Quad Code
Finding CODES in YOUR OWN Bible! Copyright (C) 2005
Christians who think that it is "THEY" themselves that had CHOSEN Christ as their Savior, should note that Jesus says, "YOU HAVE 'NOT' CHOSEN Me.. (John 15:16)!" God "Chooses, Calls, and Enables" some of us to believe (Eph.1:4; Rom. 8:28, 30; 1 Tim.1:12)! God must "Choose" us, and Christ must "Enable" us or we cannot come! We need God's help to "Believe" in Jesus! You can READ this CODE right out of Your OWN Bible!
How a Father "Chooses" a Bride for His Son:
In Genesis 24:1-22 (4,000 years ago), you will find the clue needed to decipher this code. Our patriarch Abraham was over 140 years old and wanted a wife for his 40-year-old son Isaac. So, he made his Trusted Servant "swear" to him to "go to a far country" and bring back a (Chosen) bride for his son. The Servant was now under strict SWORN orders, to bring one back (vs.3). "What if she will not return with me," asks the servant (vs.5). Abraham says that he will release him from his STRICT oath...[DO NOT bring that (UNchosen) one back (vs.8)]!
After many days and a long (450-mile) journey "to a far country" by camel-train through the desert, both the Servant and camels were then very thirsty. Upon arriving at a village-well where maidens were drawing water, the servant prays to God for success; and receives a Code-word on "how" a maid will respond when he asks for "a drink of water." He then says with great confidence, "Let it be" that she WILL respond with (this Code-word): "Sir, I will give you to drink... and give drink for your camels also!" How did he ever know "how" she will respond? Allow me to call this a "Code," to better explain it all.
As the Servant went to the well, a maid came by with a jug of water. He spoke up (Called) and gave the maid (Rebekah) his ID-Code: "Can you give me a drink?" She then "responded" with her ID-Code: "Sir, I will give you to drink!" There's a pause [1st test] while she served him his drink. He still needed her "Password" so she could Log onto him, and he would know that she IS the Chosen one! She then chimed in, "And give drink for your camels also (vs. 19)." That was her Password! The connection is made; "exactly" as the Servant prayed she would.
Another pause [2nd test] then occured while the Servant "pondered" about her, and needed her to "demonstrate" her intent. So she ran back to the well many times, filling the trough "to give drink for his camels also (vs. 21)!" That action proved her intent to 'willingly' serve the son (Isaac)! The Servant then "Enables" her to become the bride, immediately confirming it by placing bracelets on her wrists and a nose-ring on her nose (vs. 22)! She was Chosen (Eph. 1:4; John 15:16), Called (1 Cor. 1:1-2, 9, 24; John 6:44-45), and "Enabled" to believe (1 Tim. 1:12)!
The servant represents The Holy Spirit, Who cannot allow the 'bride' to enter God's Kingdom unless certain conditions are met. This is like her standing in a castle's foyer, and to wait until the King points His Scepter at her; at which time she is then "Enabled" to enter into the throne-room and into the King's presence (Esth. 2:14; 4:11; 5:2). Likewise, when you and I hear the Word of God and respond when Called; we are tested in our 'willingness' and 'desire,' before we are "Enabled" to enter into Jesus' presence and be saved. The 'tested bride' here, is like you and me!
Her first ID-Code was to serve God, and her second ID-Password was to serve others. Note that the "camels" represent the "others," as she began to water 10 camels; rushing back to the well many times as each could hold 25 gallons. She was "willing" to serve! Years later, Christ on the cross said, "I thirst!" He was thirsting too for His Chosen ones to believe, serve, and tell others about Him; through the Power of The Holy Spirit!
CAVEAT~~~There are many "Codes" in the Bible, which illustrate a profound truth; like the "Hear"Code (Mark 4:14-20), or "Chosen"Code (John 15:16, Eph. 1:4, Rom. 9:11), or "Color"Code (Isaiah 1:18), etc. God had already put "hidden" DNA and RNA Codes into our body, to control physical functions for our own good. From that, it only "seems" that God had also put the "Chosen"Code into us; for The Holy Spirit to locate us among the many UNchosen ones. But God "knows" whom He has Chosen. He does not need to identify us with an actual ID-Code or tag within our soul and spirit; to bring us to believe in Jesus. "The Lord knows them that are His...children of the flesh are not the children of God" (2 Tim. 2:19; Rom. 9:8). Look up the quotes!
How God The Father Chooses "Some of Us" as a Bride for His Son: (Gen. 24:1-22).
Our "One Triune-God" shows us here by acting through the lives of Abraham, Isaac, and Servant; how God The Father, God the Son, and God The Holy Spirit are "ACTUALLY WORKING" in our lives. When Abraham had "released" his Servant from the sworn oath to bring a refusing bride back, it's the same as when God The Father "releases" God The Holy Spirit from bringing an UNchosen one back; to God The Son! If God had not Chosen that one, The Holy Spirit makes an effort to bring him back; but is "excused" if that one will not come to believe (Gen. 24:3-8). Else, our One Triune God would not be 100% successful in all the ones He HAD Chosen to bring back! Only the Chosen can come. The refusing ones are the UNchosen ones, who will not respond to The Holy Spirit!
The maid (Rebekah) is actually like you and me, whom The Holy Spirit is seeking in this world as a bride for Jesus. God KNOWS who WILL respond to The Holy Spirit, to bring us to believe in His Son Jesus. When God The Holy Spirit searches for us ("Are you the one?..Are you the one?.."), He recognizes us that have been personally "Chosen" by the Father; so that we "will respond" to believe in Christ, then serve Him and tell others about Him (Ephesians 1:4; John 3:16-18; 1 Peter 4:10,11).
God did NOT wait until "after" He knew we "would" come to believe, BEFORE He had Chosen us! If He already 'knew' we would believe all on our own, and "then" He Chose us 'before' creating the World; HE would not have any more power than WE have! He "Chose us" FIRST! It does NOT depend on 'what' WE do, but on HIS power to actually 'bring us' to salvation in Christ! Else, we could not give God ALL of the Glory for saving us; as we would think that WE had "come" all by ourselves!
Until We Come, We Cannot "Know" If We Are CHOSEN!
Many Christians when they believe, think that it is "they" that had chosen Jesus as Savior. But Christ Jesus Himself tells us in the Gospel of John 15:16, "You have NOT chosen Me, but I HAVE 'Chosen' you...!" Jesus did NOT say "I have chosen you" to Judas Iscariot, as Judas had left Jesus two chapters earlier to carry out his treachery (John 13:27-31). Judas was not among those "11 Chosen" for salvation, though he was a follower among the disciples. He was UNchosen and remained lost! When Jesus first called the "12" early in His ministry (John 6:70), He already knew Judas was a Devil, and UNchosen (UN-Elected)!
Note that if God 'had' Chosen Satan (or Hitler, King Herod, or Judas Iscariot), even Satan (and other evil-doers) would come to believe in Jesus and live forever! But these were NOT among the "Chosen!" Once God has Chosen someone, His purpose is to bring them to Trust in Christ! The Holy Spirit "Calls" every person, by applying The Word to their hearts; to get them to understand and believe that they remain Lost, until they surrender to Jesus. If God has Chosen you and me, He will be 100% successful in bringing us to believe in His Son. We cannot get out of it! We WILL be drawn, and come! (John 6:44).
God 'leads' both the Chosen AND the UNchosen to believe in Jesus, even though we do not know we are being led! Only the Chosen WILL be released from Satan's grip, and actually MADE 'able' to surrender to Christ (1 Tim. 1:12)! It is NOT what YOU do, but what God does FOR you to Believe; that allows you to live forever in Jesus (Eph. 1:4; John 10:7-30). It's 'NOT' you; but God Who "Enables" us to Believe in Jesus!
Since we did NOT choose Jesus, then when was it that we were Elected to come? In the book of Ephesians 1:4, it tells us that we were Chosen in Him from "BEFORE the foundation of the world!" Why in the world would God have Chosen some of us for salvation, before He made the heavens and earth; before He made Angels, Animals, Adam and Eve?? There was nothing there then!
When God made the world and all in it, He gave "dominion" to Adam on the sixth day (Gen. 1:28); complete control! Then God rested on the seventh day, and declared all that He had made...was good! No Evil to that time! On the eighth day, the powerful Angel Lucifer wanted to have complete control over all the Earth! Lucifer sinned against God and fell spiritually from heaven; taking on the form of a serpent on Earth, whom we now know as Satan. His first task was to beguile Eve into eating of what was forbidden to her, and getting Adam to taste of it too. Adam and Eve then fell from grace, and lost control over all the Earth to powerful Satan! Now it is Satan that controls the earth, and won't let God's Chosen people GO... to Jesus!
God Elected (according to the foreknowledge of God -- 1 Pet. 1:2) "some of us" in Eternity-Past to believe, repent of our sins, humble ourselves and surrender to His Son. The Holy Spirit recognizes us as He searches for those Elect brides (holy and beloved) who belong to Jesus (Rom. 8:33; Col. 3:12; 1 Thess. 1:4). God Chose us BEFORE the world was made to HIDE His plans from both US and the powerful Angels; because Lucifer (Satan) "had not been made yet," and would not know of God's plans! Satan does not "know" who was "Chosen," and who was not! If he DID "know," he would 'kill' all us Chosen ones before we could learn of and confess Christ as Savior! "We" can't "know," until we have believed!
What is the Purpose of "Choosing?"
God is not a Puppeteer; nor has He made us Automatons to force us into every whim and wish of His. Satan already HAS everybody! What God has done was to "Choose some of us" to be set LOOSE from Satan's powerful grip; thus making us ABLE to believe and receive Jesus by the supreme power of God's Holy Spirit (1 Tim. 1:12)! Just because some of us may be "Chosen" to believe in Jesus, does not mean that we are already "saved" (many be "Called" but few are "Chosen" -- Matt. 20:16). The Holy Spirit yet needs to get through to us (teach us), and then "Enable" us to respond and "believe" in Christ as our Savior (foreordained before the foundation of the world -- 1 Pet. 1:20).
Not everyone is Chosen for salvation, else all evil murderers like Hitler would go to heaven! There would then be no reason for God to send His Son to the cross as a sacrifice for you and me! Hitler at one time studied to be a Jesuit Priest, but didn't believe in that Jew Jesus; and set about to kill thousands of Jews! King Herod of Chosen Israel, was not 'personally Chosen' himself; as he tried to kill the infant Jesus! Though Judas Iscariot studied with Jesus three years, he was not among those Chosen; as he did not believe Jesus was his Messiah!
Yet others like Saul of Tarsus had also done evil deeds. Though he was one of the Chosen, he didn't know that! Saul killed many of Jesus' disciples before he repented and became a disciple himself, with a new name: Paul! Even one of the two evil thieves on his cross alongside Jesus, didn't know that he was among the Chosen to 'come.' He had to be brought to suffer before he repented, and then "knew" before he died that he was saved by Jesus (Luke 23:42-43)! If Satan himself had been Chosen by God, he too would have come to believe in Jesus. But all of scripture reveals the Devil's unbelief, and deceit; and that he will go down into perdition (John 17:12; Rev. 17:8;11)!
Everyone is lost and cannot come; except for God's Elect (1 Tim. 1:12; 2:4)! You may be among God's "Chosen to come," but would still be lost until you actually "do" come (but ye bretheren are not in darkness -- 1 Thess. 5:4-5)! Simply trust in Jesus for your salvation, like the one Chosen thief did on the cross alongside Jesus (Luke 23:39-46)! God Calls and "Enables" His Chosen to come! God loves you, and wants a "Personal" relationship with you (John 3:16)!
"Enabled" to Respond.
In the Book of Esther 1:12, Queen Vashti was "called" by the King; who had "refused to come!" Esther was then "Called" who came to replace her, as Vashti was dethroned (Esth. 2:4; 14-18)! But Esther could not enter the throne-room, until the King pointed His Royal Scepter at her; thus "Enabling" her to come (Esth. 4:11; 5:2)! Only those Chosen, Called and "Enabled" to believe in Jesus, are "able" to respond; and become Faithful to the "King." (1 Tim. 1:12; Rev.[Apoc.] 17:14). You will be 'able' to enter His "Salvation" only 'after' Christ Jesus Himself "Enables" you!
God The Father is in His Heaven with God The Son "Jesus;" and has sent God The Holy Spirit to go to a "far country" (Earth), to search out the ones already Elected to salvation. Some have been Chosen to come, who "will then respond" to the Call by the "hearing" of the Word ("called," chosen, and faithful -- Rev. 17:14)! The ones that were 'not chosen' will never trust in Jesus for their Salvation! It is just not in them; being "unable" to try to do so (not written in the book of life -- Rev. 17:8)! But the ones that were Elected to life, are still spiritually dead in trespasses and sins and lost; until The Holy Spirit brings us to believe and trust that Jesus is indeed our Messiah (God hath from the beginning Chosen you to salvation -- 2 Thess. 2:13-17)! It is when the Chosen are released by God from Satan's power, that they are then "made able" to Believe and surrender to Christ (I have Chosen you out of the world -- John 3:16-18; 15:19). Jesus Himself is "The Enabler!"
All are invited through the "reading, teaching and preaching" of the Word; but only the Elect are "Enabled" to Believe and come (Christ Jesus...hath "Enabled" me -- 1 Tim. 1:12)! God will be 100% successful in releasing His Chosen ones from Satan's grip, and bringing them to trust in His Son! Jesus said: "I shall lose NONE of ALL that The Father has Given Me" (John 6:39)! Satan keeps all the Chosen 'UNsaved,' until we respond when we are Called; then be "Enabled" to 'trust' in Jesus as our Savior! The "Color"Code in Isaiah 1:18, shows that our "belief" then clothes us in Jesus' protective Righteous Robe of White! That means: Saved (..whosoever believeth in Him--John 3:16)!
Do YOU have a Free-Will to Choose God?
So many Christians believe that it is THEY that had chosen God, because they have Free-will. God Chooses some of us for salvation; we cannot choose Him! We are allowed human Free-will choice only in other things; like moral choices, or choosing our life's mate, or to choose to scratch where it itches. It's not us, but God Who Chooses us to believe in Jesus; to serve and be obedient to Him and His Word.
In John 6:44, Jesus tells us: "No man can come unto Me, but that the Father who sent Me, draw him!" Get that? The Father has to "draw" us to Jesus! Furthermore, we cannot even come to God The Father except we be "Enabled" to believe in Jesus; "No man can come to The Father, but by Me (John 14:6; 1 Tim. 1:12)!" Both the Chosen and UNchosen are led and guided by The Holy Spirit into all truth (John 14:26; 16:13), and drawn by The Father to His Son through The Holy Spirit; even though we may not know that we are! God Predestined some of us to be saved anyway, out of all that the Devil has (Rom. 8:28-30)! Only the Chosen "will" walk in the Fruits of the Spirit (Col. 1:6,10; Gal. 5:22,25)!
Four Types of People -- Two Lost...Two Saved
At the end of this Age, in Rev.(Apoc.) 22:11; there will still be two of four types of people LOST: [Unjust, Filthy]//[RIGHTEOUS, HOLY]. The first two on the left are Lost (UNchosen), while the two on the right were Chosen to Trust in Christ. We all come through the Lost side. Those Chosen and "Enabled," will go on into God's Righteous side. Our "Free-will" to choose Jesus is not as powerful as 'Satan's' power, 'who' will not allow us to believe in Christ's shed blood for the remission of our sins. Therefore, no one person will ever be able to "choose Jesus" as their Savior of their own "Free-will!" God makes that Choice (Eph. 1:4)!
But, there's Good News! God has Chosen some of us to "be born again," and Called us to believe by sending The Holy Spirit to work on us and within us; and then be "Enabled" by Jesus to come to saving faith in Himself (I know whom I have Chosen -- John 13:18). God does it by the "teaching and hearing" of His Word, thus releasing and prying us out from under Satan's grip (like one finger at a time)! It is God that Calls us to 'hear, learn, understand, and willingly want to Know Christ deeper' to be "Enabled;" not we ourselves by our own "Free-will" (Chosen in Him from before the foundation of the world -- Eph. 1:4; 2 Thess. 2:13-17).
God's Formula: Chosen + Called + "Enabled" = Faithful
The Chosen are Elected by God (Eph. 1:4; John 15:16), Called by The Holy Spirit (1 Pet. 5:10), Hear The Word (Mark 4:18,20), Understand it (2 Thess. 2:13-17), "Willingly" Agree the Word is True (1 Cor. 2:9-16; Heb. 11:6; Rev. 3:20; Luke 11:10), Be "Enabled" to Believe (1 Thess. 5:24; 1 Tim. 1:12), Trust in Jesus (1 John 5:11-15), Repent of our sins (Acts 2:38), Be Baptized in the Holy Spirit (Mark 16:16; Acts 11:16), Reserved our seat in Heaven at the Table of The Marriage Supper of The Lamb (Eph. 2:6; Rev. 19:9), and Receive Christ into our lives as our Personal Savior (John 3:16, 13:20; 14:1-7; Acts 16:31); That we be Forgiven of our sins (Mark 3:28; 1 John 2:12-14), Become Faithful subjects to Him (Rev. 17:14), Saved forevermore (John 10:28; 2 Tim. 1:9,10; Rev. 21:3,4,24)! Only the "Chosen" who still 'hear' the "Call," will be "Enabled" to 'come!'
Furthermore, it is through God's Love for All, that He sends The Holy Spirit to "both" the Chosen as well as the UNchosen; that perchance even the UNchosen would come (many are "called" but few are Chosen -- Matt. 22:14; 1 Tim. 2:4). But the UNchosen remain firmly in Satan's camp, where they remain unregenerate; and their own Free-will to choose Jesus is powerless to save them. Do not confuse our Free-will to be obedient "after" we believe, with the "supposed Free-will" to choose Jesus "before" we come. We "can" choose to be obedient to God "after" we are saved. But we "cannot choose" Christ of our "own Free-will" and have it be effective for salvation; without God having first Chosen us for Himself "beforehand" (Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief -- 1 Tim. 1:15-16)! God has to be in it both for our salvation, and for our Fruitful obedience!
Can we BOAST that we had something to do with OUR BELIEF in Jesus?
Our usual experience is that when we come to believe, trust, repent, surrender, and ask Jesus for forgiveness, we seem to think that we did it all! Look at me! I was smart enough to Choose Him! I humbled myself! I believed! I asked for forgiveness! Yes, indeed~ I did it all!
Baloney! We just went through the physical motions, and thought we did it all...or even a bit of it! But we really had "nothing" to do with our own salvation; not even our own belief in Jesus, as it was The Holy Spirit that had brought us! We rob God of all that "He did", to Choose us and bring us to salvation (you are a Chosen generation -- 1 Pet. 2:9)! May I suggest, that we agree God really did it ALL! Ephesians 2:8,9 tells us..."For by grace you have been saved through belief, and that 'not' of yourselves, it is the gift of God, 'not' what you did, that no one should boast!" It means it was 'not us,' but God The Holy Spirit Who Calls us (Chosen ones) to understand; where Christ releases us from Satan's hold, and "Enables" us to believe. (1 Tim. 1:12)! Wow!
How Long does Our Salvation Last?
Some people think that after they have come to believe in Jesus as their personal Savior; that should they ever step upon an "ant", they have then sinned and are no longer saved. But remember what the shepherds did in the field at night? They could not bring their flocks 5 long miles back in town every night, so they built square sheep-cotes in the field by piling up rocks 5 feet high; with a narrow entrance on one side. The shepherd then made all his sheep enter into it, and he himself sat in the entrance all night; blocking it so that no Fox could get in to take his sheep out, and no Sheep can get out by themselves!
Jesus said, "I am the good Shepherd--I give unto them 'Eternal Life,' and they shall 'never' perish; neither shall any man pluck them out from my hand" (John 10:7-18; 27-30). When He said that, then that settles it! John Calvin (1509-1564) had it right! Once saved, always saved (1 Pet. 1:2-9)! Obviously, this is only true if we have examined ourselves carefully; and now know that we KNOW that Jesus is our Personal Savior (whosoever believeth..HATH everlasting life--John 3:16)! If we absolutely know Him in this personal way, we "Chosen" may lose rewards for disobedience, but not lose our own salvation!
God's Mechanism to Bring Us to Himself.
Here is the mechanism God uses to bring "a people for Himself," to Him: [1] God Chooses some of us before making the worlds, to come to believe in His Son Jesus. [2] Both the Chosen and UNchosen are yet Lost (Unsaved); but now led by the Holy Spirit into all truth, by the teaching of the scriptures and the hearing of the word. [3] Satan controls our thoughts and keeps us from spiritually "hearing" the Truth of the Word of God (Mark 4:18-20). Yet, Jesus Loves us ALL!
[4] The Holy Spirit "Calls" and works on us, to bring us to understand and believe that Jesus is our only way to salvation; but only the Chosen-Elect are "Enabled" to respond and believe. [5] The Holy Spirit then "enters" into the Chosen to seal us in Christ and have a reserved seat prepared for us at the Marriage-Supper Table in heaven (Eph. 2:6; Matt. 22:2,4,9; Rev.[Apoc.] 19:7,9). The Holy Spirit thus comes in, bringing in with Him The Holy Father and The Holy Son; that we may never again be lost (UNsaved) in this life on earth (John 14:11, 20). [6] The Holy Spirit then guides the Chosen through life to walk in the Fruits of The Spirit (Gal. 5:22,25). But we are still plagued by Satan and often disobedient to God's righteous way; losing many rewards in heaven!
The Coming Rapture.
[7] Lastly, the next event on the horizon is the "Rapture" (taking out) of the "Chosen-Saved" from Earth to Heaven (1 Thess. 4:16-18; Matt. 24:42; 1 Cor. 15:50-55). Thus the Chosen-Saved leave behind both the Chosen-UNsaved and the UNchosen-UNsaved, to deal with the Antichrist and die during the terrible events soon to come upon the world (Rev. [Apoc.] 13:15-18; 21:7-8). It is rather prophetic that the Jewish thief on his cross alongside Jesus, was among the Chosen-UNsaved when nailed to his cross; who had to suffer (3 hours) before being "Enabled" to surrender to Jesus. That was his "tribulation." He had to then die for his faith for waiting too long to believe, when he had his chance earlier to be among those Chosen-Saved (Luke 23:33)!
This Repentant Thief thus represents those future Jewish and Gentile Chosen-yet-UNsaved "after" the Rapture occurs, who will also have to suffer (3 years) and then die for their faith in Jesus; in the coming "Great Tribulation" with the Antichrist on Earth. They also, will have waited too long to come; when they had the chance earlier to be among the Chosen-Saved (1 Pet. 2:9; 2 Thess. 2:13-17)!
The final group are the "UNchosen"-UNsaved who will also suffer and die; but then be reserved for the White Throne judgement (to hell) afterwards for their Unbelief (Rev. [Apoc.] 17:8; 20:4,10-15; 21:7-8). Are you among the Chosen? If you think so, then come now; believing in Jesus and trusting in Him as your Savior, before the Rapture starts! UNbelievers are UNforgiven of their sins (John 8:24).
Has God Abandoned the Jew?
God has not abandoned the Jew, though they do not trust in Jesus at this point. The Jew that still observes the ancient rituals, who believes in God and looks forward to being with Him in Heaven, is presently among the UNbelievers in Christ; but in the Jewish Chosen-yet-Unsaved group. Millions of Jews throughout the world continue their rituals in utter UNbelief in Jesus as their Messiah, yet die believing in their One True God of Abraham! There is a form of Righteousness assigned to them in that belief, that they will also be seated at the table of the Marriage Supper of the Lamb in Heaven. In Hebrews 9:28 it tells us "...and unto them that look for Him (Jesus Christ, God), shall He appear the "second time" without sin unto salvation!" James 2:23 points out, "Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for Righteousness!"
Abraham believed God and upon death went into the pit (Sheol-'Paradise side' Luke 23:43). He was taken to Heaven after Christ met him in there (2 Cor. 12:4a). Abraham then, is there for "believing" God! Why then should a Jew who believes in God and continues in the ancient rituals today, not then also meet Jesus as their own Savior and appear up in Heaven as did Abraham? Abraham died never having believed in Jesus personally, until "after" Christ had also died and met him in Sheol. Jesus then preached to Abraham and all those still awaiting their True Messiah. Upon being "Enabled" to Believe that this IS the Messiah for Whom they had been long-awaiting, Jesus then took all these captive-believers to heaven with Him (1 Pet. 3:19; 4:6; Eph. 4:8-10). The Jew today is also given this "Second chance" (John 13:18-19).
Certainly the Jews that do not believe today that there is a God, nor continue in the ancient rituals worshipping God, remain lost (UNchosen-UNsaved; Matt. 20:16). However, some Jews in this day and age, have already believed and received Christ as their Personal Savior; and have abandoned their ancient Hebrew worship practices. These Enabled "believers" are today among the Chosen-saved and go directly to Heaven upon death (1 John 5:10-20; 2 Cor. 12:4a)!
Where do We go when We Die?
In the "Old" Testament, it talks about going to the pit (Sheol, Hades, Hell, grave, die); like "going to the recesses (sides) of the pit" (Isa. 14:15; Ezek. 32:23). The "New" Testament explains the two rooms (tunnels in the pit) one's soul goes to after death (Luke 16:19-31). It's either to this same Paradise 'Saved-right-side' that Jesus' Soul went to after death, or to the other UNchosen 'Lost-left-side' separated by a great gulf (pit, abyss) between. There is no torment in the "Chosen" right-side of the pit.
Jesus claimed to all the captive-souls on His "Chosen" side, that He was their long-awaited Messiah. But He needed 2 or 3 witnessess, for "proof" that He is the One for Whom they had been waiting (Matt. 18:16; 1 Tim. 5:19). Two witnesses in that Chosen side could prove it! One was the soul of the (Holy) beheaded John-the-Baptist in that side (Matt. 14:6-12). Baptist-John knew Jesus when he was alive; and here witnessed to them that he had baptized Christ at the start of His Ministry! Many others had since come into this Chosen side (room, hall, tunnel), and each time they were asked by those awaiting, "Are you the One?" They needed proof!
The other witness could not be Jesus' "friend" Lazarus, who died and was made alive again by Jesus; as he was not in that side anymore (John 11:40-43)! A second Lazarus, the (Righteous) "beggar" was in Abraham's bosom on that same Chosen side (Luke 16:22); but only the (Holy) "friend" Lazarus whom Jesus had "personally called" back to physical life, was resurrected and no longer in there (John 11:44-45).
The Second witness had to be the soul of the "Repentant Thief" who had died on his own cross next to Christ, shortly after Jesus body had died at the "end" of His Ministry (Luke 23:42-46). The Thief witnessed to them that he had confessed to and spiritually knew Jesus while yet alive on the cross; Who had promised him "Paradise today!" Now here he was "just barely saved (Righteous)," in Paradise today with Christ!
Note that there is no purgatory in either the UNchosen-Lost side nor the Chosen-Saved side! One is not 'purged' of their sins; but when "Enabled" to "believe" in Jesus, they are then "Forgiven" of their sins and thereby "Saved." It is all by an act of God, that ALL 'captives' in the Chosen right-side where there is no torment, 'WILL' be "preached" to by Christ for three days and be Saved; who are His "Other Flock I have (John 10:16; Mark 8:31)!" It is Jesus that "Enables" the person to "believe" (like the King pointing His Royal Scepter and "allowing" them to come-Esth. 4:11; 5:2). No one can purge themselves of their own sins! As for the UNchosen left-side, they are in torment in there; not Chosen to begin with, and therefore not "Enabled" to trust in Christ (Luke 16:19-25).
Preached + "Enabled" + Believed = Forgiven
Jesus already had the witness in Himself along with the Father's witness (John 5:31-39). He did not really "need" these two witnessess that had known and seen Him before, when His body was still alive. But He allowed their testimonies to convince the others still awaiting, that He was indeed known as the "Messiah-Savior" of Baptist-John and the One Chosen Thief; while He was yet alive on Earth in His body (1 John 5:6-7)! Jesus then needed to "preach" to all those Chosen souls that had died since the beginning of the world; who had still been awaiting their coming Messiah from the time of Adam and Eve. ALL the "captive" Chosen-prisoners were then "Enabled," to "now believe" in Jesus (1 Tim. 1:12)! He then "led captivity captive;" taking all the Chosen-captive 'now-Forgiven-saved' prisoners to Heaven with Him upon His resurrection (Luke 4:18; 1 Pet. 1:25; 3:19; Eph. 4:8-10; 2 Cor. 12:4a)! This "Chosen" right-side (tunnel) became empty at that time, while the UNchosen (tormented) side yet remains for all UNbelievers today (Luke 16:23).
Afterwards, this same Chosen side started to be filled up again with other Jews, that had died in these "past 2,000 years" up to the present day; who had not believed in Jesus. But these are the "Chosen" Jews that had still believed in and worshipped their one true God, just as the "first" group that passed through believed in God (some "that went before and that followed after"--Matt. 21:9; John 10:16: Num. 2:17).
These "Chosen" Jews are still looking forward to their coming Messiah (that had already come in the form of Jesus), who will be saved upon being "Enabled" to 'willingly trust' in Him; and thus be resurrected at the End of the Great Tribulation (John 10:16). Only the "Chosen" Jews that believe in God, but who have not yet believed in Jesus, go in to this Chosen side (compartment, tunnel); still awaiting salvation in their Messiah! However, any "Chosen" Jewish-"Believers in Jesus" alive today as well as the "Chosen" Gentile-"Believers in Jesus," now go "Directly-UP" to Heaven's Throne-room upon death (2 Cor. 5:6,8; 12:4a)!
The "Circle"Code.
Back to [5] in the "mechanism" above, about being "sealed" in Christ and assured of heaven. Draw this "Circle"Code out to explain the process of how we are Saved. In John 14:11 Jesus says, "I IN The Father..." Now we have to ask, when was Jesus ever IN The Father? It was always in Eternity-Past; Correct? So, on a large piece of paper draw a little circle; and put the Name, "Jesus" IN it. Then draw another circle just around the first one, leaving a little space between to put the Name, "The Father" IN it. But the passage goes on, "...and The Father IN Me!" Now we have to ask, when was "The Father" ever IN "Jesus?" This time we can say that "The Father" was IN The MAN "Jesus" at His Baptism; anointing and empowering Him for His ministry (Luke 3:22, 9:35)! Draw another circle around the circle of the "Father," and put the Name "Jesus" IN it.
Both "The Father" and "Jesus" now dwell in Heaven; and have sent God The Holy Spirit to Earth to indwell Chosen ones, that have come to trust in Jesus as their Savior. Now draw yet another circle around the last circle of "Jesus" and put the Name "God The Holy Spirit" IN it! God the Father and God the Son are IN God the Holy Spirit (1 John 5:6-7)!
Then in John 14:20, Jesus states, "...and I IN you, and you IN ME!" Draw yet another circle around the circle of "The Holy Spirit," and put the name "you" IN it. Upon being "Enabled" to Believe in Jesus, the "Holy Spirit" then enters into you to "seal" you in Christ; and only then "reserves" a seat for you in heaven (1 Tim. 1:12; Eph. 2:6)! Lastly, draw yet another circle around the circle of "you," and put the name "Jesus" IN it. It is then that you are sealed in Christ's Righteousness, and covered by His protective White Robe while here on Earth (John 3:16)! The Father thus sees only Jesus' Righteousness, and not yours! Draw all this out to 'see' how this "Circle"Code describes salvation!
Heavenly Rewards!
Now, about our reserved seat for rewards in Heaven at the Marriage-Supper of the Lamb (Rev.[Apoc.] 19:7,9). It appears to be a movable seat (as our rewards keep changing). It's like having a place-card with our name on it, on top of the (supposed 65,000 mile) long Table by our seat. Thousands of both the 'Chosen' Righteous and the Holy "believers" will be seated there (Rev.[Apoc.] 22:11; Eph. 2:6).
Let us say that we have already done some good works after saved, and are presently reserved a seat for rewards at the 46,000-mile mark, away from Jesus' end. When we do more good works on Earth in Him, it's as if the Angels pick up our place-card and move it perhaps 3,000 miles closer to Jesus' end of the long Table; to be seated among the Holy ones sitting there. But doing not-so-good things causes a loss of rewards; where the Angels then move our place-card maybe 3,400 miles further back, where the Righteous ones are seated. Whether this is exact or not, it does point out that our rewards either increase or decrease; depending on what we do to honor our Lord in this life. We "LOSE rewards" even when we fail to 'forgive' those that wronged us! God will not 'forgive' US until WE DO 'forgive' them (Matt. 6:12,14-15)!
When we "lose" rewards, we can then no longer see the "smile" on Jesus Face when He Looks at us as before; but only a faint glow because He is now so far away. Now, that's a 'real' loss of rewards! We may not be "close enough" to see His smiling Face towards us; like at where the one Repentant Thief is. He sits like 65,000 miles away from Jesus. He could do "NO good works" for more crowns on Earth after being saved, as he was still nailed to his own cross and died moments after Jesus did. So, that thief is sitting at the "farthest" end of the Table from Christ; not having earned more halos! We "Chosen believers" should all now be working for heavenly rewards "closer" to Jesus (Matt. 5:44)!
Is the Bible "Accurate!"
Some wonder about the accuracy of the Bible, but there really is all sorts of evidence that despite many translations, the Word given to us can be relied upon as accurate. God saw to that! After Noah's worldwide flood over 4,000 years ago, people wrote and left messages on other things like: in caves, or on wood, rocks, buildings, and mountain-sides; because papyrus (paper) had not been invented yet. But the Hebrews, after slaughtering animals for a worship-offering, boiled the skin, scraped off the fur, and dried the skin in the sun. They then wrote the Word of God on the dried parchment with ink, collecting each written page tied together into one large scroll. Though the Hebrews wrote the Word, it's as if the Finger of God was writing on each sacrificial page for us.
When we read our Bible, realize that many animals had to die for God's Word to be written on each blood-stained page for us. God thus "preserved" the accuracy of His Word down to the present day, sealed in blood! He did this so that we may read and have confidence in the written Word, as a truthful message to be believed in today. The shed blood of the slain animals is a reminder of Jesus (The Word of Life), being slain and shedding His Blood for us as an atoning sacrifice for our sins; so that we may appear before The Father clothed in Jesus' Righteousness. We certainly cannot appear before Him in our own righteousness, because we have none! Oh! We just cannot comprehend Jesus' all encompassing love for each of us!
The "QUAD"Codes gives us further INSIGHT on what The Bible tells us!
A novel called The DaVinci Code was recently published; riddled with some truths, half-truths, and no truths. Therefore, we cannot put our faith in that! Then there was the Bible Code, in which computer-researchers counted every 50th letter in the ancient manuscripts, and came up with names of the first 34 rabbis in Israel; plus prophecies of what will be and is happening in our times. But we ordinary people have no way of verifying it, and putting our faith in that by ourselves. However, we CAN verify Codes that we can read right out of our own Bibles, that gives us a deeper insight as to what God is doing in our lives; by providing a clearer understanding through these many "Quad"Codes.
Some "Quad"CODES are in the following. Note that in most Codes you will find "four" names. The first two on the LEFT represent the LOST, and the next two on the RIGHT represent the SAVED: (1){Rev.(Apoc.) 22:11}:- "[UNJUST, FILTHY] //[RIGHTEOUS, HOLY]!" (2){Isa. 1:18}:- "[SCARLET, CRIMSON] //[as WOOL-(white), WHITE as SNOW]!" (3)-{Mark 4:4-8}:- "[WAYSIDE, STONY)] //[THORNY, GOOD]!" (4)-{Luke 6:39,40}:- "[BLIND, BLIND] //[DISCIPLE, PERFECT]!" (5)-{Mark 4:14-20}:-- "[HEARD, HEARD] //[HEAR, HEAR]!" (6)-{Col. 1:28}:-- "[PREACH, WARN] //[WISDOM, PERFECT]!" (7)-{2 Tim. 3:16}:-- "[DOCTRINE, REPROOF]//[CORRECTION, INSTRUCTION]!"
The above four names in each QuadCode represent the Heart of man; the first two on the left being the UNbelieving UNchosen-Lost, while the two on the right are the Chosen-Saved Believers. Looking at No. (7) [DOCTRINE, REPROOF]//[CORRECTION, INSTRUCTION]; we have to present the "Doctrine" of Salvation in Christ to those whose Mind and Heart is void of God's truths and thereby Lost-- "Reprove" those whose Hearts believe that they are alright as they are, but who have not fully trusted in the Saving Grace of Jesus and are still Lost-- "Correct" and guide those that were "Enabled" and received Jesus in their Hearts (Righteous but "just barely Saved") bringing all their sinful bad habits over with them, not yet walking in the Word to "Perfection" (as they should)-- and lastly, continue to "Instruct" those Saved Hearts that Know their Lord Jesus into the Deeper things of God (that they may be Holy,"Perfect" in All His Ways). Note that "Perfect" is at the far right in two Quadcodes above [see (4) & (6)]!
Just Barely Saved.
For those that find it hard to believe that the "THORNY-Heart" person is Saved in (3)-Mark 4:4-20, [Wayside, Stony]//[THORNY, Good]; then let them examine this evidence. The Wayside and Stony-ground person's hearts are dead to the Lord; not growing and not alive! But note both the Thorny and Good-ground persons are Growing Hearts that are Alive to Jesus (the Thorns are Growing and "Alive")! The fact that he's called "Thorny" is that he has "just barely been saved" but "not yet Fruitful;" not walking in the Word to Perfection (Holiness).
Where IS Perfection? Perfect is shown in both QuadCodes (4) [Blind, Blind]//[Disciple, PERFECT] and (6) [Preach, Warn]//[Wisdom, PERFECT] at the far right position; and is also described as Holy (1), and White as Snow (2)! Mark 4:7 says the Thorny person's Heart "yielded no fruit!" But Luke 8:14 modifies that to: "bring no fruit to Perfection!" It means he has fruit and IS Saved, but not yet walking towards Perfection nor "fully" Filled with the Spirit (Eph. 3:19)!
On top of that, in (5)-[Heard, Heard]//[HEAR, HEAR], the Thorny-ground person HEARS the Word (Present Tense), just as the Good-Ground person does (Mark 4:18,20); while the Wayside and Stony-ground persons have Heard the Word (Past Tense), and do not "hear" it anymore (Mark 4:15,16). This evidence of the (Thorny) third person of the four in line from left to right, shows that he IS identified with the Righteous (1) in the above QuadCodes, a Disciple (2), who yet needs to be Taught Wisdom (6), and Corrected (7). All of which means he is not dead to the Lord, but is a Righteous Disciple and therefore Saved! These Codes show us our own life's walk in Him! Where are "you" in all this?
Now when you read the scriptures, you will know who they are talking about! It's either the Lost or Saved, and UNchosen or Chosen! Be aware that both the UNchosen and Chosen are coming through the Lost side, from the left. Only the Chosen can continue on to the Saved side at the right, upon being "Enabled" by Christ. It's amazing how many QuadCodes you can find that can further enhance your understanding, as you search through the scriptures. Look and see!
Deciphering the Codes.
See (2)[SCARLET, CRIMSON] //[as WOOL-(white), WHITE as SNOW], in Isa. 1:18. To decipher it, note that the dictionary describes {Scarlet} as deep red, and {Crimson} as bright red. Deep red can be defined here as the deepest sins, and bright red as lightest sins. Both are yet as blood-RED, meaning that both persons are Lost and still under their own blood; not relying on Jesus' shed blood to have saved them. On the other hand, persons described {as Wool-(white)} and {White as Snow}, "are" relying on Jesus' shed blood; who are Chosen, "Enabled," Saved, and clothed in Christ's White robe of Righteousness. This means that The Father sees only Jesus' Righteousness! We are saved by trusting only in Jesus, and not in anything else we do!
The "{as Wool-(white)}" person, carries with it the idea that it is not a really "white wool," but a "dirty-white wool;" like a Chosen "Thorny" person who has just recently "barely been Saved," and brought all his "sinful habits" over with him. He or she yet needs to be obedient to the Word and to clean up their act before the Lord in this life; else lose rewards in heaven. Meanwhile, the "Good-ground" person "{White as Snow}," has already been "serving" and reaching out to others. He is praying, praising, and walking in the Lord's will; and/or teaching, preaching, and storing up mercy, treasures, and rewards in heaven for obedient service. Similar meanings are found in all QuadCODES.
To Complete the Whole "QUAD"Code Picture.
Do "Draw" these QuadCodes out into one complete picture, so as to explain the message in one fell swoop; to "clear it up" for you. Take an 8-1/2 by 11 sheet of paper and draw a large cross on it, with the arms extending out "nearly" to the left and right sides. At the top center, place the name "JESUS." Off the "left end" of the left arm, label it "Satan's side;" and off the far "right" end of the right arm, label it "God's side."
Draw another cross BENEATH each of those arm sides (for the two thieves). On this new left cross, label "on top" the left arm: "UNJUST," and "onto" the right arm, label it: "FILTHY." Over on the right cross and "onto" the left arm, label it: "RIGHTEOUS;" and "onto" the right arm, label it: "HOLY". At the far left "off" the left arm of the left thief's cross and on the same line, write the Book, Chapter and Verse from where these four names came from; as follows: (Rev.[Apoc.] 22:11). Follow the same procedure with writing in the other Codes (2) to (7), "below" the arms of the two thieves' crosses. Do the same with the many other QuadCODES you find in the Bible; to complete the picture and your understanding of God's salvation process. Note: It is ALL of God's RIGHTEOUSNESS and God's HOLINESS we can be in; NOT our own!
In (1) [Unjust, Filthy] // [RIGHTEOUS, HOLY]-(Rev.[Apoc.]22:11), we see that both the Chosen and UNchosen enter in from the left (UNbelief side) as Athiests (Unjustified), and progress to the right. The Agnostic (Filthy) UNchosen-UNbelievers stop at Jesus' cross, and are "unable" to proceed further; though The Holy Spirit continually works on and Calls them to trust in Christ. Only the Chosen will desire Jesus, and be "Enabled" to believe; to be declared Righteous through the power of The Holy Spirit. These will progress beyond Jesus' cross into God's (Righteous) side, being Saved by Christ's shed Blood for all Eternity! Many of those Chosen will continue to walk (Holy) closer to Him, being Fruitful and Serving Him diligently; reaping many more rewards in Heaven! Come now before the Rapture starts!
HOW Long are Children Saved?
Children appear to have a special covering of the Lord, as they grow older until the age of accountability (around 10 to 14 years). Jesus said, "Let the little children come unto me" (Matt. 19:14; Luke 18:16; Rom. 9:11). Jesus also meant that if the children should die before the age of accountability, they would go to heaven from every country! Look at what King David told us when his 8-day-old child died: "But now (my child) is dead; why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I SHALL GO TO HIM, but he shall not return to me!" (2 Sam. 12:23).
How did this Hebrew David, know that he "will" go to where his child is? His child was "covered" by the Messiah to go to Paradise upon death, not yet having made the decision to believe in Jesus; but having been "Chosen" to await his coming Messiah after death. Grownup David was already Chosen to go to Paradise, in the pit where his son was. We know that because he had already given his heart and soul to God (see the many Psalms he wrote); looking forward to his coming Messiah! David was among those souls in this Chosen side (tunnel, room), who first met his own son; then finally met his true Messiah (1,000 years later), after Jesus was crucified and had died.
So, until the age where children are accountable and deliberately sin against God, they are safe. But, after that, they are yet under the curse of sin and UNsaved; until The Holy Spirit "Enables" them to make a conscious decision to believe and trust in Christ. If they have trusted in Him, they are among the Chosen; and their salvation is secure. We may suspect them by their behavior, but cannot tell which among us is an UNchosen or Chosen one in this life. Only God knows!
ALL CAN Come, But ONLY the "Enabled" WILL Come!
Another word to clear up the "Enabling" process. Both the UNchosen and Chosen ones enter into this "dark room of life," groping for something to "see" more clearly. Both are under the tight grip of Satan. Both may have gone to church and heard the preaching of the Word of God; and for a long time have not understood it, still in the dark. The UNchosen-(Unjust) person takes immediate offense to the Word, and will not pursue it anymore (Is this You?); though The Holy Spirit still tries to apply the Word to his heart (1 Cor. 1:17-31). The Unchosen-(Filthy) inch closer in the dark (Is "that" You?), but cannot find the full meaning behind the preaching of the Word; so, believing they are alright with God just as they are, they give up pursuing their understanding of The Word and remain Lost (Filthy)! If they were not Chosen, but yet Called to come to believe in Jesus, they will not understand nor be "Enabled" to believe; (viz.-- Jesus hath "Enabled" me--1 Tim. 1:12).
However, the Chosen-still-lost, while yet in the dark, "HEAR" the preaching of The Word and inch a little closer; curious about finding the full meaning behind the The Word (Mark 4:18). Who IS this God? Who IS this Jesus? Who IS this Holy Spirit? What does all this have to do with ME, and where is MY place in all of this? The Holy Spirit is applying The Word to this Chosen-one's heart (Is THIS You?); loosening the hold that Satan has on him or her, like one finger at a time with each teaching.
We can do NO 'good works' to get 'saved,' as some churches teach! The one Repentant Thief when nailed to 'his' own cross, could DO NO 'good works' to get saved. The Holy Spirit taught him and Christ "ENABLED" him with but a tiny 'mustard-seed' kind of faith, to 'know' that Jesus WAS indeed his Messiah! Jesus told him he 'was' saved, simply because he 'did' believe (Luke 23:41-43). God demands Justice! Someone has to 'pay' for our sins (It's you, or Him)! God sent His Only Begotten Son to The Cross, to 'pay' for every sin we ever commited; even those we didn't know about! We can't 'get IN', unless our sin-debt has been paid in full! God Loves us! We need to Believe in Jesus' Own 'work' on The Cross to 'Save' us. There IS NO OTHER WAY! Simply Trust in Christ Jesus!
The Holy Spirit "Enables" US to clearly SEE that WE need to believe, repent, accept and receive The Lord Jesus as our Personal Savior. Upon our belief and repentance, The Holy Spirit comes in, and brings The Father and Son in with Him. Jesus said, "...I am in The Father and the Father in Me...and you in Me, and I in you" (John 14:11, 20). No other 'religion' is based on a man 'dying for you!' Only those who were "Chosen," that then hear God's "Call," will be "Enabled" to believe; and be Spirit-infilled, Faithful and Fruitful in the Lord (Eph. 1:4; Rev. 17:14; 1 Tim. 1:12; Col. 1:10)! Note that Rebekah too was "Chosen" in Gen. 24:14, "Called" vs. 17, "Tested" on her "willingness to serve" vss. 18-21, and was finally then "Enabled" vs. 22, to become "the Bride!" We become "JESUS' Bride" too, in much the same way!
The Chosen-Saved (now-Righteous) has come into the Light (Kingdom); and we begin to clearly "see" all the treasures of Heaven available to us. The Holy Spirit then continues to work on us in this life, towards bringing us into an even closer relationship with Jesus into Chosen-[Holiness--Mark 4:20; John 12:3; Rev.(Apoc.) 22:11]; "fully" filled with the Spirit and lacking nothing in His Love (IS "THAT" YOU?).
A great example of this is found in the story of the two sisters, Martha and Mary; whose brother had died. That 'brother' was also Jesus' friend Lazarus, who was in the tomb 4 days already; and clearly dead! The older sister Martha complained to Jesus, "If you had only been here...!" In this crisis Jesus preached to her, that: "I AM The Resurrection and The Life!" She told Him, "I BELIEVE You ARE The Messiah!" Soon after, Martha's younger sister Mary came and complained to Jesus the same way. "If you had only been here!" (John 11: 1-45; 12:1-3; Luke 10:38-42).
Later, after Jesus had resurrected Lazarus, Martha "Served" the dinner; while Mary "Worshipped" by sitting at the feet of Jesus, anointing Him with oil. The view here is that Jesus had "Enabled" both sisters to Trust in Him. However, Martha was now "Saved" but in His Righteous (service) side; while "Saved" Mary was placed beyond her older sister into His Holy (Adoration) side. "Righteous" Martha had understood little of Jesus, being encumbered with things (like serving people); whereas "Holy" Mary had taken in the "full breadth" of Who Jesus really was, unencumbered with the physical things in life! Mary served quietly at His feet "Worshipping Him," and was the "much more Fruitful" one!
Again, here are the 'steps' taken for salvation. 1. We are "required to be Chosen" by God, in order to Be Saved! 2. We are ALL "required to be Called" by God, but need to Respond (wake up and answer that Call); so we can be 'taught' to believe in Jesus! 3. We are required by God to 'Hear' the Word (understand it), and look to Christ as being our True Messiah; wherein The Holy Spirit applies the Living Word to our hearts. Both the Chosen and UNchosen now know ALL about Jesus; in belief (unbelief) that His Word IS True! Both stand at the entrance to Jesus' throne room, but only the "Chosen" one will be "Enabled" to enter into His Salvation (John 1:12-13; 3:16; 6:37; 2 Cor. 5:17; 1 Tim. 1:12; Ps. 113:2-3)!
4. Jesus "requires" ALL to totally "Surrender, Believe, Repent and Receive Himself" without 'good works' to be Saved; just like the one Repentent Thief did on his own cross (John 8:24). Christ first tests, then "Enables" us Chosen ones to "willingly see" that we yet need to believe, repent and Confess Jesus as "Lord!" Satan is now forced to release his grip from us! Once "Enabled," only then can we (enter the Throne-room and thus) believe and confess to Christ. It is only 'After' we are saved, that our new 'good works' in Him are counted! When God first Chose us 'before' making the world, it was 'certain' then that He WILL bring us to salvation in Jesus (Eph. 1:4)! It is Christ that "Knocks" at Chosen hearts and 'OPENS' to come in! Nothing that 'WE' have done (Luke 11:10)!
All this has described the 'mechanics' of salvation, but God has much more to say about His Spiritual matters and your 'closer' walk in Him; too much to go on into any greater detail here. We ourselves, may not fully understand all the reasons why God does certain things. But we who have been Chosen in Him from 'before' the foundation of the world, can be rest-assured in His promise that we shall remain forever with Him; upon receiving Jesus into our lives as our Personal Savior (John 3:7,16; 10:7-18, 27-30; 11:25; Eph. 1:4; 1 Pet. 1:2-9).
Can Evil-Minded men and women Be Saved?
There were two thieves that were more than just thieves, they were coercers. They ran into every village, coercing people; shopkeepers, and the like...to give them money or else! The next week when they came back and when they had gotten no money, they beat the people up; or broke bones. Complaints from others alerted the Roman soldiers to capture them, which they did; then threw them in jail. They were both evil-minded men, not caring for God nor people!
Pontius Pilate, had just washed his hands of the "Jesus affair," and sent Jesus off to be crucified. As an afterthought (from God), he told his soldiers to release those two evil thieves from jail; and crucify them! One thief had been "Chosen" in Eternity-Past, but didn't know that! God brought him face to face with Christ on the cross, to believe in Him before he died! He never would have that chance in jail! Satan tried to keep him in jail so he would not meet up with Jesus, but God wasn't going to lose any of His Chosen ones; and thus had him released from jail to be crucified alongside Jesus! "Death-bed Salvation!" This should teach us to come "early" to Christ, else we may have to suffer later!
The Holy Spirit worked for hours on the thief trying to release him from Satan's grip, before he was finally "able" to receive his Messiah (Luke 23:41-43). Jesus could have yielded up His Own Spirit much sooner, but "Loved" that Chosen thief! Christ "Suffered" even longer, until The Holy Spirit broke Satan's hold on this Repentant-thief; who was only then "Enabled" to believe, surrender, and confess Jesus as his Lord! That Thief is much like 'You and Me!' Oh! The patience of God!
What Should We DO Now?
Here is God's formula: Chosen + Called + "Enabled" = Saved in Christ!
We won't know if we are among the Chosen, "until we surrender" and trust in our Lord Jesus; and God The Holy Spirit confirms to us that we have salvation in Christ evermore! (John 3:16; 8:24; Rom. 10:9). Then after we come, we need to serve (1 Pet. 4:10,11), and "walk" in obedience to Him; in the Power of the Spirit! To "serve" Him is to Love Jesus, and "tell others" about Him and His Love and Salvation for them; if they will but only "believe" in Him as their Personal Savior!
If we have any Free-will at all, this is where we can Choose to "serve" Him! It is now the time to get humble, repent of our sins, and to ask Jesus for forgiveness; and to come into your Heart and Mind and Save you! Time is short! Do it now! The Rapture may soon come! Don't be "left behind." Do Save or Print this to study... and to Pass it on!
Get into a Bible Study class and meditate on the scriptures, asking God to help you "believe" in Jesus; who died "WILLINGLY" for the remission of "your sins!" May you come to "trust in Him soon!"
Copyright (C) 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008-- [NKJV version].
Christians who think that it is "THEY" themselves that had CHOSEN Christ as their Savior, should note that Jesus says, "YOU HAVE 'NOT' CHOSEN Me.. (John 15:16)!" God "Chooses, Calls, and Enables" some of us to believe (Eph.1:4; Rom. 8:28, 30; 1 Tim.1:12)! God must "Choose" us, and Christ must "Enable" us or we cannot come! We need God's help to "Believe" in Jesus! You can READ this CODE right out of Your OWN Bible!
How a Father "Chooses" a Bride for His Son:
In Genesis 24:1-22 (4,000 years ago), you will find the clue needed to decipher this code. Our patriarch Abraham was over 140 years old and wanted a wife for his 40-year-old son Isaac. So, he made his Trusted Servant "swear" to him to "go to a far country" and bring back a (Chosen) bride for his son. The Servant was now under strict SWORN orders, to bring one back (vs.3). "What if she will not return with me," asks the servant (vs.5). Abraham says that he will release him from his STRICT oath...[DO NOT bring that (UNchosen) one back (vs.8)]!
After many days and a long (450-mile) journey "to a far country" by camel-train through the desert, both the Servant and camels were then very thirsty. Upon arriving at a village-well where maidens were drawing water, the servant prays to God for success; and receives a Code-word on "how" a maid will respond when he asks for "a drink of water." He then says with great confidence, "Let it be" that she WILL respond with (this Code-word): "Sir, I will give you to drink... and give drink for your camels also!" How did he ever know "how" she will respond? Allow me to call this a "Code," to better explain it all.
As the Servant went to the well, a maid came by with a jug of water. He spoke up (Called) and gave the maid (Rebekah) his ID-Code: "Can you give me a drink?" She then "responded" with her ID-Code: "Sir, I will give you to drink!" There's a pause [1st test] while she served him his drink. He still needed her "Password" so she could Log onto him, and he would know that she IS the Chosen one! She then chimed in, "And give drink for your camels also (vs. 19)." That was her Password! The connection is made; "exactly" as the Servant prayed she would.
Another pause [2nd test] then occured while the Servant "pondered" about her, and needed her to "demonstrate" her intent. So she ran back to the well many times, filling the trough "to give drink for his camels also (vs. 21)!" That action proved her intent to 'willingly' serve the son (Isaac)! The Servant then "Enables" her to become the bride, immediately confirming it by placing bracelets on her wrists and a nose-ring on her nose (vs. 22)! She was Chosen (Eph. 1:4; John 15:16), Called (1 Cor. 1:1-2, 9, 24; John 6:44-45), and "Enabled" to believe (1 Tim. 1:12)!
The servant represents The Holy Spirit, Who cannot allow the 'bride' to enter God's Kingdom unless certain conditions are met. This is like her standing in a castle's foyer, and to wait until the King points His Scepter at her; at which time she is then "Enabled" to enter into the throne-room and into the King's presence (Esth. 2:14; 4:11; 5:2). Likewise, when you and I hear the Word of God and respond when Called; we are tested in our 'willingness' and 'desire,' before we are "Enabled" to enter into Jesus' presence and be saved. The 'tested bride' here, is like you and me!
Her first ID-Code was to serve God, and her second ID-Password was to serve others. Note that the "camels" represent the "others," as she began to water 10 camels; rushing back to the well many times as each could hold 25 gallons. She was "willing" to serve! Years later, Christ on the cross said, "I thirst!" He was thirsting too for His Chosen ones to believe, serve, and tell others about Him; through the Power of The Holy Spirit!
CAVEAT~~~There are many "Codes" in the Bible, which illustrate a profound truth; like the "Hear"Code (Mark 4:14-20), or "Chosen"Code (John 15:16, Eph. 1:4, Rom. 9:11), or "Color"Code (Isaiah 1:18), etc. God had already put "hidden" DNA and RNA Codes into our body, to control physical functions for our own good. From that, it only "seems" that God had also put the "Chosen"Code into us; for The Holy Spirit to locate us among the many UNchosen ones. But God "knows" whom He has Chosen. He does not need to identify us with an actual ID-Code or tag within our soul and spirit; to bring us to believe in Jesus. "The Lord knows them that are His...children of the flesh are not the children of God" (2 Tim. 2:19; Rom. 9:8). Look up the quotes!
How God The Father Chooses "Some of Us" as a Bride for His Son: (Gen. 24:1-22).
Our "One Triune-God" shows us here by acting through the lives of Abraham, Isaac, and Servant; how God The Father, God the Son, and God The Holy Spirit are "ACTUALLY WORKING" in our lives. When Abraham had "released" his Servant from the sworn oath to bring a refusing bride back, it's the same as when God The Father "releases" God The Holy Spirit from bringing an UNchosen one back; to God The Son! If God had not Chosen that one, The Holy Spirit makes an effort to bring him back; but is "excused" if that one will not come to believe (Gen. 24:3-8). Else, our One Triune God would not be 100% successful in all the ones He HAD Chosen to bring back! Only the Chosen can come. The refusing ones are the UNchosen ones, who will not respond to The Holy Spirit!
The maid (Rebekah) is actually like you and me, whom The Holy Spirit is seeking in this world as a bride for Jesus. God KNOWS who WILL respond to The Holy Spirit, to bring us to believe in His Son Jesus. When God The Holy Spirit searches for us ("Are you the one?..Are you the one?.."), He recognizes us that have been personally "Chosen" by the Father; so that we "will respond" to believe in Christ, then serve Him and tell others about Him (Ephesians 1:4; John 3:16-18; 1 Peter 4:10,11).
God did NOT wait until "after" He knew we "would" come to believe, BEFORE He had Chosen us! If He already 'knew' we would believe all on our own, and "then" He Chose us 'before' creating the World; HE would not have any more power than WE have! He "Chose us" FIRST! It does NOT depend on 'what' WE do, but on HIS power to actually 'bring us' to salvation in Christ! Else, we could not give God ALL of the Glory for saving us; as we would think that WE had "come" all by ourselves!
Until We Come, We Cannot "Know" If We Are CHOSEN!
Many Christians when they believe, think that it is "they" that had chosen Jesus as Savior. But Christ Jesus Himself tells us in the Gospel of John 15:16, "You have NOT chosen Me, but I HAVE 'Chosen' you...!" Jesus did NOT say "I have chosen you" to Judas Iscariot, as Judas had left Jesus two chapters earlier to carry out his treachery (John 13:27-31). Judas was not among those "11 Chosen" for salvation, though he was a follower among the disciples. He was UNchosen and remained lost! When Jesus first called the "12" early in His ministry (John 6:70), He already knew Judas was a Devil, and UNchosen (UN-Elected)!
Note that if God 'had' Chosen Satan (or Hitler, King Herod, or Judas Iscariot), even Satan (and other evil-doers) would come to believe in Jesus and live forever! But these were NOT among the "Chosen!" Once God has Chosen someone, His purpose is to bring them to Trust in Christ! The Holy Spirit "Calls" every person, by applying The Word to their hearts; to get them to understand and believe that they remain Lost, until they surrender to Jesus. If God has Chosen you and me, He will be 100% successful in bringing us to believe in His Son. We cannot get out of it! We WILL be drawn, and come! (John 6:44).
God 'leads' both the Chosen AND the UNchosen to believe in Jesus, even though we do not know we are being led! Only the Chosen WILL be released from Satan's grip, and actually MADE 'able' to surrender to Christ (1 Tim. 1:12)! It is NOT what YOU do, but what God does FOR you to Believe; that allows you to live forever in Jesus (Eph. 1:4; John 10:7-30). It's 'NOT' you; but God Who "Enables" us to Believe in Jesus!
Since we did NOT choose Jesus, then when was it that we were Elected to come? In the book of Ephesians 1:4, it tells us that we were Chosen in Him from "BEFORE the foundation of the world!" Why in the world would God have Chosen some of us for salvation, before He made the heavens and earth; before He made Angels, Animals, Adam and Eve?? There was nothing there then!
When God made the world and all in it, He gave "dominion" to Adam on the sixth day (Gen. 1:28); complete control! Then God rested on the seventh day, and declared all that He had made...was good! No Evil to that time! On the eighth day, the powerful Angel Lucifer wanted to have complete control over all the Earth! Lucifer sinned against God and fell spiritually from heaven; taking on the form of a serpent on Earth, whom we now know as Satan. His first task was to beguile Eve into eating of what was forbidden to her, and getting Adam to taste of it too. Adam and Eve then fell from grace, and lost control over all the Earth to powerful Satan! Now it is Satan that controls the earth, and won't let God's Chosen people GO... to Jesus!
God Elected (according to the foreknowledge of God -- 1 Pet. 1:2) "some of us" in Eternity-Past to believe, repent of our sins, humble ourselves and surrender to His Son. The Holy Spirit recognizes us as He searches for those Elect brides (holy and beloved) who belong to Jesus (Rom. 8:33; Col. 3:12; 1 Thess. 1:4). God Chose us BEFORE the world was made to HIDE His plans from both US and the powerful Angels; because Lucifer (Satan) "had not been made yet," and would not know of God's plans! Satan does not "know" who was "Chosen," and who was not! If he DID "know," he would 'kill' all us Chosen ones before we could learn of and confess Christ as Savior! "We" can't "know," until we have believed!
What is the Purpose of "Choosing?"
God is not a Puppeteer; nor has He made us Automatons to force us into every whim and wish of His. Satan already HAS everybody! What God has done was to "Choose some of us" to be set LOOSE from Satan's powerful grip; thus making us ABLE to believe and receive Jesus by the supreme power of God's Holy Spirit (1 Tim. 1:12)! Just because some of us may be "Chosen" to believe in Jesus, does not mean that we are already "saved" (many be "Called" but few are "Chosen" -- Matt. 20:16). The Holy Spirit yet needs to get through to us (teach us), and then "Enable" us to respond and "believe" in Christ as our Savior (foreordained before the foundation of the world -- 1 Pet. 1:20).
Not everyone is Chosen for salvation, else all evil murderers like Hitler would go to heaven! There would then be no reason for God to send His Son to the cross as a sacrifice for you and me! Hitler at one time studied to be a Jesuit Priest, but didn't believe in that Jew Jesus; and set about to kill thousands of Jews! King Herod of Chosen Israel, was not 'personally Chosen' himself; as he tried to kill the infant Jesus! Though Judas Iscariot studied with Jesus three years, he was not among those Chosen; as he did not believe Jesus was his Messiah!
Yet others like Saul of Tarsus had also done evil deeds. Though he was one of the Chosen, he didn't know that! Saul killed many of Jesus' disciples before he repented and became a disciple himself, with a new name: Paul! Even one of the two evil thieves on his cross alongside Jesus, didn't know that he was among the Chosen to 'come.' He had to be brought to suffer before he repented, and then "knew" before he died that he was saved by Jesus (Luke 23:42-43)! If Satan himself had been Chosen by God, he too would have come to believe in Jesus. But all of scripture reveals the Devil's unbelief, and deceit; and that he will go down into perdition (John 17:12; Rev. 17:8;11)!
Everyone is lost and cannot come; except for God's Elect (1 Tim. 1:12; 2:4)! You may be among God's "Chosen to come," but would still be lost until you actually "do" come (but ye bretheren are not in darkness -- 1 Thess. 5:4-5)! Simply trust in Jesus for your salvation, like the one Chosen thief did on the cross alongside Jesus (Luke 23:39-46)! God Calls and "Enables" His Chosen to come! God loves you, and wants a "Personal" relationship with you (John 3:16)!
"Enabled" to Respond.
In the Book of Esther 1:12, Queen Vashti was "called" by the King; who had "refused to come!" Esther was then "Called" who came to replace her, as Vashti was dethroned (Esth. 2:4; 14-18)! But Esther could not enter the throne-room, until the King pointed His Royal Scepter at her; thus "Enabling" her to come (Esth. 4:11; 5:2)! Only those Chosen, Called and "Enabled" to believe in Jesus, are "able" to respond; and become Faithful to the "King." (1 Tim. 1:12; Rev.[Apoc.] 17:14). You will be 'able' to enter His "Salvation" only 'after' Christ Jesus Himself "Enables" you!
God The Father is in His Heaven with God The Son "Jesus;" and has sent God The Holy Spirit to go to a "far country" (Earth), to search out the ones already Elected to salvation. Some have been Chosen to come, who "will then respond" to the Call by the "hearing" of the Word ("called," chosen, and faithful -- Rev. 17:14)! The ones that were 'not chosen' will never trust in Jesus for their Salvation! It is just not in them; being "unable" to try to do so (not written in the book of life -- Rev. 17:8)! But the ones that were Elected to life, are still spiritually dead in trespasses and sins and lost; until The Holy Spirit brings us to believe and trust that Jesus is indeed our Messiah (God hath from the beginning Chosen you to salvation -- 2 Thess. 2:13-17)! It is when the Chosen are released by God from Satan's power, that they are then "made able" to Believe and surrender to Christ (I have Chosen you out of the world -- John 3:16-18; 15:19). Jesus Himself is "The Enabler!"
All are invited through the "reading, teaching and preaching" of the Word; but only the Elect are "Enabled" to Believe and come (Christ Jesus...hath "Enabled" me -- 1 Tim. 1:12)! God will be 100% successful in releasing His Chosen ones from Satan's grip, and bringing them to trust in His Son! Jesus said: "I shall lose NONE of ALL that The Father has Given Me" (John 6:39)! Satan keeps all the Chosen 'UNsaved,' until we respond when we are Called; then be "Enabled" to 'trust' in Jesus as our Savior! The "Color"Code in Isaiah 1:18, shows that our "belief" then clothes us in Jesus' protective Righteous Robe of White! That means: Saved (..whosoever believeth in Him--John 3:16)!
Do YOU have a Free-Will to Choose God?
So many Christians believe that it is THEY that had chosen God, because they have Free-will. God Chooses some of us for salvation; we cannot choose Him! We are allowed human Free-will choice only in other things; like moral choices, or choosing our life's mate, or to choose to scratch where it itches. It's not us, but God Who Chooses us to believe in Jesus; to serve and be obedient to Him and His Word.
In John 6:44, Jesus tells us: "No man can come unto Me, but that the Father who sent Me, draw him!" Get that? The Father has to "draw" us to Jesus! Furthermore, we cannot even come to God The Father except we be "Enabled" to believe in Jesus; "No man can come to The Father, but by Me (John 14:6; 1 Tim. 1:12)!" Both the Chosen and UNchosen are led and guided by The Holy Spirit into all truth (John 14:26; 16:13), and drawn by The Father to His Son through The Holy Spirit; even though we may not know that we are! God Predestined some of us to be saved anyway, out of all that the Devil has (Rom. 8:28-30)! Only the Chosen "will" walk in the Fruits of the Spirit (Col. 1:6,10; Gal. 5:22,25)!
Four Types of People -- Two Lost...Two Saved
At the end of this Age, in Rev.(Apoc.) 22:11; there will still be two of four types of people LOST: [Unjust, Filthy]//[RIGHTEOUS, HOLY]. The first two on the left are Lost (UNchosen), while the two on the right were Chosen to Trust in Christ. We all come through the Lost side. Those Chosen and "Enabled," will go on into God's Righteous side. Our "Free-will" to choose Jesus is not as powerful as 'Satan's' power, 'who' will not allow us to believe in Christ's shed blood for the remission of our sins. Therefore, no one person will ever be able to "choose Jesus" as their Savior of their own "Free-will!" God makes that Choice (Eph. 1:4)!
But, there's Good News! God has Chosen some of us to "be born again," and Called us to believe by sending The Holy Spirit to work on us and within us; and then be "Enabled" by Jesus to come to saving faith in Himself (I know whom I have Chosen -- John 13:18). God does it by the "teaching and hearing" of His Word, thus releasing and prying us out from under Satan's grip (like one finger at a time)! It is God that Calls us to 'hear, learn, understand, and willingly want to Know Christ deeper' to be "Enabled;" not we ourselves by our own "Free-will" (Chosen in Him from before the foundation of the world -- Eph. 1:4; 2 Thess. 2:13-17).
God's Formula: Chosen + Called + "Enabled" = Faithful
The Chosen are Elected by God (Eph. 1:4; John 15:16), Called by The Holy Spirit (1 Pet. 5:10), Hear The Word (Mark 4:18,20), Understand it (2 Thess. 2:13-17), "Willingly" Agree the Word is True (1 Cor. 2:9-16; Heb. 11:6; Rev. 3:20; Luke 11:10), Be "Enabled" to Believe (1 Thess. 5:24; 1 Tim. 1:12), Trust in Jesus (1 John 5:11-15), Repent of our sins (Acts 2:38), Be Baptized in the Holy Spirit (Mark 16:16; Acts 11:16), Reserved our seat in Heaven at the Table of The Marriage Supper of The Lamb (Eph. 2:6; Rev. 19:9), and Receive Christ into our lives as our Personal Savior (John 3:16, 13:20; 14:1-7; Acts 16:31); That we be Forgiven of our sins (Mark 3:28; 1 John 2:12-14), Become Faithful subjects to Him (Rev. 17:14), Saved forevermore (John 10:28; 2 Tim. 1:9,10; Rev. 21:3,4,24)! Only the "Chosen" who still 'hear' the "Call," will be "Enabled" to 'come!'
Furthermore, it is through God's Love for All, that He sends The Holy Spirit to "both" the Chosen as well as the UNchosen; that perchance even the UNchosen would come (many are "called" but few are Chosen -- Matt. 22:14; 1 Tim. 2:4). But the UNchosen remain firmly in Satan's camp, where they remain unregenerate; and their own Free-will to choose Jesus is powerless to save them. Do not confuse our Free-will to be obedient "after" we believe, with the "supposed Free-will" to choose Jesus "before" we come. We "can" choose to be obedient to God "after" we are saved. But we "cannot choose" Christ of our "own Free-will" and have it be effective for salvation; without God having first Chosen us for Himself "beforehand" (Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief -- 1 Tim. 1:15-16)! God has to be in it both for our salvation, and for our Fruitful obedience!
Can we BOAST that we had something to do with OUR BELIEF in Jesus?
Our usual experience is that when we come to believe, trust, repent, surrender, and ask Jesus for forgiveness, we seem to think that we did it all! Look at me! I was smart enough to Choose Him! I humbled myself! I believed! I asked for forgiveness! Yes, indeed~ I did it all!
Baloney! We just went through the physical motions, and thought we did it all...or even a bit of it! But we really had "nothing" to do with our own salvation; not even our own belief in Jesus, as it was The Holy Spirit that had brought us! We rob God of all that "He did", to Choose us and bring us to salvation (you are a Chosen generation -- 1 Pet. 2:9)! May I suggest, that we agree God really did it ALL! Ephesians 2:8,9 tells us..."For by grace you have been saved through belief, and that 'not' of yourselves, it is the gift of God, 'not' what you did, that no one should boast!" It means it was 'not us,' but God The Holy Spirit Who Calls us (Chosen ones) to understand; where Christ releases us from Satan's hold, and "Enables" us to believe. (1 Tim. 1:12)! Wow!
How Long does Our Salvation Last?
Some people think that after they have come to believe in Jesus as their personal Savior; that should they ever step upon an "ant", they have then sinned and are no longer saved. But remember what the shepherds did in the field at night? They could not bring their flocks 5 long miles back in town every night, so they built square sheep-cotes in the field by piling up rocks 5 feet high; with a narrow entrance on one side. The shepherd then made all his sheep enter into it, and he himself sat in the entrance all night; blocking it so that no Fox could get in to take his sheep out, and no Sheep can get out by themselves!
Jesus said, "I am the good Shepherd--I give unto them 'Eternal Life,' and they shall 'never' perish; neither shall any man pluck them out from my hand" (John 10:7-18; 27-30). When He said that, then that settles it! John Calvin (1509-1564) had it right! Once saved, always saved (1 Pet. 1:2-9)! Obviously, this is only true if we have examined ourselves carefully; and now know that we KNOW that Jesus is our Personal Savior (whosoever believeth..HATH everlasting life--John 3:16)! If we absolutely know Him in this personal way, we "Chosen" may lose rewards for disobedience, but not lose our own salvation!
God's Mechanism to Bring Us to Himself.
Here is the mechanism God uses to bring "a people for Himself," to Him: [1] God Chooses some of us before making the worlds, to come to believe in His Son Jesus. [2] Both the Chosen and UNchosen are yet Lost (Unsaved); but now led by the Holy Spirit into all truth, by the teaching of the scriptures and the hearing of the word. [3] Satan controls our thoughts and keeps us from spiritually "hearing" the Truth of the Word of God (Mark 4:18-20). Yet, Jesus Loves us ALL!
[4] The Holy Spirit "Calls" and works on us, to bring us to understand and believe that Jesus is our only way to salvation; but only the Chosen-Elect are "Enabled" to respond and believe. [5] The Holy Spirit then "enters" into the Chosen to seal us in Christ and have a reserved seat prepared for us at the Marriage-Supper Table in heaven (Eph. 2:6; Matt. 22:2,4,9; Rev.[Apoc.] 19:7,9). The Holy Spirit thus comes in, bringing in with Him The Holy Father and The Holy Son; that we may never again be lost (UNsaved) in this life on earth (John 14:11, 20). [6] The Holy Spirit then guides the Chosen through life to walk in the Fruits of The Spirit (Gal. 5:22,25). But we are still plagued by Satan and often disobedient to God's righteous way; losing many rewards in heaven!
The Coming Rapture.
[7] Lastly, the next event on the horizon is the "Rapture" (taking out) of the "Chosen-Saved" from Earth to Heaven (1 Thess. 4:16-18; Matt. 24:42; 1 Cor. 15:50-55). Thus the Chosen-Saved leave behind both the Chosen-UNsaved and the UNchosen-UNsaved, to deal with the Antichrist and die during the terrible events soon to come upon the world (Rev. [Apoc.] 13:15-18; 21:7-8). It is rather prophetic that the Jewish thief on his cross alongside Jesus, was among the Chosen-UNsaved when nailed to his cross; who had to suffer (3 hours) before being "Enabled" to surrender to Jesus. That was his "tribulation." He had to then die for his faith for waiting too long to believe, when he had his chance earlier to be among those Chosen-Saved (Luke 23:33)!
This Repentant Thief thus represents those future Jewish and Gentile Chosen-yet-UNsaved "after" the Rapture occurs, who will also have to suffer (3 years) and then die for their faith in Jesus; in the coming "Great Tribulation" with the Antichrist on Earth. They also, will have waited too long to come; when they had the chance earlier to be among the Chosen-Saved (1 Pet. 2:9; 2 Thess. 2:13-17)!
The final group are the "UNchosen"-UNsaved who will also suffer and die; but then be reserved for the White Throne judgement (to hell) afterwards for their Unbelief (Rev. [Apoc.] 17:8; 20:4,10-15; 21:7-8). Are you among the Chosen? If you think so, then come now; believing in Jesus and trusting in Him as your Savior, before the Rapture starts! UNbelievers are UNforgiven of their sins (John 8:24).
Has God Abandoned the Jew?
God has not abandoned the Jew, though they do not trust in Jesus at this point. The Jew that still observes the ancient rituals, who believes in God and looks forward to being with Him in Heaven, is presently among the UNbelievers in Christ; but in the Jewish Chosen-yet-Unsaved group. Millions of Jews throughout the world continue their rituals in utter UNbelief in Jesus as their Messiah, yet die believing in their One True God of Abraham! There is a form of Righteousness assigned to them in that belief, that they will also be seated at the table of the Marriage Supper of the Lamb in Heaven. In Hebrews 9:28 it tells us "...and unto them that look for Him (Jesus Christ, God), shall He appear the "second time" without sin unto salvation!" James 2:23 points out, "Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for Righteousness!"
Abraham believed God and upon death went into the pit (Sheol-'Paradise side' Luke 23:43). He was taken to Heaven after Christ met him in there (2 Cor. 12:4a). Abraham then, is there for "believing" God! Why then should a Jew who believes in God and continues in the ancient rituals today, not then also meet Jesus as their own Savior and appear up in Heaven as did Abraham? Abraham died never having believed in Jesus personally, until "after" Christ had also died and met him in Sheol. Jesus then preached to Abraham and all those still awaiting their True Messiah. Upon being "Enabled" to Believe that this IS the Messiah for Whom they had been long-awaiting, Jesus then took all these captive-believers to heaven with Him (1 Pet. 3:19; 4:6; Eph. 4:8-10). The Jew today is also given this "Second chance" (John 13:18-19).
Certainly the Jews that do not believe today that there is a God, nor continue in the ancient rituals worshipping God, remain lost (UNchosen-UNsaved; Matt. 20:16). However, some Jews in this day and age, have already believed and received Christ as their Personal Savior; and have abandoned their ancient Hebrew worship practices. These Enabled "believers" are today among the Chosen-saved and go directly to Heaven upon death (1 John 5:10-20; 2 Cor. 12:4a)!
Where do We go when We Die?
In the "Old" Testament, it talks about going to the pit (Sheol, Hades, Hell, grave, die); like "going to the recesses (sides) of the pit" (Isa. 14:15; Ezek. 32:23). The "New" Testament explains the two rooms (tunnels in the pit) one's soul goes to after death (Luke 16:19-31). It's either to this same Paradise 'Saved-right-side' that Jesus' Soul went to after death, or to the other UNchosen 'Lost-left-side' separated by a great gulf (pit, abyss) between. There is no torment in the "Chosen" right-side of the pit.
Jesus claimed to all the captive-souls on His "Chosen" side, that He was their long-awaited Messiah. But He needed 2 or 3 witnessess, for "proof" that He is the One for Whom they had been waiting (Matt. 18:16; 1 Tim. 5:19). Two witnesses in that Chosen side could prove it! One was the soul of the (Holy) beheaded John-the-Baptist in that side (Matt. 14:6-12). Baptist-John knew Jesus when he was alive; and here witnessed to them that he had baptized Christ at the start of His Ministry! Many others had since come into this Chosen side (room, hall, tunnel), and each time they were asked by those awaiting, "Are you the One?" They needed proof!
The other witness could not be Jesus' "friend" Lazarus, who died and was made alive again by Jesus; as he was not in that side anymore (John 11:40-43)! A second Lazarus, the (Righteous) "beggar" was in Abraham's bosom on that same Chosen side (Luke 16:22); but only the (Holy) "friend" Lazarus whom Jesus had "personally called" back to physical life, was resurrected and no longer in there (John 11:44-45).
The Second witness had to be the soul of the "Repentant Thief" who had died on his own cross next to Christ, shortly after Jesus body had died at the "end" of His Ministry (Luke 23:42-46). The Thief witnessed to them that he had confessed to and spiritually knew Jesus while yet alive on the cross; Who had promised him "Paradise today!" Now here he was "just barely saved (Righteous)," in Paradise today with Christ!
Note that there is no purgatory in either the UNchosen-Lost side nor the Chosen-Saved side! One is not 'purged' of their sins; but when "Enabled" to "believe" in Jesus, they are then "Forgiven" of their sins and thereby "Saved." It is all by an act of God, that ALL 'captives' in the Chosen right-side where there is no torment, 'WILL' be "preached" to by Christ for three days and be Saved; who are His "Other Flock I have (John 10:16; Mark 8:31)!" It is Jesus that "Enables" the person to "believe" (like the King pointing His Royal Scepter and "allowing" them to come-Esth. 4:11; 5:2). No one can purge themselves of their own sins! As for the UNchosen left-side, they are in torment in there; not Chosen to begin with, and therefore not "Enabled" to trust in Christ (Luke 16:19-25).
Preached + "Enabled" + Believed = Forgiven
Jesus already had the witness in Himself along with the Father's witness (John 5:31-39). He did not really "need" these two witnessess that had known and seen Him before, when His body was still alive. But He allowed their testimonies to convince the others still awaiting, that He was indeed known as the "Messiah-Savior" of Baptist-John and the One Chosen Thief; while He was yet alive on Earth in His body (1 John 5:6-7)! Jesus then needed to "preach" to all those Chosen souls that had died since the beginning of the world; who had still been awaiting their coming Messiah from the time of Adam and Eve. ALL the "captive" Chosen-prisoners were then "Enabled," to "now believe" in Jesus (1 Tim. 1:12)! He then "led captivity captive;" taking all the Chosen-captive 'now-Forgiven-saved' prisoners to Heaven with Him upon His resurrection (Luke 4:18; 1 Pet. 1:25; 3:19; Eph. 4:8-10; 2 Cor. 12:4a)! This "Chosen" right-side (tunnel) became empty at that time, while the UNchosen (tormented) side yet remains for all UNbelievers today (Luke 16:23).
Afterwards, this same Chosen side started to be filled up again with other Jews, that had died in these "past 2,000 years" up to the present day; who had not believed in Jesus. But these are the "Chosen" Jews that had still believed in and worshipped their one true God, just as the "first" group that passed through believed in God (some "that went before and that followed after"--Matt. 21:9; John 10:16: Num. 2:17).
These "Chosen" Jews are still looking forward to their coming Messiah (that had already come in the form of Jesus), who will be saved upon being "Enabled" to 'willingly trust' in Him; and thus be resurrected at the End of the Great Tribulation (John 10:16). Only the "Chosen" Jews that believe in God, but who have not yet believed in Jesus, go in to this Chosen side (compartment, tunnel); still awaiting salvation in their Messiah! However, any "Chosen" Jewish-"Believers in Jesus" alive today as well as the "Chosen" Gentile-"Believers in Jesus," now go "Directly-UP" to Heaven's Throne-room upon death (2 Cor. 5:6,8; 12:4a)!
The "Circle"Code.
Back to [5] in the "mechanism" above, about being "sealed" in Christ and assured of heaven. Draw this "Circle"Code out to explain the process of how we are Saved. In John 14:11 Jesus says, "I IN The Father..." Now we have to ask, when was Jesus ever IN The Father? It was always in Eternity-Past; Correct? So, on a large piece of paper draw a little circle; and put the Name, "Jesus" IN it. Then draw another circle just around the first one, leaving a little space between to put the Name, "The Father" IN it. But the passage goes on, "...and The Father IN Me!" Now we have to ask, when was "The Father" ever IN "Jesus?" This time we can say that "The Father" was IN The MAN "Jesus" at His Baptism; anointing and empowering Him for His ministry (Luke 3:22, 9:35)! Draw another circle around the circle of the "Father," and put the Name "Jesus" IN it.
Both "The Father" and "Jesus" now dwell in Heaven; and have sent God The Holy Spirit to Earth to indwell Chosen ones, that have come to trust in Jesus as their Savior. Now draw yet another circle around the last circle of "Jesus" and put the Name "God The Holy Spirit" IN it! God the Father and God the Son are IN God the Holy Spirit (1 John 5:6-7)!
Then in John 14:20, Jesus states, "...and I IN you, and you IN ME!" Draw yet another circle around the circle of "The Holy Spirit," and put the name "you" IN it. Upon being "Enabled" to Believe in Jesus, the "Holy Spirit" then enters into you to "seal" you in Christ; and only then "reserves" a seat for you in heaven (1 Tim. 1:12; Eph. 2:6)! Lastly, draw yet another circle around the circle of "you," and put the name "Jesus" IN it. It is then that you are sealed in Christ's Righteousness, and covered by His protective White Robe while here on Earth (John 3:16)! The Father thus sees only Jesus' Righteousness, and not yours! Draw all this out to 'see' how this "Circle"Code describes salvation!
Heavenly Rewards!
Now, about our reserved seat for rewards in Heaven at the Marriage-Supper of the Lamb (Rev.[Apoc.] 19:7,9). It appears to be a movable seat (as our rewards keep changing). It's like having a place-card with our name on it, on top of the (supposed 65,000 mile) long Table by our seat. Thousands of both the 'Chosen' Righteous and the Holy "believers" will be seated there (Rev.[Apoc.] 22:11; Eph. 2:6).
Let us say that we have already done some good works after saved, and are presently reserved a seat for rewards at the 46,000-mile mark, away from Jesus' end. When we do more good works on Earth in Him, it's as if the Angels pick up our place-card and move it perhaps 3,000 miles closer to Jesus' end of the long Table; to be seated among the Holy ones sitting there. But doing not-so-good things causes a loss of rewards; where the Angels then move our place-card maybe 3,400 miles further back, where the Righteous ones are seated. Whether this is exact or not, it does point out that our rewards either increase or decrease; depending on what we do to honor our Lord in this life. We "LOSE rewards" even when we fail to 'forgive' those that wronged us! God will not 'forgive' US until WE DO 'forgive' them (Matt. 6:12,14-15)!
When we "lose" rewards, we can then no longer see the "smile" on Jesus Face when He Looks at us as before; but only a faint glow because He is now so far away. Now, that's a 'real' loss of rewards! We may not be "close enough" to see His smiling Face towards us; like at where the one Repentant Thief is. He sits like 65,000 miles away from Jesus. He could do "NO good works" for more crowns on Earth after being saved, as he was still nailed to his own cross and died moments after Jesus did. So, that thief is sitting at the "farthest" end of the Table from Christ; not having earned more halos! We "Chosen believers" should all now be working for heavenly rewards "closer" to Jesus (Matt. 5:44)!
Is the Bible "Accurate!"
Some wonder about the accuracy of the Bible, but there really is all sorts of evidence that despite many translations, the Word given to us can be relied upon as accurate. God saw to that! After Noah's worldwide flood over 4,000 years ago, people wrote and left messages on other things like: in caves, or on wood, rocks, buildings, and mountain-sides; because papyrus (paper) had not been invented yet. But the Hebrews, after slaughtering animals for a worship-offering, boiled the skin, scraped off the fur, and dried the skin in the sun. They then wrote the Word of God on the dried parchment with ink, collecting each written page tied together into one large scroll. Though the Hebrews wrote the Word, it's as if the Finger of God was writing on each sacrificial page for us.
When we read our Bible, realize that many animals had to die for God's Word to be written on each blood-stained page for us. God thus "preserved" the accuracy of His Word down to the present day, sealed in blood! He did this so that we may read and have confidence in the written Word, as a truthful message to be believed in today. The shed blood of the slain animals is a reminder of Jesus (The Word of Life), being slain and shedding His Blood for us as an atoning sacrifice for our sins; so that we may appear before The Father clothed in Jesus' Righteousness. We certainly cannot appear before Him in our own righteousness, because we have none! Oh! We just cannot comprehend Jesus' all encompassing love for each of us!
The "QUAD"Codes gives us further INSIGHT on what The Bible tells us!
A novel called The DaVinci Code was recently published; riddled with some truths, half-truths, and no truths. Therefore, we cannot put our faith in that! Then there was the Bible Code, in which computer-researchers counted every 50th letter in the ancient manuscripts, and came up with names of the first 34 rabbis in Israel; plus prophecies of what will be and is happening in our times. But we ordinary people have no way of verifying it, and putting our faith in that by ourselves. However, we CAN verify Codes that we can read right out of our own Bibles, that gives us a deeper insight as to what God is doing in our lives; by providing a clearer understanding through these many "Quad"Codes.
Some "Quad"CODES are in the following. Note that in most Codes you will find "four" names. The first two on the LEFT represent the LOST, and the next two on the RIGHT represent the SAVED: (1){Rev.(Apoc.) 22:11}:- "[UNJUST, FILTHY] //[RIGHTEOUS, HOLY]!" (2){Isa. 1:18}:- "[SCARLET, CRIMSON] //[as WOOL-(white), WHITE as SNOW]!" (3)-{Mark 4:4-8}:- "[WAYSIDE, STONY)] //[THORNY, GOOD]!" (4)-{Luke 6:39,40}:- "[BLIND, BLIND] //[DISCIPLE, PERFECT]!" (5)-{Mark 4:14-20}:-- "[HEARD, HEARD] //[HEAR, HEAR]!" (6)-{Col. 1:28}:-- "[PREACH, WARN] //[WISDOM, PERFECT]!" (7)-{2 Tim. 3:16}:-- "[DOCTRINE, REPROOF]//[CORRECTION, INSTRUCTION]!"
The above four names in each QuadCode represent the Heart of man; the first two on the left being the UNbelieving UNchosen-Lost, while the two on the right are the Chosen-Saved Believers. Looking at No. (7) [DOCTRINE, REPROOF]//[CORRECTION, INSTRUCTION]; we have to present the "Doctrine" of Salvation in Christ to those whose Mind and Heart is void of God's truths and thereby Lost-- "Reprove" those whose Hearts believe that they are alright as they are, but who have not fully trusted in the Saving Grace of Jesus and are still Lost-- "Correct" and guide those that were "Enabled" and received Jesus in their Hearts (Righteous but "just barely Saved") bringing all their sinful bad habits over with them, not yet walking in the Word to "Perfection" (as they should)-- and lastly, continue to "Instruct" those Saved Hearts that Know their Lord Jesus into the Deeper things of God (that they may be Holy,"Perfect" in All His Ways). Note that "Perfect" is at the far right in two Quadcodes above [see (4) & (6)]!
Just Barely Saved.
For those that find it hard to believe that the "THORNY-Heart" person is Saved in (3)-Mark 4:4-20, [Wayside, Stony]//[THORNY, Good]; then let them examine this evidence. The Wayside and Stony-ground person's hearts are dead to the Lord; not growing and not alive! But note both the Thorny and Good-ground persons are Growing Hearts that are Alive to Jesus (the Thorns are Growing and "Alive")! The fact that he's called "Thorny" is that he has "just barely been saved" but "not yet Fruitful;" not walking in the Word to Perfection (Holiness).
Where IS Perfection? Perfect is shown in both QuadCodes (4) [Blind, Blind]//[Disciple, PERFECT] and (6) [Preach, Warn]//[Wisdom, PERFECT] at the far right position; and is also described as Holy (1), and White as Snow (2)! Mark 4:7 says the Thorny person's Heart "yielded no fruit!" But Luke 8:14 modifies that to: "bring no fruit to Perfection!" It means he has fruit and IS Saved, but not yet walking towards Perfection nor "fully" Filled with the Spirit (Eph. 3:19)!
On top of that, in (5)-[Heard, Heard]//[HEAR, HEAR], the Thorny-ground person HEARS the Word (Present Tense), just as the Good-Ground person does (Mark 4:18,20); while the Wayside and Stony-ground persons have Heard the Word (Past Tense), and do not "hear" it anymore (Mark 4:15,16). This evidence of the (Thorny) third person of the four in line from left to right, shows that he IS identified with the Righteous (1) in the above QuadCodes, a Disciple (2), who yet needs to be Taught Wisdom (6), and Corrected (7). All of which means he is not dead to the Lord, but is a Righteous Disciple and therefore Saved! These Codes show us our own life's walk in Him! Where are "you" in all this?
Now when you read the scriptures, you will know who they are talking about! It's either the Lost or Saved, and UNchosen or Chosen! Be aware that both the UNchosen and Chosen are coming through the Lost side, from the left. Only the Chosen can continue on to the Saved side at the right, upon being "Enabled" by Christ. It's amazing how many QuadCodes you can find that can further enhance your understanding, as you search through the scriptures. Look and see!
Deciphering the Codes.
See (2)[SCARLET, CRIMSON] //[as WOOL-(white), WHITE as SNOW], in Isa. 1:18. To decipher it, note that the dictionary describes {Scarlet} as deep red, and {Crimson} as bright red. Deep red can be defined here as the deepest sins, and bright red as lightest sins. Both are yet as blood-RED, meaning that both persons are Lost and still under their own blood; not relying on Jesus' shed blood to have saved them. On the other hand, persons described {as Wool-(white)} and {White as Snow}, "are" relying on Jesus' shed blood; who are Chosen, "Enabled," Saved, and clothed in Christ's White robe of Righteousness. This means that The Father sees only Jesus' Righteousness! We are saved by trusting only in Jesus, and not in anything else we do!
The "{as Wool-(white)}" person, carries with it the idea that it is not a really "white wool," but a "dirty-white wool;" like a Chosen "Thorny" person who has just recently "barely been Saved," and brought all his "sinful habits" over with him. He or she yet needs to be obedient to the Word and to clean up their act before the Lord in this life; else lose rewards in heaven. Meanwhile, the "Good-ground" person "{White as Snow}," has already been "serving" and reaching out to others. He is praying, praising, and walking in the Lord's will; and/or teaching, preaching, and storing up mercy, treasures, and rewards in heaven for obedient service. Similar meanings are found in all QuadCODES.
To Complete the Whole "QUAD"Code Picture.
Do "Draw" these QuadCodes out into one complete picture, so as to explain the message in one fell swoop; to "clear it up" for you. Take an 8-1/2 by 11 sheet of paper and draw a large cross on it, with the arms extending out "nearly" to the left and right sides. At the top center, place the name "JESUS." Off the "left end" of the left arm, label it "Satan's side;" and off the far "right" end of the right arm, label it "God's side."
Draw another cross BENEATH each of those arm sides (for the two thieves). On this new left cross, label "on top" the left arm: "UNJUST," and "onto" the right arm, label it: "FILTHY." Over on the right cross and "onto" the left arm, label it: "RIGHTEOUS;" and "onto" the right arm, label it: "HOLY". At the far left "off" the left arm of the left thief's cross and on the same line, write the Book, Chapter and Verse from where these four names came from; as follows: (Rev.[Apoc.] 22:11). Follow the same procedure with writing in the other Codes (2) to (7), "below" the arms of the two thieves' crosses. Do the same with the many other QuadCODES you find in the Bible; to complete the picture and your understanding of God's salvation process. Note: It is ALL of God's RIGHTEOUSNESS and God's HOLINESS we can be in; NOT our own!
In (1) [Unjust, Filthy] // [RIGHTEOUS, HOLY]-(Rev.[Apoc.]22:11), we see that both the Chosen and UNchosen enter in from the left (UNbelief side) as Athiests (Unjustified), and progress to the right. The Agnostic (Filthy) UNchosen-UNbelievers stop at Jesus' cross, and are "unable" to proceed further; though The Holy Spirit continually works on and Calls them to trust in Christ. Only the Chosen will desire Jesus, and be "Enabled" to believe; to be declared Righteous through the power of The Holy Spirit. These will progress beyond Jesus' cross into God's (Righteous) side, being Saved by Christ's shed Blood for all Eternity! Many of those Chosen will continue to walk (Holy) closer to Him, being Fruitful and Serving Him diligently; reaping many more rewards in Heaven! Come now before the Rapture starts!
HOW Long are Children Saved?
Children appear to have a special covering of the Lord, as they grow older until the age of accountability (around 10 to 14 years). Jesus said, "Let the little children come unto me" (Matt. 19:14; Luke 18:16; Rom. 9:11). Jesus also meant that if the children should die before the age of accountability, they would go to heaven from every country! Look at what King David told us when his 8-day-old child died: "But now (my child) is dead; why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I SHALL GO TO HIM, but he shall not return to me!" (2 Sam. 12:23).
How did this Hebrew David, know that he "will" go to where his child is? His child was "covered" by the Messiah to go to Paradise upon death, not yet having made the decision to believe in Jesus; but having been "Chosen" to await his coming Messiah after death. Grownup David was already Chosen to go to Paradise, in the pit where his son was. We know that because he had already given his heart and soul to God (see the many Psalms he wrote); looking forward to his coming Messiah! David was among those souls in this Chosen side (tunnel, room), who first met his own son; then finally met his true Messiah (1,000 years later), after Jesus was crucified and had died.
So, until the age where children are accountable and deliberately sin against God, they are safe. But, after that, they are yet under the curse of sin and UNsaved; until The Holy Spirit "Enables" them to make a conscious decision to believe and trust in Christ. If they have trusted in Him, they are among the Chosen; and their salvation is secure. We may suspect them by their behavior, but cannot tell which among us is an UNchosen or Chosen one in this life. Only God knows!
ALL CAN Come, But ONLY the "Enabled" WILL Come!
Another word to clear up the "Enabling" process. Both the UNchosen and Chosen ones enter into this "dark room of life," groping for something to "see" more clearly. Both are under the tight grip of Satan. Both may have gone to church and heard the preaching of the Word of God; and for a long time have not understood it, still in the dark. The UNchosen-(Unjust) person takes immediate offense to the Word, and will not pursue it anymore (Is this You?); though The Holy Spirit still tries to apply the Word to his heart (1 Cor. 1:17-31). The Unchosen-(Filthy) inch closer in the dark (Is "that" You?), but cannot find the full meaning behind the preaching of the Word; so, believing they are alright with God just as they are, they give up pursuing their understanding of The Word and remain Lost (Filthy)! If they were not Chosen, but yet Called to come to believe in Jesus, they will not understand nor be "Enabled" to believe; (viz.-- Jesus hath "Enabled" me--1 Tim. 1:12).
However, the Chosen-still-lost, while yet in the dark, "HEAR" the preaching of The Word and inch a little closer; curious about finding the full meaning behind the The Word (Mark 4:18). Who IS this God? Who IS this Jesus? Who IS this Holy Spirit? What does all this have to do with ME, and where is MY place in all of this? The Holy Spirit is applying The Word to this Chosen-one's heart (Is THIS You?); loosening the hold that Satan has on him or her, like one finger at a time with each teaching.
We can do NO 'good works' to get 'saved,' as some churches teach! The one Repentant Thief when nailed to 'his' own cross, could DO NO 'good works' to get saved. The Holy Spirit taught him and Christ "ENABLED" him with but a tiny 'mustard-seed' kind of faith, to 'know' that Jesus WAS indeed his Messiah! Jesus told him he 'was' saved, simply because he 'did' believe (Luke 23:41-43). God demands Justice! Someone has to 'pay' for our sins (It's you, or Him)! God sent His Only Begotten Son to The Cross, to 'pay' for every sin we ever commited; even those we didn't know about! We can't 'get IN', unless our sin-debt has been paid in full! God Loves us! We need to Believe in Jesus' Own 'work' on The Cross to 'Save' us. There IS NO OTHER WAY! Simply Trust in Christ Jesus!
The Holy Spirit "Enables" US to clearly SEE that WE need to believe, repent, accept and receive The Lord Jesus as our Personal Savior. Upon our belief and repentance, The Holy Spirit comes in, and brings The Father and Son in with Him. Jesus said, "...I am in The Father and the Father in Me...and you in Me, and I in you" (John 14:11, 20). No other 'religion' is based on a man 'dying for you!' Only those who were "Chosen," that then hear God's "Call," will be "Enabled" to believe; and be Spirit-infilled, Faithful and Fruitful in the Lord (Eph. 1:4; Rev. 17:14; 1 Tim. 1:12; Col. 1:10)! Note that Rebekah too was "Chosen" in Gen. 24:14, "Called" vs. 17, "Tested" on her "willingness to serve" vss. 18-21, and was finally then "Enabled" vs. 22, to become "the Bride!" We become "JESUS' Bride" too, in much the same way!
The Chosen-Saved (now-Righteous) has come into the Light (Kingdom); and we begin to clearly "see" all the treasures of Heaven available to us. The Holy Spirit then continues to work on us in this life, towards bringing us into an even closer relationship with Jesus into Chosen-[Holiness--Mark 4:20; John 12:3; Rev.(Apoc.) 22:11]; "fully" filled with the Spirit and lacking nothing in His Love (IS "THAT" YOU?).
A great example of this is found in the story of the two sisters, Martha and Mary; whose brother had died. That 'brother' was also Jesus' friend Lazarus, who was in the tomb 4 days already; and clearly dead! The older sister Martha complained to Jesus, "If you had only been here...!" In this crisis Jesus preached to her, that: "I AM The Resurrection and The Life!" She told Him, "I BELIEVE You ARE The Messiah!" Soon after, Martha's younger sister Mary came and complained to Jesus the same way. "If you had only been here!" (John 11: 1-45; 12:1-3; Luke 10:38-42).
Later, after Jesus had resurrected Lazarus, Martha "Served" the dinner; while Mary "Worshipped" by sitting at the feet of Jesus, anointing Him with oil. The view here is that Jesus had "Enabled" both sisters to Trust in Him. However, Martha was now "Saved" but in His Righteous (service) side; while "Saved" Mary was placed beyond her older sister into His Holy (Adoration) side. "Righteous" Martha had understood little of Jesus, being encumbered with things (like serving people); whereas "Holy" Mary had taken in the "full breadth" of Who Jesus really was, unencumbered with the physical things in life! Mary served quietly at His feet "Worshipping Him," and was the "much more Fruitful" one!
Again, here are the 'steps' taken for salvation. 1. We are "required to be Chosen" by God, in order to Be Saved! 2. We are ALL "required to be Called" by God, but need to Respond (wake up and answer that Call); so we can be 'taught' to believe in Jesus! 3. We are required by God to 'Hear' the Word (understand it), and look to Christ as being our True Messiah; wherein The Holy Spirit applies the Living Word to our hearts. Both the Chosen and UNchosen now know ALL about Jesus; in belief (unbelief) that His Word IS True! Both stand at the entrance to Jesus' throne room, but only the "Chosen" one will be "Enabled" to enter into His Salvation (John 1:12-13; 3:16; 6:37; 2 Cor. 5:17; 1 Tim. 1:12; Ps. 113:2-3)!
4. Jesus "requires" ALL to totally "Surrender, Believe, Repent and Receive Himself" without 'good works' to be Saved; just like the one Repentent Thief did on his own cross (John 8:24). Christ first tests, then "Enables" us Chosen ones to "willingly see" that we yet need to believe, repent and Confess Jesus as "Lord!" Satan is now forced to release his grip from us! Once "Enabled," only then can we (enter the Throne-room and thus) believe and confess to Christ. It is only 'After' we are saved, that our new 'good works' in Him are counted! When God first Chose us 'before' making the world, it was 'certain' then that He WILL bring us to salvation in Jesus (Eph. 1:4)! It is Christ that "Knocks" at Chosen hearts and 'OPENS' to come in! Nothing that 'WE' have done (Luke 11:10)!
All this has described the 'mechanics' of salvation, but God has much more to say about His Spiritual matters and your 'closer' walk in Him; too much to go on into any greater detail here. We ourselves, may not fully understand all the reasons why God does certain things. But we who have been Chosen in Him from 'before' the foundation of the world, can be rest-assured in His promise that we shall remain forever with Him; upon receiving Jesus into our lives as our Personal Savior (John 3:7,16; 10:7-18, 27-30; 11:25; Eph. 1:4; 1 Pet. 1:2-9).
Can Evil-Minded men and women Be Saved?
There were two thieves that were more than just thieves, they were coercers. They ran into every village, coercing people; shopkeepers, and the like...to give them money or else! The next week when they came back and when they had gotten no money, they beat the people up; or broke bones. Complaints from others alerted the Roman soldiers to capture them, which they did; then threw them in jail. They were both evil-minded men, not caring for God nor people!
Pontius Pilate, had just washed his hands of the "Jesus affair," and sent Jesus off to be crucified. As an afterthought (from God), he told his soldiers to release those two evil thieves from jail; and crucify them! One thief had been "Chosen" in Eternity-Past, but didn't know that! God brought him face to face with Christ on the cross, to believe in Him before he died! He never would have that chance in jail! Satan tried to keep him in jail so he would not meet up with Jesus, but God wasn't going to lose any of His Chosen ones; and thus had him released from jail to be crucified alongside Jesus! "Death-bed Salvation!" This should teach us to come "early" to Christ, else we may have to suffer later!
The Holy Spirit worked for hours on the thief trying to release him from Satan's grip, before he was finally "able" to receive his Messiah (Luke 23:41-43). Jesus could have yielded up His Own Spirit much sooner, but "Loved" that Chosen thief! Christ "Suffered" even longer, until The Holy Spirit broke Satan's hold on this Repentant-thief; who was only then "Enabled" to believe, surrender, and confess Jesus as his Lord! That Thief is much like 'You and Me!' Oh! The patience of God!
What Should We DO Now?
Here is God's formula: Chosen + Called + "Enabled" = Saved in Christ!
We won't know if we are among the Chosen, "until we surrender" and trust in our Lord Jesus; and God The Holy Spirit confirms to us that we have salvation in Christ evermore! (John 3:16; 8:24; Rom. 10:9). Then after we come, we need to serve (1 Pet. 4:10,11), and "walk" in obedience to Him; in the Power of the Spirit! To "serve" Him is to Love Jesus, and "tell others" about Him and His Love and Salvation for them; if they will but only "believe" in Him as their Personal Savior!
If we have any Free-will at all, this is where we can Choose to "serve" Him! It is now the time to get humble, repent of our sins, and to ask Jesus for forgiveness; and to come into your Heart and Mind and Save you! Time is short! Do it now! The Rapture may soon come! Don't be "left behind." Do Save or Print this to study... and to Pass it on!
Get into a Bible Study class and meditate on the scriptures, asking God to help you "believe" in Jesus; who died "WILLINGLY" for the remission of "your sins!" May you come to "trust in Him soon!"
Copyright (C) 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008-- [NKJV version].
posted by Rudy Wellsand | 8:43 AM
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