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I thought I should say something about doing too much in light of recent events or anything for that matter. The other subject of late causing the hysteria in the online community is the dogged determination many have as to the Lord coming in about 12 days from now. What is similar to this in this discourse is allowing a prevailing mindset of emotional fervor to skew our viewpoint. If we think He is coming that soon we could go overboard much as we could in response to tragedy and having a tendency to make preaching the Gospel be a social movement or something we somehow think we can convince the overall trajectory of society to change based on our convictions. Yes; there are things we can do as Christians with our rights and privileges in this nation but God Himself is allowing the signs of the times themselves to draw people to Himself. The opposite; of course is true when things seem to be going as a "normal" day as Christ warns about coming in a time we don't expect much as in the case of the time of Noah (marrying; buying; selling; etc). Anyone can get nostalgic about our country and it's past glories; Christian heritage; etc. and easily slip into an unrealistic viewpoint that our founding fathers had it all correct rather than being a mixture of Deists; some Christians and others who clearly had other motives for their actions. This doesn't mean we can't be as Paul and invoke certain national rights we have if it is edifying at large as a witness so that we maintain freedoms promised from our citizenship. We must be careful though not to idolize anyone; however.
I don't want to overthink this or pretend I have all the answers. Today we remember what happened almost a quarter century ago.
Agape; Rich P
Brother Jesse has provided Scriptures to consider on this matter. I could offer Scriptures that would debate these points, but that would not answer your questions. This doctrine originated in 325 A.D. and was expanded over the next 150 years or so. You need to pray and study for your own conscience.
The majority support this doctrine, and some believe it is essential to be a Christian. Jesus is our Lord, and He gave His life to pay the penalty for sin so that we, through Him, can be reconciled to God. The wages of sin are death, Romans 6:23. Jesus' death on the cross paid this price.
Jesus had His own will, but was obedient and did the will of the Father, John 14:31, Luke 22:42, John 5:30, John 17:16, John 12:49.
The Chalcedonian Creed A.D. 451 states, "Christ, Son, Lord, only begotten, to be acknowledged in two natures, in confusedly, unchangeably, indivisibly, inseparably; the distinction of nature's being by no means taken away by the union, but rather the property of each nature being preserved." Does Scripture support this?
God alone possesses immortality, 1 Timothy 6:16. Our faith rests on the death and resurrection of Jesus, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, 1 Corinthians 15:12-17. God cannot die. Jesus was tempted in the same ways we are, Hebrews 4:14-16. God cannot be tempted, James 1:13.
The Bible will answer all questions we have if we are ready to receive the answer, Matthew 7:7, James 1:5, with prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit-not man.
God bless your study,
RLW
In terms of the event yesterday which no doubt is fresh in many people's mind we do pray that Mr. Kirk's attacker is caught; of course. I have tried to support grieving brothers and sisters on this matter; without attempting to be either overly emotional on my end or insensitive. I am not certain as to all the doctrines; etc. that he espoused as to my agreement with them however we certainly can see how as today's chapter in scripture Matthew 5 illustrates blessed are the persecuted for His Name's sake. These actions show what would be considered normal or default Christianity in much of the world today including its inception in the first Century.
The whole insensitivity today towards the loss of innocent people was also considered with the train event that involved a Ukrainian lady recently as to the lack of any support which could have helped her at the time; reminding us of the parable of the Good Samaritan with the bad reaction of those walking by. We can't help but look at the whole conflict going on where countless multitudes of family members have perished with targeted and random collateral damage the last few years; no doubt affecting both sides in the conflict. There are certainly societal factors that exacerbate these problems with video games glorifying alternative worlds and graphic scenes; as well as our desensitization to the destruction of the unborn in general.
My concern is that we do too much or too little here. We; no doubt need a moment at times when such things happen to deal with the shock; but our overall trajectory shouldn't change. Sadly we can know for a fact that we will see more of the same until He comes and likely at an accellerated rate; but the Lord will come out as He already is; having won the war when battles cease.
"And thou shalt put in the breastplate of judgment the Urim and the Thummim; and they shall be upon Aaron's heart, when he goeth in before the LORD: and Aaron shall bear the judgment of the children of Israel upon his heart before the LORD continually."
In the following verse we have the context, "And thou shalt make the robe of the ephod all of blue."
'The ephod all of blue' evokes this verse,"And they saw the God of Israel: and there was under his feet as it were a paved work of a sapphire stone, and as it were the body of heaven in his clearness" Paved work resonates with the analogy of the fabric which is woven. (Exod.24.10) Consequently the garment of the high priest for glory and beauty is evoking Jesus Christ whom God has anointed as the eternal Priest. ("Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek"-Ps.110.1-5)
Colour of the terrible crystal in its clearness is the firmament where God has set the tabernace for the sun. When it is translated into a tangible material as garment we shall jst recall the Woman clothed with the Sun. She loses her position but the sun or the moon do not. For these refer to the entities to represent the Father Son relationship. The sun and the moon are transposed as two stones, Urim and the Thummim so the divine light is tucked within the breastplate doubled over.
What does doubled over signify? the same as the book with seven seals with writing on the backside and within. These two stone, the greater light and the lesser lights are intended for the new heaven and the new earth, producing the light of the lamb. what the 12 stones on the breast plates carry are 'Aaron shall bear the judgment of the children of Israel upon his heart before the LORD continually." The compound number establishes the eternal priesthood and kingship as established the Word which was God. In other world Law of the Spirit shall judge the Israelites who are under the Law of sin and death. Decalogue.
v.1 "And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars"
Compare these 12 stars with the seven stars in the right hand of the risen Christ. The whole number Seven establishes the Law of the Spirit according to the Covenant has entrusted the blessed unto his hands."And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand."( Jn 10.28-29) The seven candlesticks in the vision represent entire body of believers on earth and liable to changes of the churches are not careful. One third are likely to fall off. Whereas the crown of 12 stars are those who have run the race and entered into the joy of the Lord. This seal of approval is a testimony of the gospel. So the compound number (3x12) is according to the word of God. "Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord."(Mt.25.23) God's calling and gifts are irrevocable.
Not so with the woman who is a wonder and the adjective 'great' means the same as in other cases. It is God who shall judge, The wonder is what has she done with all the blessings imputed to her. garment of righteousness of the sun and grace on which she stood. But she herself did not enter into the glory destined for her.
She is the mother of all living and she is Eve and she was named by Adam. As soon as the man-child is caught up to the throne, they entered into the God's rest. She reduced in her own circumstance becomes two groups sons of Adam, one belonging to the nation of Israel. The Spirit tags her with time,times and half a time., 'into her place and it ultimately shall stop in the outer darkness. (Rev.12.14; Eccle.3.1)
"Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge."
We shall continue with the God's rest covenanted to every bellever. So we find God named the firmament Heaven. He sanctified it as He did the everlasting Covenant with seven 'days'. Day unto day and night unto night from the construction of two entities is same as the formula inserted in Gen.ch.1 at the end of each day. 'And the evening and the morning were etc.,' These entities are in succession and it is derived from the Father of lights. So we have in 19.4 the tabernacle for the sun, referring two great lights to rule the day and night successively.."Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun," The previous verse is echoed in Rom.10.18. "There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard." This tabernacle is set up for the sun which is a sign for the light of the Lamb who is the bridegroom mentioned in v.5. Marriage of the Lamb is come' is established by the Word of God. Advent of the Son and his excellence is mentioned in Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race."(V.5) He is the strong man who has entered into the race. In short the word of God is both sound and also a sign. The tabernacle set by God is not made by hands but a building of God eternal in heaven.(2 Cor.5.1)
"And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:"(Gen.1.14) How do these lights serve as signs. Here we shall just mention the Holy Spirit refers to seasons,days and years which we shall come back to while we analyse the vision of the Woman Clothed with the Sin.(Rev.12.) It is for the blessed. For the rest it is time."To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." Time, times and a half.
So Christ's Baptism not only reflected the imminent end of the earthly priesthood, but was also in demonstration before His Father that He would obey Him fully, being sent to fulfil His Will through His substitutionary death for mankind & their sins; and this baptism, unlike that of John's, spoke to John that Jesus came not to him for repentance of any sin within him (for He had none), but for the sake of our sins. So, as Jesus looked forward to Calvary in His Baptism, the believer looks back through his baptism at a marvelous undeserved Work accomplished for him at Calvary. And so "the new covenant, an everlasting covenant" was ushered in, which promises that there can never be another Covenant in the future that would or could make it redundant. God offered us His very best - Himself - that only the Blood of His Son could make a full, lasting & acceptable atonement. Thank you brother for your thoughts on this.
I believe we are closer than what you think!
As you can probably tell, I am a dispensationalists all so.
I haven't studied much on the kingdom Gospel but I am very aware of it and it's distinction from the mystery later presented by the Apostles, Primary Paul.
Your presentation rung bells.
It's obvious there were OT saints saved under Israel's covenantal framework, where faith was "DEMONSTRATED" by obedience to God's commands.
They were persuaded by the Spirit of Christ and demonstrated it by their works.
1 Peter 1-13 declares the Gospel of grace was preached to the OT prophets with Christ as the author and finish work of their faith.
Verses 9-13 most noticeable.
Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.
Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you:
Searching what, or what manner of time THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST WHICH WAS IN THEM did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.
Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.
Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
The Gospel was preached!
What was left out is the mystery "that the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:
The old testament saints was saved looking forward to the grace that shall come in their Messiah and they demonstrated that by their works in their covenantal framework.
Blessings.
If your "battle" is with believing that Jesus is God, may I suggest the following scriptures for your consideration:
Genesis 1:1 along with John 1:1-3, Revelation 19:13, Colossians 1:15-17, Matthew 1:23, John 10:30, John 14:9, Mark 2:5-7, John 8:58, John 20:28, Isaiah 9:6, Philippians 2:5-7, Colossians 2:9, 1 Timothy 3:16, Hebrews 1:8, 2 Peter 1:1, Revelation 1:8, John 5:18, 1 John 5:20, Luke 24:52, John 9:38, Acts 10:25-26, Titus 2:13, Hebrews 1:3, Revelation 22:13, Micah 5:2, John 17:5, John 1:14. There are more, but these should suffice.
You mention that "Christians say that there is no separation between Christ and God," and that the bible shows otherwise. Jesus said I and my Father are one, and He also said that if you have seen Me, you have seen the Father. This may not mean anything to you, but in the book of Hebrews, Jesus is described as the APOUGASMA (the out beam) of God's glory, God projecting Himself through the time/space factor in the person of Christ. Jesus Christ, being God, was never separated from the source. This is why Jesus can say if you have seen Me, you have seen the Father.
The best example I can give would be taking a flashlight in a dark room and shining it on a wall. The flashlight is the source, and the light is projected on the wall from the source. There is no separation unless the flashlight is turned off. Now, imagine the flashlight being God, and the light shining on the wall is Jesus, again, no separation. Jesus is said to be the true light which came down from heaven, the APOUGASMA of God.
If you are sincerely struggling with the deity of Jesus Christ (Him being God), I hope these scriptures I've provided might help. Also, if you would like, I can share my personal understanding on Matthew 26:39 and Luke 22:42 and why Christ would ask this.
If I may ask, are you a Christian? If so, who do you say Jesus is?
"And the LORD said unto Moses, Lo, I come unto thee in a thick cloud, that the people may hear when I speak with thee, and believe thee for ever.."
Here in these two quotes from the book of Exodues we have the Lord God revealing the place of His rest. It was a sign. In this we have the sound of the word of God. "And all the people saw the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the noise of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking: and when the people saw it, they removed, and stood afar off."(Exod.20.18-19)
It terrified the Israelites who promised Moses, "Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die." Neither did they follow Moses and when the heard the voice from heaven it did not make sense to them. It is made clear in the word of Jesus,"Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again." and he adds,"Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes." ( Jn 12.28-30) Their heart was desperately wicked. and far from Fod."The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?"Jeremiah asks. The sects would make a heresy from their own reprobate hearts. Calvin's total depravity merely a manifestation of spiritual blindness.
We see in many passages of the the last book where the floor on which the throne is set: "And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind." Compare this crystal with the inaugural vision of Ezekiel,"And the likeness of the firmament upon the heads of the living creature was as the colour of the terrible crystal, stretched forth over their heads above."(Ezek.1.22) These four living creaures,"Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?"(Heb.1.14)
Amen Brother Chris.
The Gospel of the Kingdom is the message preached during Jesus' earthly ministry, proclaiming the arrival of God's kingdom on earth through His reign as Messiah,
This was to the Jews while they continued faithfulness and righteousness under the Mosaic Law which was appropriate.
In Matthew 3:15 we see Jesus being of age asking John to baptized him.
"And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus IT BECOMETH US TO FULFILL ALL RIGHTEOUSNESS. Then he suffered him.
I believe Jesus was baptized and inaugurated under the Levitical priesthood to fulfill and end that priesthood at the Cross and bring in the new covenant with his death which was necessary.
Hebrews 9:16-17 'For where a testament is, there MUST ALSO OF NECESSITY BE THE DEATH OF THE TESTATOR.
For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth.
in the beginning the Gospel of the kingdom was to first a gather the lost sheep of Israel who lost their way.
Then offer up the Kingdom.
Matthew 23:37-39.
That has been postponed!
I believe the mystery was to be revealed at that time also, "after the Gathering" and bringing both Jews and Gentiles under the new covenant by the cross.
However as expected, Israel denied their Messiah and all but a remnant was blinded until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
The new covenant is an everlasting covenant.
Blessings.
"Then went up Moses, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel"
Of these we read what befell the two sons of Aaron in Lev.10.1. They were caled up but Nadab and Abihu violated the Law and ' and offered strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not" It is thus the nation of Israel went whoring after 'strange' gods and in our times we have the same idolatry which is covetousness, How shall such nations ever enter the God's rest?
The Law of the Spirit gave us an ensample and the history of Israel is only relevant for instruction in righteousness. The Spirit is leading us to the revelatory nature of the Father of Mercies. God gathered the seventy elders so the Law of the Spirit is setting the nation in context of Jesus Christ the fulfilment of the Law. The Law of Moses is only pendent to it. God called the firmament and called it heaven. Psalm 19.1 the handiwork of God is a sign and they were shown the mid-air where the house with seven pillars which shall come to rest. "And they saw the God of Israel: and there was under his feet as it were a paved work of a sapphire stone, and as it were the body of heaven in his clearness."(v.20) Heaven in its clearness is evident:St Paul says that the nation of Israel is without excuse.(Rom.1.19-20)
We came across already the word sent forth, So there is nothing new. The fellowship of God with Man on which we have the Covenant of seven days establish this as 'now'. "The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun."(Eccle.1.9)
Jesus also testified of the supper of the great God, "And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven."(Mt.8.11; Lk. 13.28-29) This weeping and gnashing of teeth shall be from the outer darkness where as Prophet Jeremiah says the rotten figs are.
I greet you,
I Pray for deliverance from anything hinders walk with Christ.
John 8:36 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
" Jesus Christ is Father and the Son same language you can understand is God for us to be heirs to all the world. To believe you can do and follow Jesus and become what your expected to be the truth of God Romans 8:2 KJV, 1 Corinthians 7:22 KJV. This is the life to live also exhibited. It is used in
discipleship- to show the Holy bible is life
saints/ citizens- free from sin Galatians 5:1 KJV, liability, set free from thraldom, ransom Mark 10:45 KJV, evil ,captivity of Satan.
Freedom from the laws, rules, thraldom that are not of God moral and obedience to it. You are titled to freedom to the house of God and his supper. A example of analogy used family of God Himself.
Ways you can be free from sin are to listen to God's voice and word to obey and follow " do it" (speaking, actions, attention of communications)
Examples of people in the holy bible that made themselves free in God you can read and follow are Romans 1:1, 2 Peter 1:1, Revelation 1:1 .
Word Spoken and Written by
REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY
This to help clarify my statements on dispensations.
Below are the Bible scriptures to support this.
I believe the Bible unfolds in distinct dispensations where God administers His plan, always showing grace.
1. Innocence ( Gen. 1-3): Adam and Eve lived in perfect fellowship. After sin, grace appeared when God clothed them and promised redemption ( Gen. 3:15).
2. Conscience ( Gen. 4-8): Humanity lived by conscience, but sin spread. Grace preserved Noah who "found grace in the eyes of the Lord" ( Gen. 6:8).
3. Human Government ( Gen. 9-11): After the Flood, God gave authority to govern ( Gen. 9:6). Grace was seen in the covenant with Noah and preservation after Babel.
4. Promise ( Gen. 12-Ex.): God called Abram, promising land, seed, and blessing. Abraham believed God and was counted righteous ( Gen. 15:6). Salvation by grace through faith was modeled.
5. Law (Ex.- Acts 7): Israel was given the Law at Sinai. The Law revealed sin but could not save ( Rom. 3:20). Grace was seen in sacrifices that pointed to Christ and God's long-suffering with Israel.
6. Grace-The Mystery ( Acts 9-Philemon): Through Paul, God revealed the dispensation of grace ( Eph. 3:1-9). Jew and Gentile are united in the Body of Christ, saved freely by faith in Christ's finished work ( 1 Cor. 15:1-4). "Ye are not under the law, but under grace" ( Rom. 6:14).
7. Kingdom ( Rev. 20): Christ returns to reign 1,000 years. This fulfills promises to Israel. Grace is displayed in His righteous rule and restoration of creation.
8. Eternal State ( Rev. 21-22): New heaven and new earth. Grace reaches its fullness-no sin, sorrow, or death. God dwells with redeemed humanity forever.
Across all ages, man fails, yet God provides. Grace is the golden thread weaving Genesis to Revelation, culminating in Paul's gospel for today and flowing into the eternal glory of Christ's reign.
Grace and Peace
1 Corinthians 3:18 "Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise."
James 1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.
Blessings
Both believing Jews under the prophetic program and members of the Body of Christ responded in faith to God's Word, yet the identity, destiny, and message of these groups were distinct. The Jews to whom James wrote ( Jas. 1:1; 2:1) were part of Israel's covenantal framework. Their hope was tied to promises made to the fathers and the establishment of a kingdom on earth under Messiah's reign ( Acts 3:19-21). Their identity was rooted in the twelve tribes, and their faith was demonstrated by obedience-works that showed living faith, preparing them for Israel's national restoration ( Jas. 2:21-24).
The Body of Christ, revealed uniquely through Paul, has a different identity altogether. Composed of Jew and Gentile made one new man ( Eph. 2:14-16), this Body is not bound to Israel's covenants but to the revelation of the mystery ( Eph. 3:1-9). Their destiny is heavenly, with blessings "in heavenly places in Christ" ( Eph. 1:3), and their message centers on the gospel of grace-salvation apart from works, by faith alone in Christ's finished work ( Rom. 3:28; Eph. 2:8-9).
Thus, while both groups believed God and received His Word, the dispensational distinction safeguards the clarity of Scripture. Israel looks for a restored kingdom on earth under Christ the King; the Body of Christ looks to a heavenly calling under Christ the Head. The same Lord, but different programs, promises, and purposes.
Grace and Peace
James' readers were indeed believers, but the framework of their belief must be understood dispensationally. James 2:1 affirms they had "the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ," yet James 1:1 makes clear his epistle is written "to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad." This indicates Jewish believers under Israel's prophetic program, not the Body of Christ formed through Paul's revelation of the mystery. Their faith was genuine, but it was linked to the promises given to Israel concerning the coming kingdom.
Dispensational truth shows two distinct ministries: Paul, entrusted with the "dispensation of the grace of God" ( Eph. 3:2), reveals the gospel of the uncircumcision-salvation by grace through faith alone, apart from works or covenant promises ( Rom. 3:28; Eph. 2:8-9). In this gospel, Jew and Gentile are united into one Body ( Eph. 2:14-16). James, however, operates within Israel's covenantal framework, where faith was demonstrated by obedience to God's commands, such as Abraham offering Isaac or Rahab receiving the spies ( Jas. 2:21-25). These "works" did not replace faith but evidenced a living faith expected of Israel as she prepared for her promised kingdom ( Acts 3:19-21).
Thus, James' audience were true believers but not members of the Body of Christ revealed through Paul. They were saved within Israel's prophetic program, awaiting the earthly kingdom. Paul's audience, by contrast, belongs to the Body, a heavenly people with a distinct calling. Dispensationalism preserves this distinction, avoiding confusion between the prophetic promises to Israel and the mystery program revealed to Paul. Both groups believed God's Word to them, yet their identity, destiny, and message were not the same.
James 2:18 declares: "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." James addresses "the twelve tribes scattered abroad" ( James 1:1), pointing directly to Israel in dispersion. His message continues Israel's covenant program, where faith must be evidenced by works as proof of loyalty to God's promises. This aligns with the prophetic requirement that obedience secured covenant blessing ( Deut. 28).
James stresses that a faith without works is "dead" ( James 2:17). His examples are Abraham, who demonstrated faith by offering Isaac ( James 2:21-23), and Rahab, who showed faith by sheltering the spies ( James 2:25). Both lived under Israel's program, where covenant faith was confirmed through outward deeds. This context differs from Paul's later revelation to the Body of Christ. Paul writes: "To him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness" ( Rom. 4:5). He too cites Abraham, but from Genesis 15:6-when he simply believed God before Isaac was offered.
Dispensationally, there is no contradiction. James applies Genesis 22, highlighting faith proven by action, consistent with Israel's prophetic expectation and even Christ's own teaching: "Let your light so shine before men" ( Matt. 5:16). Paul, however, reveals the "mystery" of justification apart from works ( Rom. 3:28; Eph. 2:8-9), given uniquely to the Body of Christ.
Thus James 2:18 fits Israel's covenant framework, while Paul's writings explain salvation under grace today. Both are true, but for different dispensational purposes.
we agree on much, but not all and that's ok.
Grace and Peace
John the Baptist's role is to present Christ to Israel within the framework of prophecy, yet his words carry foreshadows that later unfold in Paul's revelation of the mystery. In John 1:7-9, John comes to bear witness of the Light, pointing Israel to their promised Messiah. This ministry is clearly part of Israel's prophetic program ( Isa. 9:2; Mal. 3:1). Yet the phrase "that all men through him might believe" hints at a wider purpose, though not explained in that time. Gentile inclusion would remain unrevealed until Paul received the dispensation of grace ( Eph. 3:2-6).
In John 1:11-13, Christ "came unto his own, and his own received him not." Israel as a nation largely rejected Him, but a believing remnant received Him by faith and were given authority to become sons of God. This aligns with Israel's covenant hope, not yet the "new creation" Paul later describes in 2 Corinthians 5:17. The rejection, however, sets the stage for salvation to be sent to the Gentiles through Paul's distinct apostleship ( Rom. 11:11-12).
In John 1:29, John identifies Jesus as "the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." Israel expected a sacrificial Lamb to cover their sins ( Isa. 53), but the Spirit expands John's words to point beyond Israel. The phrase "of the world" foreshadows the universal reconciliation later made known through Paul: "God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses" ( 2 Cor. 5:19).
Dispensationally, John introduces the Messiah to Israel as their long-promised King, while unknowingly echoing truths that would later be fully revealed through Paul-the gospel of grace, Jew and Gentile made one body, and salvation offered freely apart from law.
Context of Acts 15
I think we agree for the most part on this.
This verse comes from the Jerusalem Council, where the apostles and elders gathered to settle the question: Must Gentile believers be circumcised and keep the law of Moses to be saved? Peter speaks here, affirming that salvation is by grace, not law.
Dispensational Understanding
From a dispensational viewpoint, Acts 15 sits at a transitional point in God's dealings with mankind:
Kingdom Program (Israel): Peter and the Twelve were originally preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom to Israel ( Matt. 10:5-7; Acts 3:19-21). Salvation was bound up with Israel's national repentance, the coming kingdom, and covenant promises.
Grace Program (Body of Christ): Paul, however, was given the "gospel of the uncircumcision" ( Gal. 2:7) - the message that Jew and Gentile alike are saved by grace through faith in Christ's finished cross-work, apart from the Law ( 1 Cor. 15:1-4; Eph. 2:8-9).
In Acts 15:11, Peter acknowledges Paul's gospel of grace. He essentially says: We (Jews) will be saved the same way as they (Gentiles) - through grace alone, not the Law. That's a remarkable reversal, because under the kingdom program Gentiles were blessed through Israel's rise. Now Peter admits Israel must come on the same basis as Gentiles: faith in Christ's grace without works.
Key Dispensational Insight
This verse highlights the shift from Israel's covenantal system under law toward Paul's revelation of grace.
It doesn't mean the kingdom program had fully ended yet (since the apostles still held to many Jewish practices in Acts), but it confirms Paul's message had authority and that grace through faith is the only way of salvation in this present dispensation.
You are correct on there being apostles and prophets.
Paul, in Ephesians 3, unfolds the "mystery" given to him as the steward of the dispensation of the grace of God. This mystery-Jew and Gentile made one body in Christ, apart from Israel's covenants and law-was "hid in God" from ages past (v. 9). It was not revealed to the prophets of the Old Testament, who only spoke of Israel's kingdom and earthly promises. Instead, Paul says it is now revealed "unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit" (v. 5). From a dispensational view, the "apostles" here are New Testament apostles, Paul himself foremost as the apostle of the Gentiles ( Rom. 11:13; Gal. 2:7-9). The others-Peter, John, and the rest-learned of this mystery through Paul's revelation ( Gal. 2:2, 9), though their ministry remained primarily to Israel.
The "prophets" mentioned are also not Old Testament prophets, but New Testament prophets who functioned in the early church ( 1 Cor. 12:28; Eph. 4:11). These Spirit-gifted men confirmed Paul's revelation in the churches during the transition period before the written Word was complete. Thus, Paul speaks inclusively: what was uniquely revealed to him (v. 2-3) became known among other apostles and prophets as the Spirit bore witness.
This keeps the distinction clear: the mystery was not foretold in Israel's prophetic program, nor found in the law, prophets, or gospels. It was hidden until God chose to reveal it through Paul, then made known in the present dispensation. Ephesians 2:20 ties these apostles and prophets to the foundation of the Body of Christ, with Jesus Christ Himself as the chief cornerstone. The wall between Jew and Gentile has been broken down ( Eph. 2:14-16).
In sum, from a dispensational standpoint: Paul is the divinely chosen steward; the other apostles and prophets were fellow recipients once the revelation was given; and the mystery program stands wholly distinct from Israel's
I earlier gave the example ( James 2:14-17) where one can say that he has great faith but when a brother or sister is in dire need, he does nothing. And James goes on ( James 2:21-24), citing Abraham's faith. When his faith was tested in the offering up of Isaac on the altar, Abraham came forth shining, for his faith was proven by his works (obedience). How would the genuineness of a Gentile's salvation & faith be proven, if not by his sensitivity and obedience to God's Spirit? If that is not there, then should we not regard him as a phony? And maybe this gives rise to some 'Christians' believing: 'I am saved, so how I live my life (i.e. works from faith) matters not'. Yet, Paul's plea to the Philippians ( Philippians 2:12), "Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling", is worth noting; salvation is not a 'given', unless the new spirit and renewed life produces fruit (works) that must be the evidence of a new birth.
I can understand what you shared, that their respective readerships were different and one was under & guided by God's prophetic program, but when the Gospel is given to anyone, it must be the same or it's not the true Gospel that saves. So this is why, if we are to believe that James was faithful to the Gospel that saves, but his audience was different, then James 2:28 must mean that justification is by faith alone, but where works are absent, then that faith was spurious. But if it doesn't mean that, then James preached a false Gospel, for there can only be one Gospel for all men.
Thank you again brother for this good discussion as I've tried to restrict myself here to only a couple of your points that needed examination. Blessings.
You also stated that James 1:1 readership "is not the Body of Christ but Israel in dispersion." Are you saying that they were not believers? As mentioned in another comment, James 2:1 strongly suggests that his readership had "the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ"; and this tells me that these were believers of Jewish heritage. I can't see how a people under their prophetic program, who have received and believed the Gospel could be anything else than true believers saved by faith alone and in the Body of Christ. If they are not true believers, then how can James write what he does in his epistle? Onto Page 2.
Since things are confidential I not only will leave even first names out but won't get into details. There are discussions between men and women seperately and there was only one guy who clearly is a believer. At least one other person the leader knows didn't show so you can pray he and others help to bring a few more to the table in the next meeting.
Also another woman in the church is filling in for the Pastor's wife who has familiarity with counselling. My friend and I who are there next week agree on making things Biblically based and success in that from her own personal testimony and scripture knowledge clearly is an asset.
At this point I am glad to be there as a support; but my primary issue if it comes up is if people come who are remarried against scriptural mandates; which are usually viewed as my "opinion" rather than scripture. One of the authors apparently was married several times which is a concern to me; but currently isn't an issue with those in the group.
Finally I would ask for prayer for a friend of mine who is a Christian artist which is going to show some of his stuff during a flea market type event at our church (largely designed to sell some materials that have sat around the church not being used).
He is focusing on the Lord with the artwork and the books he has written; I have mixed feelings about depictions of God in artwork but for now this is a source of income for him and I've been heavily involved in financial assistance so would appreciate prayer for his contacts either with the art or his book(s). His disabilities and chronic health issues prevent him from continuing a regular job at present. I am praying he finds a Christian roommate or some further assistance; apparently since he is 60 the county in his case was unable to give futher help. The basic issue is a high rent so that it appears he has more money than in actuality along with debt incurred.
In considering the end times; where we certainly are headed quickly as I see it-we see that proclamations are made beforehand as to the general state of the "last days" such as attitudes of people in 2 Timothy 3 as well as with the 144,000 and the 2 prophets in Revelation. We also see angels themselves as we get to the time the bowl judgments are about to occur as a final warning.
In reality; of course for an unregenerate person it only seals their fate and increases their judgment once their impenitent hearts are challenged. The lack of love of the truth ( 2 Thessalonians 2:10) allows the world to accept the Daniel 9:27 covenant also known as the covenant with death and hell in Isaiah 28:18 which is deliberately agreed upon despite the obvious ramifications.
People as they do now will hear what they want to hear and disregard the rest. As with the Prophets of old God says He will do nothing without first revealing the matter to the prophets ( Amos 3:7); and we see this process most clearly it seems with Jeremiah but also of course with the warnings in Deuteronomy as to blessings and cursings. Deuteronomy 30:19 says to choose life and live but of course Jeremiah 17:9 shows the human heart is desperately wicked and who can understand it?
Again a repeated concept here that I have mentioned is that the world is aware of what's coming. It is the same sort of idea when Christ came the first time with the Pharisees denying the obvious and committing the unpardonable blasphemy against the Spirit saying that it is evil; and likely the same sort of thing will be heard by the son of perdition and the world at large once judgments start to fall as we see several times during the bowl judgments ( 2 Thessalonians 2:3). He will say "unheard of" things against the Most High ( Daniel 11:36) and will come in his own name yet declare himself to be god (see John 5:43).
We need to be ready to desire seeing the Day of the Lord ( Amos 5:18