November 5, 2002 (47)
AN EVIL FORCE RESISTING THEM. Called the synagogue of Satan, which was composed of certain individuals who claimed to be Jews but were not. A mark of condemnation placed on these who were hypocritical in their actions. Paul speaks of false brethren in Gal. 2:4 Of dissemblers who separated themselves from the gentiles for fear of the Jews. Gal. 2:12-13 And of those who did not walk uprightly in following the truth of the gospel. Gal. 2:14 Any or all of these attitudes that would be displayed would indicate that there were those who created problems in the body of believers, even as there are today. They were labeled as being liars, which would very definitely identify them as being members of the synagogue of Satan. Satan is recorded as being lustful, a murderer, not abiding in the truth and the father of lies and liars. John 8:44
KEPT FROM THE HOUR OF TRIBULATION. Cared for in a special way because they had adhered to the Word in a very patient manner. Rev. 3:10 Some of the promises pertaining to the end of the age seem to be a long time in coming to pass. The Lord is working according to His schedule and not ours. He is following His agenda perfectly and on time. There is an appointed day for each item that is to come to pass. Acts 17:31 This special care and protection is to be in a time of trial that will have its affect on the whole of the world. Be warned, that while there are those who are delivered from the great tribulation not all who call themselves Christian will escape from the trials of that time. Repeatedly in the scriptures we are told that there are certain spiritual preparations that must be followed in order to be freed from the events that take place during the tribulation. Failure to measure up to the standards that the Word has established for that glorious deliverance will result in one entering into the great tribulation.
HOLD FAST. What more could we want for a warning? Jesus is coming and His coming is inevitable. But He will not receive unto Himself a cold or a luke warm church. His Bride has made herself ready. Rev. 19:7 Imagine the embarrassment, and in this case great consternation, when the Bridegroom comes for His bride and she is totally unprepared. The maintenance of a Christian life that is established by the Word of the Lord is of prime importance to every member of the body of Christ. The Bible is our guide. Those who keep its saying and teachings are blessed of the Lord. Rev. 22:7 Keep, nurture, persevere in a spiritual life that is well pleasing to the Lord. Beware, lest some unscrupulous person rob you of your crown. It is important that we realize that the crown can be taken from us, by theft (Satan is a clever thief), or by neglect, or by complete disregard. Rev. 3:11 Make certain that your wedding garment is prepared, cleaned, pressed and shining brightly. The Spirit of the Lord is being poured out all over the world. The last day revival will culminate in the wedding of the Lamb and only those who have prepared for that beautiful event will participate.