God And His Word Are All That We Need

Most people fail to realize the treasure they have if they own a Bible or have access to the Scriptures, which most of us do in this country. Sadly, many people around the world know little or nothing about the true and living God, and don’t have a Bible to read. Some people can’t read.

Within the 66 books of the Bible, that make up the Old and New Testaments, we have all that we need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3, 4). We don’t need to turn to the philosophies of sinful men to learn how to be saved or how to live a victorious Christian life (Colossians 2:8). God’s Word is “theocentric.” This means that it’s centered around God. By contrast, an anthropocentric life puts man at the center. “Unfortunately, living for the moment often leads to misery in the form of addiction, unwanted pregnancies, broken relationships, and other regrets. Living for humanistic, anthropocentric goals also has its problems—if the advancement of man is the highest good, ambitious leaders can justify almost anything to ensure the progress of humanity—even, ironically, genocide and ethnic cleansing.” [1]

The Scriptures teach us the truth about God (John 17:17), our sinful condition (Romans 3:10-23; Jeremiah 17:9), how to be saved from the lake of fire and enter into heaven to spend eternity with the One Who laid down His life to save us sinners (1 Corinthians 15:3,4; Acts 16:31). Such love should prompt us to live a life that pleases Him at all times (John 15:1-8; 2 Corinthians 5:9). Ten major themes include: The Bible, God, God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit, Man, Sin, Salvation, The Church, and Future Things. How familiar are you with these topics?

All Scripture is God breathed, and is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness, that the man / woman of God (a believer) may be complete / thoroughly equipped to do the work God pre-planned for us to do (2 Timothy 3:16, 17; See Ephesians 2:10; 1 Peter 4:10). Question: If you’re saved, do you know what your spiritual gift is, and are you using it with love for the benefit of others (1 Corinthians 13; Galatians 5:13)? [2]

While all the Bible is for us, not all of it is addressed to us as New Testament believers. All the doctrines (teachings) of the Bible are to be believed, but not all of it is to be believed and practiced (Titus 1:9). God has given different rules for different people at different times known as “Dispensations – Rules for Living.” (They are NOT separate ways of salvation.) Three major ones are Law, Grace, and Kingdom. (See our Bible Study Book Marker with a Dispensations Chart on our website.) [3]

The devil [4] doesn’t want people to have access to the Scriptures and/or to read it. During the Middle Ages it was virtually inaccessible to the common man. But thanks to the printing press and the Protestant Reformation that began around A.D. 1500, mankind has had access to God’s Word in many languages of the world.

“Natural Revelation” (i.e., the things we can learn from nature) tells us that there is a God Who is powerful (Romans 1:20). But we need “Special Revelation” from God to learn other vital information including how we can be saved / delivered from everlasting condemnation to spend eternity with God.

God’s purpose is to glorify Himself (John 17:1-8). He wants to make Himself known to His creatures – human beings and spirit beings. His attributes include: goodness, righteousness, omnipotence, omniscience, truthfulness, holiness, and love. Man’s purpose is/should be to glorify God by making Him know to those around us (1 Corinthians 10:31). Question: What are others learning about God by your life and lip?

In the end every creature will acknowledge that Jesus Christ is LORD (i.e., that He is the God-man, Who died for our sins…and rose again bodily from the dead. See Philippians 2:11; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4.) He is the One in Whom our faith and trust must rest if we are to be saved. We are NOT saved by our good works, or by our faith PLUS our good works lest anyone should boast (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5). The Scriptures do not teach the “universal salvation” of all men and fallen angels.

We’re here to assist those who would like to be assured of spending eternity in heaven with God rather than in hell with the devil and his angels/demons (1 John 5:13; Romans 8:16; Matthew 25:41, 46). We also want to help believers grow spiritually, serve God joyfully, and reproduce themselves (2 Peter 3:18; Matthew 28:19, 20).

We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

[1] “Theocentric vs Anthropocentric” https://www.gotquestions.org/theocentric.html

[2] Spiritual Gifts – https://www.kelseypeach.com/bible-basics

[3] Bible Study Book Marker and Dispensations Chart –

Click to access 08892a_ce5bb78881fa4f50a6c866dd9ab0adfe.pdf

[4] The Devil – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2014/06/20/the-devil-fallacies-facts/

Paul’s Swan Song

What would you say, or want to say to a loved one or your friend if you knew that your death was imminent? Too often people die without any warning and conflicts go unresolved and regrets linger. Maybe this is your experience.

Death and dying are not pleasant topics to discuss. Most of us act like we’re going to live forever here on earth. But the reality and general rule is that, “…it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27).

The question is, Where will you spend eternity – with God in heaven or with the devil and his angels/demons in the lake of fire (John 14:1-3; Matthew 25:30, 41, 46)? Yes, we can be sure (Romans 8:16; 1 John 5:13).

Christians shouldn’t fear death. Why? The sting of death has been removed (1 Corinthians 15:55-57). Jesus holds the keys of death today, not the devil anymore (Hebrews 2:14; Revelation 1:18). Paul wrote, “We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8).

He had been to Paradise and came back, but he wasn’t allowed to tell us about it (2 Corinthians 12:1-6; See Acts 14:19, 20). Jesus is preparing a place for His Bride, the true Church (John 14:1-3; Revelation 21:9 ff). Will you be there with Him and other believers? [1]

Admonitions to Timothy

As the Apostle Paul was in a Roman prison facing imminent death, he wrote his “Swan Song” to Timothy, his son-in-the-faith (1 Timothy 1:2).

(A “swan song” has been called the final performance of an actor, singer, composer, poet, or the like. According to folklore, swans sing most beautifully just before they die, and hence this phrase came to be used to describe someone who was leaving in style.)

Paul wanted to share some final thoughts with Timothy to encourage him to keep on serving the Lord even after he was gone from earth to heaven, which he said is far better (Philippians 1:23).

While this entire letter of Second Timothy has great value to it, and should be read often, we’ve selected just a few verses which we believe can help younger Evangelists, Pastor-teachers, whose job it is to glorify God (1 Corinthians 10:31) by equipping other believers to do their work of ministry with the spiritual gift that God has given to each believer at the time of his/her salvation (Ephesians 2:10; 4:11-16; 1 Peter 4:10).

The devil wants to disappoint, discourage, and cause God’s servants to doubt God and His Word (Genesis 3:1-5). He goes about as a roaring lion seeking those whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). When he tempts believers, we must put on the whole armor of God and then resist him (Ephesians 6:10-17; James 4:7).

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart” (Galatians 6:9).

“And the things that you [Timothy] have heard from me [Paul] among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2).

Not every Christian is faithful and spiritual; many are carnal (1 Corinthians 2:14, 15; 3:1-4; Romans 8:6-8). They need to confess their known sins to God the Father and then claim His forgiveness (1 John 1:9; James 5:16) so God the Holy Spirit can illuminate their minds to the truth that is found in the Bible (Ephesians 1:17, 18). Then they can grow spiritually (2 Peter 3:18).

“For as many as are [habitually being] led by the Spirit of God, these are [the maturing] sons of God” (Romans 8:14). If you’re saved, are you stunted or growing? Is God pleased?

In a message entitled “The Ultimate Final,” Dr. Howard Hendricks asks these questions: (1) Is the Lord well pleased? (2) Is the work well done? (3) Is the Word well used? [2] Please listen to it.

“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).

Being well pleasing to God and meeting His approval should be a top priority in our lives (See 2 Corinthians 5:9). As Christians we need to “… sanctify the Lord God in [our] hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks [us] a reason for the hope that is in [us], with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame [us] as evildoers, those who revile [our] good conduct in Christ may be ashamed” (1 Peter 3:15, 16).

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God [i.e., God breathed], and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16, 17).

“Doctrine = What is right; Reproof = What is not right; Correction = How to get right; Instruction in righteousness = How to stay right.” – Dr. Manfred Kober

The Scriptures tell us in words what God wants for us to know at this time. Within the pages of the 66 books of the Bible we have all that we need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3, 4). “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ” (Colossians 2:8).

Heaven will never get boring. Why? In the ages of eternity, yet to come, God will reveal more and more to us believers (Ephesians 2:7). Ages and dispensations are not the same.

“Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8).

Carnal Christians don’t love or look forward to Christ’s imminent return for us (John 14:1-3; 1 Corinthians 16:22; 1 John 2:28). If they did, they would act right. They are on dangerous ground and could die prematurely (1 Corinthians 11:30; James 5:19, 20; 1 John 5:16, 17). What about you?

At the “Bema Seat Judgment” the believer’s works will be evaluated to determine which ones are rewardable and praiseworthy, and which ones aren’t. The worthless works will be burned up (1 Corinthians 3:11-15; 4:5; 2 Corinthians 5:10) without the believer’s losing his/her salvation (John 10:28, 29; Ephesians 4:30).

There are five crowns that Christians can earn for the glory of God. [3] Which ones will you earn? If you earn them, what will you do with them? (See Revelation 4:10,11)

Paul’s Words To Titus

“For a bishop [an overseer of a local church] must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled, holding fast the faithful word [Greek “didachen” = doctrines that are to be believed and practiced] as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine [Greek “didaskalia” = that which is to be believed, but not practiced], both to exhort and convict those who contradict” (Titus 1:7-9).

An overseer (Pastor-teacher) needs to understand and teach “Dispensational” distinctions to the believers in his care. Otherwise confusion reigns. Deacons also need to understand “the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience” (1 Timothy 1:4; 3:9).

While all of the Bible is FOR us, but not all of it is addressed TO us as Christians. “Galatianite Christians” try to come to spiritual maturity by keeping the “Mosaic Law.” [4] It’s impossible (Romans 6:14; Galatians 3:1 ff; 5:1 ff).

New Testament believers are to live by “Grace” principles. (See our Dispensations Chart to discover where our “House Rules” are found in the Scriptures.) [5] What value does the Old Testament have for Christians today? (See 1 Corinthians 10; Romans 15:4; Exodus 3:14).

Once again, if you knew that your time on earth was about to end, what would you do differently? “Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord” (Romans 12:17-19).

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God” (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4).

We should treat every day as though it might be our last day on earth, or the last day of someone we love and/or know. Are you doing this?

How will you be remembered by others? What impact are you having on your family, friends, fellow workers, and others? Is it for good or for evil? What negative practices do you need to stop with God’s help? Which positive practices do you need to keep on doing?

We’re here to help unbelievers come to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ, Who died for our sins…and rose again bodily on the third day. [1] Once a person is saved from condemnation (Romans 8:1), we want to help him/her grow spiritually (2 Peter 3:18).

If you would like additional spiritual help, we can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com.

If this article has helped you, please SHARE it with others. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

[1] The Gospel – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/24/the-bad-news-the-good-news/

[2] The Ultimate Final – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKaavuDlvZ4

[3] Five Crowns – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2018/07/12/whats-free-whats-earned/

[4] Dispensations – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2021/11/18/law-grace-or-kingdom-living/

[5] The House Rules https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2017/07/10/the-house-rules/

Scripture taken from the New King James Version

Copyright c. 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by Permission. All rights reserved.

The Conflict Of The Ages – God vs The Devil

The devil (God’s adversary) was created as Lucifer, the anointed cherub (Ezekiel 28:14). But he became dissatisfied with the role that God had given to him. He had been placed over all the other myriads of spirit beings: other cherubs, seraphs, and angels.

It’s been suggested that there are as many of them as there are stars in the second heaven where they make their residence (Ephesians 6:12). He ruled over all of them from the mineral garden in Eden on earth (Ezekiel 28:13).

But he wanted to be like God. This may sound good, but it really meant that he didn’t want to be accountable to God any longer. He wanted to raise his throne above God’s throne. In defiance toward God, he said five times, “I will…” (Isaiah 14:12-14).

Lawlessness is sin (1 John 3:4). It is defiance against God and the rules He has given to us for our own good. (All of the seven, separate, and distinct “Dispensations / Rules for Living” given to mankind will end up in failure. See our “Dispensations Chart” on our website.)

The devil convinced 1/3 of the lower two categories of angels to join him in his rebellion against God (Revelation 12:4; Ephesians 6:12). These angels became “fallen angels” known also as “demons.”

As a result of his rebellion against God, some theologians and Bible teachers believe that his residence on earth was flooded for an indefinite period of time (Genesis 1:2; 2:9-13; Isaiah 45:18) before God created man, an inferior being, to have dominion over the earth (Genesis 1:26, 28).

Adam, the forefather of us all (Acts 17:26; Luke 3:38), was given the task of tending the garden, eastward in Eden, which once may have been a part of Lucifer’s mineral garden (Genesis 2:8). This probably irked the devil greatly. Adam also was instructed not to eat the fruit from the “tree of the knowledge of good and evil” lest he die (Genesis 2:17). We know what happened. Eve and then Adam yielded to the devil’s temptation and ate it and eventually died physically (Genesis 3:1 ff; 5:5).

This is why we die too (Romans 5:12; Hebrews 9:27). But someday, all the dead will be raised, in different orders, to spend eternity either with God or apart from Him in the lake of fire (1 Corinthians 15:20-24; Revelation 20:11-15).

So God cursed the serpent, the woman, and the ground for Adam’s sake. But God also promised to give them One who would crush the serpent’s (the devil’s) head (Genesis 3:15; See Revelation 12:9).

Many years later, during the days of Noah, some of the fallen angels took on humanoid forms and cohabited with human women and produced giants in the earth (Genesis 6:4; Jude 1:6). For this sin, these fallen angels/demons were/are chained in darkness in Tartarus (hell – KJV) which is in the heart of the earth (2 Peter 2:4).

The other fallen angels/demons still reside in the second heaven and are the ones who tempt Christians from time to time if God permits them to do so (Ephesians 6:12, 13; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Job 1:12; 2:6). Do you know how to overcome their temptations to sin? [1]

All but Noah, his three sons, and their wives apparently were polluted by this genetic human modification. Thus God had to destroy the rest of the human race with a universal flood (Genesis 7, 8). “The Deliverer” had to come from humans, not someone who was ½ human and ½ fallen angel / demon (Genesis 3:15). This is known as transhumanism. It may sound good, but it is an attempt to perfect humans without the help of God.

Today we are learning more and more about evil people who are trying, once again, to genetically modify humans and make them like gods. Some religions and cults also teach that men can become gods. Do you know about any of them?

“Top World Economic Forum adviser Yuval Noah Harari has declared in a recent interview that the ‘vast majority’ of the world’s 7.5 billion people are simply no longer needed due to technological advances in artificial intelligence, machine learning and bioengineering.’” He also is quoted as saying, “Now humans are developing even bigger powers than ever before. We are really acquiring divine powers of creation and destruction. We are really upgrading humans into gods. We are acquiring, for example, the power to re-engineer life.” [2]

“… transhumanism contradicts the Bible when it assumes that humanity is completely sovereign and capable of self-directed change without the need for God (Jeremiah 17:9). Taken to an extreme, though, [transhumanism] can become a pursuit of immortality, an escape from moral boundaries, or a form of religion in and of itself. The ultimate redemption of mankind is something that will be accomplished by God alone (Revelation 21:1), not by technology.” [3]

God will allow sinful men to only go so far before He puts down their rebellion. He did this at the “Tower of Babel” and changed their languages so they couldn’t work together. This is when the ethnic groups came into existence and when the continental shift began to take place (Genesis 10, 11). In His time God will crush the rebels with His rod of iron (Psalm 2:9; Revelation 2:27; 12:5; 19:15) before He destroys this entire universe and creates a new heavens and earth where righteousness will finally settle down and feel at home (2 Peter 3:10-13; Revelation 21:1 ff).

Are you in rebellion against God? Are you ignoring His invitation to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day, so you can be saved? (See Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; John 3:16, 18).

If you are an unbeliever, you are in serious danger. If you die without the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, you will spend eternity in the lake of fire with the devil and his angels/demons (Matthew 25:30, 41, 46). Why not place your faith and trust in Him right now and be saved? You can’t be saved by your good works, or by your faith plus your good works (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5).

We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change and grow. If you need/want additional spiritual help, contact us. We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com.

If this article has helped you, please let us know. SHARE it with others who might benefit from this information. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

[1] Spiritual Enemies – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2021/07/08/the-blame-game/

“Tested And Tried Daily”

[2] WEF’s Yuval Noah Harari quotes – https://leohohmann.com/2022/08/15/yuval-noah-harari-spills-the-beans-we-just-dont-need-the-vast-majority-of-the-population/

https://www.nowtheendbegins.com/yuval-noah-harari-world-economic-forum-antichrist-minion/

[3] Transhumanism – https://www.gotquestions.org/transhumanism.html

Bible Panorama

Have you, like I, ever made some New Year’s Resolutions only to fail to keep them after a short time? I have. Maybe you had full intentions to read through the Bible in one year but quit before long. Maybe you were never shown the “Big Picture” before you got started or weren’t told how to interpret the Bible. Maybe you got confused by the seeming contradictions in the Bible and failed to understand the distinctions between the Jews and the Church. Or perhaps you had some other reason for quitting. If you still have a desire to do this, may we suggest a few things?

If you are not a Christian yet, the first thing you need to do is “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day. If you do this, you will be saved eternally” (See Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; Ephesians 2:8, 9).

If you’ve been saved, the following information may be for you. It’s designed for Christians who are faithful, teachable, and willing to change and grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18). It’s designed to help such people understand the Bible better to find out what God, man’s Creator, wants us to know and do: (1) How we got here. (2) What are we supposed to be doing on earth. (3) Where we’ll go when we die.

I’ve been making it a point to read through the whole Bible in a year and I have been doing it for over 50 years. I also like to listen to the reading of the Scriptures and memorize sections of it. (If you’re interested in doing this, ask for more information.) I learn something new each time I read or listen to it being read.

It’s a wonderful treasure from God. Instead of feeling like “I have to read it,” I feel like “I want to and get to read it.” Many people in the world don’t have a Bible to read. They don’t know that God loved them and gave His only begotten Son to them to die in their place for their sins and rose again bodily from the grave so He could save them from the lake of fire and take them to heaven (John 3:16). If you’ve been saved, will you help us get this “Good News” out to such people?

By spending 1% of your day (about 15 minutes each day), you can read through the entire Bible in a year. You can listen to it being read as you drive your car to work or as you relax in a chair. I have several Study Bibles in my library. I especially like the Scofield Study Bible. (If you’re interested in learning more about it, ask us.)

The Bible is a collection of 66 books in one book. There are 39 books in the Old Testament and 27 books in the New Testament. All of the Bible is for Christians, but not all of it is addressed to us. There are doctrines / teachings in it that are to be believed but not practiced, and other teachings that are for us to believe and practice (Titus 1:9). Example: The dietary rules for the Jews, and their sacrifices are different than those for Christians. There are different promises to be claimed or not claimed.

There are different sets of “Household Rules” called “Dispensations” for different people living in different times throughout human history. They are NOT different ways to be saved. Salvation is always by God’s grace through faith in God. (See above.)

While an unbeliever can understand the historical information found in the Bible, the deep truths of it can be understood only by believers who have God the Holy Spirit as their Divine Teacher. He can illuminate our minds to the truth that is found in the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 2:9-16; 1 John 2:27).

To help you get a visual picture of human history from the beginning to the end, we have a FREE Bible Study Book Marker with a Dispensations Chart on it along with other helpful information. (May we suggest that you make a copy of it for yourelf on light colored paper and fold it and keep it in your Bible?) https://www.kelseypeach.com/_files/ugd/08892a_ce5bb78881fa4f50a6c866dd9ab0adfe.pdf

The following three short “Bible Panorama” articles will supplement the Chart:

“Bible Panorama” Part 1

“Bible Panorama” Part 2

“Bible Panorama” Part 3

Contact us if you have questions and/or comments. We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and who want to grow in the sphere of grace (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18). We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. Please SHARE this information with others.

One Day Closer

With each day that passes, we are one day closer to seeing one of Christ’s promises to His disciples being fulfilled. It should give every true Christian zest for living and cause us to live pure lives and anticipate His giving to some of us, who have earned it, the “Crown of Righteousness” (1 John 3:2; 2 Timothy 4:8).

Our salvation cost Jesus Christ His life, but it is freely offered to believers. But crowns, rewards, and praise are earned. If you’re a Christian, will you receive this and other crowns from Him? What will you do with them? (See Revelation 4:10, 11). [1]

This event was a mystery in the Old Testament but unveiled to believers during Christ’s earthly ministry just before He went to the cross to die for our sins…and rise again bodily from the dead on the third day (John 14:1-3; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, 51, 52; Romans 16:25, 26).

His disciples were anxiously waiting for Him to set up the “Kingdom of the Heavens” where He would be the King and they would rule with Him (Daniel 2:44, 45; Matthew 3:2; 4:17; 20:21; Luke 19:15-19). [2]

But because the majority of the Jews rejected Him as their promised Messiah, and His claim to be God (John 5:16-18;10:30, 31), Jesus postponed the setting up of His Kingdom on/over the earth and told His disciples that He was going go to the cross and die for the sins of the whole world – both Jews and non-Jews, and then rise again bodily from the dead (Psalm 16:10; Luke 24:46). God is NOT finished with the Jewish nation (Romans 11). The Church has NOT replaced Israel. [3]

The Apostle Peter opposed and rebuked the Lord for talking about dying. In return, the Lord rebuked the devil for using Peter to try to thwart God’s plan for the salvation of mankind (Matthew 16:20-23; John 3:16).

This is the background to the words that Jesus said to His disciples on the night He was betrayed by one of His own disciples, Judas. Jesus said, “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions [dwelling places]; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you [i.e. one place for all of you]. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also” (John 14:1-3). We understand that this place is described for us in Revelation 21:9 ff. [4]

These words of Jesus were spoken over 2,000 years ago and they cause many scoffers today to deny His promise to come again (2 Peter 3:3). Why the delay? Simply because not all whom God the Father has given to God the Son (Jesus) have come to Him and been saved through the proclamation of the Gospel (John 6:37; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). These saved people make up the “Body of Christ” which becomes His Bride (Ephesians 5:32, 33; Revelation 22:17). Are you sharing the clear Gospel with lost people?

“What kind of Christian do you need to be to lead someone to Jesus Christ? You don’t need to be a brilliant person with a clever mind, but a broken person with a clear message.” – Evangelist Dr. R. Larry Moyer.

If you’re rightly related to Christ, with your known sins confessed to God (Galatians 5:16; Ephesians 5:18; 1 John 1:9), and not a carnal Christian, we encourage you to memorize and share this message with lost people: “Christ died for our sins…and rose again bodily from the dead. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ alone, and you will be saved. Do it now.” (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; Acts 15:31; Ephesians 2:8, 9). [5]

Sadly, most people won’t put their faith and trust in Christ alone to be saved. They love darkness rather than light and the passing pleasures of sin (John 3:19; Hebrews 11:25). Some people think Christ’s death wasn’t necessary because they aren’t that bad. Others think He didn’t do enough and so they try to add their good works to His. (See Romans 3:10-23; Ephesians 2:8, 9; Isaiah 64:6) Does this describe you?

The True Church – the spiritual “Body of Christ” is made up of true believers from the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2) until the “Rapture” of the true Church (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). The “Rapture” is not to be confused with the “Second Coming of Christ” which happens after the “Seven Years of the Tribulation” (Daniel 9:27). Don’t confuse Israel with the Church (1 Corinthians 10:32). [6]

We believe that the true Church (not the apostate church) will be removed from the earth just before this “Seven Year Tribulation” period begins (Revelation 3:10; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 5:9). This doesn’t mean that the true church won’t suffer persecution before Christ returns for His Church. “…all [Christians] who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12).

Some people, who claim to be Christians, believe that Christ arose in spirit only, not bodily (2 John 1:7). But the Apostle Paul insisted that the bodily resurrection of Christ be included in the Gospel message. For this he suffered and was put in chains (2 Timothy 2:8-10). Are you leaving out the bodily resurrection from your Gospel presentations to the lost? If so, start including it.

The Gospel is the power of God unto a person’s salvation (Romans 1:16). A dead person can’t help anyone. Christ’s resurrection guarantees other resurrections. Do you know in which one you will participate if you die? [7] Some Christians won’t die (1 Corinthians 15:51, 52).

Scripture tells us that Christ’s resurrected, glorified body had flesh and bones, but no blood. It was/is capable of eating food, though not necessary to survive (Luke 24:36-43). Christians will receive a body like His resurrected, glorified body when we see Him face to face at the Rapture (1 John 3:2). It will include a garment of light similar to His (1 Timothy 6:16). What about intermediate bodies? [8]

“The Pre-tribuation Rapture of the True Church” is the result of a normal, historical, grammatical, contextual interpretation of the Bible, in contrast to the allegorical method of interpretation which allows one to interpret the Bible as he pleases. The devil and false teachers use the allegorical method of interpretation (particularly with Bible prophecy) to deceive and mislead people (Genesis 3:1-5; 2 Peter 3:16). You won’t want to spend eternity with them in the lake of fire (Matthew 25:30, 41, 46; 2 Peter 2:17; Jude 1:13).

While there are no “sign miracles” that precede the Rapture of the true Church, there seems to be many indicators (world events) that point to this imminent event. The devil’s counterfeit one world government, religion, and economic system, which seems to be in the making, will precede Christ’s rule over the earth for 1,000 years just as the Bible predicted. [9]

My friend, if you aren’t sure of your eternal destiny, and would like additional information, please contact us. If you’re a carnal Christian (1 Corinthians 3:1 ff; Galatians 5:19-21), you can get right with God by confessing your known sins to God and then claiming His forgiveness (1 John 1:9). Then go on to spiritual maturity for the glory of God and the good of others (1 Corinthians 10:31; Galatians 6:10).

We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and who want to grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18).

We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  

Used by Permission. All rights reserved.

For further study –

[1] Five Crowns https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2018/07/12/whats-free-whats-earned/

[2] Order Of Coming Events – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2014/01/30/the-order-of-coming-events//

[3] Replacement Theology – https://www.gotquestions.org/replacement-theology.html

[4] Heavenly Home – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2021/11/05/this-world-is-not-my-home/

[5] Gospel – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/02/16/gospel-presentations/

[6] FREE Dispensations Chart – https://www.kelseypeach.com/_files/ugd/08892a_ce5bb78881fa4f50a6c866dd9ab0adfe.pdf

[7] Five Resurrections – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2015/09/10/five-bodily-resurrections/

[8] Intermediate Bodies = http://bartimaeus.us/pub_dom/intermediate_body.html

[9] Earth’s Golden Ear – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2020/05/31/earths-golden-era/

A Wee Little Man

“Zacchaeus was a wee little man,

and a wee little man was he.
He climbed up in a sycamore tree
For the Lord he wanted to see.
And when the Savior passed that way
He looked up in the tree.
And said, ‘Zacchaeus, you come down!
For I’m going to your house today!

For I’m going to your house today!’”

Luke Chapter 19:1-10

Perhaps you sang this chorus when you were a small child in Sunday School. But you probably didn’t know that he was a despised Jewish tax collector whom the other Jews hated. He worked for the Roman government and often extracted from his own people much more than he was supposed to collect. Thus he became very rich.

(BTW – There are some Jewish people like Zacchaeus who are doing the same kind of thing in our day to their own Jewish people and to others.)

But don’t hate such people; pity them. They too can be saved from hell just as Zacchaeus was. We should never wish that awful place on anyone, no matter how bad they’ve been, or say “God d— you.” Where would you and I be today apart from the grace of God? It’s truly amazing.

Have you ever wondered what kind of people might be your neighbors in heaven, if you go there? To find out, click below. Which of these characteristics describe you? [1]

Jesus wept over the Jewish folks in Jerusalem who had rejected Him (Matthew 23:37-39). If you’ve been saved by God’s grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, do you ever weep over lost people as the Apostle did (Romans 9:1-3)?

Blind songwriter, Fanny Crosby wrote, “Rescue the perishing, Care for the dying, Snatch them in pity from sin and the grave, Weep o’er the erring one, Lift up the fallen, Tell them of Jesus the mighty to save.”

Although he probably wasn’t as rich as Zacchaeus was, Matthew (one of Christ’s 12 disciples) was also a converted Jewish tax collector (Matthew 9:9; 10:3). He wrote the first Gospel presenting Jesus Christ as the true Messiah and the rightful King of the Jews.

During the early part of His 3 ½ year ministry on earth, Jesus’ concern was for His own people, the Jews (Matthew 15:21-28). He said to His disciples, “Do not go into the way of the Gentiles [non-Jews], and do not enter a city of the Samaritans. But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matthew 10:5, 6). Note an exception Jesus made (John 4:1-42).

But after most of the Jewish people had rejected Him (John 1:11, 12) as their promised Messiah, He temporarily changed His focus from that of being their Messiah to His offering of Himself as the Savior of the whole world Who would go to die on a cross for the sins of all mankind (Matthew 16:20 ff; See John 3:16; 1 John 2:2; 4:10). Sadly, most people won’t come to Him and be saved because they love darkness rather than light (John 3:19). What about you?

After His death and resurrection, and just before He ascended back to heaven from where He had come, Jesus told His disciples that they were to be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the end of the earth (Acts 1:8). They were witnesses of His death for our sins…and His bodily resurrection (Acts 1:22; 4:2, 33; 24:15, 21; 1 Corinthians 15:1-8). Without His bodily resurrection, we’d be hopeless and most miserable (1 Corinthians 15:17-19).

BTW – Merely knowing and agreeing with the facts of the Gospel won’t save us (James 2:19). We must transfer our faith and trust from ourselves and our good works over to Christ alone if we are to be saved (Acts 16:31; Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5). Have you done this yet? If not, why not now?

Some years after the church began on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2), a council meeting was held in Jerusalem. James, Christ’s half-brother said, “Simon [Peter] has declared how God at the first visited the Gentiles (non-Jews) to take out of them a people for His name” (Acts 15:14). The non-Jews were/are also those whom God the Father loved, and the ones for whom Christ died and rose again so they could be saved from everlasting condemnation in the lake of fire (John 3:16, 18, 36; Matthew 25:41, 46).

Today God is creating from Jewish and non-Jewish believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, one new man known as “The Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:15). Jesus Christ is the Head of this new creation and true Christians make up the spiritual “Body of Christ” (Ephesians 1:22, 23; 1 Corinthians 12:12, 13).

The Jewish people must be saved the same way non-Jewish people are saved and acknowledge the full Deity of Jesus Christ (Romans 1:16, 17; 10:9; Colossians 2:9). This is a problem for most of the Jews and those in some of the cults and other religions.

Once saved, Jewish believers become one “in Christ” with non-Jewish believers (1 Corinthians 12:12, 13; Ephesians 4:1-6). In God’s mind, there are no distinctions between these two groups (Galatians 3:26-29; 1 Corinthians 10:32).

The Apostle Paul, a converted Jew, wrote, “For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that [spiritual] blindness in part has happened to Israel [the Jewish people as a whole] until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in” (Romans 11:25).

This means that after all the non-Jews, whom God the Father has given to God the Son, have come to Him and been saved (John 6:37) during this era of the Church (i.e. the “Dispensation of Grace”), Christ will return for “His Body, the true Church” and make it His “Bride” (Ephesians 5: 32; Revelation 21:9 ff; 22:17). This will take place at the time of the “Rapture” when true Christians will be caught up to meet the Lord in the air (1 Corinthians 15:51, 52; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).

Then our works will be judged / evaluated to determine which ones can be rewarded and which won’t be rewarded (1 Corinthians 3:11-15). At this same time, our future roles and service in heaven and our enjoyment of it will be determined, depending on the type of works we did while we were here on earth (1 Corinthians 4:5).

Once the true Church has been taken up to heaven, God’s “time clock” with the Jewish nation will resume (Romans 9-11). God is NOT finished with the Jewish nation. We do NOT believe in “Replacement Theology” that falsely teaches that the Church has replaced Israel and can claim the promises that were given to the Jews? [3] (Read Genesis 12:1-3 about the blessings and curses that come on those who treat or mistreat the Jews. See also Deuteronomy 28.)

Sadly, many churches in “Christendom” believe this heresy which will result in the worst holocaust in human history during the last half of the Tribulation (3 ½ years). It is known as “The Time of Jacob’s / Israel’s Trouble” (Jeremiah 30:7).

With the increase of anti-semitism (i.e. hatred for the Jews, particularly among the other nations in the United Nations), this event seems to be “just around the corner.”

After going through this seven year holocaust (Daniel 9:27; Jeremiah 30:7), God will rescue a remnant (1/3) of the Jewish people (Isaiah 10:20-22; Zechariah 13:8, 9). Note: During this 7 year period over ½ of the world’s population will die (Revelation 6:8; 9:15). Some of the current, anti-God globalists want to reduce the population of the earth down to 500 million. That’s about a 95% reduction of the current world population. [3]

The Jewish remnant will be the ones who finally acknowledge that Jesus, whom their forefathers had rejected, was/is indeed their Promised Messiah (Matthew 23:37-39; Luke 19:14). [4] He will return as the “King of kings, and Lord of lords” and crush all His enemies with a sharp sword and a rod of iron (Psalm 2:9; Revelation 19:16).

He will come to rescue the believing Jews in “the nick of time” as the nations of the world gather at Armageddon to try to annihilate the Jews once and for all (Matthew 24:29 ff; Revelation 16:16; 19:11-21). God will not let this happen to the Jews. The devil would like to annihilate them so God can’t fulfill His unconditional promises to them. (See Revelation 12:15-17).

Then God will make the Jewish believers the head nation over the non-Jewish nations during Christ’s millennial (1,000) reign on/over the whole earth (Revelation 20:1-8), as foretold by the Jewish prophets (Deuteronomy 28:13; Daniel 2:44, 45; Isaiah 9:6, 7). Resurrected King David will be ruler on the earth under Christ and His Bride, the true Church (Jeremiah 30:9). Finally there will be true peace on earth (Isaiah 2:4; 9:6, 7).

It seems like we are approaching the end of this era, known as the “Dispensation of Grace” (Ephesians 3:1-7). [5] There are at least 1,007 years left before God wipes out this present universe that has been polluted by sin. Then He will create new heavens and a new earth where righteousness will finally settle down and feel at home (Revelation 21:1 ff; Isaiah 65:17; 2 Peter 3:10-13).

Where will you spend eternity – with God in heaven or in the lake of fire with the devil and his angels/demons (John 14:1-3; Matthew 25:41, 46)? Now, while you’re physically alive, is the only time you have to make your decision to believe or not believe on the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior (2 Corinthians 6:2; John 3:16, 18, 36).

To learn more about God’s timeline for humanity, and where we are today, we invite you to get our FREE “Bible Study Book Marker” [5] on our website: www.kelseypeach.com

Having completed “fourscore” years on this earth, I believe that my days may be very limited. I want to glorify God (1 Corinthians 10:31) by making Him known to others who are teachable, willing to change, and who want to grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16-4:8; 2 Peter 3:18).

Contact us here or through our website if you have questions and/or comments.

To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.” If this information has helped you, please let us know, and then SHARE it with others who may need help and/or comfort from God’s Word (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4).

[1] Our Neighbors In Heaven – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/12/07/our-neighbors-in-heaven/

[2] Replacement Theology – https://www.gotquestions.org/replacement-theology.html

[3] Global Population Reduction – https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=57909

[4] Jesus – The Rightful King of the Jews, Prophecies Fulfilled –

https://www.gotquestions.org/prophecies-of-Jesus.html

https://www.gotquestions.org/King-of-the-Jews.html

[5] Bible Study Book Marker with Dispensations Chart

Click to access 08892a_ce5bb78881fa4f50a6c866dd9ab0adfe.pdf

The Order Of Coming Events: https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2014/01/30/the-order-of-coming-events/

The Gospel For Our Salvation: https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/24/the-bad-news-the-good-news/

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  

Used by Permission. All rights reserved.

Pass It On

He was lingering in a Roman prison cell and facing an imminent death. Why? Because he insisted that the Gospel he proclaimed for the salvation of Jews and non-Jews (Romans1:16) had to include, not only Christ’s death for our sins, but also His bodily resurrection from the dead (2 Timothy 2:8-10; Acts 24:21). Without it, we, as believers in Him, couldn’t be sure that our sins had been forgiven (Romans 4:25), and we’d have no hope for a better life in the future (1 Corinthians 15:12-19).

The “best life” for an unbeliever is now; The “best life” for a Christian is in the next life. Think about that. Where will you spend it – in heaven or in hell? Are you sure?

It was from this prison cell that the Apostle Paul wrote a brief letter to his son-in-the-faith, Timothy. The believers in Asia Minor, whom he led to the Lord, had forsaken him (2 Timothy 1:15). He wanted Timothy to pass on to other faithful Christians what he had received from Paul (2 Timothy 2:2), who had been taught by the Lord Himself for three years in the wilderness after his conversion (Galatians 1:15-18).

Sadly, there are many Christians who aren’t faithful to the Lord and His Word. They live carnal lives (See 1 Corinthians 3:1 ff) and walk according to the flesh (their sin nature), rather than by means of the Spirit (Galatians 5:16-21; Romans 8:5-8). Such Christians grieve and quench God the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30; 1 Thessalonians 5:19).

Confession to God the Father is in order for such believers (1 John 1:9; Proverbs 28:13) or serious consequences could follow: weakness, sickness, or a premature death (1 Corinthians 11:30; James 5:19, 20; 1 John 5:16). Keep this in mind – We have “potential years” and “actual years.”

“Sin (lawless behavior) will take us farther than we want to go; It will keep us longer than we want to stay; It will cost us more than we want to pay.” The passing pleasures of sin aren’t worth it when we consider that our flesh and bones may end up being consumed, perhaps by a STD (Hebrews 11:25; Proverbs 5:11). With 700 wives and 300 concubines, King Solomon may have died this way.

He advised others to live wisely. But then he didn’t follow his own advice, and for a period of time lived in vanity while trying to please himself. He concluded, “Vanity of vanities, all [that I’ve done to please myself] is vanity” (Ecclesiastes 1:2). Later he wrote, “Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, Before the difficult days come, And the years draw near when you say, ‘I have no pleasure in them’” (Ecclesiastes 12:1). Let’s learn from the mistakes of others (1 Corinthians 10:1-13).

Because Christians still have a sinful nature (1 John 1:8; Romans 7:15-25) and the potential to engage in all the lawless behavior that they engaged in before they were saved, the Apostle Paul warned believers to “Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart” (2 Timothy 2:22).

God chose the Apostle Paul to be the steward (household manager) of the “Dispensation of Grace” in which we now live. He was the major contributor to “Grace Teachings” for New Testament Christians (Galatians 1:15-7; Ephesians 3:1-7). The Apostles Peter and John, along with James and Jude (the Lord’s half-brothers) supplement what Paul wrote to Christians.

Being forsaken by the believers in Asia Minor must have been very painful to Paul. But he knew that the Lord had not forsaken him. Perhaps he thought of the Psalmist’s words, “When my father and my mother [or other believers] forsake me, Then the LORD will take care of me” (Psalm 27:10). The writer of Hebrews wrote, “Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Even after claiming that they would never deny or abandon Him, Christ’s disciples forsook Him in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:56).

Until God takes us home to heaven by means of physical death or through the rapture, God has work for Christians to do (Ephesians 2:10; 1 Peter 4:10). We don’t (shouldn’t) retire from serving God; We won’t in heaven (Revelation 22:3). Christ wants to live out His life through the believer’s life (Galatians 2:20; 4:19). He wants us to be willing to be persecuted or even die for our faith, if necessary so others can be saved (2 Timothy 2:10; 3:12). Such believers can earn the “Crown of Life” (Revelation 2:10; James 1:12).

Jesus said, “You [disciples] did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you” (John 15:16). “This fruit can be seen in Christlike character (2 Peter 1:5-8; Galatians 5:22, 23), a life characterized by good works (Colossians 1:10), a faithful witness (1 Corinthians 16:15), a pair of lips that praise God (Hebrews 13:15), and through generous giving of one’s money (Romans 15:28; Philippians 4:17).  – Dr. Charles C. Ryrie “So Great Salvation” p. 50.

James, the Lord’s half brother wrote, “But someone will say, ‘You have faith, and I have works.’ Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works” (James 2:18). Question: If you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you? If not, why? What needs to change?

Older Christians, who have been through the “rough waters” or “storms of life” should assist Christians who are coming behind them (Galatians 6:2). “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God” (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4). And remember – “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13). God wants us to be victorious over our three spiritual enemies: the devil, our own sin nature, and the present world system.

I, personally, want to live the rest of my days on earth as though each day that God gives me to live might be my last day on earth, or the last day of someone I love or know. Our lives are like a vapor that soon passes away (James 4:14). Missionary C. T. Studd wrote, “Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last. And when I am dying, how happy I’ll be, If the lamp of my life has been burned out for Thee.”

At the “Bema Seat Judgment” for New Testament Christians, Jesus, the righteous Judge (John 5:22; 2 Timothy 4:8), will evaluate our works and our motives and reveal why we did what we did (1 Corinthians 3:11-15; 4:5; 2 Corinthians 5:10). Were they done in keeping with the Holy Spirit’s leading in our lives (Romans 8:14), and with His power (Philippians 3:10; 4:13)? Were they done according to the rules that God set forth in His Word (2 Timothy 2:5; See Romans 3:8; 6:1)? Were they done according to the will of God (Acts 21:4-14)?  Did they bring glory to God or to us (1 Corinthians 10:31)?

Those works that don’t measure up to His standard will be burned up, but the believer will not lose his/her salvation (1 Corinthians 3:11-15; 2 Corinthians 5:10). That’s amazing grace – unmerited favor from God. Have you experienced it yet (Ephesians 2:8, 9)?

If you consider yourself to be a relatively mature Christian, are you passing on what you’ve learned over the years to those who are coming behind you? Are you setting a good example for them? Think of your children and grandchildren if you have some.

If you haven’t placed your faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day, now is the time to do so. You have no guarantee that you will be alive at the end of today.

We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16-4:8). If you have questions and/or comments, we can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. If you’d like to receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

For additional information:

What’s Free – Earned? https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2018/07/12/whats-free-whats-earned/

Test Questions – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/11/02/the-test-questions/

Three Spiritual Enemies – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2021/07/08/the-blame-game/

Crowns & Rewards: – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2014/04/30/about-our-motives-part-1-2/

Be Like Jesus – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/01/07/be-like-jesus/

C. T. Studd – https://reasonsforhopejesus.com/only-one-life-twill-soon-be-past-by-c-t-studd-1860-1931/

Dispensations Chart – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/02/16/gospel-presentations/ https://www.kelseypeach.com/_files/ugd/08892a_ce5bb78881fa4f50a6c866dd9ab0adfe.pdf

Gospel Presentations – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/02/16/gospel-presentations/

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  

Used by Permission. All rights reserved.

Where Do I Start?

After people “get saved,” when they believe on the Lord Jesus Christ through the message of the Gospel, they are often encouraged to read the Bible (let God talk to you), pray (you talk to God), and witness to others about Christ. This all sounds like a good idea. But we believe that new believers need some help in these areas so they don’t get disappointed, discouraged, and begin to have doubts.

Like newborn babies, we all should start out with the “milk of the Word” and then go on to “solid food” (1 Peter 2:2; Hebrews 5:12-14). Older, more mature believers can be a great asset to newer Christians (Galatians 6:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:11).

If you’ve been saved for some time, what are you doing to help rather than hinder new believers? How much spiritual growth has taken place in your life? Maybe you need this information too.

Do you know that Christians have “Eight Ways To Communicate With God” and that the Bible has “Seven Distinct Rules For Living” for different people living in different times?

If you’ve been saved by God’s grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily from the dead, [1] you’ll want to help your family, friends, and fellow workers get saved from everlasting condemnation (John 3:18; Romans 8:1) so they can join you in heaven some day? Did you know that Christians can earn the “Crown of Rejoicing” for having a part in the salvation of others (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20)? [2]

The Apostle Paul wrote, “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out [not for] your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:12, 13). Imagine that – He energizes us to do the things that will please Him. It should be our goal in life to please and glorify God by making Him known to others (2 Corinthians 5:9; 1 Corinthians 10:31).

Sadly, many Christians quench Him (i.e. render Him inoperative in their lives) and grieve Him by sinning – acting lawlessly (1 Thessalonians 5:19; Ephesians 4:30; 1 John 3:4). Are you doing this? If so, confess it to Him, claim His forgiveness, and move on toward spiritual maturity (1 John 1:9; Proverbs 28:13).

Our FREE “Bible Study Book Marker” [3] was designed to help you and others gain assurance of your salvation, to help you get the most out of God’s Word by using our “Bible Study Aids,” and to communicate with God more effectively (How To Pray), and to know what portions of the Bible are for you and which are addressed to you (See our “Dispensations Chart”).

All of the Bible is truth (John 17:17). It even records the lies of the devil and other people. It is what God wants us to know for now. In His Word, God “has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust” (2 Peter 1:3, 4).

All of the Bible needs to be believed, but not all of it is to be believed and practiced (Titus 1:9). Example: Dietary rules and types of sacrifices offered to God by the Jews differ from Christian rules (Leviticus 11; 1 Timothy 4:4; Hebrews 9:13; 10:4; 13:15, 16).

May we suggest that you download a copy of our FREE Bible Study Book Marker for yourself on light colored paper and make some additional copies for those who are teachable, willing to change, and who want to grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18)? Keep one in your Bible as a handy reference guide.

Contact us here or through our website if you have questions or would like additional help: www.kelseypeach.com. If this information has helped you, please let us know. And if you would like to get future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

[1] Gospel Presentations – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/02/16/gospel-presentations/

[2] Crowns – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2018/07/12/whats-free-whats-earned/

[3] FREE Bible Study Book Marker: https://www.kelseypeach.com/_files/ugd/08892a_ce5bb78881fa4f50a6c866dd9ab0adfe.pdf

[4] Final Test Questions: https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/11/02/the-test-questions/

Precious Promises – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/01/promises-for-christians-to-claim-2/

Need A Good Study Bible? We recommend the “Scofield Study Bible.” Ask for more information.

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  

Used by Permission. All rights reserved.

“The Policeman’s Whistle”

We don’t hear it very often anymore. But when he uses it, we’re supposed to pay attention to what he has to say and do it (unless it’s an unlawful command – Acts 5:29). Sadly, many people today show disrespect for those in authority and act lawlessly. Lawlessness is sin. (1 John 3:4).

Sin has consequences. It will take us further then we want to go; it will keep us longer than we want to stay; and it will cost us more than we want to pay. (Memorize this and remind yourself of this when you’re tempted to sin. Remember, as the song says – the temptation itself isn’t a sin; it’s yielding to a sinful lust that becomes sin.)

Citizens. “Let every soul [individual citizen] be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God” (Romans 13:1).

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right” (Ephesians 6:1). Students – be teachable and willing to change and grow (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16).

Christians. “Obey those [spiritual leaders] who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you” (Hebrews 13:17).

Teachers. “My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment” (James 3:1). We all shall give an account to God someday (Romans 14:12).

Anarchy. Imagine what life would be like if everyone did what was right in his own eyes without regard for anyone else. [1] Days like this took place before the flood of Noah’s day and God had to wipe them all off the face of the earth (Genesis 6:5). They also occurred when there was no king in Israel and gross immorality was rampant (Judges 20:6; 21:25). Life was almost unbearable. God’s Word predicted such days would also exist during the end times in which we now live (1 Timothy 4:1 ff; 2 Timothy 3:1 ff).

“Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness;
Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!” (Isaiah 5:20).

Rules. Every society needs rules to govern the citizens. God established human government for the benefit of people (Genesis 9:6). It has the right and responsibility to carry out capital punishment for certain crimes (Romans 13:4). Obviously, there are tyrants that rule over people. God often allows the basest of men to rule over others on a temporary basis (Daniel 4:17, 25).

Tourists. Different countries have different rules and you better know what they are if you plan to travel there. Being detained in some foreign countries is anything but pleasant.

BTW – God has different “Rules for Living” within the pages of the Scriptures that He has imposed on some or all of humanity. They are known as “Dispensations.” They are NOT different ways to be saved. We believe that we can identify seven of them. (See our FREE Bible Study Book Marker.) If you’re a Christian, are you living by the wrong set of Biblical rules? Contact us if you have questions.

The “Kingdom of the Heavens” (i.e. the rule of the heavens over the earth) is coming right after Satan’s man (“The man of sin” or “Antichrist”) has caused havoc on this earth for seven years. Christ’s Kingdom will last for 1,000 years. [2] These days seem to be just around the corner.

Decision. Your response to the Lord Jesus Christ and the Bad News / Good News (Gospel) will determine your eternal destiny in heaven or hell. Please take time to read and/or listen to the presentations. [3]

Help. If you have questions and/or comments, we can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18). Help us reach others by SHARING this with those in your circle of influence. To receive future articles as they come out, click on the notification Bell or Follow.

[1] Right-Wrong. https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2017/09/06/when-doing-right-is-wrong/

[2] The Order of Coming Events – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2014/01/30/the-order-of-coming-events/

[3] Gospel Presentations – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/02/16/gospel-presentations/

Policemen, by Paul Harvey – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQ1YsyZMaaU&t=7s

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  

Used by Permission. All rights reserved.

“Prelude”

Prelude = an introductory performance, action, or event preceding and preparing for the principal or a more important matter.

Current Events. We believe that what is currently taking place in our rapidly changing world is but a prelude of things to come that were predicted in the Scriptures. [1] Most people in “Christendom” believe that the prophecies concerning Christ’s first coming, some 2,000 years ago, were fulfilled literally. We believe that the prophecies concerning the Rapture of the Church, and the Second Coming of Christ should also be interpreted literally (i.e. normally, historically, grammatically, and contextually), not allegorically. The first allegorist was the devil when he questioned what God had said and tried to change the meaning of His command to deceive Eve (Genesis 2:17; 3:1-5).

Devil’s Man First. Before Christ sets up His millennial kingdom on/over the whole earth (Daniel 2:44,45; Isaiah 9:6, 7; Revelation 20:1-10), God will allow the devil to set up his “man of sin” (the antichrist), but will limit his rule over all the earth to seven years (Daniel 9:27; Revelation 12, 13). If God were to allow him to have a longer time than that, no flesh on earth would survive to repopulate the Millennial Kingdom of Christ (Matthew 24:22). Some “Globalists” want to reduce the population down from almost 8 billion people to about 500 million people. [2] Think about that.

Repopulate The Earth. After the universal flood, Noah’s three sons and their wives repopulated the whole earth (Genesis 9:1 ff). The language changes took place at the Tower of Babel, and the continental shift began to take place in the days of a man named Peleg (Genesis 10, 11). At the end of the “Seven Year Tribulation” all unbelievers will be removed from the earth (Matthew 24:40, 41; 25:32). The Jewish and non-Jewish believers, who physically survive the Tribulation, will be the ones who will repopulate the earth during the millennium when Christ rules as the King of kings, and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16).

No Grandchildren? The first generation of believers will have children and grandchildren who will need to be saved spiritually through personal faith in Christ. Why? “God has no grandchildren.” Sadly, while many (perhaps most) of them will restrain their sin nature from manifesting lawless behavior (sin) during the millennium, lest they die immediately (Matthew 5:29, 30), they will join the devil in his final rebellion against God and the Lord Jesus Christ when he (the devil) is released from the sides of the abyss, which is in the heart of the earth, at the end of Christ’s millennial kingdom (Isaiah 14:12 ff; Revelation 20:1-10). At this time the devil and all the unsaved rebells will be cast into the lake of fire to suffer forever (Revelation 20:7-15; 21:8).

The End. Even though the destruction and annihilation of the universe and the planet on which we now live is at least 1,007 years away from now (2 Peter 3:10-13; Revelation 21:1 ff), God wants every Christian to live a holy (morally pure) and godly life now for His glory and the good of others (1 Corinthians 10:31; See Philippians 4:13; Galatians 6:10). If you’ve been saved, are you living this way? Our time on earth is very limited.

Time. We have “potential years” and “actual years.” Will you suffer and die prematurely because of your lawless (sinful) behavior? God chastens and scourges His rebellious children in this life only (there is no Purgatory) so we won’t be condemned with the unsaved people of the world later on (Hebrews 12:5-12). Many Christians have died prematurely and some painfully (Acts 5:1-11; 1 Corinthians 11:30-32; James 5:19, 20; 1 John 5:16).

Death. Generally speaking, we are all destined to die physically (Hebrews 9:27). There have been and there will be some exceptions to this rule (Enoch – Genesis 5:24; Elijah – 2 Kings 2:1, 11; Some Christians – 1 Corinthians 15:51, 52; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Our lives are like a vapor that appears for a little time and then it vanishes away (James 4:14). When death comes to you, where will you go and what will happen to you?

Annihilation of the wicked dead and reincarnation are not taught in the Scriptures. The last enemy that Jesus will destroy is death (1 Corinthians 15:26). He will do this by raising everyone back to life – either to spend eternity in the lake of fire with the devil and his angels/demons, or in God’s presence. After this happens, eternity future will begin. (See our Bible Study Book Marker.)

Destiny. Are you sure you’ll go to heaven immediately when you die? Some folks don’t want to go there because they hate God and His rules and love darkness rather than light (John 3:19; Revelation 13:16; 16:19). My friend, if you go to the lake of fire (hell), no one will really care about you because they will be concerned about their own suffering, not your suffering (Matthew 25:30, 41, 46; Revelation 21:8).

Gospel. You can avoid hell and enter heaven by placing your faith and trust in the Christ of the Scriptures alone, (not the Christ of the cults), [3] Who died for your sins, was buried, and rose again bodily on the third day (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). [4] We are NOT saved by our good works (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5).

Help. If you have questions and/or comments, we can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18). Help us reach others by SHARING this with those in your circle of influence. To receive future articles as they come out, click on the notification Bell or Follow.

[1] Bible Study Book Marker with Dispensations Chart

Click to access 08892a_ce5bb78881fa4f50a6c866dd9ab0adfe.pdf

The Order Of Coming Events – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2014/01/30/the-order-of-coming-events/

[2] Population Reduction – https://grandmageri422.me/2020/03/15/the-georgia-guides-stones-population-control-and-the-coming-antichrist/

[3] Which Jesus Saves? https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2015/01/07/which-jesus-saves/

[4] Gospel Presentations – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/02/16/gospel-presentations/

Bible Prophecy Articles – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/category/bible-prophecy/