Christ’s Foundational Doctrines.
Introduction
Hebrews 6:1-2 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, [2] Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.
I remember when I was a kid and it was Christmas Day. The morning was great. I received gifts and the excitement of the season had reached its climax. Then night would come. It was over. I remember one year rewrapping my gifts and putting them under the tree so as to make the excitement of Christmas last longer.
As Christians we sometimes seem to act this way in regards to the gifts we receive from God.
God’s will for our lives is to move on to more of what he has for us not to keep going over and over the same basic foundational doctrines. If a contractor builds a building, he builds the foundation to withstand the full weight of the building. He never intends to keep rebuilding the foundation as he constructs. Once we have come to the knowledge and complete understanding of the basic doctrines of Christ, then we can move on towards absolute completeness.
This is not a new teaching; however, the strength of our house depends on the strength of the foundation. Our foundation has been laid by the Master builder, Jesus Christ. It needs no repair. It is fully capable of withstanding the stress put on it by the building. We must be confident of this truth by having a perfect understanding of what these doctrines contain.
Many of us never move toward completeness because of a lack of understanding and therefore a lack of confidence.
My objective is to cover in detail what these foundational doctrines are and what the Biblical meaning of each doctrine is. We will use the 1st and 2nd verses of Hebrews Chapter 6 to start a series outlining the foundational doctrines of Christ.
This is not a study of the book of Hebrews.
I have chosen the first 2 verses of chapter six because in them are listed all the foundation doctrines of Christ. However, the situation that the apostle was addressing is not unique to the original recipients of this epistle. Because of the lack of understanding of the person of Christ, many of the Christians were falling back into the legalistic doctrines of men. Paul exhorted the people that the old ways were not sufficient and that there is no other way than the way of Christ.
You will see through this study each doctrine covered here is a step by step revealing process of the person of Christ and each of the doctrines were in place before the foundation of the worlds.
Chapter One
Christ the Solid Foundation
Hebrews 6;1-2 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, [2] Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.
We will begin by establishing the fact that everything we are going to be studying will help us understand:
- Who Christ is and
- What does this mean to us as individuals?
Careful examination of the two verses above will bring us to a greater knowledge of who Christ is and the process, through the revelation of Him, to a mature Christian.
The key to being a solid believer is not in how I follow the rules I have set for myself. It is not in my successes or failures but in the knowledge of Christ as my rock and firm foundation. It is about who He is not what I am.
The author book of Hebrews is most commonly believed to be the apostle Paul. It was written originally to the Hebrew Christians in Palestine in about AD 63 from Rome. The purpose of this epistle was to preserve those to whom it was sent from the danger of falling back into a previous belief and renouncing Christ.
Paul begins the book by writing,
Hebrews 1;1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,
2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;
3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;
This establishes Christ as our last day prophet, God’s son and heir of all things, the creator of the worlds, and the purger of our sins. It also places Him back at the right hand of the Father.
This is important to note as we enter our study.
In order to grow in our relationship with God we must first believe and then surrender to this fact.
“for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Hebrews 11;6
Hebrews 6; 1
Therefore now leaving…
In the apostles teaching here he is exhorting the readers of this letter to move on. It is not the purpose of God to stay in one spot. Life in Christ is an exciting journey from glory to glory (2Corinthians 3:18). However, before we can move on we must know in whom we have believed (2Timothy 1:12).
2Timothy 1:12 For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.
… the Principles….
The word here is ar-khay meaning beginning or corner.
In Hebrews 5;6 it says concerning Christ,
Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
Melchisedec was the priest that ministered to Abraham in Genesis 14. It is said that he had no beginning or end and he was a priest of the most high God.
Christ has no beginning or end.
These principles have existed from the foundations of the worlds. They are Christ. Which brings us to the next word,
… of the Doctrines of Christ…
The word here is logos meaning Divine Expression. The very thoughts and utterances of God. The very expression of God.
This same word, logos, is used in John 1 speaking of Christ.
In the beginning was the Word (Logos), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Sometimes we look at the word doctrine as a man made principle. We have used this word to label our individual beliefs. However in the context of this Scripture it takes on a divine meaning that is holy and sacred.
As we study these doctrines that are listed here, keep this truth.
”Let us go on unto perfection”
.
The literal meaning of ‘go on” is to bring forth or carry. Also, the word “endure” is contained in the meaning.
The mistake that many Christians, make as we try to move on, is to think that these basic beliefs are left behind as stepping stones to a greater revelation. They are, in fact, foundational but are to be kept close at hand. Just as in a foundation to a building, the bigger the building gets more is required of the foundation. The foundation, though laid first, is always looked at before any new construction is started.
The word “perfection” is so misunderstood. In the context of this verse it is teliotace meaning “completeness”.
What brings out the practical application of the noun perfection is the word before it, “unto perfection”. This is a prepositional phrase. In this phrase the preposition “Unto” ties the whole phrase to the last word, perfection. “Epi” translated in English as “unto” is a preposition meaning superimposition. So that being said, the writer of Hebrews is telling us that the foundation is laid and we are to “superimpose’ the building as complete.
The revelation is that we are complete in Him. The will of the Father is for us to come to the knowledge that we are already perfect in Christ.
You may say, “I do not feel perfect”. However, Christ’s work is perfect. As our minds are renewed by the revelation of His Word we realize this fact and this superimposed completeness, based on the complete work of Christ, becomes tangible.
The Chief Architect, Christ Jesus, has already drawn up the plans for our lives and He is faithful to complete it.
Philippians 1:6 being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:
My son in law made this statement to me once, “Sanctification is the revelation of salvation” That revelation is life changing.
Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrines of Christ, let us go on unto perfection;
Chapter 2
Repentance from Dead Works
The first step in our relationship with God is repentance.
The word here is metanoia which means compunction. This word implies more than just being sorry but it implies a reversal of direction or a turning around. Both elements are equally important. It is not just being sorry for our sinful life. Being sorry alone will not save you. It is the sorrow that directs us to make a change.
We all can think of things we are sorry for but it is not until this leads to a turning away from that thing that repentance is fully realized. This is what God recognizes as true repentance.
2 Chronicles 16:9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him.
God is always there, always ready, always willing to move in our behalf. But we must turn our full attention to Him.
Before Jesus began His ministry, God sent John the Baptist to prepare the way for Him. John’s message was;
Matthew 3; 1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, 2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
We will discuss the two parts of repentance,
- Being sorry and …
- Turning around.
Nothing expresses the sorrow of the repentant heart more than Psalms 51.
Ps 51:1 … A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came unto him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba.>> Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.
2 Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.
3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.
5 Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.
6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.
7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.
9 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.
10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me.
12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.
13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.
14 Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness.
15 O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.
16 For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering.
17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
King David had sinned.
In his lust for Bathsheba he had her husband Uriah moved to the battle front guaranteeing his death so he could take her as his wife.
The story is found in II Samuel 11 & 12.
God sent Nathan the prophet to David and immediately David realized the gravity of his sin and confessed that he had sinned against the Lord.
When we read Psalm 51 we can look into the heart of King David as he prayed for forgiveness.
Verse 17 expresses the conditions of a repenting heart.
17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
A broken and contrite heart.
Broken means,
shaw-bar’ to burst, break (down, off, in pieces, up), bring to the birth, crush, destroy, hurt, quench, quite, tear.
Contrite means,
daw-kaw’ to collapse (physically or mentally).
When we sin we not only sin against ourselves we sin against almighty God.
We must realize the seriousness of this and come to God with our heart broken open and fully exposed to him.
This is not very comfortable at the time.
Repenting is not just a mental consent to do better. It is a surgical experience of the heart. Once our heart has been broken up through the experience of repentance, God will heal our heart and bring comfort. This is revival.
In my heart and from my experience, revival comes when God’s children bow down before God with an attitude of complete surrender, focus on God, and come before the throne with a repentant heart.
Another passage in the Bible that indicates what God looks for in the area of repentance is in the book of II Chronicles chapter 7 verse 14.
2Ch 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
This was the word of God to Solomon after he had built the Temple and were in the process of the dedication.
A little about Solomon’s Temple:
It took 7 years to assemble. But was in preparation for since the reign of David.
Solomon’s most massive project.
Located on the site where Abraham had been commanded to sacrifice Isaac. (Genesis 22).
The gold use in its construction was worth over 2½ billion dollars – if gold were only valued at 35 dollars per ounce. 71, million ounces. And 10 times as much silver than gold had been gathered by David before the construction began.
It was built of stone, and paneled over with cedar, with the whole inlaid with gold. 153,600 workers.
The holy place was 90 feet long, 30 feet wide and 45 feet high.
At the temple dedication, the number of sheep and oxen that were sacrificed could not be numbered.
2 Chronicles. 5:6
Also king Solomon, and all the congregation of Israel that were assembled unto him before the ark, sacrificed sheep and oxen, which could not be told nor numbered for multitude.
When the Temple was done King Solomon prayed
2Ch 7:1 Now when Solomon had made an end of praying, the fire came down from heaven, and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices; and the glory of the LORD filled the house.
2Ch 7:11 Thus Solomon finished the house of the LORD, and the king’s house: and all that came into Solomon’s heart to make in the house of the LORD, and in his own house, he prosperously effected.
Then God Spoke to Solomon
2Ch 7:12 And the LORD appeared to Solomon by night, and said unto him, I have heard thy prayer, and have chosen this place to myself for an house of sacrifice.
13 If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people;
14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray,and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
15 Now mine eyes shall be open, and mine ears attend unto the prayer that is made in this place.
Humble kaw-nah’; to bend the knee; hence to humiliate, vanquish: – bring down (low), into subjection, under, humble (self), subdue.
When the people came to God they had to bring a sacrifice.
We also must bring a sacrifice.
Romans 12:1
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
Psalm 34:18
The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.
Repentant hearts first realize the awesome presence of God, which is always there, and in that light the repentant heart will humble itself to God in surrender. Lost is the urgency to see God manifest himself in miracles but the desire is to know Him.
THIS IS TRUE REVIVAL.
Seek My Face.
Seek, baw-kash’; to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication to strive after: – ask, beg, beseech, desire, enquire, get, make inquisition, procure, (make) request, require, seek (for)
We should not seek the manifestations but seek to know and to come into the fellowship with the almighty.
This is where faith comes. In knowing God we can comprehend who He is and what He can do. In knowing this we no longer look at faith as something to possess but to exercise based on who God is, not on what He does.
Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.
Repentance is not based on an emotional experience even though sometimes God chooses to make us aware of Him through our emotions. The true revelation of God comes by the Spirit to our spirit.
Eye hath not seen nor ear heard neither has it entered into the heart of man.
John 16, The Spirit shall reveal Christ.
Turn from their wicked ways. Turn shoob; to turn back
From what?
Wicked ways. Literally wrong ways.
From sin.
From self because we must see that God is bigger than we are.
When we seek God and find Him. Our sins are purged. We are no longer in bondage to them.
When the Prophet Isaiah was seeking the Lord he saw a vision of God on the throne. Immediately he saw his sin and said,
Isaiah 6:5-8
Then said I, Woe is me! For I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts. [6] Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar: [7] And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged. [8] Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.
Notice that immediately after confessing his sin, God sent an angel and purged his sin.
The temple was planned and constructed for God out of David’s love for God. God’s presence was manifested in the physical after the sacrifices and later God spoke to Solomon and said He would dwell there.
2 Chronicles. 7:12
And the Lord appeared to Solomon by night, and said unto him, I have heard thy prayer, and have chosen this place to myself for a house of sacrifice.
God wants to dwell in his temple.
1 Corinthians. 3:16
Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?
2 Corinthians. 6:16
And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? For ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
1 – If my people…..
2 – Humble themselves,
3 – Seek my face,
4 – Turn from there wicked ways.
Then I will move in their behalf. AND I WILL DWELL THERE.
The power of true repentance is the dwelling of God in us.
Chapter 3
Faith toward God
Faith’s Definition.
Webster’s definition of faith is – a noun. Belief, in a revealed religion; trust or reliance; a system of religious doctrines believed in; loyalty; pledged word
The Greek translation of the word faith is pistis, pis’-tis; persuasion, i.e. credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; constant in such profession; the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself:- assurance, belief, believe, faith, fidelity.
The Bible’s definition of faith is stated in Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Substance is the essence or material of which anything is made. Faith substantiates our hopes. It make those things which we can’t see a reality.
Evidence literally means proof, conviction, evidence, reproof.
Faith is not wishful thinking.
Faith is a fact, a belief system.
To have faith in something is to rely on something that is known. It is not based on things I am hoping for, but instead it takes possession of something base on what I am believing in. Faith is the substance.
We cannot create faith. We can only obtain faith.
Faith is originated by God.
Hebrews 12:2 looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Faith is contained in Christ.
Author is translated from the Greek word archegos, meaning a chief leader, captain or prince.
Finisher is teleiotes, the state of completeness (mental or moral):- perfection (-ness).
Faith is imparted to man. The measure of faith is given to all men.
Romans 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
Our Faith can and must increase.
Romans 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
WORD here is rhema, an utterance (individual, collective or special);
Faith is a Gift dealt out by God.
1 Corinthians. 12:9 to another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
Faith is magnified by our unity.
Philippians. 1:27 only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;
Striving together for the faith means to literally wrestle in company with or figuratively, to seek jointly.
Faith is an active gift.
When you give a gift to someone, how do you know if it was a gift that was appreciated? Or, when you receive a gift that you love, how do you act?
We need to embrace this gift.
1 Timothy. 3:9 holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.
Hebrews 10:23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised)
I know when I have given the right gift by how much the person is using it.
We need to use the faith that God has given us.
We use this faith by,
Standing in it.
1 Corinthians. 16:13 Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.
By walking in it
2 Corinthians. 5:7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight)
By picking it up and using it.
Ephesians. 6:16 above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
If we walk in Him, God will fulfill the work of faith with power.
2 Thessalonians. 1:11 wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power:
Hebrews chapter 11 gives us some examples of faith in action.
3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. [4] By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. [5] By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. [6] But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. [7] By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. [8] By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. [9] By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:
11 Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.
13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.
17 By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,
20 By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come. [21] By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff. [22] By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones. [23] By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king’s commandment. [24] By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter;
Hebrews 11:27-3. By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. [28] Through faith he kept the Passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them. [29] By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned. [30] By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days. [31] By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.
33 Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,
We are justified by this faith alone.
Galatians 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
I was talking to someone on this subject and he commented to me,” I agree with what you are saying but if what you are saying is true this means that most of us are living way beneath the provision made for us by God”. This is so true.
Faith is not works but works show faith.
John 6: 28 Then said they unto him, what shall we do, that we might work the works of God? 29 Jesus answered and said unto them, this is the work of God that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. 30 They said therefore unto him, what sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? What dost thou work?
Faith is not based on sight or manifestations.
John 20: 24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.25 the other disciples therefore said unto him, we have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. 26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. 27 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. 28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. 29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.
If we have Faith towards God then there will be actions that show our Faith.
James 2: 14 what doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? Can faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, 16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? 17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. 18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. 19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.20 but wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
Faith in action is the act of our will based on the Word of God revealed to our spirit by God.
Romans 10:17 so then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Word here is translated from the word rhema, meaning an utterance
This is the only way that we can walk in Faith. It is not the power of positive thinking though positive thinking is powerful. Faith is much greater than this. It is knowing.
The Apostle Paul wrote:
2 Corinthians 4:8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; 10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. 11 For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you. 13 We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; 14 knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you. 15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
And again in Romans 8: 31 what shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? 32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? 33 Who shall lay anything to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. 34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, for thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Let us Understand and hold on to this.
Hebrews 4:14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.
Hebrews 10:23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised)
Chapter 4
Baptisms
Hebrews 6:2, “Of the doctrine of Baptisms”
The word here is bap-tis-mos, ablution, washing. The washing of one’s body or part of it, was derived from baptizo, meaning to immerse, submerge; to make fully wet was used only (in the New Testament) of ceremonial ablution, especially of the ordinance of Christian baptism.
bap’-to; to whelm, cover wholly with a fluid;
Note:
Baptism is referenced several times in the Old Testament, as the Hebrew word (tabal) which is rendered by the word baptize, in the following places, :– Le 4:6; 14:6,51; Nu 19:18; Ru 2:14; Ex 12:22; De 33:24; Eze. 23:15 Job 9:31; Le 9:9; 1Sa 14:27; 2Ki 5:14; 8:15; Ge 37:31; Jos 3:15.
The same word was translated washings in Hebrews 9:10, showing this doctrine as a shadow of things to come.
Hebrews 9:1 Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary. 2 For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the shewbread; which is called the sanctuary. 3 And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all; 4 Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid roundabout with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron’s rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; 5 And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercy seat; of which we cannot now speak particularly. 6 Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God. 7 But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people: 8 The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing: 9 Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience; 10 Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.
After the Babylonian captivity of Israel, anyone that was converted to Judiasm was baptized. At this time, and for some time previous, they had been accustomed to administer a rite of baptism, or washing, to those who became proselytes to their religion; that is, who were converted from being Gentiles. This was done to signify that they renounced the errors and worship of the pagans, and as significant of their becoming pure by embracing a new religion. It was a solemn rite of washing, significant of cleansing from their former sins, and purifying them for the peculiar service of Jehovah. Therefore the Jews were well acquainted with this doctrine in respect of proclaiming a change in belief.
In the New Testament the word, in various forms, occurs eighty times; fifty-seven with reference to persons. Of these fifty-seven times, it is followed by “in” (en) eighteen times, as in water, in the desert, in Jordan; nine times by “into,” (eiv,) as into the name, etc., into Christ; once it is followed by epi (Ac 2:38) and twice by “for,” (uper) 1Co 15:29.
John the Baptist cleared the way for Christ, preaching repentance and baptism.
Mt 3:11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:
We should follow in Baptism because
- Christ commanded it and made it part of His great commission.
Matthew 28: 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
- The early church practiced it.
In every recorded instance in Acts immediately upon receiving Christ as Savior, the believers were baptized.
Acts 2: 41 then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
8: 12 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.13, Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.
8: 38 and he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.
9: 18 and immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.
10: 48 and he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.
16: 15 and when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, if ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.
16: 33 and he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.
18: 8 And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.
19: 5 when they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
The New Testament uses Baptism for picturing important truth.
Romans 6: 1 what shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? 2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? 3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
Galatians 3: 26 for ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
Peter states the significance of Baptism in Chapter 3 20&21.
1 Peter 3: 20 Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. 21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
Baptism is a means of identification with Christ, His message and other believers.
It is the first physical act of our will showing our commitment and faith toward God after repentance.
Chapter 5
Laying on of the Hands
God looks at pure, not full, hands. –Syrus
Faith in Action
Along with baptism, Laying on of the Hands has to do with the believer’s relationship to the local assembly of believers. Laying on of the hands implies personal involvement.
The Laying on of the Hands is one of the Foundational Doctrines of Christ established in practice before Jesus.
The Jews practiced the laying on of hands on a great variety of occasions. It was done when a blessing was imparted to any one; when prayer was made for one; when they offered sacrifice they laid their hands on the head of the victim, confessing their sins.
Le 16:21; 24:14; Nu 8:12.
It was done on occasions of solemn consecration to office and when friend supplicated the Divine favor of friend. In like manner, it was often done by the Savior and the apostles. The Redeemer laid his hands on children to bless them, and on the sick when he healed them.
Mt 19:13; Mr 5:23; Mt 9:18.
In like manner, the apostles laid hands on others in the following circumstances:
- In healing the sick, Ac 28:8.
- In ordination to office, 1Ti 5:22; Ac 6:6.
- In imparting the miraculous influences of the Holy Spirit, Ac 8:17; 19:6.
The true doctrine respecting the design of laying on the hands, is to be one of the elements of the Christian faith. The custom of laying on the hands, as symbolical of imparting spiritual gifts, prevailed in the Church in the time of the apostles, no one can doubt. But on the question whether it is to be regarded as of perpetual obligation in the Church, we are to remember, that the apostles were endowed with the power of imparting the influences of the Holy Ghost in a miraculous or extraordinary manner. It was with reference to such an imparting of the Holy Spirit that the expression is used in each of the eases where it occurs in the New Testament.
The action of lying on of the hands can be abused and misused, to lead persons to substitute the form for the thing; or to think that because they have been “confirmed,” that therefore they are sure of the mercy and favor of God. In Light of this let us be careful.
Don’t arbitrarily lay hands on someone to establish him in ministry
1Ti 5:22 Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.
We see many Biblical examples of The Laying on of the Hands, however, who shall practice it today and when should it be applied?
Who. Every pastor has a right, if he chooses, to lay his hands on the members of his flock and to implore a blessing on them.
You must be a believer, Mark 16:18;
A believer, as described in Mark 16, will not abuse this practice.
Don’t allow just anyone to lay hands on you.
Ro 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
This is not talking about just believing for the thing to happen but living a life of belief.
Must be given permission or the authority
- In sickness
James 5:14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:
Remember this action should always bring glory to God. Never should the action of laying on of hands be a distraction.
- Impartation
1Ti 4:14 Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.
- Blessing
Ac 13:2 as they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.
3 And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.
Chapter 6
Resurrection of the Dead
As in all the previous discussions on the study of Hebrews 6:1-3, we will study this topic as one of the foundational doctrines of Christ.
We understand that, as in the other doctrines, the resurrection of the dead as a basis for our belief was established in the teachings of the Old Testament and confirmed by the apostles and Christ Himself.
The word resurrection in Hebrews 6 is translated from the word, anastasis, a standing up again, i.e. (literally) a resurrection from death), or (figuratively) a (moral) recovery (of spiritual truth):–raised to life again, resurrection, rise from the dead that should rise, rising again.
Matthew 28:6 He is risen
Egeiro to waken, rouse (literally, from sleep, from sitting or lying, from disease, from death; or figuratively, from obscurity, inactivity, ruins, nonexistence):–awake, lift (up), raise (again, up), rear up, (a-) rise (again, up), stand, take up.
John 11:23 Lazarus shall rise again anistemi, an-is’-tay-mee
To stand up (literal or figurative, transitive or intransitive):–arise, lift up, raise up (again), rise (again), stand up (-right).
John 11:24 I am the anastsis.
The Old Testament Evidence.
The word Resurrection does not appear in the Old Testament. However the teaching is implied by other statements.
Such as David’s in Psalms 49.
Psalms 49: 15 But God will redeem <padah> my soul from the power of the grave; for he shall receive me. Selah
padah, paw-daw’ to sever, i.e. ransom; gener. to release, preserve:–X at all, deliver, X by any means, ransom, (that are to be, let be) redeem(-ed), rescue, X surely.
Psalms 17: 15 As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.
Psalms 19:9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. 10 For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. 11 Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
Or Job,
Job 5:20 In famine he shall redeem <padah> thee from death: and in war from the power of the sword.
Job 14: 12 so man lieth down, and riseth not: till the heavens be no more, they shall not awake, nor be raised out of their sleep. 13 O that thou wouldest hide me in the grave, that thou wouldest keep me secret, until thy wrath be past, that thou wouldest appoint me a set time, and remember me! 14 If a man die, shall he live again? All the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come. 15 Thou shalt call, and I will answer thee: thou wilt have a desire to the work of thine hands
Job 19:25 For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: 26 And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God: 27 Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; though my reins be consumed within me.
Other References
Isaiah 26:19 Thy dead men shall live, together with my dead body shall they arise. Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust: for thy dew is as the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead.
Daniel 12: 1 And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.
2 And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.
Hosea 13: 14 I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death: O death, I will be thy plagues; O grave, I will be thy destruction: repentance shall be hid from mine eyes.
The New Testament.
Mt 22:23-32 The same day came to him the Sadducees, which say that there is no resurrection, and asked him, Saying, Master, Moses said, If a man die, having no children, his brother shall marry his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother. Now there were with us seven brethren: and the first, when he had married a wife, deceased, and, having no issue, left his wife unto his brother: Likewise the second also, and the third, unto the seventh. And last of all the woman died also. Therefore in the resurrection whose wife shall she be of the seven? For they all had her. Jesus answered and said unto them, ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God. For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven. But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.
When Jesus was resurrected, others were resurrected with him. This was due to the Power demonstrated during the resurrection
John 5:21 for as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will.
Quicken is Zwopoiew to Make Alive
John 5:25 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.
5:28 Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, 29 And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.
John 6:39 And this is the Father’s will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. 40 And this is the will of him that sent me, that everyone which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.
6:44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.
6:54 whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.
Martha knew of the resurrection.
John 11:23-25 Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:
14:19 yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also.
We not only will be resurrected but we possess the resurrection. It will be unlocked with the “Sound Of The Trumpet”. So since the power resides in us, we experience a quickening to a degree NOW.
Romans 8:10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 8:11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.
Romans 8:19 for the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.
Romans 8:21-23 because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.
1Corinthians 6:14 And God hath both raised up the Lord, and will also raise up us by his own power.
1Co 15:1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. 3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; 4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: 5 And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve:
6 After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. 7 After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles. 8 And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. 9 For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. 11 Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed. 12 Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13 But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: 14 and if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. 15 Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. 16 For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: 17 and if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. 18 Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. 19 If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. 20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. 21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming. 24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 25 For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. 26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 27 For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is accepted, which did put all things under him. 28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him that God may be all in all. 29 Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? Why are they then baptized for the dead? 30 And why stand we in jeopardy every hour? 31 I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily.
32 If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? Let us eat and drink; for tomorrow we die. 33 Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. 34 Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame.35 But some man will say, how are the dead raised up? And with what body do they come?
36 Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die: 37 and that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: 38 But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body. 39 All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds. 40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: 43 It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: 44 It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. 45 And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. 46 Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. 47 The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. 48 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.
II. What will be the nature of the bodies that shall be raised up? 1Co 15:35-51. This inquiry is illustrated,
(1.) By a reference to grain that is sown, 1Co 15:36-38.
(2.) By a reference to the fact that there are different kinds of flesh, 1Co 15:39.
(3.) By a reference to the fact that there are celestial bodies and earthly bodies, 1Co 15:40.
(4.) By the fact that there is a difference between the sun, and moon, and stars, 1Co 15:41.
(5.) By a direct statement; for which the mind is prepared by these illustrations, of the important changes which the body of man must undergo, and of the nature of that body which he will have in heaven, 1Co 15:42-50. It is
a) Incorruptible, 1Co 15:42;
b) Glorious, 1Co 15:43;
c) Powerful, 1Co 15:43;
d.) a spiritual body, 1Co 15:44;
e.) it is like the body of the second Adam, the Lord from heaven, 1Co 15:45-50.
51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. 54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? 56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.
The practical consequences or influences of this doctrine, 1Co 15:55-58.
- The doctrine is glorious and triumphant; it overcame all the evils of sin, and should fill the mind with joy, 1Co 15:55-57.
- It should lead Christians to diligence, and firmness of faith, and patience, since their labour was not to be in vain, 1Co 15:58.
2 Corinthians 4:14 Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.
5:1-5 For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven: If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked. For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life. Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit.
Philippians 3:10 that I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; 11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.
Philippians 3:21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.
1Thessalonians 4:14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.
1Thessalonians 4:16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
2Timothy 1:10 But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:
2Timothy 2:18 who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.
Revelations 1:18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.
Revelations 20:4-6 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.
The Old Testament teaches a general resurrection, but the New Testament teaches a resurrection of the saved and also a resurrection of the lost.
In reference we can read in John 5: 24-29
24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
25 Verily, verily, I say unto you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.
26 For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself;
27 And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man.
28 Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice,
29 And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.
Chapter 7
Eternal Judgement
Eternal – aionios, Perpetual, eternal, forever, everlasting, world (began).
Judgement – krima, a decision for or against
There is no better picture of the Eternal Judgement than what is given us in the book of Revelations.
Revelation 20:11-15
11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. 13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. 14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
Verse 11. And I saw a great white throne. In Mt 25:31, Jesus called this “the throne of his glory.”
And him that sat on it. From whose face. See Re 1:16, “And his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.”
The earth and the heaven fled away.
Creation shrinks back with awe at the presence of God, frequently occur in the Bible. Compare Ps 18:7-15; 77:16-19; 114:3-5; Hab 3:6,10-11. Da. 2;35
And there was found no place for them. The image expresses the idea that they entirely disappeared in the majesty of the Judge.
Verse 12. And I saw the dead, small and great. Stand before God. And the books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the book of life. (see Mt 25:31)
(1.) There will be a general resurrection of the dead–of the righteous and the wicked. This is implied by the statement that the “dead, small and great,” were seen to stand before God; that “the sea gave up the dead which were in it;” that “Death and Hades gave up their dead.” All were there whose names were or were not written in the book of life.
(2.) There will be a solemn and impartial judgment. All be judged “according to their works”–that is, strictly according to their character. See Mt 25:31-46.
(3.) This will be the final judgment. This will be the end of the present arrangements; the end of the present dispensations; the end of human probation. The great question to be determined in regard to our world will have been settled. What the plan of redemption was intended to accomplish on the earth will have been accomplished The agency of the Divine Spirit in converting sinners will have come to an end and the means of grace, as such, will be employed no more. There is not here or elsewhere an intimation that beyond this period any of these things will exist, or that the work of redemption, as such, will extend into the world beyond the judgment. As there is no intimation that the condition of the righteous will be changed, so there is none that the condition of the wicked will be; as there is no hint that the righteous will ever be exposed to temptation, or to the danger of falling into sin, so there is none that the offers of salvation will ever again be made to the wicked. On the contrary, the whole representation is, that all beyond this will be fixed and unchangeable forever.
(4.) The wicked will be destroyed, in what may be properly called the second death.
This does not mean that this death will in all respects resemble the first death. It does not mean that they will be annihilated, for death never implies that. The meaning is, that this will be a cutting off from what is properly called life, from hope, from happiness, and from peace, and a subjection to pain and agony; death that will continue forever.
(5.) This will be the end of the woes and calamities produced in the kingdom of God by sin. The reign of Satan and of Death, so far as the Redeemer’s kingdom is concerned, will be at an end, and henceforward creation will be safe from all the arts and efforts of its foes, Jesus is triumphant, and the affairs of the universe be set in permanent order. The preparation is thus made for the final triumph.