Subject: Interpreting Revelation |
Bible Note: Dear Cheri, The old ceremonial law was a mere shadow of what was to come (Colossians 2:17; Hebrews 8:5). A believer is a living sacrifice, in every sense of the word, made perfect by the work of Christ. But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient for these things? For we are not, like so many, peddlers of God's word, but as men of sincerity, as commissioned by God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ. (2 Corinthians 2:14-17 ESV) And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (Ephesians 5:2 ESV) Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well pleasing to God. (Philippians 4:17-18 KJV) The unfolding plan of God's eternal purpose in redemptive history does and will change. Today we share the communion cup, but of what need will that be when we are in glory? That's why the Lord says "til He come" (1 Corinthians 11:26). David wrote, "I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD." (Psalm 122:1) David would have gladly traded every one of his most blessed days in worship of the Lord for a single day as believers experience Him. Both prophet (1 Peter 1:10) and angel (1 Peter 1:12) wonder at the work that God is doing, drawing to Himself worshipers (John 4:23), building a perfect tabernacle(Ephesians 2:20-22), not made with hands (Hebrews 9:11). The attribute of the immutability of God is applicable to the discussion of the nature of God. But it is a misapplication from within the context of the unfolding of redemptive history. When God does a new work in time and space, it doesn't mean that He has somehow changed what He wants. These are plans formed long ago, being carried out in perfect faithfulness, which will have their culmination in precisely what He has intended all along. Use the New Testament to shed light on the Old. In Him, Doc |