Samantha and everyone behind the scenes at Grace Bible Church for standing in the gap while Pastor is returned to full health and vigor by the Lord, and for all their hard work and faithfulness to the teaching of the Word of God, keeping this ministry moving forward in any and all circumstances. We are very blessed!

In Part 1 we will wrap up the WAB series and then we will move on to Prophecy in the Bible. This final installment will focus on the Bema Seat Judgment, which is distinguished from the Great White Throne Judgment, where all unbelievers will be finally judged after the millennium, and the “sheep and goats” judgment of Mat 24, which takes place at the second coming and judges between the tribulation believers and unbelievers, those who rejected the Gospel preached by the 144,000. The Bema Seat Judgment is where all believers in Jesus Christ are called to give an account for our use of time and resources which were given (the 40 things given to all believers at Salvation) per 1 Pet 1:3 while alive on the earth. This is where rewards will be awarded for faithfulness as ambassadors and priests in producing divine good, and human good will be burned up (1 Cor 3:14-15).

Lam 3:22-23 “The LORD’S loving kindnesses indeed never cease; For His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.”

I thank God for His grace and mercy each morning I am given. However, there is coming a time, for all us Royal Family, when we will not be here anymore. All of our opportunities will have passed by, and we will need to give an account, to Him, for what did we have done with the time that He has graciously given us.

This is why: we watch, we study, we anticipate, we keep doing the work of the ministry…

Being Watchful/Alert/Bold … For when we go home to be with the Lord, by physical death or meet the Lord in the air at the Rapture of the Church, we will need to give an account to TLJC for all we have done in our earthly vessels.

“I CAN ONLY IMAGINE” – What a glorious day that will be … and one that we are anxiously awaiting, to meet and be with the Lord for eternity, whether by physical death or Rapture. Dying Grace or Rapture Ready,

Mat 16:27 “For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and WILL THEN REPAY EVERY MAN ACCORDING TO HIS DEEDS.”

This is what is referred to as the Judgement or “Bema” Seat of Christ. I am going to try and teach you or at least give you some information about the Judgment Seat of Christ. This is one of the events following the Rapture of the Church, and as individuals we will come before Our Lord. This study will not and does not cover the final Great White Throne Judgment, or the judgment of the sheep and goats – believers and unbelievers – of the tribulation period.

Many incorrectly teach that this is a judgment for sins, but this is NOT TRUE. They assume “deeds” means sins, yet the word that is used here is not a word for sins. If it was, it would be translated “sins” as it is in other places. The Greek word for sin is “hamartia” which means “missing the mark” or “falling short of a goal.” This word is not found here. The word here is accurately translated – deeds, or work, as in performance of labor. This is a performance evaluation, like we would receive at a job in lieu of a raise or promotion, or a performance in an athletic competition, such as the Olympics. More on that in a moment.

Do not be deceived. Believers ARE NOT judged for sins, and contrary to popular heresy, neither are unbelievers! Jesus Christ was judged by God for ALL SINS (1 Jn 2:2) so sin is never the issue, the issue is FAITH. God offers us a full pardon, but if we reject that pardon, we remain under condemnation by our own choice. Jesus Christ IS that pardon. IF you don’t believe He is, then you don’t believe there is a pardon.

The following is taken from the article “The Doctrine of Rewards: The Judgment (Bema) Seat of Christ” on Bible.org (https://bible.org/article/doctrine-rewards-judgment-seat-bema-christ)

“Both Rom 14:10 and 2 Cor 5:9 speak of the “judgment seat.” This is a translation of one Greek word, the word ‘bema’. While bema is used in the gospels and Acts of the raised platform where a Roman magistrate or ruler sat to make decisions and pass sentence (Mat 27:19; Joh 19:13), its use in the epistles by Paul, because of his ma/y allusions to the Greek athletic contests, is more in keeping with its original use among the Greeks.

This word was taken from Isthmian games where the contestants would compete for the prize under the careful scrutiny of judges who would make sure that every rule of the contest was obeyed (2 Ti 2:5). The victor of a given event who participated according to the rules was led by the judge to the platform called the Bema. There the laurel wreath was placed on his head as a symbol of victory (1 Cor. 9:24-25).

In all of these passages, ‘Paul was picturing the believer as a competitor in a spiritual contest. As the victorious Grecian athlete appeared before the Bema to receive his perishable award, so the Christian will appear before Christ’s Bema to receive his imperishable award. The judge at the Bema bestowed rewards to the victors. He did not whip the losers.’ (quoted from Hoyt). We might add, neither did he sentence them to hard labor.

In other words, it is a reward seat and portrays a time of rewards or loss of rewards following examination, but it is not a time of punishment where believers are judged for their sins. Such would be inconsistent with the finished work of Christ on the Cross because He totally paid the penalty for our sins.”

Now if anyone asks you what “Bema Seat” means or where we get that from or tries to tell you that believers are judged for sins, you will be armed and ready with truth. We are commanded, “but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, but with gentleness and respect;” (1 Pet 3:15)

Upon completion of the contest by the competitors, a winner was chosen, called up to the platform to stand before the judges, and received his reward. In the ancient times, when these games began the reward was a wreath placed on his head as a symbol of victory.

Sounds like a crown to me…but, we’ll get to that a little later.

Here Paul was looking Positive Believers of the CA, again positive believers (winners) as competitors in the Spiritual realm, winning a contest (advancing to maturity) and receiving an earned (imperishable) reward.

Note: God is not politically correct. Sorry! God does not give participation trophies. He gives logistical grace, but that is like minimum coverage insurance. Every believer – winner and loser- gets that. We see that in the parable of the workers (Mat 20:1-16) where all the workers get paid the standard 1 Denarius (a silver Roman coin which was standard payment for day labor in that time). We see it also in 2 Pet 1:3 “for His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.”

God provides everything necessary to carrying out His commandments and executing the unique spiritual life which He has designed for us, as we studied previously. Equal opportunity. God provides everyone with everything they need – not everything they want! But when we are judged for what we did with these provisions, there will be winners and losers. Everyone does not get a trophy. Everyone gets a resurrection body, everyone gets a mansion, everyone gets general admission to heaven. But some believers will get more than that. We will look into that today.

Now Turn to 2 Co 5… This is the 2nd main passage, 2 Cor 5:10: which speaks of the Judgement seat of Christ.

2Cor 5:10 “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed (rewarded) for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.”

The Apostle Paul here explains that we will receive rewards based on our “deeds” for what we, as an individual, have done through the course of our earthly life. Using our Volition for positive or negative choices, but also what the motivation was behind those decisions. Also, note that Paul says “good” or “bad.”

This can only mean rewards gained for the good things we have done or with the right motivation. Right thing done in the right way ONLY! Our God is not a God of confusion – He is a God of protocol. If He knows everything, son’t you think He knows the best possible way to do something? If He is perfect, then He can’t accept anything less. Intentions are great, but we have to do things HIS WAY. Otherwise, we will suffer loss of rewards for bad or unworthy things with wrong motives in mind.

Note: It is important to be clear – Jesus Christ is the appointed judge, not me or you! Pastor McLaughin has said: “It is neither the duty, responsibility, or prerogative of the believer to assume the role and function of Jesus Christ as the Supreme Court Judge.”

We must be our own judge, examine our own lives, our own motives and thinking, and our own use of our body, words, and time, with our logistical grace. Keep your own side of the street clean – as unto the Lord, not as unto your neighbors – and don’t judge others who are not in the same place you are. Be helpful, not critical. Be a shepherd. Easier said than done! Jesus Christ is the righteous Judge, period. When someone wrongs us, we are wise to give the matter over to Him, rebound and move forward.

The authority and power to judge was given to Him from the Father. A Royal Family and His enemies will be made as a footstool for His feet.

Jn 5:22 “For not even the Father judges anyone, but He has given all judgment to the Son,”

Rom 14:10 “But you, why do you judge your brother? Or you again, why do you regard your brother with contempt?”

The Apostle Paul exhorts and warns us that we should not try to evaluate the quality of another believer’s life….Why??

2Cor 5:10 “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ,”

It should be very clear that the Judgment Seat of Christ will be for believers only. And even so, the individual believer. But every one of us, together, the Raptured Church!

This event can only fit into the timeline of a pre-tribulation point of view. (that is the one this church GBC takes) Rapture happens before the Great Tribulation and followed by the Millennial reign of Christ (1000yrs). You will see some other passages that are supportive to this fact as we talk about “the rewards” part coming up.

The time and place of this is event, the Judgement Seat, is seen to occur just after the Rapture of the Church. (1Thes 4:13-18)

For information on the timing of these events, look at Luk 14:12-14 or Rev 19:8 or 1 Cor 4:5,

As for where the place of this Judgment (Bema) Seat is occurring in Heaven where TLJC [The Lord Jesus Christ], the Righteous Judge resides. Heb 12:2; Rev 4:2; 19:8.

Now we can learn about: the purpose of the Judgment Bema Seat = the deeds (work) you performed and how (motivation in which) you performed them to glorify the God. (either for gain or for loss).

How will HE judge or examine your works or deeds?

Answer: By His character and integrity through justice and righteousness. Because of who He is. (the Word of God in flesh,) Jn 1:14, 12:48.

Jn 7:24 Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.

That means that you will be fairly evaluated for all the things you did in time, the time He gave you (right now while you are still breathing).

1 Sa 16:7b …for God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”

God sees your true motivation, He sees the schemes and plans, even though we may hide them even from our own selves in order to feign innocence…God sees all, and He judges according to the unvarnished truth. He is not fooled by phony hypocritical shows like we are!

What is judged?

1 Cor 3:10 “According to the grace of God, which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each man must be careful how he builds on it. For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”

First, we must be building on the correct foundation – the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ – and on His Word, and what we build must be based in that. But we also must be careful how we build, because a right thing done in a wrong way (or for the wrong reasons) is wrong, and will result in loss of reward.

1Cor 3:13 “each man’s work will become evident (will be made known); for the day (that day of the Bema Seat Judgment) will show it because it is to be revealed (will made clear and unveiled) with fire, and the fire itself will test (for the sake of approval) the quality (of what kind of worth) of each man’s work.”

The deeds done with the purest of materials (gold, silver, precious stones) will become evident, lasting through the fire and will shine, rising up (building) on the foundation,

On the contrary, the things not done correctly, with scrap, “wood, hay, straw” (inferior materials) will not pass the fire test and leave only ashes on top of the foundation for the wind to blow away all waste.

1 Cor 3:14-15 If any man’s work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. If any man’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.”

He will be saved! This does not speak of loss of salvation! Be aware and clear! He will be saved, yet as through fire – meaning he brings nothing with him, he has lost all that he built up, he is empty-handed. Only he himself survives the fire. All his good deeds done in the power of the flesh and for fleshly rewards are rejected.

Every believer in Jesus Christ goes to heaven, and you cannot lose your salvation. But – there is more to the Christian life than getting into heaven! Salvation is not the point of Christianity, it is merely the entrance into a life of potential blessings and rewards which are “exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we can ask or think” (Eph 3:20-21). Our salvation is the door through which we pass into a new life of service to the One Who has given us eternal life even though we deserve hell as sinners and rebels, and opportunity to glorify His name, demonstrating to the world and to angels the riches of His grace! When you truly appreciate what He has done for us, we want more and more to do this.

If we do not recognize His grace and mercy however, and instead live it up like a trust fund child in daddy’s mansion, partying and working for self, storing up treasures, enjoying life, living as any unbeliever, ignoring His commands and ignoring our cross, there will be shame at this time.

1Jo 2:28 Now, little children, abide in Him, so that when He appears, we may have confidence and not shrink away from Him in shame at His coming.

Interesting to note that in this verse the word shame in Greek is aischunō.

(eye-skhoo-no) Aischuno = shame. It is in the aorist subjunctive which point to a future state that is not continuous. We will not spend eternity in shame, there will be no more sorrow, no more pain, these things will have passed away.

1Cor 9:24 “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable (incorruptible crown) one. Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air;”

1 Co 9:27 but I discipline my body and make it my slave (master the OSN=old sin nature), so that, after I have preached to others (perform deeds), I myself will not be disqualified (eligible for reward).